Lt. Christopher C. Short, U.S.N.

Virginia Beach - Lt. Christopher Carey Short, USN, 32, passed away on Friday, June 22, 2018 while participating in an experimental light attack aircraft project flying the A-29 Super Tucano. Born April 24, 1986, Chris was the son of Thomas and Lisa Short.

Chris attended Lima Christian School in New York where he was the valedictorian of the class of 2004. After high school, Chris moved to Salt Lake City, Utah to attend Westminster College on a NROTC scholarship. In 2008, he graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Aviation Flight Operations and commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy.

Chris completed primary flight training in Pensacola, Florida in 2009 and advanced strike fighter training in Kingsville, Texas in 2010. Upon earning his designation as a Naval Aviator and his "wings of gold", Chris was selected to fly F/A-18 Super Hornets in Oceana, Virginia. He completed Fleet Replacement Squadron training at VFA-106, with follow-on orders to the "Fighting Swordsmen" of Strike Fighter Squadron 32 (VFA-32). During his time at VFA-32, Chris completed a combat tour in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, flying off the deck of the USS Harry S. Truman, protecting our troops on the ground in Afghanistan. In 2015, Chris received orders to the "Omars" of VFC-12, a composite fighter squadron tasked with honing operational fleet squadrons' war fighting skills as credible adversaries. Chris excelled in the squadron, being hand-picked to attend the Navy's premier "TOPGUN" adversary course, graduating first in his class.

Chris was an avid skier and traveler. During his time off from the military, he traveled extensively, tackling some of the world's most difficult slopes. Although he was a man of few words at times, he made each one count with a witty sense of humor and charm. He loved good food, craft beer, classic literature, and above all, good company. He was greatly admired for his wisdom and honesty, but also exuded a sense of fun and adventure. It was this sense of balance that drew so many friends and colleagues to him, offering a refreshing perspective on life that is rarely seen. He will be remembered by all as a thoughtful friend, a man of integrity, and honor, who was always willing to go above and beyond.

Left to cherish his memory are his parents; his beloved wife of one year, Audra Short, who is expecting their first child; his sister, Megan (Tim) Brown; a multitude of loving aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his favorite furry friends, Boe and Sophie.

A memorial service will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 30th in First Presbyterian Church of Norfolk, with Rev. Valena Hoy officiating. Inurnment will be scheduled for a later date in Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Anti-Slavery International, Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary, Pilots N Paws Pet Rescue Services, or the Wingman Foundation.

H. D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Norfolk Chapel is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be offered to the family through www.hdoliver.com.

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Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Jun. 29, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Short

Sponsored by the family.

12 Entries

Charlie Gili

July 27, 2021

Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Short Family know that we have made a small donation to the Wingman Foundation to honor Christopher C. Short US Navy Lieutenant.

We also will place a flag in his honor each year on Memorial Day Weekend at our "Field of Flags" event, held under the Verrazano Bridge, next to Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn and at each location where we conduct this memorial.

We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals across the American youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you safe and strong.

Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign

Kathy Diaz and family

July 2, 2018

Words cant express how saddened we are to hear of your loss may God comfort and give you strength during this difficult time

Linda Hilgart

July 2, 2018

To the Short family,

Our son Cory and Chris were college buddies and were commissioned together in 2008. Our hearts go out to all of you during this painful time, but hope all the wonderful memories you have will sustain you and give you strength during this difficult time!

The Hilgart Family

Mervin Hayslip

July 1, 2018

To Audra and the Short family, we send our condolences, and hope the time Christopher spent with you will be the lasting memories that stay with you on the emotions of loss are gone. We are all with you whether it is in body or spirit and will help you in what every ways we can. Kathryn and Mervin Hayslip.

June 30, 2018

My deepest condolences to the family. May the God of comfort grant you strength during this difficult time.

Rob + Noralee Bailey

June 30, 2018

Even though miles and states separate us our hurting hearts are ever so close to you dear friends. We are praying for you to cling to God through this painful tragedy. Your precious boy Christopher became a hero who will NEVER be forgotten. His life was not taken... it was given. A selfless sacrifice and we are so, SO SAD.
We were privileged to know Chris, watch him grow up in Canandaigua NY, and pray with his faithful church family as he advanced in the military.
Megan's wedding day holds a great memory of EVERYTHING on hold as the Bride determined all guests would wait for her amazing military brother to arrive. Daddy Tom gave play by play updates, texting w Chris as he traveled home on limited military-time, faced civilian flight mishaps, knew the kindness of a fellow traveler who gave up their seats allowing soldier Chris to get-to-the-church on time (well, sort of!) I'll never forget watching him bolt across the parking lot, charging into church, tossing on a tux and making it down the aisle. He was wiping sweat from his forehead and Megan was beaming.
May our memories of Chris beam brightly as we hold you all in prayer for the days ahead.
We Love you! The Bailey Family

Melissa Pioneer

June 30, 2018

With deepest sympathy on loss of your loved one. May it bring comfort you to know that he will return to the days of his youthful vigor as promised at Job promised at Job 33:25.

Michele Landis

June 29, 2018

My extended family enjoyed time with Chris on Lake Ontario for many years. Brenda Ragonesi is my sister. Chris was a true American patriot. He was beside himself when someone on the campground left their flag up overnight! He was always a gentleman, helpful and kind. My continued prayers will be with his family.

Maria Olga Hernandez Duron

June 29, 2018

Receive my sincere condolences . Love you Audra n God bless you all

Father Don Wollschleger

June 29, 2018

Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. May God give you the comfort and peace that you seek and I pray Eternal life grant unto Chris, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him, may he rest in peace. May his soul and the siuls of all tbe faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace Amen.
Father Don Wollschleger +

Stephanie Bode

June 29, 2018

Im so so sorry and have been thinking about all of you since I heard about Chriss passing. Sending much love to Megan and all of the family as you mourn the loss of a clearly good and passionate man. My heart is heavy for all of you...

June 28, 2018

We are sending our thoughts and prayers across the country from Utah. A divine meeting here in Utah with Chris, Megan and their friend, Dan. So sorry for each one of your great loss; son, brother, husband, and soon to be daddy.
DeLon and Barb Askvig

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