Christina "Chris" R. Fiala's Obituary
Christina (Chris) R. Fiala passed away peacefully on December 26, 2025 after a long journey with cancer, heart disease and dementia. Up until the end Chris maintained her kindness, compassion, appreciation of beauty, love of family and friends, and expressed gratitude for her long life, full of wonderful and varied experiences.
Chris is survived by her husband James (Jay) Fiala, daughter Michelle Smith, grandsons Stephen Leachman (wife Samary) Michael and Jayson and several great grandchildren, her brother Joel Mikels (Peggy) and numerous nephews and nieces and several close lifelong friends. Chris was predeceased by her parents Cheryl and Gene Adams, her daughter Melissa Lynn and her brother Ray Mikels.
Chris was born and grew up in Aurora, IL. After schooling, Chris started and sold a few businesses prior to joining the Family Business (Splash Pools) as an operating partner and CFO until the business closed in the late 1990’s. In 2000, Chris and Jay relocated from North Aurora, IL to Mount Dora, FL, where Chris made new lifelong friends and continued her interests in: creating stained glass designs, paintings, gardening in and around her home, exploring Florida cities and experiencing local ethnic foods.
The family will hold a private gathering to celebrate Chris’ life. Arrangements are through Steverson, Hamlin & Hilbish, Tavares, FL. Online condolences can be left at https://www.steversonhamlinhilbish.com
In lieu flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either: National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. or Dementia Society of America
What’s your fondest memory of Christina "Chris"?
What’s a lesson you learned from Christina "Chris"?
Share a story where Christina "Chris"'s kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Christina "Chris" you’ll never forget.
How did Christina "Chris" make you smile?