Christopher Kane was born in Waltham, MA to Isabelle and Lawrence Kane. After meeting his three wonderful older sisters, Sally, Anmarie and Patricia, he was thrilled to be joined by his five younger siblings, Joseph, Isabelle, Eileen, Larry and David. Chris was usually the center of any family adventures. We spent a lot of time trying to figure out where he was hiding. He loved the outdoors and his activities involved sharing our home with nature. Mom will tell you that he was instructed to “take the duck back to the pond”, “take the large turtle out of the kitchen”, “the snake got away-in the car’ and many other memorable events.
Chris enjoyed fixing things, most often repurposing a piece of discarded furniture. He would spend days working on a piece of custom finished work, then give it away. As we all learned, Chris would share any of his belongings, if he thought it could help you.
While he lived in Alexandria, Chris learned 3-dimensional drawing very early in one of his art classes. I have found pieces of his artwork and sketches packed in with moms’ papers. He occasionally shared his creativity with his nieces and nephews. They are a talented group and Chris seemed more patient with them than with his less talented siblings.
Playing his guitar was always his passion. Chris had a special connection with his brother Joe due to their love of music and musical type toys. Joe seemed to instinctively know when Chris needed strings. Chris knew when to check in with Joe about equipment that made things louder. They always chatted best with guitar in hand. Very few words were exchanged, but obviously that was all that Chris needed.
Lee and I decided to invite Chris to share our home in Greensboro over 10 years ago. Chris quickly became our fix-it guy, eyes rolling and “Oh man” included with each project. He was here to help with Mom and Dad after dad had a stroke. Chris and Lee spent two days setting up a room for dad. I remember the many times they navigated the ramp to get dad in the house. I have to believe that Chris and Dad shared some healing moments while they needed each other again -but differently.
When Mom joined us, Chris was in charge of the coffee. Mom and he communicated well as they spent time watching the birds and critters on the deck out back.
Approximately 8 years ago, Chris used his resources to navigate the very challenging system of HUD housing. He was able to place his name on the list and quickly secure an apartment near us. It was quite an education for all of us as he became independent of his family- his other dream.
Chris showed his caring side again when Lees’ dad moved to Greensboro. He would occasionally visit and talk about nothing or anything with Bob.
His favorite companion of all time was Gunner, our lab. Chris called him “the butler” due to the white bib on his chest. They seem to understand each other, and it was fun to watch them “chat”.
The true definition of family was demonstrated at the celebration that we had for Izzy’s graduation. The highlight was supervising Isabelle shopping with Chris in Harris Teeter. Based on their method of communication, I do not believe that they have shopped together before.
Then, Chris joined Doug, Isabelle and Eileen in putting up the tent in the back yard. There was much yelling, until I heard “Chris was right in the first place”.
Chris was always checking up on us. About every two weeks he would text “are you guys doing, ok?” We usually communicated by dropping off a case of water at his apartment or an occasional trip to the store.
His neighbors shared a few stories about him while we were waiting yesterday. They said that Chris was always telling stories about his big family. The stories were usually funny, and he often spoke about Joes’ store. They seem to know I was the bossy nurse-I guess it was the uniform. One woman told me how they helped each other carry groceries, especially when Chris was not feeling well. He was known by his neighbors as quiet, but very kind. They also knew about the graduation party and asked about his niece.
I hope the stories that we share with each other help to keep him alive in our hearts.
I sincerely believe that Chris reached out when he needed to. We need to be content with that and cherish what he left for us. He demonstrated that at some point in your life you will need help, take it. And, at some point you will be able to give help, give it with no string attached.
Miss you
Will miss you more in two weeks-Em
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com for the Kane family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18