Search by Name

Search by Name

Chris Herod

1964 - 2024

Chris Herod obituary, 1964-2024, Atlanta, GA

BORN

1964

DIED

2024

Chris Herod Obituary

HEROD, Chris

Chris Herod, 59, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 4, 2024, in Dunwoody, GA. Born on September 29, 1964, in Grove Hill, AL, Chris spent his childhood in Stone Mountain, GA, and attended Tucker High School.

Chris earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech and built a diverse career as a mechanical engineer across various industries. He eventually specialized in the Pulp and Paper sector, where he worked for Andritz, Inc.

Chris married Renate Marie Gonzales in 1991, and together they raised two sons, Ethan and Alexander (Sasha). He was a devoted father, always his sons' biggest fan, and Renate's best friend. Chris was also thrilled when his parents, James and Martha, recently moved back to Atlanta, bringing them closer to his family.

After retiring two and a half years ago, Chris fully embraced this new chapter of his life, dedicating more time to his family. He deeply cherished every moment with his beloved wife, Renate, and their children, and took immense pride in the remarkable young men his sons had grown into.

Additionally, with retirement, he pursued his passions for running, hiking, traveling, sailing, skiing, biking, and reading. He was proud of his running achievements, made possible by the support of the local road running community and another trail running group with whom he participated regularly. Often placing in his 50-59 age group, Chris eagerly anticipated competing in the 60-69 category after his upcoming birthday in September. He also treasured his time hiking and camping with both old and new friends. A lover of music, especially live performances, Chris enjoyed attending shows with his brother, Alan, and friends, always relishing the shared experience. He was always making adventurous plans for the future.

On Sunday morning, Chris went for an early run from Dunwoody to Island Ford on the Chattahoochee. Tragically, less than a mile from home on his return, he collapsed and passed away, likely from a heart attack, according to doctors.

Chris' sudden passing is an immense loss to his family and friends. He was a genuinely kind person, known for his great sense of humor and love of good conversation. Chris had a natural ability to connect with people, always comfortable joking around with groups, even if they were strangers. His quick wit and approachable demeanor made him a joy to be around. At home, Chris was incredibly helpful and handy, unafraid to tackle any project or fix things that needed attention. People relied on his expertise and trusted his judgment to make sound decisions, both for his family and the community. He was a catalyst for getting things done, often finding ways to negotiate solutions that satisfied various points of view. Chris' presence, humor, and practical wisdom will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Chris is survived by his wife, Renate; children, Ethan of Bluffton, SC and Alexander "Sasha" of Marietta, GA; his parents, James and Martha Herod of Buckhead, GA; his siblings, Scott (Tina) of Lafayette, CO and Alan (Terri) of Atlanta, GA; aunts, Elizabeth Murdock (Mickey) of Huntsville, AL and Frances Ohme of Grove Hill, AL. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews across the country.

Chris's memorial service will be held Friday, August 9 at 11 AM at Dunwoody United Methodist Church, in the sanctuary. A greeting will be held afterwards in Fellowship Hall. Everyone is encouraged to wear sport sneakers to celebrate Chris' love of running, hiking and biking.

If one chooses to give a monetary gift in Chris' name, please consider Malachi's Storehouse https://giving.ncsservices.org/App/Giving/ncs-1348/MALACHISSTOREHOUSE

or Giving Grace https://remerge.kindful.com/?campaign=1031067

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Aug. 8, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Chris Herod

Not sure what to say?





5 Entries

Sharon and Tom Berg

August 11, 2024

Knowing you only for one year long ago was truly a pleasure. Treasure your memories Herod family.

Alison Sims

August 9, 2024

Shocked to hear of the loss of Chris. I worked with him at Andritz for years and as mentioned by many, he was always kind, understanding and funny. My heartfelt condolences to Renate and the boys. The world has lost one of the good ones
Alison Sims

Jeff Rosenberg

August 9, 2024

I've run past Chris in Dunwoody probably 4 times a week over the past who-knows-how-many years. He was always so nice, always said good morning. He loved being out there on the road, and was always among friends. He will be missed.

Titina

August 9, 2024

Dear Chris, I know that you are making heaven a better place. It is so hard to believe that you are gone so soon...

Chris was a great person to talk, to work, to have around at any time... hard to believe that this happened.

Renate, Ethan and Sasha, I am so sorry for your loss! Chris talked so much about you guys, with love and pride. I am sure he will be watching and taking care of you forever.

Unfortunately, I am away on a business trip and won't make it in time for the service. But I will be praying for all of you.

I know this is an extremely hard time and I hope you feel embraced by the love of family and friends. I hope this love brings you strength and time brings comfort to your hearts.

Titina & Aaron

Single Memorial Tree

Lyman Grubb

Planted Trees

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results

Make a Donation
in Chris Herod's name

Memorial Events
for Chris Herod

Aug

9

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

Dunwoody United Methodist Church

GA

How to support Chris's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Chris Herod's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more