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Chaney Minnis Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Chaney Minnis
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Brenda
September 4, 2025
Watching Darkness Falls now, great movie. Looked him up because he reminds me of Pierce Brosnan. So sorry for his friends & Family.
Lori Ault
May 10, 2024
I loved you, Chaney. You were a special friend to me.
J Blondie Riffle
April 17, 2021
Wow ,I just found out he died... What a tragedy...R.I.P.
John c. In florida
June 4, 2020
I am a fan and thought he was a superb actor, didn't understand why I never heard more then decided to perform a Google search and learned what happened. I think it's a great loss of a true friend to all who truly knew him personally and professionally as well as a major loss to regular people who never were able to see this talent evolve in American culture. My very late condolences to his family and friends, my heart goes out to you, nothing can ever replace his soul on earth but the memories we all share are eternal within our own souls.
Gaby Macaluso
February 26, 2020
Gaby Macaluso
[email protected]
Christy Dodd
March 25, 2019
Still always a fan, you left quite the mark sir.
Brandy Tincup
April 14, 2016
I'm so sorry to hear that Chaney died. He was a very gifted actor and lovely human being. Belated condolences to his friends and family.
Sandra Monsma
July 8, 2015
Taken to young like so many others, he will live on in his movies and be remembered forever.
Maria Baeza
June 25, 2015
As a friend of mine would often say, "from my mouth to God's ear." Thank you for looking out for my daughter. Since I previously asked that you keep an eye out for her she has had a movie role and two commercials and she is headed to L.A. The spiritual realm is full of miracles! I will continue praying for your girlfriend and family, sweet Prince!
Maria Baeza
January 19, 2015
It is clear that you were deeply loved. I am 56 years old and went to take my kids to see Darkness Falls, back in the day and we where so pleasantly surprised when it turned out to be one of the best scary movies we'd ever seen! It's funny that a couple of days ago I thought about your movie and how good it was and I wished that I could see it again soon and voilà, there it was on cable! I did some goggle searches for you darling actors especially that very believable child and to my great sadness I came to find out that you were no longer with us. My daughter has chosen acting as a profession. She absolutely loves it!!! I ask you as a favor to please look out for her from Heaven sweet Prince and take her under your wing to guide her steps to success. Ask God to keep her safe from the pitfalls of the buisness. As a mother I would be so grateful. Until we meet one day...forever a fan.??
November 1, 2014
Sorry to hear the news. Had no idea that such a great rising young acting talent was taken from us so young. Huge fan of 'Darkness Falls" and was wondering why he doesn't have his own TV show, for he had such a powerful on screen presence. So sad. Belated condolences to his family and loved ones.
Jonathan
June 26, 2014
I was looking up the filming locations for Darkness Falls when the search brought up Chaney Kley Minnis death in 2007. It goes without saying he deserved a much longer life especially being one of the truly good guys. The transition of his character from a man so haunted by his past that he rarely speaks to anyone, to being the knowledgeable hero everyone has to count on is so good I'm not a horror movie fan and he sold the story alone with his performance. Though it's now 2014 my condolences to his family and friends.
RIP Chaney
Liam Healy
October 21, 2013
Very sad news. I was searching through the IMDB pages of actors I like and came upon Chaney's. Awful to hear that he died. He looked set to be a great actor.
Tina
March 31, 2013
I just saw Darkness falls and loved you so went straight away to look u up in Facebook.. For my shock you are not among us anymore, forgive me I didn't know. I thought you were a great actor and I'm saddened by knowing the death of a young person like you. R.I.P
Alheli Carles
January 10, 2010
I'm so sorry about Chaney Kley just I Seen his Season Of Buffy the Vampire Sayer He Plays Brad in 5th Season and I Have A Movie of him called Mr Blue Sky I'm one of his Fans
Kurt Moore
May 21, 2009
Just a week or two prior to hearing about your passing an old box appeared and within was a photo of you, Steve and I playing football in my front yard. It made me think about those days and you guys were some of the greatest friends ever, those days were so much fun and am grateful you were a part of them.
It brings tears to my eyes reading over all this... its hard to believe... but you lived a full life, brought joy to others and had a peaceful death. It just came way to early though...
miss you
Robert Kaercher
December 15, 2008
I was Googling around some old actor friends today, people that I had not heard from in a long time. I searched Chaney's name to see what he was up to these days, and was extremely saddened to see his obituary turn up.
I worked with Chaney in the play "The Angels of Lemnos" in Chicago over 10 years ago. It was pretty amazing to watch him grow into the character throughout the rehearsal process--it was clear that he was exceptionally talented. He also had a terrific sense of humor that made him a lot of fun offstage.
He was a really sweet guy, and my wife and I were really happy for him when we saw him turn up on TV and in "Darkness Falls." The last time we saw him, we gave him a ride home after doing a staged reading of a play-in-progress at Chicago Dramatists. He moved to L.A. shortly after that.
I was really hoping that I'd get to catch up with him in person some day, but...
We'll miss ya, "Chane Saw."
Daved Lamphier
April 30, 2008
Chaney was the best person I knew. He always had a way of making me smile no matter what. I think I will miss that the most, and of course those daring eyes. I haven't spoken with him for quite a few years now since I moved away and our lives went in different directions, as all people's tend to do. I just learned of his passing today. I was watching his movie "Darkness Falls" randomly a few nights ago and today I looked him up online just to see what new and wonderful things he was up to these days. This news sincerely saddens me. At the very least, he has left a handprint on everyone's heart, who has ever had the grand opportunity to known him and he has left behind so much to remember him by. Chaney's smile and sense of humor will forever stay with me.
"So, you think I'm funny?"
"You think you're funny, that's all that matters."
My sincerest, deepest and heartfelt condolences to Melodie, all of his friends and family.
We will miss you Chaney.
Jim and Dona Henry
April 19, 2008
Jim and I just found out tonight about Chaney. We are in Ketchikan Alaska because they are doing a production of The Angels of Lemnos and one of the actors in the show told us that they had read something about Chaney passing away while searching Angels on the internet. We are so so broken hearted. Jim had been emailing Chaney and was wondering why he had not answered back. Our deepest condolences. We loved Chaney so much. Melodie or Bob, if you read this, please contact us. The part of Nathan always belonged to Chaney.
Thad Anzur
March 20, 2008
I knew Chaney only casually through an acting class in Chicago but was thoroughly impressed with him as an actor and as a person. During class, he conveyed emotion and intention honestly and had an incredible clarity and focus in his work. Every time he performed, I paid close attention knowing that something worthwhile would always happen. We had a mutual friend I worked with at Maggiano's who would keep me informed on Chaney's successes in the following years, which were all well-deserved. I remember having the opportunity to interact with Chaney during and outside of class and although I don't remember what we talked about, I remember how open and kind he was. He seemed to enjoy talking with people because we fell into conversation easily. He was incredibly friendly and supportive, almost disarmingly so - which I think is indicative of a truly good soul. Chaney is the kind of guy you were affected by no matter how brief your interaction with him was. I am sincerely saddened by his passing and offer my condolences to his family and friends.
Frederick Howard
December 20, 2007
I remember playing basketball with Chaney at TJ. He was always a fun person to be around and a great player
J.J. (Bailey) Zapata
September 27, 2007
My deepest and heartfelt sympathy goes to Melodie and Chaney's family. We were friends and co-workers years ago at Rock Bottom in Chicago, and we spent many rooftop days and evenings talking about theatre, living an authentic life, soul mates, books, you name it. I remember how fondly he spoke of Melodie and their undeniable connection and love. Although we had not talked in years, I followed his career from afar and was so thrilled he was being true to his passion, to himself. Chaney holds a special place in my heart, and I still credit him for making me read, understand, and learn to love Shakespear! I feel lucky to have known him.
Lori LeBlanc
August 27, 2007
I first met Chaney when he was still in Chicago. He and I had some long, lengthy talks about life, God and his aspirations as an actor. I'll miss those chats and will carry him in my heart forever. I always told Chaney he was a shining star. Now he truly is one. My condolences to his family and Melodie. We all loved him dearly.
Maiz Lucero
August 15, 2007
I met Chaney at C.U. We worked on a show in the theatre department together. From that experience grew a deep friendship. He did everything he said he would do. My deepest sympathies to the Minnis family. Chaney will always remain in my memories and my heart.
Ryan Dalrymple (Ripple)
August 10, 2007
Chaney was a really good friend and a great actor. I had to sit back and remember all the good times we had working at RB in Chicago, and then hanging in Venice when I moved to California. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone that ever knew him. The world lost a great man when Chaney passed.
mike&jennifer ireland
August 9, 2007
The Passing
(Ode to a Friend)
You too have passed beyond this mortal plane
to the boundaries of uncertainty
Faced to see the great expanse
things unknown, things wondered
Time, to short in the Earthly Realm
Time, never enough to touch, feel or Enlighten
Ah, but so wrong!!!
Brief moments, a lifetime
small spires of light in a world of Darkness
help light a Journey of Souls
Our Journey, Just begun
A bit more clear, less feared
At peace with destiny
Thank You for your light,
I will miss you!
Mike& jennifer Ireland ( July 2007)
Sean Kelley
August 9, 2007
From that first moment I had Chaney ride that bike onstage I knew he was going to do something amazing with his life. I had NO idea how much, and in how brief of a time. I was honored to have taught and directed him. His heart was HUGE, and his passion was even bigger. I had lost touch with Chaney for many years, but he wrote the most beautiful letter to me the day after he won the Jeff Award. He was so proud and wanted me to know how important his acting work had become. He knew he could make a difference. And he did. And he will continue to.
As I continue to teach, I will always have the image of that newspaper boy riding across the stage. It has made me smile during these sad days.
My thoughts are with his fiance, his family, and all his close friends.
Jason Maxwell
August 9, 2007
My familys thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Minnis family, we are sorry for your loss.
There are just too many good memories of my childhood that include Chaney to list them all. But playing football in the basement of the Minnis home, then ordering pizza on a Friday night sleepover will always be a cherrished memory.
We were blessed for having known Chaney.
katy burns
August 7, 2007
We were so sad and sorry to hear this news. Chaney was sensitive, genuine and kind. A true gem. We loved working with him and talking and laughing together. In the years since we've moved away from Chicago, we enjoyed following his career and rooting for his success. His performance in The Angels of Lemnos was one of the best we've ever seen and we will never forget it. He was amazing. We were so lucky to have known such a great guy. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of his friends and family.
Chris & Katy (Sullivan) Burns
Former co-workers and friends
Rock Bottom Chicago
Katy Goodwin
August 7, 2007
Our hearts go out to the Minnis family and friends, growing up with Chaney includes so many memories, I am not sure where to begin. I know that my family feels the same way. Our hearts and prayers go out to you all. We are so sorry for your loss and we feel numb to have lost such an amazing person. Knowing him from childhood, he could have only improved with age. Chaney you have left many fond memories in my heart. I look forward to laughing about them with you someday again.
All my love, Katy G and the Goodwin family
Gina Malvestuto-Fitzgerald
August 6, 2007
Chaney was a bright spot in my life when things were very difficult for me. He was always honest, compassionate, and kind to me. And he was so funny. He was the kind of friend I could run into at any time and my first reaction was to laugh. And smile. He brought joy into my life. And in my memory he always will.
My heart and my prayers go out to his family and loved ones.
I am truly sorry for your loss.
Scott Terry
August 4, 2007
The 2 years I got to know Chaney at TJ and the years we spent together at CU were a gift. Chaney was a man of honor and integrity and you only became a better individual by being in his presence. He will be deeply missed and thought of often. Prov 3.5&6
Kate Coughlin
August 3, 2007
Chaney was a great guy. He was a leader early on and it has been fun to hear of his success over the years. My heart goes out to the Minnis family.
Robin Sinkhorn and Lauren Potter
August 2, 2007
Lauren worked with Chaney on Mr. Blue Sky, and she absolutely loved him!Everyone did! He was so sweet to her and to everyone...what a great guy! He will be missed...
Penny (Stark) Replogle
August 2, 2007
Bobby,
If I knew the words to comfort your heart, I would write them. Your comfort will be in the Lord. My heart if full of saddness for you and your family. You are in my prayers. Love, Penny
Matt Allan
August 1, 2007
Couldn't believe the news I received last week. Will always cherish the times Chaney and I shared in Boulder/Denver - that was a wonderful time in my life. Love to all.
Laurie Cassel
August 1, 2007
Though we never met Chaney please know in just watching his energy on the big screen that he must have truly been a wonderful man. We're so sorry for your loss, you know it's said that a parent isn't to out live their child, even though it happens daily that is a very difficult thing to overcome. Please keep your faith in the Lord & know he's now there preparing a place for you to be together again someday. Your loving parenting showed in what a well mannered & loving man he became in life.
John Bane
August 1, 2007
Bob, Doris, and Family,
May this time of sadness be lightened through the prayers of your friends.
With deepest sympathy,
Bob Luetkemeyer
August 1, 2007
Bob,
My thoughts and prayers are with you & your family.
Rock bottom chicago staff
August 1, 2007
Rock bottom Chicago lost a friend and brother. All the staff that worked with Chaney will never forget how passionate, funny and sensitive he was. We took pride in knowing that one of our friends could set career goals and see them through, while really living his dream. Chaney will never lose us as his loyal fan base and we would like to tell Melody and Chaney's family that we are praying for them every day and hope peace will soon follow their grief.
Evanne Keefe Ferraro
July 31, 2007
I do not know any words that are appropriate in such sadness. I always find comfort in these: "Time was...The Golden Head irrevocably said, but time, which none can bind, while flowing fast away, leaves love behind." From a "Child's Garden of Verses" RLS. Love, Evanne
Joe Mogor
July 31, 2007
I could not believe the news on the 28th and still cannot today. I knew Chaney for many years at MPB but lost contact with him over the years,I will never forget breakdancing out in the parking lot and the birthday parties at Eric's house. My prayers and thoughts go out to everyone who knew him...Chaney you will be missed!
Kathy Davenport
July 31, 2007
Chaney was an incredibly wonderful man, and he will be terribly missed, but never forgotten. My heartfelt sympathies go out to all who knew and loved him.
God bless you all.
All my love,
Kat
Dan Welcher
July 31, 2007
My thoughts and energy are with all that Chaney left here. I have none but great memories of the years I spent around his magnificent energy and will think fondly of his infectous laughter.
Alex LeMay
July 30, 2007
Chaney was one of the most talented and inspiring people I have ever met. The acting world has lost a bright light that will be missed terribly. His friendship to many and compassion for all is what I will carry with me. I will also miss his spot on impersonation on John Elway's walk...it was one of the funniest things I have ever seen
Kristen (Sirovatka) Fefes
July 30, 2007
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all of you.
Tony Laveo
July 29, 2007
My fondest memories of childhood were spent with Chaney. The first twenty years filled with laughter. I, too, thank his family for welcoming me into their home and inviting me along on thier trips. Friends like Chaney dont come along very often. Friendships are usually formed over the course of time and require a great deal of trust. Being Chaneys friend was easy....it was a gift. You will be greatly missed my friend.
Leslie Schutz Panagiotopoulou
July 29, 2007
Dear Chaney's family and friends, Having met Chaney years ago, when we were kids, through my nephew Drew and knowing how respected and loved he was, it gives me great sadness to hear of his untimely death. I was given the great pleasure of seeing him all grown up through video tape (thank you Robert) speaking as best man at Drew's wedding to Shannon and I cherish that tape. There are no words to express how truly sorry I am for your loss so I send to you all, my love, my prayers and my condolences. Love, Leslie Schutz Panagiotopoulou & Constantine & Dimitris Panagiotopoulos
Robert and Susan Dauchy
July 28, 2007
We met for but a brief moment, had wonderful times in Melbourne, during Darkness Falls and dinner at the Flower Drum for Andy's birthday. Thanks for coming into our lives. We can only imagine how your family will miss you.
Barry Kenehan
July 28, 2007
I was so sorry to hear of Chaney's passing. I knew Chaney well in grade school, we shared many birthday and other celebrations together... He was a good friend and I thank the rest of his family for welcoming me into his home. It seems silly now, but my most vivid memory of Chaney is playing a pac-man video game Dr. Minnis brought into the house til all hours of the night. Chaney and I always wondered if we spent more time on that game than his Dad. Condolensces and prayers to Dr. Minnis, Drew, Chelsea and everyone else who loved Chaney.
Ruth
July 28, 2007
Dear Minnises: I am unspeakably sorry for your loss. I love you.
David Mansfield
July 28, 2007
My heart aches since hearing the tragic news of Chaney's death. I can only imagine how his family and closest friends are coping with such a loss. I pray God's peace and grace would be yours.
I have such fond memories of time spent with Chaney as we attended MPB together. In 1985, I was privileged to join his family on a vacation to Jackson Hole and Yellowstone. We had so much fun white water rafting, hiking and touring. Another fond memory was his 13th birthday party where several friends were invited to the family cabin. We slept in a giant teepee and the following day, we explored the surrounding woods going from clue to clue in a treasure hunt. Those were such carefree times and that is how I remember my friend, Chaney.
Kathleen McClure
July 28, 2007
He had me at hello...and that was when we met in 2nd grade. I think Chaney had everyone at hello. His light, love, spark, energy was undeniable; his presence, his smile filled a room. His physical body is mourned and missed; his life and his soul will be celebrated from this point forward. I send love, light, and peace to his family, fiancee, and the fellas.
MaryKay (Baker) Iseldyke
July 28, 2007
I was so shocked to hear about Chaney. I never had the privilege of knowing him, but he was engaged to my lovely niece who is in my prayers and thoughts. My heartfelt sympathy for all who knew and loved Chaney.
Kathleen (Katie) Coons
July 27, 2007
Chaney defined unique. He was truly himself and not many people can say that. He brought the energy of possibility wherever he went. He will be missed. My love and sympathy go to Mr. Minnis, Drew, Melodie, The Fellas and the rest of his family. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Eric Levitt
July 27, 2007
Dr. Minnis, Drew, Chelsey, Ilene and all of Chaney's family: I'm so terribly sorry for your loss -- for our loss -- but I know you are comforted that Chaney is now truly home and at peace with God. Chaney and I lost touch through the years, but I have so many wonderful memories of time spent with him (and all of you) as we grew up at MPB and TJ. One of my favorite memories is the time that Chaney and I almost single-handedly caused the Broncos to beat the Raiders in overtime by using that brown leather couch in the basement to throw as many "touchdown passes" as we could to each other before time expired. Chaney was a great source and conduit of positive energy...the type of energy that I know we both believed help the Broncos to win that game. It's the same energy that I send to you all now with my thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace, my friend. We will see you again.
Laurie Diamond
July 27, 2007
My deepest and heartfelt sympathies are with Chaney's family and friends during this terribly difficult time. May your memories of him bring you peace and comfort.
Michael Lovett
July 27, 2007
I smile when I remember Chaney--I hope you do, too. I admired him very much; we knew each other since 3rd grade. For those of you who are hurting, who are now numbed or simply shocked, I am praying for you and for me... For the Minnis family, my heart goes out to you. As a father now of a beautiful 14-month-old boy, I feel so badly that Chaney's parents lost their treasured son, of whom they should be more than proud. Chaney made many people very happy. I'm so glad God gave me the times and memories that I got with Chaney, and I'm so sorry we lost him.
Stephanie Ferraro
July 27, 2007
I unfortunately never met Chaney but heard so much of him, and I was proud of being his cousin. His loss is tragic and my family is all deeply saddened. I am sorry for those he left behind, his Dad, Bob, especially. I feel close to all the Minnis family and am sharing the sadness of our loss. With love, Stephanie
Rebecca (Berenstein) Stuart
July 27, 2007
I am proud to have known him and will keep my memories dear... my sympathies to his family, friends, and fiance... and anyone else he may have blessed with a smile.
Heather (Richardson) Barben
July 27, 2007
Chaney and I became friends in High school. His presence was unmatched, his bright eyes and radiant smile were contagious. He seemed to always liven up the room bringing positive energy and laughter where ever he went. Chaney's passing is a great loss. May his courage and passion in following his dream continue to inspire and strenghten us throughout our lives. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family, many friends and Melodie.
Nicole (Sparks) Maloney
July 27, 2007
Our deepest, heartfelt sympathy to your entire family during this time of great loss. We were so saddened to read about Chaney this morning. Our hearts go out to you during this very difficult time.
Respectfully yours,
Nicole (Sparks) Maloney, Cal & Reni Sparks
Tami Spierling
July 27, 2007
My deepest sympathies are with Chaney's family and his close friends.
He will be greatly missed.
Edward Rosenfeld
July 27, 2007
My deepest sympathy on your loss. May many pleasant memories help to sustain you at this most difficult time.
Wade Shuman
July 27, 2007
I express heartfelt sympathy for the grief you're going through during this time of sadness. My heart goes out to you. Heartbreak of losing a son, brother, and friend we are all asking why. His parting leaves a feeling of emptiness. He was too young; by cherishing those moments of all the times spent together he's gone but not forgotten, the memories will last forever. Saying goodbye is never easy. Sending heartfelt condolences…
My thoughts and prayers go out
To the entire family, Chaney we will miss you!
Patrick Minnis
July 27, 2007
We were proud to know you and be part of your family, Chaney.
Leah Conder-Backes
July 27, 2007
I was shocked to see Chaney's picture in the paper this morning. To his family, I am so sorry and heartbroken for you all. I have the most wonderful memories of hanging out with Chaney during high school and college. I will never forget the nights that Chaney, Mel, Brian and I would stay up very late playing cards in Boulder. I still remember going to see Chaney in his first play at CU and being amazed at how great of an actor he was. I always felt very proud to call Chaney my friend. Although we did not stay in contact after CU, I feel that I was very lucky to have known him and everytime I think back to those memories, I will think of Chaney and smile.
With Sympathy,
Leah (Conder) Backes
Jeff Fleischman
July 27, 2007
I will never have another friend quite as unique, inspiring, driven and peaceful as Chaney. I loved every minute in his company, and I am a better human being for knowing him. Thank you for your passion, your spirit, your heart and your friendship. My heart goes out to Mr. Minnis, Drew, Chelsey and the rest of the family.
Stephanie Brown-Kies
July 27, 2007
I love you all so much and I hate that you all have to go through this. I will miss Chaney very much. I wish I could be there with everyone celebrating Chaneys life.
All my love,
Steph
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