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Christopher Woodward Obituary

Christopher Knight Woodward

Christopher Knight Woodward, 54, passed away on May 30, 2021, from a fall while lowering the U.S. flag to half-staff at the San Francisco VA Medical Center.

Chris was known for his sense of humor, sharp wit, authenticity, and seeming ability to defy death. He joined the army at 17 and served in Korea, played bass in a heavy metal band, was a corrections officer in Arizona, and then an ironworker in Phoenix and San Francisco, where he survived two lightning strikes.

He spent the last 14 years working in the carpentry department at the VA in San Francisco, much of the time spent welding. He loved the work, the view of the Golden Gate Bridge, and the fog rolling in. His work ethic, joy, and sense of humor were recognized by all.

He is survived by his grown children Deborah, Ryan, and Glenn, his mother and father Jeanne and Barry, his siblings David and Michaela, and his girlfriend Lauri Pietila.

Services have not been planned. Contributions in Chris's name may be made to Swords to Plowshares, 1060 Howard Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, or to a charity of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Jun. 5 to Jun. 10, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Dionne Williams

December 11, 2023

I am at a loss for words. Chris you will be missed dearly my friend.

Lauri jo Pietila

July 21, 2022

I will always love you I honor and cherish my memories. Its hasn´t been good since you have been gone, but I hope to make you proud. See ya

Peter Guzman

June 30, 2021

I was so saddened by this, I knew Chris while I worked at Ft. MILEY GROUNDSKEEPING CREW, CWT Work program, he was this nicest person, we had many talks, I was blessed to have known him, God bless him.

Larry Smith

June 13, 2021

My heartfelt condolences to Family & Friends. Always upbeat & positive. Incredible over the top humor will be sorely missed!
Chris' knowledge, dedication, and foresight to his work are a forever inspiration! Be at Peace Brother!

Richard Kennedy

June 5, 2021

I am a retired employee of the same VA as Chris and knew him well enough to know that he was a kind person. My Condolence to his family.

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

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