Christopher Todd Junkert

Christopher (Chris) Junkert, loving brother, husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully in his home on March 7, 2026 at age 65 following a 3-year battle with cancer.

Chris was born on Jan 9, 1961 to Mary Ellen and Owen Junkert in Lincoln, Nebraska. He then grew up in Clinton, Illinois with two younger sisters: Stacy Halverson (deceased), and Paula Caubre. In addition to getting his Private Pilot's License, Chris graduated from Eastern Illinois University as a Learning and Development specialist, and soon got a job at Assurant, training new employees on how to interact with customers. In 1994, he met his sweetheart, Marlyn Ico, at a candy shop in Chicago, Illinois. They married in 1997, moved to California, and had two kids, Chrisalyn and Sean Junkert. In 2002, he moved to Tampa, Florida with his family, Continuing to work as an insurance trainer for nearly 25 years with Centene Corporation, from which he retired. He eventually retired to Gainesville, Florida to "get some peace and quiet" from all the noise and traffic that was developing in the area, and spent the rest of his time focusing on his hobbies.

Chris greatly valued family, and always made a point to have everyone together during meals, often sprinkling in fun trivia questions during dinner, as well as holding "Family Movie Nights" every Friday. He also loved teaching, and strove to impart his knowledge to others, whether it be his kids navigating the ins-and-outs of school and life, or his students learning the ropes of the company. He strove to make lessons fun and engaging and brought an energy to learning that inspired others. His second love in life was his Jaguar F-Type, and he could often be found cruising down the highway blasting AC/DC and other rock bands. He always loved to try new things, whether it be a video game recommendation from his kids, a new spicy food, or an experience that interested him. His other hobbies included guitar, reading, video games, golf, shooting, working on his 1972 Dodge Charger, and spending time with his beloved dog, Molly.

Chris really appreciated the small things in life, and as the years slowed down, loved sitting on the porch with his wife watching the world go by, listening to the chatter of people in the background, next to a fire pit, listening to his favorite music. Chris loved life best with family, relatives, and friends over, and was always happiest when the house was bustling with people.

He leaves behind his wife, Marlyn Junkert, daughter, Chrisalyn Junkert, son, Sean Junkert, dog, Molly, cat, Autumn, sister, Paula Caubre, niece, Claire Caubre, and nephew, Michael (Mac) Caubre. He is joined in peace with his parents, Marry Ellen and Owen, and sister, Stacy Halverson.

A service will be held at St. Madeline Catholic Church on March 14 at 9:30am, with a reception to follow at 12:00 pm. Arrangements are under the care and direction of V. Todd Ferreira Funeral Services, Lake City, FL. 386-752-1234. Visit www.ferreirafuneralservices.com to sign the family's guest book.