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Christopher Leon Obituary
1983 – 2008
Christopher John Leon, 25, of Santa Maria, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 30, 2008 of natural causes.
Christopher was born on September 30, 1983 in Santa Maria to Christopher and Nancy Leon. Lovingly known as "Little Chris", "Snausage", and "Hammer"; Christopher spent his life as a part of the Santa Maria community. He was a 2002 graduate of Ernest Righetti High School and attended Allan Hancock College.
Christopher was employed as a truck driver for Pacific Petroleum and T&T Crane and later as a crane oiler for Parsons Construction while training to be a crane operator. He was also a proud member of the Operating Engineers Local 12.
One of Christopher's passions was sports. In 2001, he was First Team All-League, First Team All-Area and First Team All-County in football, and continued his football passion at Allan Hancock College. He also played baseball in the Orcutt American Little League (OALL), umpired for local little leagues and was a member of the 2002 Righetti CIF Semi-Finalist baseball team. Christopher also enjoyed playing pool, wakeboarding, snowboarding, camping, and socializing.
Most of all, Christopher will be remembered as a big-hearted, caring and soft spoken man who had a deep love for his family and friends.
Christopher is survived by his loving parents, Christopher and Nancy; brother, Kyle Leon; sister, Katie Leon; fiancée, Lauren Taylor; as well as many other loving family members and friends.
Visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2008, followed by the Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m. in the Chapel of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home. Church Services will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2008 at First Christian Church, 1550 South College Drive in Santa Maria, with Pastor Clete Doyal officiating. Interment will follow in the Santa Maria Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the Leon family has set up a Scholarship Memorial Fund to benefit a Student Athlete in Football and Baseball that exemplified Chris' dedication, heart and desire to both sports. To contribute in Chris' name, please send to the Christopher J. Leon Scholarship Memorial Fund, c/o Coast Hills Federal Credit Union, Account # 47617-01, 1157 East Clark, Suite D, Santa Maria, CA 93455.
Arrangements are in the care of Magner-Maloney Funeral Home and Crematory. Sympathy notes and words of support may be expressed at www.magnermaloney.com.
(805)925-2753
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Leon
JIM
January 2, 2009
Don't worry I still haven't forgot about Chris. I was at work on yesterday and a I passed a crane and the first thing i thought of was him and I got teary eyed and im sure every time I see a crane i will think of him and his dreams.
LOVE JIM
I WILL MISS YOU
Oscar Ortiz
January 1, 2009
I am very sorry for your loss. I met Chris in English class our Freshman year. He was a great guy always full of energy. i was in shocked when i found out about this tragedy.
Lacie Bole
December 22, 2008
Leon Family,
I met Chris almost 5 years ago through one of my best friends Matt Prancevic. I was pregnant and going through a divorce and Chris was always there for me when I needed someone to talk to. He was the first one to tell me that everything was going to work out for me and my little girl. Chris told me just to make sure that I always had faith in myself. When my daughter was born I named her Makayla Faith...I just felt it was appropriate. So, just like Chris told me I will always have Faith...in myself and in my daughter! I am so sorry for your loss and I pray for your family daily.
Jim West
December 18, 2008
I was greatly shocked and saddened to open the paper one morning and read about Chris. I remember him well when he played on the Orcutt Youth Football team that I coached.
I didn't see him much after that until he started at Hancock College where I work. I would run into him periodically there, and we would talk about his classes and his educational goals.
I also saw him often when he worked at Costco. He kept me informed as to how his career was going.
It was always a great pleasure to see what a fine man that youth football player had become. I will miss those meetings.
James Piper
December 10, 2008
Chris & Nancy,
I was deeply saddened when my dad told me about Chris's passing. He was a great kid raised by a great family. My thoughts and wishes are with you.
Gina Domingues Luna
December 10, 2008
Dear Leon Family, No words can express the loss of a loved one.It can't be easy, but with Gods love for all of you, he will help you get through this. Just know that one day you will all be reunited with Chris & oh what a reunion that will be! God bless you & your loving son Chris.
Steve Gonzales
December 7, 2008
Chris & Nancy,
I was very sad to hear about young Chris's passing. Obviously a fine young man and a reflection of both you. What wonderful communities Orcutt and Santa Maria are. When a hero falls, there is much love, encouragement and support from everywhere. I know Chris will be greatly missed. My hope and prayer for you is for great strength and courage in the upcoming days, months and years. God bless you both and your family.
John and Diane St John
December 6, 2008
Mr. and Mrs. Leon, Kyle and Katie -
Having had all of the Leon kids in class at one time or another, we remember Chris as a young man who could have a great time and make everyone around him happy. Even when he was "playing around" in class in 8th grade, all he had to do was smile to get out of trouble. We both send our prayers for you during this difficult time. We hope that the wonderful memories you have of Chris will comfort you.
Cindi Wells
December 5, 2008
Nancy I am honored and blessed t be able to leave my thoughts and condolences to you and your family, I keep thinking of you every day and wondering how I could get through them. Just know that I am here for you, even if you think there's nothing I can do, call me for the smallest of somethings you feel you can't handle, I really want to be there for you. I want to say so much more, but I know only God's love will help you now. I love you and am here for you.
Cindi Wells
Nima Mashhoon
December 5, 2008
Wow...it has been 5 days and I still can't believe that Chris is no longer a phone call away. =/
The journey with Chris all started in 5th grade at Patterson Road. Chris was and still is one of my closest friends. Chris, Andrew and I would always sit next to each other in class and would share our lunches...man he had the best!!! =) I would always try to trade my carrots and lame sandwiches for his snack! Haha...Chris would always make me laugh with his great sense of humor and awesome laugh! He would always do something goofy or say something out of the blue that would just crack me up. He was just something else.
One of the fondest moments that I have with Chris would have to be my 10th birthday. It was the first sleep over I have ever had and I do have to say that Chris just made it that much better. Whether it would be from the slip and sliding that we did in the afternoon, to the football we played towards the night, to the extensive amounts of gas he had when we were trying to sleep…haha…Chris just made my day that much better.
Mr. Leon...Mrs. Leon....Chris Sr.....Nancy.... My heart goes out to you guys. You guys took me in with such grace and treated me so well when I was younger. I love your son as he was one of the most genuine and honest person I have ever met in my life. I want to thank you both for giving me the privilege to be able to call Christopher John Leon as one of my friends.
With condolences,
Nima Mashhoon
Michelle & Brandon Casper
December 5, 2008
Leon Family, we are both so sorry for your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Anthony Ramos
December 5, 2008
Dear Leon Family,
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy for the loss of your son, brother and fiancé, Chris Leon. Being a fearless competitor accompanied with a warm-genuine heart, Chris has touched the lives of many and I’m blessed to have grown up with such an honorable man. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Casey Collins
December 5, 2008
I had the pleasure of meeting Chris in the EMT class at AHC 4 years ago. He sat in the very front/middle desk and quickly became the instructors favorite! He was always keeping the mood light and us laughing. After the class ended I kept running in to him in Orcutt. I am going to miss him
Joe n Joanne Marcum
December 5, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless
Lisa Coker
December 5, 2008
As a mother, I know there is no greater bond than that between a mother and a child. I also know that no parent is ever prepared to survive their child. I can't imagine the heartache you are all enduring from the loss of such a beautiful son, brother and boyfriend. I am writing this, to you all, to share with you some things that Chris shared with me. I met Chris playing pool and was immediately stricken by his smile, so genuine and open. We immediately became pool buddies and each time I saw him he would share with me stories of his work and family. Lauren, I have to tell you how completely proud Chris was to be your boyfriend. He would talk endlessly of your beauty and how lucky he felt that you picked "him" to love. I would tell him..."of course she picked you, I'm sure that smile alone "does it" for her". He would smile and say "thanks". Nancy, though we have never met I would like to commend you on the wonderful job you and your husband did raising such a polite and sweet boy. He would welcome me with a hug everytime I saw him. He would show me pictures of his job sights and the cranes he worked on and hoped to work on. It is a shame that such a bright light was dimmed so quickly, I can only hope that when I see Chris again that he has a hug for me. My heart breaks for his family.
Carissa Leon
December 5, 2008
To my family,
Chris will be greatly missed as he has touched many peoples lives in many different ways. He was not only my cousin, but a best friend. I will forever have my memories and the advice he gave me and i will forever miss my big bear hugs and the way he always smelled so good. i love you all so much and i wish there were words to take away your pain. just remember the good times. We will never truely lose Christopher, for he will remain in our hearts forever!
Be strong! I love you all so much!
Tammy Treat
December 4, 2008
"Little Chris" was only 2 when I left Santa Maria, so I really didn't get to know the wonderful young man he became. I wish I would have!
Chris, Nancy, Katie and Kyle my love and prayers are with you and your extended family as you move through this trying time. The memory of "Little Chris" will live on because of your love!!
Lance Easley
December 4, 2008
Dear Leons,
I just read the article of Chris passing away, and am completely overwhelmed by this news.
My heart is heavy for you during this time of grief. Chris was one of my guys, and tougher than nails with the heart of a champion/BULLDOG!
He will be missed by all of us!
Our family will be praying for you during this time of sorrow.
Coach Easley, Corina and Daniel.
Cheryl and Steve Dahl
December 4, 2008
Chris, Nancy, Katie, and Kyle,
Our hearts go out to you. We will miss Little Chris. We will forever remember his smile and warm heart. One of our fondest memories of Chris was when he was working with the paramedics and Steve's mom had her final heart attack. Chris brought her in to the ER. He did not know at the time that she was related to us. When we showed up at the ER, there was Chris holding her hand for a time, trying to comfort her in her time of need. This kindness by Little Chris comforted us deeply at a difficult time. Steve and I both commented at the time what a great kid he is. Our thoughts and prayers are with you,
Love, Cheryl, Steve, Spencer and Noah
S. Flagg
December 4, 2008
Your family is in our prayers during this tragic loss. May the Lord bless your hearts with peace and strength to make it through this life knowing you'll see Chris again someday.
Love- Flagg Family (Don, Kay, Shiloh, Shannon and Danielle)
Tamera Veglia
December 4, 2008
Nancy and Chris,
I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. You both are wonderful parents that have great kids to be proud of. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
The Parsons, Dave, Tracey, Britni & David
December 4, 2008
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Kathy Azevedo-Deputy
December 4, 2008
Chris and Nancy, Katie,Kyle. Only if you had a clue what the future was to bring! In times like this, you still would ask Why? Why him, why now.Look to the good times in the future and remember the good times that have passed.Your sons spirt will live on in all who new him,Just know I feel your pain and am so sorry for the lost of your son and brother. Kathy and family
Anna Allis
December 4, 2008
Chris & Nancy,
Our family was so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved son, Christopher. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you both and to all of his family & friends at this difficult time.
Kenny & Anna Allis
Paul, Marta & Shelby Broberg (Bend, OR) and Skylar Broberg (Azusa, CA)
December 4, 2008
Dear Chris, Nancy, Kyle and Katie,
It has been a long time. We read with great sadness of Little Chris' passing. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers!
Rick Jones
December 4, 2008
Mr. and Mrs Leon;
My heart felt sympathy for the loss of your son Christopher. My prayers are with you always.
Shane Piper
December 3, 2008
Dear Chris and Nancy,
I just wanted to say what a pleasure it was to have known Chris, from a little kid jumping on the trampoline in the back yard with my boys to working side by side with him.
I will miss you Hammer
Matt Delgado
December 3, 2008
I will miss Chris. He was such a wonderful friend, and everyone could always count on him. Some of my best memories were shared with Chris Leon. Nancy, Chris, Kyle, and Katie- I am honored to have been a friend of Chris'.
Steve, Michelle, Melanie & Tyler Boyd
December 3, 2008
Death leaves a heartache difficult to heal; love leaves sweet memories no one can steal.
Dear Leon Family,
There are no adequate words to express our sorrow. May your love and memories give you peace.
Jessica Braz
December 3, 2008
To the family and friends of Christopher Leon. I would like to express my deepest sympathy for your loss. My name is Jessica and I met Chris about 4 months ago while working at Dr. Wikholm's office. Although we didn't talk on a personal level the day he was seen in our office, I started seeing Chris everywhere around town, at the billiards and at a mutual friends house and he was such a sweetheart! he would say hi and stop to talk with me for a second and i really didn't know much about him or him about me and i thought it was really nice that he would go out of his way just to say hello to someone that had helped him out during office visits its very hard to find people like that. He was a very nice guy and on behalf of me and the staff at Dr. Wikholm's office we will always remember Chris as the football player that was a pleasure to have in our office. Our hearts and prayers go out to you!
Jesus Macias
December 3, 2008
Our Thoughts and prayers are with family, friends, fiancee and all who knew Chris. May your memories of Chris comfort you in these hard times.
Jennifer Aguilar
December 3, 2008
Dear Uncle Chris, Aunt Nancy, Katie & Kyle,
Many thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Each of you, including Little Chris have engraved some of the best memories in my mind and they will forever remain in my heart. The unity that your family displays will hopefully ease your loss. I will always remember Chris' bear hugs and warm smiles and watching Michael giggle when cousin Chris would yell in "Strike" in his offical umpire voice and look back at and give him a quick wink at the Northside Little League Field. These are memories that we will cherish. Chris will be deeply missed, family like him will never be replaced. May God Bless of you.
Pattie Martinez
December 3, 2008
Chris was a co-worker of mine, here at T&T Truck and Crane Service. I did all of his new hire paperwork. It was then that I realized, in looking through his paperwork, that he was also my neighbor. He was always such a happy person. He brought a dog to our house one day, asking if we'd like to keep it... he found it on the streets, and did not want it to get run over... we still have "Tito" to this day... I will forever remember Chris... My condolences go out to his family and other friends, and also his fiancee. May you all find peace in knowing that Chris is now in a much better place, with the Lord. God bless all of you.
Christine Perry
December 3, 2008
Chris, Nancy, KT & Kyle,
It broke our hearts to hear the news about Lil' Chris. As mentioned by others he touched a lot of lives and those of us who were so lucky to have known Lil' Chris will have great memories of him. We can remeber him as just a young Lil' Toddler in his "Wranglers" looking so, so, cute. The last we seen Lil' Chris he was umpiring a "Baseball Game" and there he was with his cute Lil' Smile that he always wore. I was trying to get his attention by giving him a bad time and he still wore that smile. He finally looked over at our family sitting there and then his smile begin to glow... Between the next inning Lil' Chris walked over to talk to us and gave Jimmy that "Handshake" and I was the lucky one who got the "Hug". We will always remember Lil' Chris and will keep Your Family in our Toughts and Prayers.
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. Our deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
The Perry Family,
Jimmy, Chris, Cheyenne & Austin
Steve,Jeri,Joshua,Shane,Tyler, Christine Vogt
December 3, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
MARIO JIMENEZ
December 3, 2008
CHRIS I WILL MISS U BRO. THE OTHER DAY I WAS GOING TO BBQ WHEN I STEPPED OUT SIDE I COULDENT EVEN DO THAT CUZ I CUD PICTURE U COMING BY. I GOT REAL SICK BRO CUZ YOU KNOW I ALWAYS HAD A EXTRA PLATE 4 U. WHEN I SEE U AGAIN BRO MAKE SURE U DONT CUT MY FASE WIT DA CLIPPERS BRO GET THE FADE GOOD. i STILL SEE YOU IN YO TRUCK DIS MORNING I HEARD A TRUCK SOUNDED JUST LIKE YOURS THOUGHT YOU WER HOME. MY FAMILY WILL MIS YOU.REST IN PEACE BRO. ANGEL CHRIS. LOVE U BRO
Connie Fontaine
December 3, 2008
Chris & Nancy,
I cant even put into words to express how sorry I am for the loss of your son. I know you both are strong and have faith in the Lord. Some how you will find a way to try and go on. Hold on tight to all your memories and remember Chris will always be with you..
Danielle Harpster
December 3, 2008
Chris always had a smile...a great guy, a great laugh. He'll be missed.
Joyce Shillingford
December 3, 2008
Nancy and Family:
My sincere sympathy for your loss of Chris...I had never met him but I know how close and loving your family is. My prayers are with you at this time.
Alan Acosta
December 3, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Chris and Nancy along with your family. So sorry to hear about the loss of your son Chris. May God help you during this difficut time.
Alan and Vonnie Acosta
Kari Fontaine
December 3, 2008
Chris is a great guy. He always had a smile on his face. He will be missed a lot.
To the family: I am sorry for your loss. He will always be in our hearts. Your family is in our prayers.
God bless all you guys
Jeri Leon Davidson
December 3, 2008
Chris, Nancy, Katie & Kyle,
I am lost for words. Little Chris was a wonderful person. I will always remember how welcome he made me feel and our little conversation. He was truly the best and will be in my heart forever. I love you guys and I am so so deeply sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Little Chris will be missed greatly as he has touched so many lives.
Debbie Philley (Diaz)
December 2, 2008
Dear Chris and Nancy,
My heart aches for your loss, as everyone who Chris has known. I want you to know what a fine young man you raised (though I'm sure you have no doubts). It is said that you know your child is of good character if he acts in such a manner out of your presence. Every single time I saw Chris, he took time to address me properly, say hello, and ask how my family was doing. EVERY SINGLE TIME, and there were many. Living around the corner, Chris often saw me drive by and always waved with a big smile. I always looked forward to that, and missed that greeting when he moved out on his own.
Kyle and Katie; Daniel, Buddy, Gianna, and I know how much love all three of you siblings have for each other. No words can express how sorry we are for your loss, but you all are in our thoughts and prayers. Our families have known one another for quite awhile. We are grateful for having known Chris, and I appreciate him serving as a role model for my boys.
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