Chris Ann Cigalio

Christine Ann Cigalio, age 71, died at Solvay Hospice House on June 26th after a 3½-year battle with ovarian cancer, with her loving son Jon by her side. She was born in Duluth on September 24th, 1953, to John and Mary Cigalio.

Chris was the leader of the band—literally. She was the head majorette for the Central High School marching band. That same flair carried through her life as a mother, daughter, sister, friend, and nurse. She was the fun one in every role—the one you wanted to be around.

Chris lived life on her terms. After surviving a serious motorcycle accident early in life, she never let the resulting disability define her. She simply carried on, earning her RN degree and becoming a gifted, compassionate nurse with an impactful career at St. Mary’s Medical Center. Outside of work, she gave generously of her time—volunteering with Meals on Wheels, the Food Shelf, and in Haiti, where she used her nursing skills to care for those in need. She was also always first in line to protest injustice in all its forms.

She loved being outdoors, especially in the woods, where she felt most at peace. She had a deep passion for traveling the world, exploring new cultures, and finding meaning in every place she visited. She also had a quiet love for the dogs who shared her life along the way: Callie, Star, and Lucy.

Chris shared a special bond with her brother, Bob—they were inseparable growing up and remained close until his passing in 1992. That connection was one of the great constants of her life.

Her son, Jonathan, was the light of her life. They shared a sharp sense of humor and an affection for colorful language. When Chris was diagnosed, he moved back to Duluth to be by her side. His love and care were above and beyond. No one could have done more.

As a friend, Chris had a hard-earned emotional depth. We all turned to her. She listened, and she always knew just what to say. We miss her already. Her wit and wisdom will continue to guide us.

Jon and Chris’s many friends extend their deepest gratitude to the professional and compassionate staff at Solvay Hospice House, especially Sarah.

She was preceded in death by her father, John (2003); mother, Mary (2012); and brother, Bob (1992). She is survived by her son, Jonathan, and his wife, Zoe.

A Visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at Dougherty Funeral Home, 600 E. Second Street, Duluth. The Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Friday, July 11 from 10am until the 11am Celebration of Life and Time of Sharing.

Arrangements by Dougherty Funeral Home, 218-727-3555.