Christopher Renz

SEPT. 9, 1963 - SEPT. 9, 2020. On the night of September 9, 2020, Christopher Lloyd Renz passed peacefully in his sleep through the veil that separates this life from the next. His death was sudden and unexpected, and likely related to complications from Covid-19. Christopher was predeceased by his father, Henry Thomas Renz, Jr., his mother, Ruth Mary Evangeline Langston Renz, and his sister, Connie Ann Renz. He is survived by his brother, Eric Alan Renz, and his partner of 15 years, Rebecah (Becky) West Lloyd. Christopher was born in New Orleans. Most comfortable in nature, he grew up playing along the batture of the Mississippi River with Eric and Connie and his friends. Throughout his life Christopher enjoyed live music shows in his beloved home city. Christopher was a true polymath, a gifted artist, and a creative spirit. He loved working with his hands, manifesting his talents as a sculptor, woodworker, chef, and massage therapist. After graduating from Johnson & Wales Culinary School in Rhode Island, Christopher worked as a chef at several of New Orleans' most renowned restaurants. He spent an adventurous decade on the Big Island of Hawai'i, working as a millwright and embracing the Aloha spirit. In 2006 he returned to New Orleans to be with his love, Becky, and to help care for his mother. Christopher continually strived to be the best person he could be -- physically, emotionally, and spiritually. He realized his dream and achieved his ultimate goal (to help others heal) when he became a licensed massage therapist, practicing the healing art of Craniosacral work. He spent the last several years working as a five-star massage therapist at the Ritz-Carlton Spa in New Orleans, a job that he truly loved. Christopher extended his warmth and his caring nature to everyone he met, demonstrating his kindness and compassion not only to his friends and acquaintances, but also to his co-workers and clients. Christopher took great pleasure in creating a loving home with Becky. A gifted chef, he prepared delicious meals regularly for Becky and friends. Outside he cultivated a lush, green oasis filled with native plants. The quarantining necessitated by the pandemic allowed Christopher and Becky to spend more time at home with their dog Penny and cats Little Bit and Peyton. They relished simple pleasures -- playing Bananagrams, drinking tea, and reading books to each other. Christopher lived a life of gratitude, cherishing each day. He was a gentle and generous man with a mischievous nature. He reveled in pulling off a good prank and telling corny jokes. He loved pine trees, marveling at clouds and collecting rocks. And he loved cheering for the Saints, yelling against the Falcons, and protesting errant referees. Christopher will be remembered for his joy and passion for life and his playful, easy-going spirit. His light will continue to shine through those he touched. To share and contribute memories, photos, stories, and ideas for how best to celebrate Christopher, please visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/1737713979737707. There will be an informal, socially distanced gathering in celebration of Christopher's life on October 23, 2020, late afternoon. More information will be posted on the Facebook page and in the guestbook in the coming days. Donations can be made in Christopher's honor to Earthjustice (earthjustice.org) and Bridge House (bridgehouse.org).