Kristi Marchant

On April 18^th, 2024 Kristi Dianne Marchant passed away at the age of 59. She will be forever missed by those of us who knew and loved her. Kristi was born in Ellensburg, Washington on May 13^th, 1964 and was the fourth child of Dr. Carroll B. Marchant and Lois K. Marchant. Although she was the last of four children, she was certainly not the least. The physical challenges which she endured at a young age will forever be a testament to her inner strength and tenacity.

Kristi was born with a congenital birth defect called spina bifida which was also known at the time as “an open spine”. Within an hour of her birth the same surgeon who delivered her conducted an operation to close her back. She remained in the hospital for six weeks and then came home to our family. After two weeks at home and a noticeable increase in head size, Kristi had to return to the hospital and underwent surgery for hydrocephalus, commonly known as “water on the brain”. At ten months of age Kristi received her first brace for her congenital hip defect. For the next two years her hip continued to improve and she was fitted for her first pair of walking braces. At the age of three she learned to walk with her braces and crutches. In 1968 Kristi and our family moved to Spokane and she was accepted for treatment at Shriners Childrens Hospital where she continued to receive medical care and treatment. This also prompted our father to become a Shriner. In October of 1969 Kristi Marchant was named the Queen of the 1969 Shriners Calam Temple football game in Lewiston, Idaho.

Throughout her younger years Kristi Marchant persevered with a “can do” attitude and a zest for life. She was bright, always had a smile for you, possessed an extensive memory, and modeled the fortitude to address her physical ailments with grace and a positive outlook on life. She enjoyed music from the 60’s and playing with family and friends. Kristi went to public schools and was a favorite of her classmates and teachers. Her positive energy was also a strength for her and those who knew her. Her formal schooling continued until she graduated from Mead High School.

After high school Kristi lived at home with our loving mother until about twelve years ago. During this time Kristi continued to develop new interests and kept in contact with her many friends. She enjoyed our burgeoning family growth through new nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. When Kristi’s health began to falter and she needed more care than was available at home, Kristi transitioned to a local assisted living facility until her passing. While there Kristi made new friends and acquaintances and continued to live her life with positivity and caring about others. We all love her and miss her so much.

Kristi was preceded in death by her father Dr. Carroll Marchant and her sister Susan K. Marchant. She is survived by her mother Lois K. Reagan, her sister Kay M. Rasmussen (Marvin), her brother Dr. Jack Marchant (Kimberly), nieces Kayce Matthey (Mark), Taryn White, and nephews Grant Reeves (Brianne), Matthew White (Natalie), and Jackson Marchant (Mallory). And of course, her lifelong companion Kenny DiLuzio whom she has known and loved for over five decades. A private celebration of Kristi’s life will be held at Riplinger Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers Kristi’s family will appreciate donations to Shriners Children’s Hospital in Spokane.