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Christopher Small Obituary

SMALL, Christopher G. L. 27, died April 20, 2010 at home. Mr. Small was graduated from the University of Florida Gainesville in 2007 with a Master's of Science (DIS) with a minor in Japanese Language/Studies. He was an Eagle Scout and an avid rock climber. He is survived by his loving wife, Elysia; sister, Heather and parents, Dr. Diane and Steve; grandfather, Dr. Paul Garnett; uncle W. T. Small of Vancouver, WA. A private family memorial service is pending. Funeral arrangements by Florida Direct Cremation and Burial Society, 3121 44th Ave. N St. Petersburg, FL 33712

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Published by Tampa Bay Times on May 14, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher Small

Sponsored by Dr. Diane and Steve Small (Mom and Dad).

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2009 Best Man & Matron of Honor

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

2008 Wedding vows: Chris&Elysia & Grandpa

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

Chris & Elysia

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

2001 Eagle Scout

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

2001 Lakewood HS Grad

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

1995 Chris & Family

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

1987 Chris - Edmonds WA beach

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

1985 Chris & Uncle Jean-Paul

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

1984 Chris & Family

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

1984 Chris & Family

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

2009 Best Man & Matron of Honor

May 4, 2011

2008 Chris & Elysia

May 4, 2011

2008 Elysia & Chris wedding w/Grandpa Paul

May 4, 2011

2001 Eagle Scout

May 4, 2011

2001 Chris HS Grad

May 4, 2011

1997 - Family

May 4, 2011

1995 - Chris & Family

May 4, 2011

1986 - Chris - Edmonds WA beach

May 4, 2011

1985 - Chris & Uncle Jean-Paul

May 4, 2011

1984 - Small Family

May 4, 2011

Chris Eagle Scout with Grandpa & Anna

Paul & Anna Garnett

May 4, 2011

Memories of Chris
by Grandpa & Grand-Anna

Laughing eyes and giggles,
Warm hugs and snuggles,
Story books,
Hide and seek,
Beach walks and jungle gym,
Climbing, jumping, running

Curly locks, sweetest smile,
Shy, but ever eager,
Boy Scout
Helping others,
Growing, always busy

Summers flying o’er the ocean,
’94 and ’96,
Traveling mate
With Grandpa,
And Anna, too, of course

VW camping, Alpine climbing,
Biking, eating strange new foods,
Exploring castles,
Making friends
Through Europe and UK

Boy Scout camps and special projects,
Chris is steady, true, and strong;
Eagle Scout
Honor bound
Family’s proud, and love is strong.

His Soul-mate he finds in school;
The Lord brings Elysia to fill
His life with love and joy.
Their wedding in 2007
Fulfills their dream
Of being together always.

Always they will love each other,
Always, all their lives.
This will not change,
‘Though Chris is now
With the Lord above

We pray to God that Chris can know
How much he still is loved
By all his family
All his friends.

Our prayers will ever be
That, though hearts ache,
Our Christ will bless
Us all with peace,
And lives of purpose
in His will.

We will be with Chris once more,
When we depart this world.
With open arms, Chris awaits
In Heaven with Our Lord.
Together, we will sing God’s praises
. . . . . together.

Chris at horsepen 40

Steve Small

December 29, 2010

Sam Turner

October 30, 2010

To Chris's family,

I am one of the many who knew Chris from the Gainesville Rock Gym. I'm so sorry for your loss. I did not know him well, nonetheless my heart aches for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sam Turner

Steven Filippelli

August 12, 2010

Dear Elysia,
I used to climb with Chris in Gainesville a few years ago, and we went on a couple of trips together. One memory of Chris in particular has stuck with me. We were driving up north to go climbing, and we pulled over at a gas station on the way. Chris saw a poor old man oddly laying in the grass by the station, and I was about to pull away, but he insisted on making sure the man was ok. His conscientious behavior made a lasting impression on me, and I think of him everytime I hear the expression: "Actions speak louder than words." I'm sorry he's gone, but know that he'll live on in the fond memories of those who knew him.
Steven Filippelli

Ben James

August 12, 2010

To Chris' Family--

My heart breaks for your loss. I too climbed with Chris at the Gainesville Rock Gym. He was an awesome bouldering companion, always ready with a spot or a helpful tip when asked. I remember one time he showed up in Tennessee to climb, unbeknownst to most of our GRG friends. I was able to climb with him for part of that day. He encouraged all around him to try harder and be better. I climbed better that day when he was nearby. My deepest condolences for your loss.

Phillip Shih

August 12, 2010

Phillip Shih

August 12, 2010

Phillip Shih

August 12, 2010

Phillip Shih

August 12, 2010

Phillip Shih

August 12, 2010

Alli Sjoden

August 12, 2010

Dear Chris's Family,

I too knew Chris from the Gainesville Rock Gym. Though I did not know him well, it was obvious that we was kind, humble, and strong both physically and mentally. He was/is an inspiration. He will be missed for these characteristics and much more, but know that his presence has touched many people and that we will never be forgotten.

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Jeff Boissoneault

August 11, 2010

To Chris' family:

I knew Chris from the Gainesville Rock Gym and was devastated to find out what had happened. He was an inspiration to me and I always admired his humility and quiet strength. Please accept my condolences and know that there are many of us who continue to hold Chris in great esteem.

August 10, 2010

Elysia,

I am not sure if you remember me from Gainesville Rock Gym or not, but I just found out about Chris today. I couldn't find much information on what happened, but either way I am at a loss for words.

I have spent a lot of time climbing with Chris in the gym. He has taught me many things about physical and mental strength. He has taught me about stepping up to a challenge without fear of failure, and smiling no matter the outcome. I can not paint for you a specific memory that will ease or cure your pain. However, I know that he loved you very much. I remember the day I found out you were both married. His smile lit up the darkest corner of the rock gym. When I sit here thinking about his smile that afternoon, it instills hope in me that the world may offer up its greatest gift.

I am sad that he is gone from your arms, and I will miss his humble power. I wish you the greatest ease while crying through your troubled times. I will always think about Chris, no matter the time that passes. He was a wonderful part of many years at GRG. Rest easy as he smiles down upon thee.

My best regards
MB

July 10, 2010

Dear Family, Steve and I continue to pray for you and would love to hear from you. My Steve is starting Chemo therapy for Lymphoma. Please pray for the strength and comfort he requires. We all need each other. Love, The Napiers

Louise and Jerry Family Correa

July 5, 2010

Dear Diane, Steve, Heather & Elysia,
You are in our thoughts and prayers, that God may give You comfort and strength through these times.
Please accept our sincere condolences.
With love your old friends,
Jerry, Louise, Dale and John Correa

Katie Varga

June 1, 2010

Diane, Steve, Heather & Elysia,
Know you continue to be in our thoughts and prayers daily.

Jan Diepenbrock

May 26, 2010

Dear Steve and Diane, Dear Elysia,

I cannot but express my deepest condolences and regrets.

If I think of the great times I had with Chris ten years ago and the good friend and pal I had in him ever since, I am happy about having known him and am the more saddend about his loss. The rides to the beach, the running at night, learning history, going to the movies, his humor - all are memories with him which I would not want to miss.

You are in my thoughts and prayers, that God may give You comfort and strength through these times.

Love

Jan

May 25, 2010

Dear mom, dad, and Elysia,

I love you all and will continue to pray for healing.

Love,
Heather

Nancy Garnett Martin

May 24, 2010

Dear Diane & Steve,
I pray that you find strength in the memories of your son - those happy moments of childhood, the birthdays, the milestones, even the recent years. God gave you a beautiful gift in Chris and his presence in this world undoubtedly had meaning. If I could, I'd come cry with you and try to share the burden of your grief, but I would also hope to hear stories and antedotes that would make me smile. It's been a long journey from Grandpa and Grandma Garnett's kitchen table, with your dad and my dad "discussing" politics in the dining room, but family is never separated or forgotten -- nor is the time we've had together. I love you, cousin, and pray for your comfort.

Gayle Hepler

May 21, 2010

Dear family and loved ones and sweet mom and wife of Chris,
My deepest condolences are sent your way. My husband and I lost our 25 year old son 1/3/2009 and he also passed away in Florida; and he was as sweet and good looking, and on his way in life as your son Chris appeared in the good looking photo of him we saw today in the Columbian. (Bowden was born 7/16/1983); If ever you want to talk to another mom, dad, father or sister (his sis is 30 and the loss was devastating with no one to really turn to as she lives in Seattle and is a school teacher up there; but she would also help talk with Chris' wife and any relatives needing to talk; for we too have walked through your fire; and been through this awful painful, heartbreaking loss of a son who meant everything to us, so do call me or write. We are neighbors in the same city. I am holding all of you up in my prayers this day; and into the month. My prayers and heartfelt tears and condolences are sent your way. Our boys were meant to outlive us, not the other way around; with it being like this. My son had two college degrees from Pepperdine and was working and getting his life on its way, and then the unthinkable happened. Too much to say, but want you to know I am feeling your pain. May the love and peace of God encircle you now. May Chris rest in peace, and his sweet wife be consoled. Sincerely, Gayle Hepler saddened mom in Felida over your loss, Just know God loves him and he is with the "best of the best" resting, or maybe even dancing on the stars right now. Tearfully, and respectfully, Gayle...360-901-3428 [email protected]

May 20, 2010

You have been in our thoughts and prayers. The church members have been praying also. May you feel the love of family and friends during this time of sorrow. Something good will come out of this, I know. See you soon, Judith Christie

Cindy Castelvecchi

May 20, 2010

Dear Diane, Steve & Elysia:
Please accept my sincere condolences for the loss of Christopher, and on behalf of everyone here at Suncoast, please accept our deppest sympathy.

Our thoughts are with you.

Lesly Mompoint

May 20, 2010

Dear Family,
Words can not express the sorrow...I will use prayer. You are in our thoughts and prayers. My family and I wish you and your loved ones our deepest sympathy and sincerest condolences.

michael shaw

May 20, 2010

May you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Steven & Karen Meador

May 20, 2010

Steve, Diane & Family -

My condolences and sympathy to all of you; the respect and caring you have invested in those around you over the years, comes again now to comfort you. May God be with you in this trying time. Signed...the kid at Tymer's Camera Shop, ~1972-1976.

Mike and Pam Garnett

May 19, 2010

Dear Diane and Steve and Elysia: Thank you for letting us know of Chris with your note--hard to know what to say--wish we could just come and sit with you. We are praying for you three and Heather and Takeo and Paul and Anna as well. We are thankful we had the brief visit with Chris and Elysia when you were out for your mom. Praying for your comfort. Love and Prayers

Steve and Vicki Napier

May 19, 2010

Dear Family, We are grieving for you and Christopher. Please feel free to contact us, with any need or just to talk. Therapy must include reaching out to others and education of his cause of death. We are here for you. Keep him in your heart and memory.

May 19, 2010

Dear Diane & Steve:
Claire and I are so sorry to hear of your loss and will pray for your relief and comfort during this time. Please call us should you need our assistance in Portland.
Peter & Claire Quinton

peter & claire quinton

May 19, 2010

Dear Diane & Steve,
How shocked we were to receive your card today with this tragic news. Words
cannot express our sadness for you, his wife and the rest of your family.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and we know that Christopher is now in heaven with our dear Bunny. Deepest sympathy and condolences to you.
Your friends in Portland,

Karen Breedlove

May 18, 2010

Dear Elysia, Diane & Steve,
May you always remember the light and joy that Chris brought into this world in his short time on this earth. May you all embrace God's peace during this difficult time. We love you all.

Jerry Coughlan

May 18, 2010

"There is nothing to save, now all is lost,
but a tiny core of stillness in the heart
like the eye of a violet." DH Lawrence

May you both and Christopher's wife find that stillness in what must be a bleak spring, a hope lost. You are all in our prayers.

Jerry and Tricia Coughlan

Janet Grimley

May 17, 2010

Steve and Diane,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It seems like yesterday I loaned a crib for your growing family.
My thought are with you during this difficult time.

May 17, 2010

Dear Steve and Diane,
I am so sorry for your loss.
I have two kids of my own, (16 and 17).
I know how I felt when I lost my Dad, Don Campbell.My heart goes out to you. I will have you in my prayers.
Sincerely Jill (Campbell) Mattson

May 17, 2010

Diane and Steve:

We're with you in prayers at this difficult time.

Katy and Al Leland

May 16, 2010

Steve and Diane,

How shocked I was to hear of the death of your son. Just remember all the precious memories you have of him. We just don't understand why things like this happen.

But, my thoughts and prayers are with you both and for Chris' wife. God will take you through this and I will hold you both up in all my prayers.

Love you both,

Johnnie Mae Moon

Fay Blackburn

May 16, 2010

Steve and Diane,
The death of your son is a great loss to endure. I hope the difficult journey ahead will be eased by your memories.

Kathy Arneson-Rohrer

May 16, 2010

Dear Steve and family,
Were we only 20 and 22 when we chased over Clark Co. for the Columbian in the mid '60s? Hard to believe that you've raised this fine man to older than we were then, and now have lost him. Our deepest sympathy go out to you in this desperately sad time. We pray that God shines His grace and comfort on you and that He'll welcome Chris to eternal life.

Patti Rhynders

May 16, 2010

Dear Diane and Steve,

I want to let you know your friends and colleagues at TUI University are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Our hearts go out to you now and in the days ahead.

With sincere wishes for peace in your hearts,

Cecelia Goodnow

May 16, 2010

Steve and Diane,

You have my deepest condolences for your heartbreaking loss. May you find peace and hope.

May 16, 2010

Dear Steve & Diane,
My heart aches for you in the loss of your son. Years ago, when I met Christopher during a break from an API session in St. Pete, I saw a sweet boy who obviously was much loved. I wish you strength and peace during this very tough time. You're in my prayers. Beth Erickson

May 15, 2010

Dear Steve and Diane,
I can't imagine greater pain for a parent than to lose a child. No words can take away your grief, but please know that Lee and I, along with many others, are keeping you in our prayers. We're so terribly sorry for your loss of Christopher. With love, Sydney and Lee Rozen

Don & Kim Chandler

May 15, 2010

Steve & Diane:
Hard to know what to say other than how terribly sorry Kim and I are for your loss. We didn't know Chris since he was born after you left The Columbian, but we know he was your pride and joy, and the loss must have you devastated. Our thoughts are with you. DOC & Kim Chandler.

May 14, 2010

Steve and Diane,
Having lost our 19 year old son, Bill (your nephew), it would seem that we would know the words that would express the totality of our sadness and provide the comfort that you and your family so dearly need. But, words can't be found except to say that we are so sorry for your loss. We and our friends are praying for your comfort and healing. Love, Tim and Jody

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