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Christopher Bond Obituary
TRUMANSBURG - Christopher H. Bond, teacher, of 7 Strowbridge Street, Trumansburg, passed away at the Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, at the age of 58.
Born in Ithaca on December 22, 1948, Chris was the son of Philip and Nancy (Stephenson) Bond. Following graduation from Hamburg High School in 1967, he planted the seeds for a rewarding teaching career by completing studies at Cornell University and Cortland State. (While attending Cornell, Chris and his brother, Tim owned and operated the King Sub Shop in Collegetown.) With a Master's degree in Education from Cortland State, the drive of 10 men and an infectious smile, Chris embarked on what was to be a 35-year learning adventure while teaching Earth Science and Physics. The majority of these teaching years were spent in his beloved community of Trumansburg where he also changed the lives of many athletes through coaching soccer. He founded the soccer program at Trumansburg Central School in 1977 and led the charge until his illness overcame him in 2006. Chris's ability to connect with children was not limited to the high school age group as he also organized the Trumansburg Summer Soccer program for children in grades 2-8, and helped create the Taughannock Soccer Club.
Even though some may have had doubts, Chris did have a life outside the classroom and soccer fields. He delicately tended orchids, picked from his berry patch, took spontaneous motorcycle rides with his wife, and tweaked the recipe for another batch of homebrewed beer. From his home one could often hear the laughter of family as they shared in a game of cards, especially Bridge and Euchre. Other occasions found the home quiet except for the soothing voice of Stevie Wonder on the CD player. Chris also served as a lacrosse official for many years, forming wonderful and long-lasting friendships with his officiating partners. His inspiration is far-reaching as it has traveled the world with his students and athletes. The memories of Chris's sincere desire to be a positive influence in the lives of children will resonate in the community that he loved for many years to come.
Perhaps the only place his influence is felt more strongly than in the community is among his family. He was a special person to all who knew him, but was absolutely devoted to his children. They were blessed to have a father who had such great love and personal character. His love of travel spread to his children when they were very young. Whether canoeing and camping in Canada, sharing a pint in a beer hall in Prague, or surviving a six-week cross-country road trip in the world's smallest pop-up camper, they learned to appreciate different cultures and people, and their explorations of the world continue today. Chris was also a wonderful husband and created a warm and loving home with his beloved wife. Caring and committed, they were truly equal partners in everything, and the life they shared together set an extraordinary example for their children. Chris had patience, respect, discipline, a light heart and easy laugh, insights into the frailties and strengths of the human condition, great wisdom about life's journeys, and always, a teacher's heart. Words cannot express how much he will be missed by his family.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Stephen Gardner Bond, in 1976. In addition to his parents, Philip and Nancy Bond of Ithaca, Chris is survived by his wife of 18 years, Kathleen (Tellier) Bond; two sons, Brandon (Niya Kennedy, fiancée) of Carbondale, IL, and Nathaniel of Japan; two daughters, Elizabeth "Tobi" Hines (Matthew Kibbee, partner) of Somerville, MA, and Alexandra Bond of Trumansburg; two brothers, Tim (Carol Lee Fritz) of Trumansburg and Tom (Mary Fitzpatrick) of Lakewood, OH; and a large extended family.
A celebration of Chris's life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 15, 2007, in the auditorium of the Trumansburg High School.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Chris Bond Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Tompkins Trust Company, PO Box 702, Trumansburg, NY 14886; or may be dropped off at the Trumansburg branch.
The family has entrusted arrangements to the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South St., Trumansburg. 1-888-534-5446. www.ness-sibley.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Bond
Edwin Beck
September 17, 2007
Both my wife (the former Mary Lancaster) and I were in school with Chris at Hamburg -- that would be the elementary through high school years. Even as a kid he had a strong sense of purpose and integrity, a great sense of humor, and a serious side -- all of which clearly nurtured his later contributions. The comments that I read in the guest book did not surprise me; but made me proud that long ago we had been friends, and also incredibly fortunate that alphabetically-ordered classrooms of our era allowed that we often sat near each other. As Lincoln confided to friends, "I cannot leave this world without making my mark." We can all be thankful for the "marks" that Chris left to his family, his friends and to his appreciative students. His Hamburg friends knew from our early year that he would become an outstanding one-of-a-kind.
Heather Alexander
September 16, 2007
I always remember Mr.Bond as being the best Earth Science teacher (not that I had any other) and he was the reason my interest in not just earth science, but all kinds of science, peaked! He was defenatly on my top 5 list of favorite teachers.
To the family:
My daughter, Emmah, and I are truely sorry for your loss.
Dayl and Mike Fredrickson
September 16, 2007
We want to add our condolences to the whole Bond family during this time of loss. It is obvious that Chris touched many people's lives in wonderful ways. He will be long remembered for all he has done.
Roland Conover
September 15, 2007
I was so saddened to hear of the passing of "Mr. Bond." I did not play soccer however, I did have Physics and learned so much more than just science. Mr. Bond had a way of teaching that always related what was going on in the classroom to real life. And who can ever forget our "Dave Gorton's sandwich report" class of '85!? I have not seen Mr. Bond in many years but his influence will effect me for the rest of my life. My sympathy's go out to his family and closest of friends. He will be missed by all!
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jon harrington
September 15, 2007
My heart sank when I got the news. A handful of old teammates have called to ask if I had heard the news. These guys have been friends of mine for over 20 years now, and we reminisced as if we were on the soccer field earlier today. Coach Bond was a mentor, a teacher and, most of all, a listener. He handled all of our strong personalities with charisma and grace. We adored Coach Bond and we are all a bit less now for having him pass.
I am so proud to have had him as a coach, teacher and friend. His toughness was on exhibition and he did us all proud. I would love to attend on Saturday, but circumstances don't permit it. My prayers are with you all, and hope you are doing as well as you can be.
For what it's worth...every person I have been in touch with feels the same exact way. We all revert back to when we were 18 and are reduced to laughing hysterically. There are some of the funniest stories - most of which are not fit for print ;-) Those memories are what we take with us now. Coach always let us be ourselves while molding us into men. I loved that man for everything he did...he was truly a gift.
All my best,
Jon Harrington
Benjamin(99), Emily Eldridge(01) Thomas
September 15, 2007
My husband Benjamin and I both had the opportunity to know Mr. Bond. He was a teacher, a mentor and a friend. His smile was infectious, and he was very caring. He will be missed dearly, and his family prayed for often.
Rick Waite
September 14, 2007
I would like to extend my deepest sympathies and prayers to the family of Mr. Chris "Coach" Bond. I had the pleasure of being one of his Earth Science students as well as a member of his soccer team. He was very influential and inspirational as both a teacher and coach in our community. I remember how he treated all of the young men on his soccer teams like his sons. I also remember how much he would talk about his own children in class and the fun he had being a father.
I believe we are all blessed to have known Coach Bond. While the news of his recent passing was very sad to me, I am left with many fond and happy memories of my years in high school with him.
I would've liked to have been present for the tribute to his life on Saturday, however, we'll be celebrating my daughter's second birthday. Even though I can't be in Trumansburg, Coach and his entire family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
kathryn knipes
September 14, 2007
dear Phil and Nancy My heart aches for you. How touched and yet how proud you must be by these tributes Tink and Dick Knipes
carol goodie jackson 1987
September 14, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with the Bond family. Trumansburg has lost a great teacher and coach,but he will never be forgotten. Rest in peace Mr. Bond and god bless you for everything you have done for the community and for every persons life you have touched.
Jim & Barb Benish
September 14, 2007
We want to offer our condolences to Chris' family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Steven Kolberg
September 14, 2007
Although I will be unable to physically be present for the community's celebration and remembrance of Chris Bonds achievements and dedication to the community that he was such an integral part of, my thoughts are with the family and all the friends that were touched by Chris.
Thanks for everything Coach...
Dakota Potenza
September 14, 2007
I have had the utmost pleasure of spending time with Chris throughout many years. As a teacher and a coach, Mr. Bond played a huge yet subtle role in helping me get my act together. As I filled in as T-Burg’s JV Soccer Coach, Chris was a great mentor and supporter. Recently as a neighbor and a friend he has shown me what it’s like to be a part of a warm and loving family. He showed me how to rise to life’s challenges no matter how intense or unfair.
I am forever grateful for all that you have been to me and for me. I will miss you Bondo!
To Kathy, Brandon, Nathaniel, Tobi and Alex I wish you peace and comfort as you traverse this rocky path. I am always around the corner if you need anything.
Christopher Kent
September 13, 2007
Passion and community are the first words that come to mind when I remember Christopher H. Bond. He will always be remembered as a man of value and integrity who transformed the lives of many kids, teenagers, and young adults.
Through his teaching of science, community service, and coaching of soccer, he will be remembered as a legend who will be missed greatly. The founder of the Trumansburg Soccer Program, Chris was its' only coach for nearly 30 years.
I have fond memories of Chris through my direct personal and professional experience in working with him and it was an honor to be in his elite company. As one of his many students and soccer players, I was honored to have learned so much from him, especially the value of a work ethic. I know I have applied this well in my life since he taught and coached me.
As a free lance sportswriter and the sports editor of the Finger Lakes Community Newspapers - which includes the still running Trumansburg Free Press - I interviewed this man with respect and dignity in documenting the prestigious history of the Trumansburg Soccer Program. Once, I was writing a preview of an upcoming season in which T-burg had challenged for a state championship the previous season. In interviewing Chris, I asked him, what can the team do for an encore this year? He replied with a quote which I remember as one of his best and paraphrase here:
Once you have tasted much success, it is like Filet Mignon, you want to taste it again.
Indeed, Chris was humerours as well! He never rested on his laurels, a trait he instilled in his students and players. Numerours Interscholastic Athletic Conference divison, league, and sectional championships were won during his tenure as coach and I had the pleasure of professionally reporting on many of them between 1995 and 1998 while with the Free Press and the chain. Several players garnered league and/or state honors during this time (Christian Stoehr, David Lessinger, Brian Organ, Shaun Leska, and Taylor Burke to name just a few) which I also publicized and reported on in the Free Press. All of his students and players, no matter how good, were always mentored by him and better prepared for life because of it. He loved soccer and always stressed it as a big part of his life at the annual end-of-season team banquets.
The names and legacies of Trumansburg athletics are well documented at the school district today. The football field is known as Tarbell Field (for long-time Athletic Director Carleton Tarbell) and the current high school gymnasium is named, The Wes Somerville Gymnasium (in honor of long-time boys' basketball coach Wes Somerville.) Someday soon, I hope, the Trumansburg soccer field will be dedicated in honor of Christopher H. Bond.
It was a pleasure and an honor to have learned so much from a man who gave so much.
Christopher J. Kent
-Trumansburg Class of 1991
-Past Sports Editor of the Finger Lakes Community Newspapers (Trumansburg Free Press)
-Nine years of experience in sports communications
-Jacksonville, N.Y.
Anthony Avellino
September 13, 2007
I was lugky enough to have met Chris when he first started teaching.It was a time in my life that I needed some one with such a positive out look on life , Thank You Chris, you will be missed .
Chery Silverman
September 13, 2007
I too had the privilege of umpiring lacrosse games with Chris. He was a wonderful umpire, but more importantly he was a just fun to work with because he was a great and gentleman. I recently came across a saying that is so meaningful at this time.
Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out and proclaiming…. “Wow, what a ride”.
Chris you had a great ride, and thanks for letting me join in sometimes on the lacrosse field. My deepest sympathies go out to Chris’s entire family. My thoughts are with you all at this time. Take solace in the fact that he meant so much to so many.
Larry(Bruz) Wilson
September 13, 2007
My sincere condolences to the entire Bond family. Growing up in Hamburg, the Bond boys crossed many paths creating many friends. From Little League, through Boy Scouts, and High School sports. The highlight there being on the soccer team with Chris when Hamburg High won the Section VI AA soccer championship in the fall of 1966. Chris was a great team mate, lifted the team, and was the anchor on the defensive line. I also have fond memories of Watkins Glen Grand Prix weekends in the 1970s with Chris' warm welcome at his "pad" and always a "home cooked meal" at King Sub. It is clear that Chris had great accomplishments during the past 30 years, I am sorry that we lost touch. God Bless you Chris, my U-10 game this Saturday will be dedicated to you.
Mary Rachun
September 12, 2007
Chris Bond was an amazing mentor, teacher and coach to both of our sons these past few years. He initiated the Soccer team travel program to England and that has helped so many young Trumansburg athletes to gain a "world view" beyond Trumansburg which continues in their love for travel.
At this past graduation in late June, Chris had lovingly placed our son's early soccer player passes and gave then out to the graducating senior soccer players as a momento.
His courage and postitve attitude in the face of his grave illness was so inspiring...a teacher about life until the end.
Our heartfelt condolences to Kathy and the children. He will me missed for a very very long time. We feel blessed to have known him.
Warmest Sentiments,
Alex, Mary, Mike and Matt Rachun
Patrick Bassett '83
September 12, 2007
I’m not sure that I can adequately express the impact that Coach had on my life and my career. I guess the fact that I became a high school physics teacher and coach is a pretty good indicator of his influence. Each day that I enter my classroom I try to emulate his level of compassion, humor, intelligence, teaching ability, and all of the other qualities that made him such an exceptional teacher and man. Sometimes when I tell my students to “take out your snotes out” they look at me quizzically, but they don’t understand that I am honoring Mr. Bond. Or when I take 5 minutes out on Mondays to discuss the events of the weekend, I am honoring Mr. Bond (if you were of my era it was a discussion of the latest “Hill Street Blues” episode on Friday mornings!). When I tell them that I drove through “Bamton”, they don’t know that I am simply speaking “Mercan” (that’s Binghampton and American for those of you not fluent!).
Mr. Bond, you touched more lives in 58 years than most could touch in 100 years. You were able to make students and athletes feel comfortable and safe, while at the same time pushing them to reach their individual and collective potential. Thank you for all of the lessons and good times. God bless you and rest in peace.
Don McRobert
September 12, 2007
I grew up in Hamburg, New York and spent many hours at the Bond residence, Chris's brother Steve was one of my best friends. Chris's parents took me on a week long canoe trip in Canada one summer and I subbed for Steve on his paper route when he was out of town. I was saddened by Steve's death in 1976, and now Chris. Although I've lost touch with the Bond family, I want to extend my sympathies to all of you, including Tom and Tim, who I knew through my older brother, another fan of the Bond clan. They had the first VW bug I ever saw, they had a monkey for a while, they had motorcycles, a sub shop in Ithaca, long hair - the Bond family was always way cool, they had the shining, and I always got a kick out of them all, right through the college years up until Phil and Nancy moved out of Hamburg. I'm not surprised to read all of these wonderful tributes to Chris. You must be very proud and I'm sure you'll miss him very much. Best to all of you.
Jim Nyberg ('88)
September 11, 2007
I received this sad news on Friday evening. The next morning I took my son to his first soccer practice. I couldn't think of a better way to honor this special man.
John Covert ('82)
September 11, 2007
I was very saddened to hear this unfortunate news. I have so many memories of Mr. Bond as both my Science teacher and as my Soccer coach. Whether in the classroom or on the soccer field, I enjoyed the lessons he taught and had lots of laughs in the process! A tremendous loss for the T-Burg community.
Xeno Taylor-Fontana
September 11, 2007
I was one of Chris Bond's students for two years at Trumansburg Hish School, first in "Regents" Physics in 2005, then in "AP" Physics in 06'. During those two years he was also my soccer coach. Chris was obviously a master in both occupations, but his affects on me extended far beyond school and sports. A previous entry described Mr. Bond as having the heart of a teacher, and I think it was this that made him an important influence on me. Interactions with Chris were not limited by the context in which they took place, and he had a way of transcending the topic at hand to express meaning about a wide range of things.
Like any master, he was always entertaining to watch in his occupations. On the soccer field, I was often more interested in what Coach was thinking and plotting than the outcome of the game.
At Trumansburg I idolized Mr. Bond because he seemed like a sort of renaissance man, someone who hadn't narrowed his focus too far to be a philosopher and a thinker, and who had excelled in each pursuit.
I feel very lucky to have been Chris's student; Trumansburg won't be the same without him.
Lara Sheikh
September 11, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Bond's passing. What a wonderful teacher and person he was and will alway be in the hearts of so many of us T-Burg students and residents. My deepest sympathies to his family during this time. May you find comfort in the fond memories of all of us.
Brian Kappel ('94)
September 11, 2007
Chris Bond is one of the people who I feel blessed that I crossed paths with. My thoughts are with his family, and to all the people whose lives he touched whether it was his style of teaching, leadership through coaching or the smiles that were ever present with his sense of humor.
He will be missed.
Al Loucks
September 11, 2007
On behalf of the Mynderse Academy Boys Soccer Program will would like to let the Bond family know we are thinking of each of them. Chris was a long time friend of our program and will missed greatly. We are truly sad to hear this news.
Tim Clouser
September 11, 2007
By his words and examples, Chris Bond helped me be a better coach.
By his words and examples, Chris Bond helped me be a better teacher.
Like all of the Trumansburg parents I so appreciated what he gave and what he did for my sons.
His family remains in my thoughts and prayers.
I never will forget and am grateful
for his friendship.
Dan Miller ('83)
September 11, 2007
My condolences to the Bond family.
I was fortunate to have had Chris Bond as a teacher and soccer coach. My high school experience under Coach Bond’s mentorship has been a great influence on my life. Chris was a remarkable person with an easy way to him that encouraged openness and inspired a desire to strive to one’s potential - while keeping the fun in whatever the endeavor. He mentored by example, running with us during soccer practices and maintaining the highest sportsmanship during difficult competitions. He was a superb teacher and coach, kind, calm, humble, caring, insightful, humorous, engaging, inspiring. He truly cared for all.
He will be missed but lives on in the many lives he’s touched.
Shelby Bell
September 11, 2007
Coach Bond was a great coach and teacher. A teacher/coach like him only comes along once in a great while. He will surely be missed. His family is in my thoughts.
Daril Bentley
September 11, 2007
My sympathies to Chris's family and friends. I was on that 1977 founding soccer team, and I was Chris's student. He was my best teacher. He was a terrific coach. Moreover, he was the type of man one wanted to emulate. I was fond of him. I still am. God bless him, and keep him, and may God make His light to shine upon him. Chris will be shining down upon all of us, and that star will be his smile, his laughter, and his kindness.
Jeff Porter
September 10, 2007
Deepest sympathies to the Bond family on the loss of Mr. B. I always watched with facination how he handled himself in class at a time where there were many other things on our minds besides school work - he made the learning fun.
I also had the joy of playing soccer for him in the early days and can remember him inviting us to the park for some pickup games and then to his home to watch soccer on TV - fostering the sport that now I find myself taking my own kids to in our community for Fall, Winter (indoor) and Spring soccer programs.
Thanks for all that you did for so many of us - it was an honor to know you. Peace to you.
Jeff Porter - class of 1981
MJ Vrooman
September 10, 2007
I too am a lacrosse official who has been touched by Chris' wisdom, confidence and gentleness. He was the consumate official and partner to work with. His calm demeanor was like "quiet thunder". His presence on the field was amazing. He kept the game safe and fair,always enforcing the "sprirt" of the rules. Chris always brought his "A" game. He was truly a teacher of all and an inspiration to those who had the pleasure of working with him. He will be missed by so many. His family's courage is a testament to Chris' life. God bless you all and may you find some comfort in knowing that he is loved and respected by all.
stephen lewis(84)
September 10, 2007
My heartfelt condolences to your family . chris bond was a great guy and one of a few teachers that had a lasting effect on my life. If more teachers were as engaging as chris, both in and out of the class room, the world would be a better place.
I have many fond memories of mr bond, one that imediately comes to mind is accompanying him along the route on my bike as he ran his first marathon. It was as an inspirational experience for a teenager and was characteristic of the way chris bond taught by personal example both in and out of the classroom. He will be missed
Amy Ditmars
September 10, 2007
I've fondly thought of Mr. Bond over the years. He was such a great teacher and he always encouraged everyone...even the 'kids in the back of the class'. I was one of those kids. He always encouraged me to do more and be better and always with patience and kindess. He saw my potential long before I did. I'm now in the science field and wonder if it's not because of his influence and his enthusiasm & love for science. Even though I haven't seen him since high school, I'll still think of him fondly and as the best teacher I ever had.
His enthusiasm for life obviously never stopped and instead sounds like it continued to grow in every direction. He had a profound and positive influence on so many.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
Nancy and Donald Scatton
September 10, 2007
Sympathy, love and prayers to the Bond family, especially Brandon and Nathaniel, our nephews.
Nancy and Donald Scatton
Norman Maywright
September 10, 2007
I wish to express my deepest condolences to the Bond family and close friends. I first met Chris when I was coaching soccer at Lansing and immediately admired his character and professionalism. He would always be remembered in the IAC as the 'Coaches Coach', a great role model.
Kathy Riddle
September 10, 2007
Dear Kathy & Family, I'm so sorry to hear of Chris's passing. He was a wonderful man, with a beautiful smile. He has given so much to so many people. Sometime there is not an answer to "why", but may God give you all strength everyday to help you through this difficult time. My prayers,love and thoughts are with you all. You are a beautiful family.
Jennifer Doran
September 9, 2007
I express my deepest condolences to the Bond family in this very difficult time. As a former student of Mr. Bond, I remember his zest for life and I know not one person, better than he, that wanted his students to be successful. He was a great teacher and a great person and he will definitely be missed.
Shannon Weeks
September 9, 2007
As a former student of Mr. Bond and a former co-worker of Mrs. Bond, Tobi (& Matt) and Alex, I want to express my deepest sympathy to his loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with them. Mr. Bond was an excellent teacher. His impact on the community of Trumansburg is far-reaching and will never be forgotten.
Amanda Porter (Batrony)
September 9, 2007
Mr.Bond was alway a teacher that you could walk down the hallway and see his smiling face. He was a nice man and loved by everyone around him. His family is in my thoughts and prayer.
Kim (Gatch) Salino
September 9, 2007
What an extraordinary man and teacher the Trumansburg community has lost. My husband, Scott and I and our 19 year old son Ryan, all had him as a teacher in Trumansburg that spanded over 33 years. All three of us have wonderful memories of how he taught us in the classroom and on the field, how he made us laugh with the stories he told, and how he touched our hearts by the way he treated each of us with respect, valuing us as a human, making us feel like we mattered. You will always be one of our favorite teachers and always remembered. Be at peace Mr. Bond. We know you'll be one of God's star coaches and teachers........Kim, Scott and Ryan Salino
Melanie (Cole) '83 & Rick '82 Mehlenbacher
September 9, 2007
We were very saddended when our 15yr old informed of his death from a Tburg IM. We instantly began networking with the class members from 1982. Mr. Bond was the type of teacher that you included in reunions, because he made such a positive impact on every student; whether they had a vocation for science or not. We were lucky to have had the experience of such a positive teacher in our lives.
Our thoughts to his family, and the entire Tburg community.
Jim Parker
September 9, 2007
I will never forget Mr.Bond. He was a great teacher and a great person. He will be missed by me and the thousands of students,and athletes he helped mold into men and women. My condolences go out to his family and friends.
Scott Eastburn
September 9, 2007
May we all remember the kind spirit, open mindedness, and zeal for individual experience and achievement that Mr. Bond used to teach us as we become the teachers. As a teacher, a friend, and a community leader: thank you for all that you gave us.
John & Marilyn Mann
September 9, 2007
We did not know Chris Bond personally. We're Southern Cayuga soccer fans and former teachers, who followed T-Burg soccer in the mid 90's watching our nephews play. They had successes and disappointments but they are better men for having played for Coach Bond. He has had some tough kids I'm sure, but he coached all of them to play the game clean and enjoy the efforts needed to make a team a winner regardless of the final score. The class and high calibur of this man was felt throughout the leagues' in which his teams competed.
My guess is he will be embarrassed by the accolades he will be receiving, but he deserves them and his family needs to hear them.
Our hearts go out to his family. Through my sister forwarding e-mails from Chris's wife over the past year, we have been blown away by the strength and love of this man AND his family. We know there is a large vacant spot in T-Burg, but be assured memories of him and his influence are being felt in and filling more communities than you can imagine.
Our best to his family and our thanks for having had Chris Bond touch our lives.
Steve Postle
September 9, 2007
Coach Bond will be missed. He was inspiring, motivating and loyal to his community, family and teams that he coached. He is the reason I am coaching my daughters soccer team. Our prayers go out to family and friends.
Jerrod Prevost (89)
September 9, 2007
Chris was an inspiration to all of us in the classroom and on the soccer field.
He always got us to do our best and made it fun too. Always injecting humor such as "Take out your snotes out". My deepest sympathies to family and friends.
Robin Springer
September 9, 2007
Chris was a new teacher when I was a student. He blew into the school with crazy curly hair and incredible energy. I never had him as a teacher, but he always knew me and said hi to me in the hall. There was always laughter coming from his classroom.
Take comfort from the years you had with him.
Robin Springer, '74
M O'Pray
September 9, 2007
Good bye Mr. Bond, you were a terrific teacher, and a great man. Good luck on your journey.
Mata Swenson
September 8, 2007
Mr. Bond inspired all of us to find the athlete within. He ran so we ran. He coached and we played and coached from his guidance. Even after highschool, returning to Trumansburg, when my brother and I would be out for a run, if we saw Mr. Bond, he would bound over with huge salutations and warm hugs. Soccer is a wonderful game, the world's game that he brought to our school. I'm still playing and dedicated my game to him today. My thoughts are with the Bond Family.
Mata, Class of 1990
Raymond Swartwood
September 8, 2007
Well Mr. Bond, You will be missed very much in many ways. You had so many skills and talents. You always had a smile on your face as I can remember. To his family, I wish all the best for you and Mr. Bond will be missed by everyone at Trumansburd High School and beyond. Class of 86
Bob & Kathy Wilsea
September 8, 2007
We are saddened by your passing as you were a positive role model to all students and athletes that you came in contact. May God Bless your family. We will not forget you and thank you for being a positive influence on our son Kevin.
Chris Andrews ('90)
September 8, 2007
Coach Bond....Where do we start to remember all the great memories he gave to everyone. He instilled that dedication and hardwork will be rewarded. He always made time for family, friends, students or athletes. As David said "Coach Bond was Trumansburg Soccer!" My prayers go out to the Bond family.
He will be missed by many.
Rubie Sievers
September 8, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers. He was a exceptional man and will be deeply missed May the memories bring you comfort. Rubie Ryan Patrick and Justin
Dan MacCarrick
September 8, 2007
Saddened by the news, fond memories surfaced of Mr. Bond's kind words and encouragement to anyone who needed a lift. May thoughts and prayers be with the family.
Class of 1986
Meggan Conklin
September 8, 2007
Mr. Bond was the type of teacher that did not give up ever on anybody. He was an inspiration to all who ever had the pleasure of gaining from his wisdom. My prayers and thoughts are with his wonderful family at this time. Mr. Bond will be truely missed. He will be forever in our thoughts, and live on in our hearts.
Joel & Mindy Wilson
September 8, 2007
Chris was a very special person that will be missed by the whole community. We have you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Christi Smith
September 8, 2007
There is not a child he met throughout the years that will not miss this man dearly. What a wonderful person and example he was to us all. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
David Smith ('89)
September 8, 2007
I don't know where to start. I could never thank Coach Bond enough for all he did for us. I often think of the great times we had playing for him. He was a tremendous motivator, "Hey...why not run??." My thoughts and prayers were with him and are now with his family. Jim Nyberg ('88) and I were talking about it and he summed it up pretty well, he was T-burg soccer and will be missed. It's too bad so many of the kids in T-burg will miss out on the privilege of being coached by such a great man.
Erica Swenson Danowitz
September 8, 2007
Mr. Bond was an excellent teacher and he contributed so much to the Trumansburg schools and community.
Sympathies to Mr. Bond's family from a member of the T-burg Class of 1986.
Randy Hausner
September 8, 2007
Judy and I knew Chris mainly through my sister Beverly (and Steve) Johnson and their sons Chad and Todd, and through the years we often delighted in the many warm and heartfelt stories they shared about experiences they took part in with Chris and his family. Whether it was teaching, soccer or family it was easy to get the idea Chris had a genuine, humble and caring manner. People felt at ease around him and it was clear that he embodied a spirit of respect for everyone. I'm sure he will be heartily missed by all who's good fortune it was to have known and come into contact with him. I hope his family and friends will be able to take some comfort at this time in knowing that the wonderful influence his life and example has had on so many young (and not so young)will enrich their lives for a great many years to come.
We are saddened by news of Chris' passing and he and his family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
God bless you all.
Randy and Judy Hausner
Jen Christianson
September 8, 2007
One of my favorite memories of high school was Mr. Bond reading the Polar Express to us. He always taught us to believe in ourselves and we could do anything! He will be missed!
Rob Lovelacae
September 8, 2007
I spoke with Chris via e-mail soon after his illness had come to light. As usual he was upbeat and positive. He was a great encouragement to me as a high school student when not much in life made sense.
My sincere condolences to the Bond family.
Trumansburg Class of 1978
Barbara Bond Lardner
September 8, 2007
I have so many fond memories of vacationing with cousin Chris and Uncle Phil and Aunt Nancy at Loch Lyme Lodge when we were kids. I still have a bottle of a special liquor that he sent home with me two years ago when my family invaded his home for a week! I'll have to bring it next weekend. I hope it's still good.
Hilary Edema (Elles)
September 8, 2007
What a man!!! My heart sank when I received the news. He was a teacher who was always there to help you out no matter what.
Class of 1990
Brenda Riley
September 8, 2007
My deepest sympathy to your family. Chris was a huge inspiration for our community and will be sadly missed by all who shared his life. Although I personally did not have the pleasure of working with him, my children did, and he will be missed greatly.
Perky
September 8, 2007
I hope that time will dull the edges of any grief you are feeling and only leave you with wonderful memories. He was such an inspiratoin to the lacrosse community. I know he will be on my shoulder when I talk to up coming officials, and when to tighten it up in a game. Who can forget his two fingers up for the confirmation of the goal...
He made a mark in my life.
Mike Andrew
September 8, 2007
It is with great sorrow that I offer my condolences, as well as, the condolences of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Boys Soccer Committee to the family and friends of Coach Bond. My association with Chris was through soccer; but I appreciate the person that I came to know as an individual deserving of recognition. Chris was to me an inspiration, in leading by example and touching the lives of young men in only the most positive of ways. Chris was inducted into the New York State Boys Soccer Coaches Hall of Fame in 2004 not only for the wins and losses accumulated over the years; but also, for his love of the game and the life lessons that benefited those who were lucky enough to have played for him. My appreciation for Chris is founded in his always polite and sportsmanship approach to the game, always keeping the competition in proper prospective, and always the Humble Gentleman. In the fifteen or twenty years that I watched Chris coach; as an opponent in those Broome County Soccer League games, as the coach in those sectional contests on bitter cold days and as I made the many awards to his players and teams after Section IV Championships I have always been impressed by his conduct and demeanor. Coach Bond has had an impact on those lives that were lucky enough to be touched by his friendship, expertise and guidance. Again, it is with deep sorrow that I offer our sympathy and regrets to the family and friends of Coach Bond on behalf of the Section IV and New York State Public High School Athletic Association Boys Soccer Committee. We are better for having known him and he will be missed.
Mike Andrew
Section IV and
N.Y.S.P.H.S.A.A.
Boys Soccer Coordinator
Tom Servoss
September 8, 2007
My deepest sympathies to Mr. Bond's family.
Mr. Bond is an integral player in many of my fondest high school memories - both in and out of the classroom. From Earth Science pop quizes ("question number 1...question letter b...") to singing Christmas carols in two feet of snow in the middle of the street - Mr. Bond's memory and influence will last as long as I do, and probably for many years thereafter.
Thank you for your inspiration.
Tom Servoss
Trumansburg Class of 1986
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