Obituary published on Legacy.com by Bartlett-Nichols Funeral Home on Sep. 3, 2025.
It is with heavy hearts that we must share that our truly beloved, Christian Chaber went home to the beautiful Lord on August 29, 2025 at age 52. Christian was born to George Chaber and Sheila Nemeth on December 25, 1972 in Danbury, Ct. Christian passed away at his home in Brookfield, CT with his wife, Lisa by his side. Chris lived a life of generosity, friendship, love and laughter, but it was his unique ability to transform and touch lives that justly defines him. As a child, Chris was a physical specimen and world-class athlete. He played multiple sports from basketball to baseball and excelled at everything he did. Chris met his wife, Lisa during this period and initially thought that she was the one who got away. However, as he typically does, he excelled again and years later she would become his beautiful, loving wife. They married on July 1, 2023 in a most beautiful ceremony, sharing their unconditional love with multitudes of family and friends. They shared a beautiful, blended family where each other's children were like their own, loving each of them equally while creating a special family bond that will last eternally. Chris graduated from Danbury High School then swiftly made his way to Charleston West Virginia to attend West Virginia State University. Through hard work, fierce perseverance, and a bullish work ethic, he enjoyed a life of success from a very young age. He went on to open his first business, "Caddy's" on Kanawha Boulevard in Charleston, WV, at the tender age of 21 in a joint venture with his long time friend. After enjoying several successful years at Caddy's, Chris found his true calling, and went on to begin his legendary journey, cementing himself as a true, Charleston legend with his purchase of The Empty Glass. Already a Charleston staple, Chris grew the business and transformed the Empty Glass into the "go-to" venue for live music, bringing the Charleston music scene to new heights while catipulting the Empty Glass to legendary status. He welcomed music acts of all kinds, offering his stage to hungry up & comers, local artists, and national bands alike. Musicians from all over the land travelled to showcase their talent on one of the most authentic & iconic stages in the country. His stage played host and has been graced by artists of all genres, from gallivanting grunge bands to marauding metal groups, as well as local legends and Grammy winners, all sharing the same love, affection, and genuine appreciation for live, original music, culminating in multiple "small bar of the year" awards from nationally recognized Bar & Nightclub Magazine. Throughout all of the success and accolades, Chris acquired the most important and personal gift that anyone in his position could ever want, and the one he cherished the most; friendship. The relationships he built over time were authentic, sincere, loyal, dedicated, and life changing. The lives he has touched over the years have been completely transformed. He gave his stage to people who had no other outlet, and people who had given up their passion. He motivated individuals to pursue their dreams, never judging or wavering in his support. He came out of his own pocket to pay acts who may have not covered, and personally prepared food, complimentary for someone who may have been in need. Chris gave without expecting. It was never a transaction for him. He would often give people a job or opportunity against his better judgement or other people's opinions, simply because he felt they were in need. He held fundraisers for special causes like autism and diabetes, or simply if someone in the community was struggling or in need of a helping hand. Chris was a protector, a mentor, a motivator, a friend, and a shoulder to cry on with a selfless heart that served. The love he shared with people was genuine and sincere, from family to stranger, Chris treated people with respect and empathy, sincerely concerned with their well-being. The loving impact he has on the community and humanity in general is what truly defines his life.People would be hard-pressed to find a greater man, leader, father, husband, and friend.Chris will now join the legend of Angels in God's Kingdom. As he dedicated his life to transforming and touching lives during his lifetime, he is now blessed to transform and touch lives in their lifetime. A true Angel, and gift from God, Chris Chaber will always be remembered for his selfless love, compassion, and faith as his impact on all of humanity has simply been divine. "We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord." Corinthians 5:8 To be with Chris again. "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. 2 My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going." John 14:1-4 Chris is survived by his Mother, Sheila, his wife, Lisa, his Brother, Richard, his son's, Baily and Jordan, his step son Evan, Step Daughters Mackenzie and Kylie, his grandson, Jaxon, his daughter, Krissy, and countless others. Celebration of Life ceremonies will take place on Friday, September 5, 2025 12:00pm at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, located at 190 Court St, Charleston, WV 25301. The family will receive guests at the cathedral from 10:00am to 12:00pm. The ceremonies will be followed by the Committal Service at Cunningham Memorial Park,
St. Albans, WV and a feast of life with compliments from Olive Tree Cafe and Catering, located at 333 2nd Ave, South Charleston, WV 25303.