Kristopher Reid Fagan

Kristopher Reid "Kris" Fagan, 44, of Yucca Valley, California, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2024, surrounded by his family.

Kris was born on February 21, 1980, in Tallahassee, Florida, and spent much of his early life along the Northwest Florida coast. It was there that he developed a lifelong love for the water and fishing, passions that would remain with him throughout his life.

A 1998 graduate of Tate High School in Pensacola, Florida, Kris pursued further education at Pensacola State College, where he studied agriculture and turf grass science. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his first landscaping company. Over the years, Kris became a man of many talents-an accomplished diver, mechanic, welder, electrician, and merchant vessel pilot.

In 2012, Kris moved to Los Angeles to be with Deborah Kantner, who would soon become his wife. The couple built a life together in Highland Park, a charming neighborhood on the outskirts of Pasadena. They shared a deep love for the outdoors and spent much of their time camping and exploring Southern California with their two beloved dogs, Kiya and Scarlet. Kris and Deborah were married in 2016 and often described their bond as that of soulmates-a union built on love, respect, and shared values.

Kris had an extraordinary ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His warm smile and open heart left an indelible impression on everyone he met. He was known for his integrity and unwavering commitment to fairness and loyalty in both his personal and professional relationships.

Professionally, Kris excelled in team building and leadership. He earned a reputation for integrity and dedication while managing events at the iconic Sheets-Goldstein House alongside his partner. He was proud to be a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 40 and the Teamsters Union. Kris also took great pride in mentoring others and helping them find opportunities within these organizations.

Family was central to Kris's life. He cherished time spent with his parents, David and Kristie; his sister, Anjuli Ferguson (Joe); nephew Reid; niece Hazel; as well as his extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Holidays were especially meaningful to him as moments to create lasting memories with loved ones. Though he did not have children of his own, Kris found immense joy in the role of uncle to Reid and Hazel.

In 2016, Kris was diagnosed with metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma. Despite this life-altering diagnosis, he faced the challenges ahead with remarkable courage and determination. For over eight years, he lived life on his own terms while fighting valiantly against the disease. Throughout this journey, he remained steadfast in his desire to help others living with NET cancer by contributing to research efforts aimed at finding a cure.

Kris's legacy is one of kindness, patience, generosity, and love-for people and animals alike. His impact on those who knew him is immeasurable; he leaves behind a large footprint on this Earth that will not soon be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kris's memory to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation or the Los Angeles Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (LACNETS), organizations dedicated to advancing research for NET cancer.

Kris will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him and inspire others to live with the same compassion and integrity that defined his life.