Christopher Lee Cholley

1982 - 2024

Chris Cholley, 41, adored husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away unexpectedly on January 17, 2024. He leaves behind his loving and dedicated wife, Lisa, and beautiful daughter, Amelia (Millie).

Chris was born on November 12, 1982, in California, where he grew up until moving to Missouri at age 11. He met the love of his life, Lisa Gill, while attending Missouri State University and also formed life-long friendships there. Chris and Lisa lived in St. Louis, where he worked in parks and recreation, a career which suited him well as he loved being outdoors, swimming, and organizing fun programs that brought people together.

Chris was known for his feats of physical prowess and, as such, excelled at a number of sports. He played in several softball leagues and was an accomplished power-lifter, even once competing in a kilt. He was, without question, the most graceful and awe-inspiring diver that anyone has ever seen; he loved the water and was at his happiest whenever he was in or near any ocean, lake, or pool.

Chris was a caring son and brother and a dependable friend, always eager to lend a hand or plan lasting memories for his family and many friends. Whether it was hosting the party, organizing annual lake trips, driving the boat, or designing group shirts and jerseys, he wanted to enrich the good times had by all. He was an avid fan of live music, delighted in attending stand-up comedy, and fancied wearing Hawaiian shirts and shorts year-round. As much fun as Chris was, he was even more warm and gentle.

Above all else, Chris was a devoted husband and father, and his greatest love and joy were reserved for Lisa and Millie, whom he simply adored. He and Lisa shared an undeniable bond that began as friends and blossomed into a 15-year marriage filled with so much love, laughter, and an amazing daughter. Chris loved being a dad and beamed with pride at every turn, and enjoyed bringing Millie to his work or helping her practice swimming.

For all the memorable things about Chris, those who knew him best will miss his quiet but devastating humor, his full-body giggle, and his warm, bearded hugs. His loss will be profoundly felt forever.

In addition to Lisa and Millie, Chris is survived by his mother, Debbie Cholley; sister, Sara Cholley; brother, David (Chelsea) Cholley; nieces and nephews, Carleigh, Greyson, and Harper Cholley, and Brylee and Wyatt Gill; mother- and father-in-law, Martha and Greg Gill; brother-in-law, Jeremy Gill; aunts, uncles, and cousins; and countless friends. Chris very closely preceded his father, Bill Cholley, in death by just a few weeks.

A memorial gathering will be held to remember the unforgettable Chris on Saturday, May 18, from 1:00-4:00 pm at St. Ferdinand Park, Veach Pavilion (No. 1), in Florissant, MO. Light refreshments and beverages will be provided, with playground space for those with children. Lisa asks that, if possible, guests bring a copy of their favorite picture of Chris in lieu of signing a guestbook. Hawaiian shirts are, of course, encouraged though not required.