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On April 4, 2009 Christopher Robert Johnson passed away peacefully, surrounded by friends and family after a courageous year long battle against pancreatic cancer. Born December 10, 1962 in Reno, NV, Chris is survived by his daughters, Jennifer and Emily, and their mother Kristi of Calistoga; parents, Greg and Patricia Johnson of Auburn; and sister, Rene Marie (Johnson) Richardson, Chris is also survived by Ruth Souroujon and many close friends who were always there during this extremely challenging time in his life while he continued to pursue his dreams. Chris graduated from Jesuit High School in Sacramento and received his degree in oenology from Fresno State. He has established significant respect in the winemaking community, bringing his experience from both coasts and around the world to his position as one of the top winemakers for Kendall Jackson. Chris' ambitions to better his surrounding community and world were apparent in many ways, especially in his positive relationships around the world. A Memorial to celebrate his life will take place Saturday, April 11th at 1:00 p.m. at his home in Calistoga. In lieu of flowers, donations can b made to pancreatic cancer research at UCSF or to the Selby Creek Restoration Project. Arrangements by MORRISON FUNERAL CHAPEL, Napa Valley, (707) 963-3536. Condolences may be written to the family at www.morrisonfuneralchapel.com
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I was shocked and saddened to hear of Chris's recent passing, since I hadn't seen him in the past year and was unaware of his illness. Working with him as a KJ grower over the years, I appreciated his friendship and attention to the Mendocino and Lake County farming community. He was always respectful, cheerful and attentive. I will always remember him as a fine human being; someone I looked forward to seeing and spending time with. I know that God's grace will be with Chris's family during this difficult time.
Mark Welch
April 14, 2009
I met Chris when he came to Tahoe "in a blizzard" to help me put on a wine tasting for Jakes on the Lake in Tahoe city.I have done many of these events, but not with the kind of responce that Chris evoked.Because of the weather the turn out was small. Some winemakers would be very upset by the small turnout but Chris was happy to speak to the eight that showed up. He was so cool with the small turnout.I still run into these people in the store and around town and they always ask when that great guy from KJ was coming back. He made such an impression on all of us that attended that night. He will be very missed around the Lake.
We are all very saddened.
Blair Odom ex Regal
April 13, 2009
I worked with Chris at the KJ Lakeport winery and was so very saddened to receive the news that he had passed. My memories of Chris are all of him smiling - he approached everything with a sense of humor. The world will be a little less bright without him.
Casey Graham
April 13, 2009
I am so sad to here this news...I haven't seen Chris in years but know what a great man he was, full of life and great talent. My prayers are with his family.
Debbie Lindstrom Alderson
April 10, 2009
He will be missed.
Paul and Toni Saviez
April 10, 2009
Chris Johnson was a very, very, good man and father. He was a champion winemaker and winegrower that was greatly respected by his peers; and may we winemakers endeavor to be so humble and representative of our craft. I hope a generation of California winemakers can live vicariously though what he accomplished.
Big love,
Scott Peterson
Scott Peterson
April 9, 2009
Chris and I worked together at Prince Michel Vineyards in Virginia. Chris was a wonderful Winemaker and a better Person. My heart is sad for Kris and her daughters. Virginia will always remember Chris Johnson.
Mike Rowe
April 9, 2009
So sorry to hear Chris passed. My heart is sad. He was a fun friend :)
m-
April 9, 2009
We can only offer our sincere sympathy. We knew Chris only a little. The times that we did meet him, he was always cheerful and respectful. When God takes a young person, it seems so unfair and I usually get mad at Him. We live our lives expecting to predecease our children. I can only imagine the pain and grief of Greg and Pat. God have mercy on you in your darkest time. Please let us help you with what ever we can. No matter what I say it seems so inadequate. I offer my prayers for you both.
Mick & Cindy Brazil
April 9, 2009
Lon Achenbach
April 9, 2009
The wine industry loses another good one. Sincere condolences to family and friends.
Tony Lombardi
April 9, 2009
I knew Chris. I spent several work days in the market place with him, visiting accounts, tasting his wines and teaching the public about his art. I am saddened to read this news. The industry has lost a very passionate wine maker and more, we have lost a great person. My condolences to His family.
George Parkinson, Philadelphia PA.
George Parkinson
April 9, 2009
Have a toast with my brother who died last month with the same disease. Salut to you both!
A Friend
April 9, 2009
... so sad to see a great joyful young soul go ...
G C
April 9, 2009
I worked with Chris at Kendall-Jackson Oakville / Cardinale in 2004/2005. He was a great part of a really good team of dedicated professionals. Gregarious, generous, vital and admired are just a few words I would use to describe him. We have lost a "pillar" member of our winemaking community; he will be greatly missed. The thoughts and prayers of my family go out to Chris's wife, children and entire family.
Aaron Bader
April 9, 2009
Au vale, au vino
Good Comrade
April 9, 2009
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