Name: Visitation for Christopher FOLEY
Start: 2021-10-29T22:00:00.000Z
End: 2021-10-30T01:00:00.000Z
Location: St. John the Baptist Church

, M.D. Christopher Myles Age 71 of Dellwood Passed away peacefully on October 15, 2021 after an unexpected illness. Chris was born to Logan and Mimi (Zoccola) Foley on May 8, 1950 in South Orange, New Jersey. After losing his mother during childbirth, he was raised by his aunt and uncle Ruth and Frank Zoccola who resided in Cleveland, OH. At age 12, he moved to Minnesota and resided in North Oaks with the Zoccola family. He graduated from Mounds View High School in 1968 where he was captain of the swimming and golf teams. He first met Janet (Sorensen) at Mounds View and after being told by a friend that she was too tall for him, the two would go on to share a lifelong relationship that would transcend his final day. They were married in 1975 at Prince of Peace Church in Roseville, MN. After high school, Chris gradua-ted from the University of Notre Dame in 1972, followed by the University of Minnesota School of Medicine in 1976. In 1979, he finished his residency and began his medical practice at St. Joseph's Hospital in St. Paul, MN. His work in the HealthEast medical system as a practicing physician and internist spanned 22 years, which included leading the building of the integrative medicine program at the HealthEast Healing Center and the opening of Woodwinds Health Campus in Woodbury, MN. In 2001 with Jan at his side, he founded Minnesota Natural Medicine which soon became a pillar of integrative and functional medicine in the state and nation. Along with his hardworking team, he has since cared for thousands of patients and even assisted them during the time his condition worsened. Undoubtedly, his primary professional passion lay in helping people. Chris was truly, all-around, one of the good ones. Outside of medicine, his passions revolved around his family. He was a loving and dedicated husband, father, son, and brother; a generous neighbor and friend; a brilliant and compassionate physician. He was a truth-seeker in both faith and knowledge. Chris played and promoted handball as often as able, part of a unique troop of athletes keeping the "perfect game" growing in Minnesota. He passionately lived a full, boundless life that included the outdoors, Hobie kayak boating, biking with Jan, and playing/singing with his guitar or banjo. He was proud of his grandchildren and taught them how to be healthy, bike, and make the best popcorn. He loved his dogs Luther & Sligo ("the hounds") dearly and always found an inner peace in the Wisconsin north woods sitting on a deck listening to good Irish music. Quick-witted and never shy, he could be counted on to willingly share a story or conversation over a pint or a dram. He will be gravely missed by all whose lives he touched. Chris is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Jan; their 4 sons, Logan (Amanda), Donovan (Wendee), Griffin (Sarah), Quinn (Jessie); 8 grand children, Lillian, Marian, Catherine, Vince, Maximus, Brianna, Gloria and Paisley; sister, Bry; brother, Bob; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by Mimi and Logan Foley; and Ruth and Frank Zoccola. Visitation will be held at St. John the Baptist Church (835 2nd Ave. NW, New Brighton, MN) from 5-8pm Fri., 29 Oct. Funeral service will be held at the same location at 10:30 am on Sat., 30 Oct. with luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred in his name to one of his many passions: St. John the Baptist Catholic School in New Brighton, MN (https://stjohnnyb.org/), Nativity Catholic School in Burke, VA (https://nativityschool.org/), Soldier's Angels (https://soldiersangels.org/), or the United States Handball Association First Ace Fund (https://www.ushandball.org/product/first-ace-development-fund/).

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

Published by Pioneer Press from Oct. 20 to Oct. 24, 2021.

Memories and Condolences
for Christopher FOLEY

Sponsored by St Paul Pioneer Press.

27 Entries

RW Geist MD

October 14, 2024

Every time I think of Chris (and it is often!), I experience a pang of regret, that I cannot see him again and enjoy his great wit, integrity, and sense of humor, We lost a great man when Chris Foley died. Everyone loved Chris.
Again, love to his family and his many friends from our family, Bob Geist.

Julie Schmidt

April 28, 2024

To say that Dr Foley was remarkable is an understatement. One of the most important guiding principles during the creation of Woodwinds Health Campus was to Challenge the Status Quo. Without Dr. Foley´s involvement in and support of the integrative medicine aspect of clinical care, Woodwinds would not have been what it was at the time. I only recently heard of his passing and was stunned. He always seemed invincible. It seems none of us are. He, however, made a noticeable and impactful mark in this world. My sympathy to his family who I am sure still misses him greatly.

Mike Gardner

October 18, 2022

He was a very good friend and healthcare mentor. My family and I so valued his direction concerning our many health challenges. Our blessings to his family.

Mike

Robert W. Geist MD

October 14, 2022

We all loved Chris Foley.

Terry Gips

November 10, 2021

Thanks for the gift of you Chris. I'm so saddened by the loss of you in my life and our world.

When I first went to you nearly 7 years ago for prostate cancer, you offered your caring, deep empathy, listening and extraordinary knowledge and wisdom. I felt you really engaged with me in finding a solution and we had a great time along the way. We both learned a lot and affected each other, from our delving into true health and life to our always present add-on discussions about politics (Libertarian vs. Progressive) and diet (Keto vs. vegan). You got me to go Keto while I showed you that it was not only possible to be organic vegan Keto, but that it changed your own feelings about it as a result.

I don't think we ever had one meeting where one of your staff didn't have to tell you it was time to move on. We had such a wonderful bond and connection that we could have gone on forever given our mutual curiosity about each other and our very different worlds and worldviews.

You pointed to the possibility of something beyond conventional surgery or hormones/radiation. You suggested the alternative called brachytherapy that was totally dissed by so much of the medical establishment. Thus began our joint search for an answer.

It was an amazing journey. You ultimately connected me with your integrative oncologist colleague Dr. William LaValley in Austin, TX, who both taught me so much but also led me to another connection and finally to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center (the world's top-rated and largest) in Houston. After a year and a half of my research and visits to places like Mayo, the U of M and many others who totally dissed the possibility of brachytherapy, Dr. Deborah Kuban at M.D. Anderson said brachytherapy was by far the best way to go in terms of all outcomes. She had the research and one of the world's leading radiation oncologists, Dr. Steven Frank, to prove it.

You were right all along. And you were always totally supportive. And it meant so much that you said I had truly earned a Ph.D. in prostate cancer treatment from all my research. I´m only sorry I didn´t get to share the latest version of my white paper on prostate cancer treatment and prevention that embodies so much of what you taught me, plus even some things I never got to teach you (such as Dr. LaValley´s and M.D. Anderson´s Integrative Medicine´s urging people to not take anti-oxidant supplements or juices once you have cancer because it confers a competitive advantage on cancer cells).

As with so many others with various conditions, you exhibited the compassion, stick-to-it attitude and extra work that made me feel you were in my corner, while bravely enduring the slings and arrows of the establishment to find evidence-based, patient-centered solutions. Your wisdom and heart will be missed but you can rest comfortably knowing it will be carried on by those of us who had the privilege of knowing you.

With Love and Gratitude,
Terry Gips [email protected]

Wyatt Ward

November 7, 2021

I was shocked to find out about Dr. Foley´s passing, and my prayers go out to his family. He was truly a one of a kind man, doctor, and dear friend. Dr. Foley cured me of Lyme and gave me my life back, and I can´t thank God enough for the time that I had to know him. I will always remember Dr. Foley as a brilliant man who was always absorbed in his continuing studying of medicine that went far behind med school, and far above the call of duty. He remained 110% dedicated to his work until the end, because helping people was his passion. I´ll never forget my last appointment with him when he kept me an hour extra, unpaid, to talk about handball and life. Dr. Foley was truly one of the best, and he changed countless lives forever.

Dr. Lee Aberle

November 2, 2021

I will miss Chris. He was one of the good ones and an icon of what a doctor should aspire to be.

Deanna Herold Stillwater, MN

October 30, 2021

Shock, disbelief, devastation, and immense sadness--all emotions I am wrestling with upon learning of the passing of my trusted, brilliant, and considerably talented functional medicine physician. Dr. Foley dared to think outside of the box and he refused to color within the lines as he compressed morbidity and maximized quality of life for his patients. He prescribed 2300 IU's of vitamin D for me in the early 2000's, long before it was even "a thing," proving how far ahead of the curve he was in his treatment approach. Even more importantly, Dr. Chris was a friend. He truly cared about people and listened with a compassionate ear. He shared openly from his heart and encouraged eagerly. My mother is also very grateful for the outstanding care and concern he has shown for our family. Jan, family, Kellie, staff, fellow friends and patients, my deepest sympathy for this irreplaceable loss. To me, Dr. Foley was Jesus skin on. I am certain he heard, "Well done my good and faithful servant" as he entered the gates heaven. I would like to believe that those of us who were touched by him have gained a guardian angel as we journey forward.

John Taylor

October 29, 2021

My condolences to the Foley family. A great man and father. As a teacher at his sons´ school, his pride for his kids was a beautiful thing to see. My heart goes out to the entire family.

Carolyn Salvi and Jared Lake

Planted Trees

Mike Gardner

October 28, 2021

Dr Foley (Chris) was my doctor and friend for over 25 years. He taught me how to attain and maintain my health, which included the use of new research and technology. I never met a more intelligent and compassionate man. My sympathy to Jan, family, and staff. They are in my thoughts and prayers.

Julie Shockman

October 28, 2021

Doctor Foley is irreplaceable. He knew so much about medicine compared to other doctors. He knew how important it was to listen to his patients and he took the time to do so. His knowledge of Lyme disease ended a decade of illness for me. He cared about his patients. We will miss him.

Mickey and Dan Gahlon

Planted Trees

Walter Julius Hogendorf

October 27, 2021

Dr. Foley Saved my life and I am confident that my Mother was at the gates of Heaven waiting to finally Thank Him for saving me. He had saved many and will be Missed.

Phil Taylor

October 27, 2021

I found myself shocked and very saddened by Dr Foleys death. He was so strong physically and mentally that is still find it hard to believe.
I had been a patient of Chris for over 15 years. He discovered my chronic Lyme condition after other doctors missed it. And over the years as it continued to recur he helped me fight it again and again. Without his help my life would have not been nearly as full as it was. I will surely miss his wisdom, wit and always caring way.
Jan and family I wish you all the best and take care. I will be out of town for the service but I will be there in spirit.

Harmon R

October 27, 2021

I can't put into words all of the wonderful things that Dr. Chris has done for every one he came in contact with including my self. He in my book is one of a kind and is missed by many. He will never be forgotten for all of the amazing things he has done.
My heart go out to his family may god be with them during this hard time.

Devin Werthauser

October 26, 2021

Dr. Foley was the man I trusted my life with. He took me on as a difficult case and promised me he wouldn´t retire until I got better. Putting others before himself is what he did best. He fought for me and my well-being for 4+ years and he is the only doctor who I felt believed in me and my struggles. He didn´t give up on me. I like to think that I was his only patient by the way he knew me, however, I know this is not the case. He had so many patients and I´m sure every single one of them feels like he was their own private doctor. He helped us feel seen and heard. His passion and motivation behind his work is admirable. He called me and many of us from Mexico, and even when he was sick in recent times. He never gave up on us. He will be dearly missed as the captain of many of our teams. My sincerest condolences to Jan, the family, and Minnesota Natural Medicine family.

Robert W. Geist MD

October 26, 2021

I loved reading the obit--so well done for Chris, a person we all loved. His death left me and all others who knew him bereft. We are bereft of his vim and vigor, his honesty and toughness, his brilliance in conversion and in his profession and personal care of his patients (full disclosure, he was one of my esteemed personal doctors). So yes, we all loved Chris and for that reason can understand what his death means to Jan, his children and extended family.

Jan, our family sends its love to you and your family,

Bob and Rosemary Geist

Eternal Friendship Remembrance Bouquet - VASE INCLUDED

MV Class of 1968 Reunion Comm

Sent Flowers

Anne Hannahan

October 24, 2021

Dear Jan and boys, I was so sad to hear the news of Chris's passing. The days of starting the Integrative Medicine program together at the HealthEast Healing Center are some of my most cherished memories. Chris will truly be missed. I unfortunately will be in Florida for his Celebration of Life but I will be there is spirit. Much love to all of you, Anne Hannahan

Matthew Ward

October 22, 2021

As many will surely attest, Dr. Foley was so much more than a doctor. He was also a friend and someone we all loved and looked up to very much. Dr. Foley helped my son Wyatt get over a very long and debilitating blattle with Lymes, Wyatt loved meeting with Dr Foley as there was always much conversation about life, The Lord and wyatts desire to serve our country. He also helped my wife get off some very harmful medications that she had prescribed to her by another doctor, and he was very kind and patient with her in the process. Dr. Foley also helped me go through a very anxious time with an ongoing prostate issue. Whenever any of us was fortunate enough to meet with him face to face, it was always a special time of discussing our issues in a very comforting and encouraging way. He was a very special and loving man who will be missed tremendously. Our family is very thankful for him, and are thankful to know that he loves Jesus and is with Him now and forever.

Connie J Husby

October 22, 2021

I have gone to Dr. Foley for many years, and trusted him with all my health issues. I feel like I lost my best friend! His knowledge was his gift from God, and he treated all patients with respect and dignity. He will never be replaced! My sympathy and prayers are for his wife, children, grandchildren, and other family and all friends. I will see him again one day in heaven. I will miss him so much! God be with all of us grieving this special man!

Boyd Walker

October 21, 2021

In 2005 my life was lost in a dessert of many unknown health problems, ptsd, scary deep depression, highly stressful events, poor diet and poor choices. Like absolutely no other Doctor on earth Dr Foley listened to me and we slowly started unraveling the many things that were effecting my health and life: hypoglycemia, malobsorbtion, food intolerances, and finally the big mystery illness was Lyme disease I had already had about 30 years as of 2013. He got me to clean up my poor diet and drink a lot more water to help my organs function. And yet again he listened. With treatment of the Lyme I´ve had periods in my life since then in which I´ve felt better than I have in decades. A very very smart man I think outside of a Doctors appointment I could have sat down for hours visiting with him on other subjects. What a wonderful man and he has a just as wonderful wife Jan. Without Dr Foley diagnosing my Lyme in 2013 I I don´t think I would still be alive.

Mary

October 21, 2021

My friend and mentor. A man who took personal interest in those he knew. He leaves a large void in the universe. Blessings to his family and dear ones.

Yvette Zona

October 20, 2021

Dr Foley played an intricate role in my healing journey. He listened, he cared and he was so knowledgeable. My heart is broken, not only did I lose my doctor, I feel I lost a dear friend. I will miss him here on this side of heaven... And...I know we will all be together again. Praying for peace, comfort and love for his family during this difficult time. In Jesus name, Amen.

Jan Buzicky

October 20, 2021

I´ve been a patient of Dr. Foley for 24 years, and I am feeling a deep and immense loss after learning of his passing. Besides losing a wonderful and caring doctor, I feel like I´ve lost a friend.

Kellie Johnson

October 20, 2021

This man was like a second father to me. He was an amazing man, father, husband and mentor to many. I never expected to start a job, and be treated like family. The very first job I have had that when I woke up I was excited to go to work. I will miss all of his stories, his kindness. I will miss his Saturday morning calls, every weekend without fail he would call me. He was so passionate about his family and medical practice, He has touched so many lives and will be greatly missed. Until we meet again.

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