Kristine Goryanec Willingham
March 24, 2020
Kristine Goryanec Willingham, 48, United States Air Force Major retired, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, 24 March 2020 at her home where she was surrounded by loving family. Kristine was a graduate of the University of New Mexico and a proud member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. She was commissioned an Air Force Officer and entered active duty in 1995. She graduated from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Registered Nurse Anesthetist program in 2007 and was awarded the Board of Regents Graduate School of Nursing Award, the highest University honor a graduating student can receive. Kristine also served as a vital part of the Air Force Critical Care Air Transport Team and was a veteran of Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, touching the lives of injured Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines in their time of greatest need.
She is preceded in death by her sister, Lisa Gravitte; uncle, Jasper N. Edmundson; her grandparents; and stepfather, Jack Ward. She is survived by her husband, Colonel-retired Paul A. Willingham of Wichita, KS; mother, Ruth Ann (Dennis) Pipal of Sunset, TX; father George Thomas Goryanec of Albuquerque, NM; aunt, Vicky Edmundson of Poplar Bluff, MO; cousins, Matt, Jay, Lorrie, Tim, Chelsea, and Leeza; sister-in-law, Renee (Dr. Steven) Hamilton of Knoxville, TN; nieces and nephew, Alexis, Jessica and David Hamilton.
Private services will be held at a future date with planned inurnment at Arlington National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Kristine Willingham Fund, an endowment that provides a memorial scholarship through the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) Foundation using the online giving link:
http://app.mobilecause.com/form/vt_mQQ?vid=6cxse
Please write “Kristine Willingham Fund” in the gift comment box.
Downing & Lahey Mortuary - East Chapel.
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Paul, we’re deeply saddened by Kris’ passing. Such a kind, gentle soul no longer in pain. Our deepest condolences.
In memory of Kristine Goryanec Willingham, Ryan Kittrell and Leslie Bennett lit a candle
So sorry for your loss.
My deepest condolences to you and all your family .
I am sad for your loss! She was so beautiful! Praying for you all! I am sure you have so many beautiful memories of her! God Bless! 😢
Paul, I can not even imagine the pain you and your family must be going through. You are in my thoughts and may you all find peace.
We send our deepest sympathy and prayers. Kris is a Beautiful Soul. May your hearts be soothed with wonderful memories of Your life with her. With Love, Karla & Marty Ward
I am Kristine’s mom. I want to thank all of you who have commented on your relationship with Kristine and Paul. I have met many of you at promotions, holidays , hospitals and celebrations with Kris and Paul. I know that Krissy is smiling in Heaven. The Mams
In memory of Kristine Goryanec Willingham, Ursula Thompson lit a candle
Paul and Ruth, I’m so very sorry for your loss. For the short time that I got to spend with Kristine, I could tell that she was a kind and loving person. You are in my prayers. Sarah (Palliative Care)
My deepest sympathy. May memories bring you all strength and courage.
Our deepest condolences & prayers to your family. Please find comfort in the Lord & your family during this journey in your lives. God bless you all.
Prayers for you at this time, knowing that she is at rest and in good health.. Krissy was the best little sister. Blessed that God chose her to be part of my family, my life , that of my children and grandchildren. We were truly blessed.
Our condolences to the family of Lisa willingham. RIP.
In memory of Kristine Goryanec Willingham, Jane Arrowsmith lit a candle
Most sincere condolences on your loss.
“We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s.” Romans 14:7-8
Boss, our sincere condolences to you and your family. Kris was a fighter, an amazing wife, and Air Force Officer. Our continued thoughts and prayers go out to you. I was truly honored to serve beside you as your Chief and sharing our final assignment with you and Kris. I would if never made it without you two. I am honored to have spent time with her. I’ll never forget the look on her face when the Med Group “rock” was delivered to your house. It will remain a symbol of the Willingham’s time and service at Holloman forever. V/r Chief T (ret) and Aimee Blue Skies and Tailwinds Forever Major Willingham.
Rest in Peace sweet sister-in-law. One of the strongest, smartest, kindest women we will ever know. Will miss her forever.
In memory of Kristine Goryanec Willingham, TnT lit a candle
We are so sorry for your loss, Paul! But as you have said, the pain for Kristine is over and she is now at rest. Stay strong, friend!
Mike Toreno is a long time old friend and neighbor and he asked us to say a prayer. If he valued your friendship, you must have been one great lady. God and peace be with you.
Sorry for your loss Sir. Prayers to you and your family Col. in these hard times. A beautiful angel lost way to soon. 🙏🏽
Renee I am so very sorry for your loss! There are no words to express the sadness you must feel. May God help you and your family during this sad time.😂
Hi George and family The Witt Jr. family is so sorry for your loss. We are here if you need us. With love, Ron Witt Jr.
Your in my thoughts and prayers.
Deepest condolences Paul. We have so many fond memories of spending time with you and Kris. Here for you whenever you need us.
Paul and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Kris was a terrific person and professional, and I have nothing but great memories of her. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you all in your time of loss and sorrow.
Thank you Paul & Kris for sharing so many smiles and strong laughs. Amazing memories. Thinking of your family.
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family’s loss.