Christopher A. Whitmore

In Loving Memory of Christopher A. Whitmore "Woody"
Christopher A. Whitmore, fondly known as "Woody," passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Hospice of the Panhandle in Kearneysville, WV, concluding his courageous battle with cancer. Born on October 30, 1968, in Frederick, MD, Chris was the beloved son of Mark Elwood Whitmore and Nancy Frances Whitmore (Sheehan).
As a boy, Chris thrived in a vibrant Frederick neighborhood, surrounded by friends. His days were filled with the joy of riding bikes and engaging in various sports. He showcased his athletic prowess as a member of the Yellow Springs baseball team and the Mason Dixon Babe Ruth All-Star team, notably scoring a run by stealing home plate. Chris graduated from Thomas Johnson High School in 1986, where he demonstrated his musical talents as a trumpet player for the TJ marching band. His love for music lasted throughout his life, leading Chris to become an avid concert-goer, attending well over 100 shows.
Chris became an incredible cook, with a love for cooking first discovered while working his first part-time job at Beef Steak Charlies in the Frederick Towne mall. His culinary interests followed him on his move to Ocean City. There, he worked at Thrashers French Fries in Ocean City during the summers and Wags as a cook in the off season. A reunion with his friend Mike Szarvas led Chris to becoming a cook and later kitchen manager at Shenanigans. Chris's expertise in the kitchen extended to grilling and carving duties at all family functions. His deviled eggs, a family favorite, became a requirement at any family event.
Although he enjoyed his time in Ocean City at Shenanigans, Chris' true calling was carpentry, an interest he first developed during high school while working as a trim carpenter for Fawley Interior Trim Carpentry. Chris loved the beach, so he stayed in Ocean City for several more years and incorporated his passion for woodworking into his role as a superintendent/handyman for a close friend who owned several properties.
Eventually, tired of the touristy nature of Ocean City, Chris returned to Frederick. A skilled carpenter, Chris worked at Meunier Builders for several years with his good friend Rick Floyd. He also dedicated 10 years of his life to Harmon Builders before venturing into self-employment, showcasing his talents as a cabinet maker and jack of all trades. Chris could fix or make anything, a trait he gained from his father (aka "Markgyver").
A true animal lover, Chris cherished several pets over the years, with his beloved furry friend, Five Dog, holding a special place in his heart. Chris extended his love for animals by becoming a pet sitter for many friends, including his close friend Greg Nurses.
No obstacle could keep Chris down. Even after back injuries and a leg amputation due to vascular disease, he continued to embrace life with unwavering determination. Chris kayaked on the Shenandoah, rode his electric bike whenever possible, and remained ever ready to lend a helping hand to friends and family. He cherished driving his Jeep and proudly joined the KGB 4-Wheel Club.
Chris is preceded in death by his grandparents Elwood and Elizabeth Whitmore and Joseph and Marguerite Sheehan. He is survived by his brother Mark and wife Jennifer Whitmore, sister Nancy Bart and partner Bob Zurn, Aunt Patricia Sheehan and Uncle Richard Fiske, Uncle Joe Sheehan and Aunt Liz Donnelly, Uncle Tom and Aunt Judy Whitmore, nieces Abigail Bart and Madison Whitmore, numerous cousins, his best friend Thomas "Skeeter" Miller, and many other dear friends.
In celebrating Chris's life, we remember a resilient soul who faced challenges with a smile, lived passionately, and touched the hearts of those around him. May he find eternal peace, and may his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration for all who knew and loved him. A memorial service will be held at Saint Katharine Drexel Church, 8414 Oppossumtown Pike, Frederick MD on February 24th @ 10:00 am. Following the service, a reception will be held. Those planning to attend the reception are asked to rsvp to honoringwoody@icloud.com. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Hospice of the Panhandle, 330 Hospice Lane, Kearneysville WV 25430.