ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Chris Hattam, 52 years old, born on November 9, 1968, and passed away on December 15, 2020. We will remember him forever.
December 28, 2020
December 28, 2020
I taught with Chris in Newcastle upon Tyne some years ago, we became good friends and fortunately we managed to keep in touch when he was in the UK.
We were delighted that he and Helen were able to join us at our wedding in summer 2019.

Chris was one of the kindest, warmest and funniest guys I‘ve ever had the pleasure of knowing. He loved his family and friends and he was an inspirational teacher who would give students endless opportunities to thrive and was always keen to see the good in people. He always gave students as many chances as they needed despite any difficulties.
Like all of his family and friends we miss him tremendously. I am devastated by the loss of a great friend.
December 28, 2020
December 28, 2020
Chris sprinkled magic everywhere he went - a true gent, never without a smile.

I will forever be grateful for how welcoming Chris was when I joined KGV as part of team LEC. Hearing his Geordie accent bellowing through the corridors gave a sense of comfort and safety.

Chris’ passion for the students shone from him no matter what he was doing. Nothing was ever too much - no matter what, he made it work.

Our LEC crew (past and present) would not be the students they are without him. His love and guidance has gotten them through life at KGV and beyond.

Chris, thank you for being the best role model, I feel privileged to have worked along side you.

Thoughts and prayers to Helen, Florrie & Harry.

Gone but never forgotten. Rest in Peace, Chris xxx
December 28, 2020
December 28, 2020
I first met Chris when I was around 12 or 13 years old & we instantly hit it off. We became great friends & had many adventures particularly in the Lake District where our families had static caravans. Chris lit up any room he walked into & would always bring out the best in everyone he ever seemed to meet. He was probably the most caring person I have ever had the privilege of coming into contact with in my 52 years on this planet & I will miss him greatly. Rest in peace mate, I will always love you, and all of our fantastic memories that we shared over many many years old friend.

Paul
December 27, 2020
December 27, 2020
No task was too difficult, no student was beyond reach, and you always inspired a positive attitude. You possessed a talent for teaching that most teachers could only have dreamed of. You were a fantastic bloke and will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Chris.
December 27, 2020
December 27, 2020
A Hattam hug
That’s what Chris means to me. A big strong man with the kindest of hearts.
To experience a Hattam hug is one of the best privileges.
Whenever you saw him, the hug he gave you made you feel embraced with love and warmth.
Never forgotten my friend.
Till we meet again.
December 27, 2020
December 27, 2020
Dear Chris,

Just want to say THANK YOU for being my big brother and for looking after me for the past many many years at KGV. You were the kindest, the most selfless and grateful person I know, you genuinely cared about EVERY SINGLE person you came across. You might not know but your small random acts of kindness (even just a smile or a hello in passing) have made a difference in our lives. You had been an inspiration to many of us, we will continue to spread your love and care to the people around us and your signature smile will never be forgotten.

Thank you for inviting me to join AYP/ Pedal Kart/ Run Club despite the fact that I couldn't ride a bike for life and I had zero knowledge in camping/ map reading/ cooking/ shooing cows away. You had dedicated so much time and effort in organising events for students so they could have memorable experiences outside of the classroom. I looked forward AYP and Pedal Kart each year as we always had good chats and laughs with the gang. I still can't read maps or cook or ride a bike but I promise you I will take some courses and learn these skills properly.

I am sad that you are not with us now but I am glad that you are in a better place. I am grateful to have you as a friend and will always be thinking of you. Surely we will meet again and will catch up then. RIP.

Chu x
December 27, 2020
December 27, 2020
Chris, your memory remains an inspiration for us all. We can easily cite all the volunteering you did, and the countless hours you spent living for others, but even at the most simple level, you went out of your way to make everyone you knew (and I'm sure those your didn't!) feel good about the world and themselves. Bumping into you at Club for the last decade or so, and you always making a point to say hello with a big smile and a warm heart. I know those you have touched will be better for knowing you, and your legacy will be lasting.
December 26, 2020
December 26, 2020
Where do I begin?

Mr Hattam was a rare gem of a teacher who went way beyond being a teacher. He was a mentor, a friend and incredible all round person. When I entered year 7, he visited me in my primary school to help get me settled ready for KGV. He absolutely knew when you were BS-ing. There was no way around it. He just knew. Mr Hattam was the person who guided me and my classmates through some incredibly difficult times and we are here stronger, because of him. I left school with no intention of remembering anything in particular, but Mr Hattam always remained with me in spirit.

Thank you Mr Hattam. You’re one of a kind. Love to your family. Xxx

Mui Thomas

December 26, 2020
December 26, 2020
Chris was a great husband, father, son, brother and friend. The shock of losing you will be hard to get over, but you will always be with us. Rest in peace mate.
December 26, 2020
December 26, 2020
Thank you Chris for your generosity of Spirit, your passion for life, your positivity with an abundance of enthusiasm, your humour and wit.

Thank you Chris for your sense of community, your gentle, caring nature for all things living, for being a team player, your patience, encouragement, willpower and your drive.

Thank you Chris, dear friend for your sincere welcoming arms of love, kindness and friendship.
You will continue to be an inspiration to me and you will stay in my heart forever.
December 26, 2020
December 26, 2020
Mr Hattam, I met you because your kind hearted and passion towards our special needs students. Many years ago, you came round to Sarah Roe School and said you wanted to offer DT lessons to our students. Later I found out you were using your free periods! You were generous with your time, super supportive and our students were so lucky to have the opportunities from you for a few years. You were a great teacher and inspiration to us all. I will never forget your big smile, the encouragement you had for us. 

I’m really saddened by the news. Rest in peace Mr Hattam, you will be greatly missed. My deepest condolences to the family. 
December 26, 2020
December 26, 2020
Chris Hattam, I remember you with always a smile on his face, calling out in the distance to say hello, while doing yet more things for everyone around you. At Mini Rugby, or riding by at 7am on your bike, energy, positivity, and lifting everyone around you, so effortlessly, and genuinely made the world around you a better place. You will be missed.
Damian Babis
December 25, 2020
December 25, 2020
Dear Mr Hattam, thank you for being a teacher who brought positivity and optimism to every DT lesson. I'll never forget your inspiring quotes from our lessons. Thank you for constantly encouraging me, challenging me and catching up with me at school.

Rest easy.
December 25, 2020
December 25, 2020
So sad to hear of the passing of Chris. Whilst we lost touch over the years, the fond memories of time spent together in our teenage years have not faded. The kindest person you could ever meet, that beaming smile and always that touch. The world is now a poorer place. Deepest condolences to all of his family.
December 25, 2020
December 25, 2020
Its’ with a heavy heart we learn of the very sad news about Chris.
I have had the pleasure of knowing Chris since being on Operation Raleigh Australia together in 1990.
We met up a few times after in Newcastle but then lost touch due to our busy lives.
Then amazingly, when in Stormy Weathers one evening many years ago, who should walk by but Chris - our paths had crossed again.
We picked up where we left off and went on to watch both our wonderful families grow. We spent many lovely times together but sadly not enough.
You were an amazing dad, husband and friend. Your love of life was infectious and you have clearly touched so many lives. You were sincere, loving, kind and always had so much time for others.
There will be no more bear hugs and Geordie laughs, we will miss you so much.
Rest in peace Llama man, my very good friend.
Condolences to Helen, Florrie and Harry. We are here for you always
Jon, Lesley, Charlotte and Oliver xxx
December 25, 2020
December 25, 2020
Mr Hattam, you were an amazing tutor and always brought a cheerful attitude onto everyone. You always supported us and would never step into the room without a positive thought. I will miss you, and may you rest in peace.
December 25, 2020
December 25, 2020
I met Chris in KGV 2019. I enjoyed the lessons with Chris. He cared every student and colleague well. He gave me much encouragement how I could do better in my role, I treasured the moments in his class and the Running Club. I have just received his news, on the Christmas Day, so sad to hear about this. Thank you Chris to have your support in KGV. Please tell if I can do anything for Chris......Miss him so much!!
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
We were extremely sad to receive the devastating news that Mr. Hattam passed away. We wish to express our sincere condolences to his family and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.

The KGV community was very fortunate to have had Mr. Hattam dedicate his life to inspiring us all to continue to grow and to become the best version of ourselves.

This is a great loss.

KGV School Council
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
Chris and I were friends throughout secondary school at St Roberts.  Unfortunately our lives went in different directions and we lost touch.  Nevertheless I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I will always remember him as a truly lovely lad.
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
With very heavy hearts we read about Chris’ passing.
Every once and a while you have the luck to meet someone like Chris, who will leave a lasting impression no matter where and how you move on afterwards. Chris was such a natural supportive guidance for Bink, being a massive part of the backbone of the KGV and HKFC communities that surrounded Bink and our whole family. Your radiance will be missed but never forgotten.

Our deepest condolences to Helen, Florrie and Harry. We are sending our love and wish you all the strength in the world.

Arno, Dieke, Bink & Damian
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
It's scary how quickly you can lose someone, a couple weeks ago I had my last lesson of the term with Mr Hattam turns out it would forever be my last. Mr Hattam was always so cheerful and kind, he always put his students first and made sure we were all okay. He was always full of positive energy which spread everywhere he went. Mr Hattam's personality is too incredible for words and even though I hadn't known him for that long his kindness has made such a massive impact on my life and just a simple wave or 'hello' could make my day. I will miss him very much.
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
Mr Hattam, one of the kindest, most supportive and inspiring teachers KGV has ever seen may well have departed us way too soon, but it sure doesn't feel like it at all. The legacy he left behind and the memories he has shared with many a student and staff member makes it seem like he's never left us in the first place.

Thank you for teaching us to do what we do best, and to be who we are. It was a great pleasure to have been one of your many students during my time during 2013 to 2020. You did us proud simply by being one of the finest individuals our school has seen.

December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
A joy to be around, such a positive person that rubbed off on anyone who had the privilege to know Chris. His enthusiasm was infectious, so much so he roped me into coaching minis rugby at HKFC.

Every-time the children play these days I can still hear in my head, Chris shouting from the sidelines ‘run straight!’ The children loved his coaching style and positivity. It’s what kept my Ollie going and playing still till this day. Thank you!

Outside of the rugby he would always go the extra mile for you and and was up for a laugh.

He will clearly be missed by all but never forgotten. Truly a great man. Rest in Peace.

Sending out thoughts and love to Helen, Florrie, Harry.

Love
Rich, Katie, Ollie and Beth
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
Mr Hattam

You have made my DT experience a great one.
I will miss you.

Rest Easy
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
It was with extremely heavy heart that we learned of Chris’ passing.  A truly wonderful gentleman with generous big heart, a beaming smile for all, and bounding enthusiasm. Among his many legacies is the care he bestowed in each young rugby player he coached in the minis always ensuring an inclusiveness and development for each child – a true great coach who was admired by all and our son’s love of rugby is in no small part attributable to support provided by Chris during his development.

Chris was an everywhere man at the Football Club….coaching, organising, coordinating and distributing kit – all with an infectious smile and joyous personality – such a lovely man to be around and who will forever be missed.

Our deepest condolences go out to Helen, Florrie and Harry. We will miss Chris immensely and can't describe the sadness felt. Rest in peace great man

With love
Christina / Simon / Alysha / Alex (Dodd Family)
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
It was with a very heavy heart we heard this news about Chris. As the wife of a rugby coach in Hong Kong, I knew the challenges of motivating young people on and off the pitch?
Chris was the most motivating, caring, fun coach in HKFC. He had a gift to lift the spirit of kids!, be it in Hockey or Rugby.
His smiling face was always a welcome break at the Football club and his Geordie wit was always a winner in football banter!!
He was a global citizen and his wonderful legacy will live on in all our hearts.
Rest well Chris....you are sorely missed!

Sending condolences to Helen, Florrie, and Harry.

All our love
Sally, Jon, Callum, and Kieran Adair.
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
Hatts

Was an absolute pleasure to know you and work with you. Your understated contribution to KGV inside and outside of the classroom was immense.

Student (and staff) welfare was always your number one priority and there is nothing more I can add to the testament of so many students here.

You also found time for lots of staffroom banter and much good natured hijinks - I'll treasure the memories of mischief making and the laughs. Many fond memories of trips away too - good good times.

Sadly, our paths crossed less often in recent years but by chance we caught up in early December and had a great chat catching up and making plans. Despite Covid, you parted with your trademark bear hug and arm squeeze - no more fitting way to say goodbye.

Our thoughts are with your family.
December 24, 2020
December 24, 2020
Chris was one of the first people to welcome us to HKFC, some nine years ago. That we never really knew him that well did not matter: he was kind, friendly and helpful to the person in front of him, and that was it. Chris would always greet you warmly, often with that booming voice so many have fondly recalled, and was forever looking for ways to support and to help. What a wonderful impact he has had on so many. And what a special, rare, role-model. We are lucky to have known Chris. Our thoughts are indeed with his family - Mark, Caroline, Flynn and Ellie Develter
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
I don't know you Chris but my daughter is from BHS year 6. Under the ESF umbrella, the spirits among the teachers and the kind hearted and sincere attitude of all of you are what creating the brilliant students today. Thanks so much for your contribution to the school, to the society and to HK. RIP and you will be in our heart. Veda Yeung's family
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
It is hard to believe that I will not be seeing my dear friend, Chris again. Images flood my mind – of Chris bending low to catch the words of a student; of him sitting astride his bike with joy written all over his face; the look of concentration as he worked on the pedal carts; of him laughing his big laugh with friends and colleagues in the staffroom…
Chris made time to listen and respond to everybody with empathy. He will be greatly missed.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
We are so sorry for your loss Helen, Florrie and Harry. We will always remember Chris for his warmth and decency. A wonderful man who did so much for others, Chris will be sadly missed. Much love from the Cook family - Simon, Mina, Harriet and Esther.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Chris will be in our hearts and memories forever. He was a kind and patient teacher with students and a good-natured colleague who would always greet you in the corridor with a smile.
No one can ever replace the amazing person that he was and the loss of Chris will be felt by many.
Rest in peace.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Though I wasn't in Mr Hattam's DT class for long since he was only assigned as my teacher this year I already knew that he was a great teacher. He gave us nicknames and would really seem to want to make connections with each of us. I was really looking forward to the DT lessons with Mr Hattam and was shocked to hear of his unfortunate passing. I wish the best for his family. Rest in peace Mr Hattam. 
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Mr Hattam, it's been a week since you've been gone and we all miss you dearly. Your DT lessons were exceptional, you were more a friend to us than you were our teacher. You were the kindest, most loving person anyone could ever wish to meet, and it was only because of your caring, heavily accented voice that I accepted being called Jazzy or Jaz. Your genuine and loving soul can never be replaced, and our DT lessons will not be the same without you. The kindness and compassion you showed everyone never failed to put a smile on our faces, and your constant encouragement pushed us to give it our all. You could sense when anything was off, and you could always brighten our day with your neverending positivity. May you rest in peace. We miss you.
- Jaz (sausage)
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
I got to know Chris through the Hong Kong Football Club Mini Rugby section where we both coached, were committee member volunteers and I was latterly Chairman. Chris was both an exemplary coach/Head coach and committee member volunteer, where he undertook many duties, most notably organising the annual kit order and its distribution. Chris was always generous with his time, constructive in his comments, supportive in his actions and great company. And of course a great father. While I have not lived in Hong Kong for sometime, I only have fond memories of time spent with Chris I know he will be sorely missed by everyone. My sincere condolences to all his family and friends.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
When I think of Chris I see him striding across the pitch "Maaaaaate" he calls out in that unmistakable voice and big smile, infectious enthusiasm. A family man. A kind man. The best of the very best, that's how I'll remember him. To dear Helen, Florrie and Harry, we all wish we could share your pain but know we cannot - so we stand by, to be there for you whenever and however we can. Please know that your Chris/dad touched so many lives, including ours, and my family will remember him fondly every time our children run out to play rugby. With love and many happy memories.

Ben, Vivian, Olivia, Matthew and Andrew McQuhae
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Chris was one of the kindest, most caring people I have ever worked with. It radiated; every time our paths crossed - in meetings, in chance conversations when passing in the corridors - I was always touched by how supportive and open he was, to both students and staff alike. May his memory be a blessing.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Chris was a big character, with an even bigger heart.
I met him though holidaying at Keswick, a place he loved.
We spent many happy times together in our group, with Chris always being the joker of the group, and never having a smile off his face.
He was always cheerful, brightening up any occasion with fun.
Everyone has great memories of Chris, you could not meet a more caring, loving person.
I remember his trademark touch of holding your elbow as he greeted you, I think we would all like to feel that touch again.
Thoughts go to all his family at this very sad time.

Rest in Peace Chris
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
I had never met Mr Hattam because I have only been at KGV for one term. Regardless, he made a difference to my life at school because he was my best friend's tutor and I was hearing different things about what they would do in tutor time a lot. Thank you to him for helping her settle in to KGV and I hope he rests in peace.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
I will always remember Chris' humour, kindness, and generosity of spirit. He was always there with a smile, the offer of support and complete dedication to his colleagues and students, and it was a privilege to have worked with Chris for 6 years at KGV.

Rest in peace. You will never be forgotten. Thoughts and love to all those closest to you Chris x
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
My deepest sympathies Helen, Florrie and Harry! 

Gone far too soon, the hurt and sorrow will be long felt... but so too will the memories and inspirations. That handshake and welcoming smile every time we met will never be underrated or forgotten... so much respect!

Chris was the kind of guy that could point you upstream and give you every confidence you'd reach your goal, and without hesitation or judgement, he'd be at your side ready for the challenges and good times too!

The way too he supported HKFCHOCKEY is a measure of the legacy he leaves in our hands to continue to foster and share with all.... Chris was super positive and fun, incredibly kind-hearted, embraced all no matter their abilities or differences, empowered players and coaches with belief and confidence, was sincere with everyone, massively generous with his time and words of wisdom, and above all he was an unquestionably proud and loving dad who enjoyed every moment being able to support both Florrie and Harry.

"In the dust of defeat as well as the laurels of victory, there is glory to be found if one has done his best." - Eric Liddell

Chris, you are a Champion.


Chappie

December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Chris, you will be truly missed by one and all. You were one of the most cheerful, caring and positive colleagues that I have worked with. You touched the lives of everyone around you. 

My sincere condolences to the family at this very difficult time. Rest in peace Chris.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
We knew Chris from the time he was Head Coach of the U5 Mini Rugby team at HKFC, and since then on the club committee.

I was always struck by how generous, kind and patient Chris was despite all of the demands on his time. Chris was the most selfless and big-hearted role model for both kids and adults alike. We will remember Chris very fondly and he will be greatly missed.

We need more Chris Hattams in the world.

Our condolences to Helen, Florrie and Harry.

From Dean, Sarah, Jack and Samantha
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Chris was the first person I was introduced to at KGV. We bonded over being Geordies, our mutual love of Newcastle United and I felt right at home.

His humour, positivity and warmth lifted people’s spirit with every interaction- with a “bonny lad”, “kidda” or a pat on the back.

Chris was a great role model, someone to look up to and I loved working with him on running club. His effort and enthusiasm was inspiring, he always went above and beyond and those memories are some of my favourite in teaching.

He will be sadly missed by all at KGV and the wider community.

My thoughts are with his family and close friends.

Rest in peace.
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Farewell old friend.
Despite decades living in different continents, the connections forged in youth hold strong.
You’ve lived your life to the full, and impacted so many others with your caring, compassionate and fun-loving nature. I am blessed to have known you and send deepest sympathies to your family in Hong Kong and Birtley. 
December 23, 2020
December 23, 2020
Our hearts go out to Helen, Florrie and Harry at this unbelievably sad time. We all have such fond memories of Chris - at sports, at Peak School events and around HK. We remember overhearing Chris’s accent at a school event over 10 years ago and rapidly making the Geordie connections! Chris was a truly wonderful man with great spirit and can-do attitude. May he Rest In Peace.

All our best from Damien, Alexandra, Gracie, Emily and Aidan xxxxxx
December 22, 2020
December 22, 2020
Joyce and I knew Chris through his cheerful and unstinting work with the Peak School PTA. He deployed his level head and easy humour - as well as his genius when BBQ ‘g - to enrich everything he was involved with. Chris’ ready smile, kindness and generosity of spirit will be keenly missed by very many and he and Helen, Harry and Florrie are in our thoughts and prayers.
December 22, 2020
December 22, 2020
I has been a privilege to have known you Chris.

A great character that brought such pleasure to people’s lives. He was such a nice guy. I will always have many happy memories of time spent with him in the 1980’s in Keswick.

Even our recent correspondence this year between Hong Kong and the UK brought huge smiles to my face.

You’ve been taken far too early my old friend! We will miss you. Thank you for the memories.
December 22, 2020
December 22, 2020
So saddened to hear of the tragic loss of Chris, a true legend, big daft gentle giant that brought fun & laughter wherever he was... such a true gent who I'm privileged to have spent many good times with in the Lakes & Newcastle ....
Thoughts are with all the family at this sad time
Ride high Chris RIP
December 22, 2020
December 22, 2020
We just wanted to say what a genuine, kind, funny and lovely guy Chris was. He seemed to bring joy and happiness to everyone he met. We only got to know Chris and Helen in our last few years in Hong Kong, even though we seemed to share several long haul flights to Newcastle together. We firmly believe that you can feel the warmth and goodness of a person almost as soon as you meet them, and this was certainly the case whenever we met Chris and Helen. We’re so so sorry that Chris has passed but feel lucky to have known him. He will continue to inspire us to be kinder, funnier, friendlier, more generous (both with our time and cash!) super positive and also, most importantly, to live life to the full.
Lots of love, Robyn and Jonny xx
(formerly from Glenealy and Island School, now In Valencia/Spain.)
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Recent Tributes
March 1, 2021
March 1, 2021
Although we left Hong Kong over 3 years ago Chris left a mark on me that will never be forgotten. Chris was quite simply one of the most genuine and generous people who was always willing to put his hand up to help out .

- I coached mini Rugby with Chris at HKFC and it was always Chris who had the time to coach but also to take responsibility for kit ordering / refereeing or helping with team organisation .
- I helped out at school functions but it was always Chris who would be there to set up / clear up and ensure everyone felt included.

In Chris we have lost a shining example of authenticity and selflessness. Chris had many strengths but I will always remember the energy and passion he had to help and include others .

Sending love and condolences to Helen and the family. Chris has sadly left us but he and the example he set will never be forgotten .

Neil, Heather, Oliver and Ben
February 4, 2021
February 4, 2021
One thing I've been mulling over trying whilst trying to write something here is the probability of ever crossing paths with another person and just how truly lucky anyone who had the fortune to know and spend time with Chris was. He made everyone feel like they were his best friend and to steal someone else's words 'it was his superpower'. Your day was always better having spent any time at all with Chris and I count myself as immensely lucky to have known him. Even the most mundane things were better if they involved Chris.

I'll miss silly things like bumping into Chris at lunchtime as he tries to make fried rice taste better by adding as much chilli sauce as he can find or just talking about football and life.

His example as a husband and father is one for those in a similar position to emulate.

My deepest sympathies to Helen and the kids. You are in our hearts.x
January 25, 2021
January 25, 2021
From attending the beautiful and moving service at St. Anne's on Saturday and reading many of the tributes on here, I can tell that Chris touched the lives of everyone that knew him.

Chris was always in a jovial mood when we would cross paths at our apartment complex in Stanley where his family and mine are neighbors. He would greet us with a warm hello and genuinely seem happy to run into you. 

We'll miss waving at Chris from the kids' school bus stop in the mornings when he'd drive by in his SUV on his way to work each day. We'll miss seeing Chris as a regular fixture at the pool on spring and summer weekends.

My heart breaks for Helen and his children, and my sincere condolences to his entire family. I don't understand why he is gone so soon and so suddenly. 
Recent stories
January 2, 2021
One of my strongest memories of Chris was when I was about 6 or 7, and my brother would have been about 3 or 4. Chris would have been 14 or so. We were visiting Auntie Dot and Uncle Harry one afternoon up in Birtley. All the kids were out back on the patch of grass behind the houses while the mums and dads were doing the stuff that always seemed really boring to you when you were a kid, like drinking tea and chatting. I remember Chris had set up a jump made of some planks and bricks and was lining up the little kids - including me and my brother - behind the jump to jump over them on his BMX :-) I still remember lying there as Auntie Dot came screaming out of the back of the house like a Banshee yelling "No, Christopher, No!".

I see the adult Chris' enthusiasm and confidence in that young kid lining us up to be jumped over, without a care in the world. And I wasn't scared one bit ... I know he would have made it :-)

George Mitchell

December 29, 2020
I ha dthe great pleasure to admit Chris to the university and enjoyed my on going contact with him. I also has links with his extended family which I valued! Chris will missed dearly by all who knew or met him!
December 27, 2020
I met Chris last year during the KGV service learning trip in Thailand. Managing these programs for students, I've met and worked with hundreds of teachers from international schools around the world. Chris stands out and left a lasting impression on me in our week spent together.

He immediately became passionate about a home that we were building for a local family in a rural village. He wanted the job done right and rather than rotate around to other activities he spent nearly the entire week at that one project, supporting students to lay brick and pour the foundation. We reached a point where the students couldn't build the walls any higher, meaning local engineers would need to step in to complete the job. Chris wouldn't have it. He found his way to a hardware store with one of our staff and constructed scaffolding for students to continue working. He was so proud of the kids and the progress they made on the home that week. His heart for service and drive to simply make things happen will remain unparalleled in my eyes.

Chris's life was so much more than I can understand from our short time spent together, but the impact he had on myself (and I believe many others that week) was massive. I get the impression that this was just his nature. For those who were closest to him, I am deeply sorry for this loss. His positivity, kindness, work ethic, warmth, and empathy will live on in each of his students, colleagues, friends, and acquaintances like myself.

I won't forget you Chris.

-Jake

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