Christopher Tooker

1945 - 2025

Christopher Paul Tooker, born on July 19, 1945, in Elk Grove, California, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Chris was cherished as a devoted family member and friend, and his legacy is marked by helpfulness, generosity, and unwavering support to his community. He leaves behind a lasting impact in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.

Chris spent over forty years residing in the Sacramento area. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Nancy; his children, Scott Tooker and Lisa Gray; his sister, Rosemary Jensen; and his grandchildren, Kaitlyn Tooker, Alexander Gray, and Jason Gray.

Chris graduated from Elk Grove High School in 1963, distinguishing himself as Student Body President. He continued his education at UC Davis, earning a Bachelor of Science degree and joining the Theta Xi Fraternity. His academic journey continued with a master's degree at UCLA followed by service as an officer in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany. Driven by his passion for learning, Chris earned a PhD in Zoology from Oklahoma State University and completed a certificate in Environmental Planning from UC Davis. He remained actively involved with the Beta Epsilon Chapter of Theta Xi Fraternity, serving as President of the Alumni Association and Chair of the Scholarship Committee for many years.

From 1979 until his retirement in 2010, Chris worked at the California Energy Commission. His dedication to community service and environmental advocacy began with his involvement in Elk Grove School District committees and as a leader of the local 4H Club. He contributed to his community through roles on the Elk Grove Planning Advisory Council and the Sacramento County Policy Planning Commission. During the 1990s, Chris was a member and President of Sacramento Open Space. In recognition of his efforts, he was honored as Environmentalist of the Year by the Environmental Council of Sacramento (ECOS) in 2003.

Chris further served as a public member on the Sacramento County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) for sixteen years and as a member and officer of the CALAFCO Board of Directors for thirteen years. He was widely known and respected throughout California for his work to ensure that land use and growth development were approached in a reasonable and environmentally responsible manner.

Upon moving to Sierra Oaks Vista in Sacramento, Chris immediately became involved with his neighbors, serving as President and Board Member for the SOV Neighborhood Association for two decades. His enduring interest in the love of travel, nature, and environmental stewardship was evident throughout his life. Beyond his extensive public service, Chris's leadership and contributions as a Board member of the Friends of the Stone Lakes Refuge will be deeply missed.

A private memorial celebration will be held by the family. Memorial donations in Chris's name may be made to the Friends of Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, c/o Officer Administrator, 3732 Red Eagle Court, Antelope, CA 95843, to support the environmental and educational programs of the Friends at the Refuge.