Christopher J. "Wheatie" Higgins died peacefully Thursday, June 1, 2023, in Ormond-by-the-Sea, Fla., at the age of 69.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John W. Jr. and Catharine Lynaugh Higgins, and brother, John W. Higgins III, all of Pottsville.
Christopher is survived by his sister, Kathleen Higgins, wife of Jeff McAllister, Boise, Idaho; brother, Mark Higgins, husband of Diane, Orlando, Fla.; many nieces and nephews.
Christopher was born Dec. 24, 1953, in Pottsville, to John W. Jr. and Catharine Lynaugh Higgins.
He graduated from Pottsville Area High School, Class of 1972, and West Chester University, in 1977, with a bachelor's degree.
Christopher returned to Pottsville after graduation to become a teacher with the Pottsville Area School District, where he also coached high school baseball and basketball. After moving to Orlando, Fla., Christopher began working for World Class Vacations as vice president of Orlando operations for over 40 years until his retirement in 2020.
Christopher was inducted into the Pottsville Area High School All-Sports Hall of Fame for basketball and baseball in 2018, which he so proudly accepted.
He never ceased to amaze us with his wit and nonsense. He was the most kind, loving, generous person ever, and he was a legend in our lives.
He will be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on.
In Wheat's words:
"It has been a fun ride!
I had a great life!
I LOVE you all!!
Hey Chili Dawg
My Man, Pots, and Pans
Got your number, cucumber.
Don't be a Dip, Potato Chip
finger snap, finger snap, bird whistle, bird whistle!!"
YDB…
A celebration of life will be scheduled in Pottsville at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Lohman Funeral Home Ormond.
Kathleen Langan Kaminski
June 10, 2025
Wheatie was beloved by so many. His death was such a shock and I know he is still missed by both family and friends.
Bill & Tara Barasha
June 6, 2025
Dear Mark & Kathy, please disregard the prior not posted mine and Tara's name, as that was not what we had written. We were so very sorry and sad to learn of Chris's passing. He really was a "Good Man" (and a "Good Kid" (from our Third Avenue/Elk Avenue days!). Please know that Chris will always be in our thoughts and prayers. With deepest sorrow and fondest regards, Bill and Tara Barasha.
Bill and Tara Barasha
June 6, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Scott Fisher
December 19, 2024
Comes as a Shock to me. Known 'Wheat' since Elementary School. YORKVILLE, He was a good man!
Wheat will be missed!
Lew Barasha
July 2, 2023
Kathleen, Mark and family, my sincere condolences on the passing of Chris.
Bill Terrill
June 29, 2023
Coach Higgins was my freshman basketball coach. He was continually positive and would always stay after practice to help work on the small things and the importance of details, which I still draw on in my life today. An inspiration and true spirit.
Richard Rooney
June 22, 2023
Chris was a shining light, in a sometimes dismal world . A joy to be around, unique one of a kind human being full of a zest for life! Affected everyone he came in contact with, in a positive way. My prayers are with the family, you know better than anyone how special this man was!
Terry McDonald
June 13, 2023
Rest Easy Dear Friend
Jan Ponter
June 13, 2023
My husband first met Chris 30 years ago via World Class when he was a senior class advisor. Both Chris and my father-in-law were from Pottsville so there was an instant connection and friendship that quickly included our whole family. Chris was always kind, funny, magnetic, and he went out of his to make our family trips special, helped us scout for a vacation home, and even hired our son for summer jobs in college. We all love Chris and he will be missed.
Kathleen Langan Kaminski
June 13, 2023
Wheatie was loved and respected by all that knew him. He was an affectionate and kind "character" and will be truly missed. I know his PA relatives were looking forward to his moving back to Pottsville so we could easily visit and enjoy his humor and presence, once again, in our lives.
scott fisher
June 13, 2023
Wheat you will never be forgotten, since Elementary/ Yorkville.
Mario (from Chicago)
June 12, 2023
Mario (from Chicago)
June 12, 2023
Mario (from Chicago)
June 12, 2023
Mario (from Chicago)
June 12, 2023
I´m just learning of this, my heart is broken. As many of you know, he was genuinely kind, generous, and crazy fun to name a few if his many attributes. "Save room on the bus" Higgy Boy. Meanwhile, I´ll do my part until we meet again buddy.
Melissa Loman
June 12, 2023
In loving memory of a wonderful person. I will miss Chris and his fabulous humor! Always ready to make us laugh and cut up. The world is a bit darker without this beautiful, kind soul here to share his light.
Derek R. Flickinger
June 12, 2023
Always clowning around....
Dr. Jeff Marrongelle
June 12, 2023
I´m shocked at the loss of my friend and brother
Wheaty was the best guy ever and I flew wingman for him many times in college. A brilliant star has been added to the night sky!!!
To those responsible for his effects, please don´t throw out his Mom´s´ colander
It´s a Wheaty treasure with 50 years of memories attached. Preserve it please and if no one wants it, I would be honored to keep it as a memento of our great times together. Wishing Peace,Grace ,and Love to all who knew him and mourn his passing. See ya in Chicago Brother
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