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Chris Wolf Obituary
Robert "Chris" Wolf, of Athens, born January 8, 1952 in Canton, OH, passed on to a new life on December 13, 2017 surrounded by family. Chris, "Wolfman" or "Wolfie," retired after 28 years at Southern Ohio Coal, outside Athens, where he went to work after graduating from Ohio University with a BSED in English. Prior to college, he received his high school diploma from Canton Central Catholic High School. While working in the coal mine, Chris started Peace & Love Rentals and rehabbed small houses and maintained them for over 30 years. To fill his idle time, he purchased, owned, and operated the "World Famous" Smiling Skull Saloon in Athens for 23 years. The bar is still operated by family. Chris, also "Detroit," became interested in motorcycles at a young age and his love for them carried on to the end -- cross country rides, rebuilding antique Harleys, raising hell, searching for the next project. Bikes led to antique cars, and the garages were full of fun. All these activities were supervised, supported, and helped along by the love of his life, Connie, whom he met in 1975 and married in 1980 (you do the math). Chris and Connie loved traveling together. In early years they road tripped with the children, and later they went on their own on epic motorcycle adventures, frequently choosing roads less travelled.
Chris was diagnosed with kidney cancer in May 2017. His last months were not a battle but a moving portrait of pragmatism, courage, tenacity, and love. He had a huge community of friends in Athens and across the country. He will be remembered by all for his hard work, creativity, integrity, wit, and humor. His immediate and extended family were sources of his great happiness and satisfaction with life. His grandchildren will hold special memories of their zany and influential "Grumpa Chris." (Best quote, from grandson Orson, after a week at so-called WolfKamp: "It's fun AND dangerous!") Chris was preceded in death by his parents Robert Locke Wolf Jr. and Elaine James Wolf of Canton;,his wife's parents Calvin G. and Mary R. Thayer of Athens, brother-in-law Blane Bertram and infant grandson Calvin Baker Thayer-Hansen. He is survived by his wife, Connie Thayer-Wolf; and by his children and their families: daughter, Toni Thayer (David Hansen, children, Orson Aurelius and Zelda Dare Thayer-Hansen) of Cleveland Heights, daughter, Adrienne (Nick) Whitney of Athens, and son, Robert Locke Wolf (Christina, and children, Felix Locke, Rex Vaughn, and Wren Merritt) of Athens. Chris is also survived by his dear sisters and their spouses, Diane Bertram (Tom Lynch) of Massillon and Lisa (Michael) Lombardi of Canton; along with many adoring nieces, nephews, and siblings-in-law. "I'm moving on. Drink a cold one and get to work." Friends and family are invited to call Friday, Dec. 22nd from 5-7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 23rd from 2-4:30 p.m. at Jagers & Sons Funeral Home, Athens. The Celebratory Observation will be on Saturday, Dec. 23 at 4:30 p.m. at the funeral home. Drinks, potluck, and tall tales will follow at the Smiling Skull Saloon. The family requests no flowers and suggests memorial contributions to the OhioHealth Home Care and Hospice, 444 W. Union St., Suite C, Athens, OH 45701. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register book at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
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Memories and Condolences
for Chris Wolf
Sponsored by The Columbus Dispatch.
Stephan Kirk Forsythe
January 2, 2023
Chris was my best friend when I was five years old. I lived up the street on Ashwood Drive. It was one of the best years of my life. When my Dad was transferred to Cleveland, they brought Chris up to Cleveland and put him a large box for my six birthday. Then he jumped out the box! I wish I could have connected with him before he passed.
Joe Klotz
November 28, 2018
Very sorry to hear. Quite an extraordinary guy. Drinking a beer in his honor
Barb Abels
March 21, 2018
I met Detroit when I was a teenager, at one of his notorious Memorial Day Run parties, right about the time he got his beautiful Connie. He was always such a happy & funny guy! I was privileged to know him, we all were! Aloha 'oe, Chris <3
Don Lewis
March 2, 2018
To my old friend Detroit. Remembering the days when you, Stewart,Whellner and me all lived at Elliotsville (late 70's early 80's) always makes me smile. Those were good old days. Party on Brother.
How you can show support
Ron Docie
January 11, 2018
I just learned this. I liked Chris :) He was fair and fun. The family is lucky to have had him in your lives! RIP Chris I'll miss you too
Charles Thayer
December 24, 2017
When I first met Chris he was working in the mines all night long and sleeping in the day, and I was just a kid. Even at that age I understood that he was a hard worker but that didn't impress me so much as his long long beard, which now at 48 years old, I still couldn't pull off myself. When I was growing up, some of my best memories were just laying out on towels at Dow Lake with Connie, Toni Kristen, Chris, and myself all in cut-off jeans after an unplanned dip. As the years rolled on Chris became a foreman and I grew to admire his natural leadership because he really cared about his crew. He was fighting for his guys when he needed to, and watching their backs both in the mines and with the management. During that time, despite logging so many hours underground, he managed to fix up one house and then another. Sadly and luckily the mines eventually came to an end, but by that point Chris was a man who set his own rules and lived by them. There were Harleys, pool tables, The Smiling Skull, and even some land. Over the years lots of things changed: more kids, new friends, grandkids, and few motorcycle trips. But Chris was always authentic, hard working, and put friends and family before any of the many noisy distractions of life. He was just as happy to have a picnic lakeside as most are to travel the world. So whenever I'm out on my hill watching a big old patch of lichen sway gently with a warm breeze, I'll be thinking of that big beard on Chris and smile with him at the sunshine.
Much love,
Charlie Graham Thayer, San Francisco
Erin Mace
December 23, 2017
Keep on ridin Wolfe.....
Pat "hoghead"mace and family...
December 23, 2017
Fly hi Wolfe.... Prayers to Connie and family....our thoughts are with u....
Karl & Jackie France
December 22, 2017
Chris had a very unique presence in the Athens community. Always creative and interesting with a lifestyle many admired, but few could achieve. Our deepest heart- felt sympathy to Connie and family.
Outlaws MC
December 21, 2017
On behalf of the Outlaw MC Nation we would like to send our Condolences to Detroit's Family..
Keep on Rock in In The Free World Brother
RIP..
Outlaws MC Athens
Sam Shain
December 20, 2017
So sorry for the loss of Chris. I worked with him and he was one of the best!
Susie Jenkins
December 20, 2017
Wishing I could be there to celebrate his and your big life!! And wishing I had seen him more over the years. Will be there with all Wolf's in spirit. Love to all the clan during this time.
Jess Schickel
December 20, 2017
I only got to spend a couple of weekends in Chris's presence, but he made a big impact. I thought he was so cool and funny and warm. Really liked him. Admired how he lived his life - such a wonderful grumpa, the pictures always made me happy. Love and more love upon your wonderful family.
BILL HAYES
December 20, 2017
RIDE ON DETROIT
Angie Chick
December 20, 2017
My deepest condolences on the passing of Chris, I never knew him personally, always treated his customers with the up most respect.
Doug Pierce
December 19, 2017
Connie, Diane & Lisa,
I was saddened to read of Chris passing. The obituary portrays the free-spirited man Chris was, as well as his love of family. I have memories of some great times with him and Breen. Some really good, and some the 3 of us would rather forget. Being a couple years older, I was probably not the best of influences through our teens and early 20's!.
My prayers are with you and your families during this most difficult time.
Warm regards,
Doug P
Billy Coakley
December 19, 2017
"Let's hear it one more time for the Armstrong Bearcat Band!"
"Now make sure you come on over for some White bean chili before the show"
Chris will be Missed! we always enjoyed his fun loving wacky (in the best possible way) personality definitely One of a Kind! we'll also miss our time's together at the house. We Love you all very much and will keep you in our prayers! Billy Mike and Butch Armstrong Bearcat
Chris Wolf at Earl's Shop
Mike McClintock
December 19, 2017
Amy Rupert aka (Williams)
December 19, 2017
I dont know if I would have ever had a first date with Mike if it werent for Detroit.
Lots of memories and laughs. He will be missed.
December 18, 2017
I have missed seeing Detroit. I always enjoyed hearing what question or solution,in many cases, he had about the latest in Athens. Know that I am thinking of you during this difficult time.
Charlene Cravens- Athens Parking
Lynn Thompson
December 18, 2017
Wolfie, you will be missed my friend. I will miss your Humor the most!
Tony Kempton
December 18, 2017
Wolfie, I'll miss you Pal. YOU WERE SOMETHIN!!!!
December 18, 2017
Connie Diane Lisa & Family Sorry for the loss of Chris. He was a unique person. One of a kind Diane Schillig Canton,Ohio
Gary Van Meter
December 18, 2017
Years ago, in my chopper days, I was at The Little Ritz with friends A clean shaven guy pulled up front on a foot clutch Harley he had bought that day. As he attempted to park, he fell over in front of the bar. I ask "who is that guy?" Somebody said his name was Chris Wolf. I am glad you pulled up that day.
December 18, 2017
rip my friend!!!
christy
Todd Beery Teddy
December 18, 2017
It is said; life is but a brief intermission between birth and death, so enjoy it! I believe you did just that and so much more! It is not what we have at the time of death but what legacies we leave behind us, you my friend left many and will never be forgotten. Thank you for giving me The Smiling SKULL for an occasional outlet,the only bar I visit. I will miss our talks, thank you for the many many years of friendship!! RIP Detroit! Connie, Adrienne and Locke, you may call on me anytime for anything, please except my condolences.
Becky aka Blondie Woodgerd
December 18, 2017
My ol' friend Detroit what do i say about a man like you ? You were a character that's for sure !! I remember when you'd ride your bike past my house to the coal mine & your beard & mustache would be parted down the center & strait back in the wind . Ride hard & free brother ..always Blondie
Kenny and Teri Kerr Family
December 17, 2017
Here is to Detroit: Connie, Locke, Adrienne, Toni and All The Wolfe Pack. When I returned from the Navy, 1972, Detroit and I enjoyed English together. Then we would celebrate OUr success at the Union. Later, They became my customer. Wow. Then, we had kids/ same age. Say What??!! So RIP, Bro. To Quote, Teddy, Tonight we Drink, for Tomorrow We Ride. Across the Sky!
Darci Shields-Radcliff
December 17, 2017
Prayers & hugs for the Wolf Family.
Craig Fetherolf
December 17, 2017
I'll miss seeing you when I stop by the Skull. Ride Free Chris
Craig- Road Hawk Magazine
Mallory Gonyer
December 17, 2017
Detroit was a good man. Will b missed but not forgotten. Love ya man
Ken and Pat Hoppe
December 17, 2017
A definite high point in moving to Athens, Ohio was meeting Chris and Connie Wolf and their lovely family. They included us in their Christmas and Thanksgiving celebrations at their home which meant a lot to us. All I can say is Chris will never be replaced. We'll never forget all the fun times at the "Skull" which of course is still our favorite bar. We know you are up in the clouds riding a bike and loving it. We will always miss you.
Gloria Whitlatch
December 17, 2017
Me sincere condolences to Connie and the entire Wolf family.
Barbara Birk
December 17, 2017
Sending sympathy at this deep, personal loss.
John Weinstein
December 17, 2017
RIP brother Chris. We enjoyed the Blockbuster parties here in Chicagoland with Joe & Debbie. My heart goes out to Connie, the family & friends. Riders in the sky, ride on!
Kate Brody
December 17, 2017
Just have to say what a pleasure it was to read this obit; I don't know Chris Wolf, but whomever did the writing surely gave a clear/engaging look at his life and times.'
Sounds as though he will be missed.
December 16, 2017
Ride On Chris
Dorsel and Jeri Thomas
Bob Black
December 16, 2017
I will miss you Chris, but will never forget all of the great times while working at mine #2 and riding harleys with you.
Darrell Bechtle
December 16, 2017
Ride high brother!
David and Diana West
December 16, 2017
So Sorry to hear of the passing of Chris, I always enjoyed his visits. He truly will be missed in the Athens community and beyond.
Prayers to all the family members and friends of Chris
Teri Haworth
December 16, 2017
From many states away, I send my deepest condolences and supportive thoughts to all the family during this difficult time. Fond, happy memories of the Skull, and the one-of-a-kind person I knew as "Detroit".
Lynne Peterson
December 16, 2017
Connie and family. I loved all of your adventures on Facebook. Sending hugs until I see you in person. We will be out of town over the weekend but will send warm thoughts. Lynne
Shelly Hawk
December 16, 2017
Rest in Peace knowing you lived a strong, adventurous and solid life filled with good family and wonderful friends. Sending love and light to Connie and family.
Shelly Hawk
Kenneth Emsweller
December 16, 2017
I would like to offer my condolences to Connie and all of the family. Chris and I were friends since our teens. We lived together while attending OU and started the Memorial Day Parties. Chris was a good friend and was always able to make me laugh. He called me recently and wanted to talk to the person in charge of the gas bills. He maintained his humor even in the face of cancer. Chris was an old and very good friend. I will miss him more than words can describe. Rest in peace my friend. Emzie
Martie Rector
December 16, 2017
RIP Chris you will be missed by so many. My heart goes out to Connie, Locke and Adrienne
Jody Brooks
December 16, 2017
Was a real privilage to have known such an amazing human being. Never had a bad time when Chris was around. Best wishes to the Wolf families.
Peter Borchard
December 16, 2017
Connie - my thoughts are with you and your family. I'm sorry we'll be in FL and can't be there...
John E. Kerr
December 16, 2017
Always a friend who made me laugh. Sharon and I are with you in a time to reflect on a Good Guy.... My Hero. Wish we could be there in person. We're in Texas and dedicating a ride . Sharon and John E.
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