Ode to Chris and the Rambling Raft Race
In South Tampa’s glow, where the river runs wide,
Chris Mohar, my cousin, was my teenage pride.
St. Patrick’s school days, Gasparilla’s wild cheer,
Camping under stars, with Chris always near.  
But the Hillsborough called, in the late ‘70s sun,
The Rambling Raft Race, a challenge begun.
Chris, with his vision, bold as the day,
Snagged two fuel tanks from an F-4’s stay.  
MacDill’s surplus, those tanks gleamed with might,
We sealed ‘em with fiberglass, watertight.
A plywood deck, sturdy, to carry our dream,
Barb’s brush danced bold—Budweiser’s red gleam.  
The sponsor’s logo, bright on the raft,
We launched with a cheer, hearts wild with the craft.
The river was ours, the crowd’s roar a song,
But the water crept in—something went wrong.  
The raft grew heavy, the current unkind,
I bailed to the shore, left the chaos behind.
But Chris, undaunted, with the others pressed on,
Their spirits unbroken, through dusk and to dawn.  
Oh, Chris, that laughter, your fearless spark,
Lit up those days, left a permanent mark.
The raft may have faltered, but the story’s alive,
In the river’s wild flow, where our memories thrive.  
Last week you left, and the ache cuts so deep,
But I see you still, where the river runs steep.
With Barb’s painted raft, in the ‘70s sun,
You’re forever my cousin, our race never done.

We were heartbroken to hear about your loss. Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time. Mr. Chris was a remarkable person who touched the lives of many, and their memory will always be cherished. He will forever be in our hearts and in our thoughts and prayers ❤️.

With heartfelt sympathy,
From Evi and Voula

My deepest condolences during this difficult time. 
May the memories bring comfort and peace to you and your family.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers, and I'm here for you whenever you need support. 

With sympathy.

I'm truly sorry to hear about your father's passing. I hope you're able to find comfort in the love and care of those around you.
Please remember that you have a team here that cares for you
whenever and however, you need.

Thinking of you.

Trying to gather all the thoughts, feelings and right words to express my most heartfelt condolences.
We have lost a really really good guy with a heart of gold who was faithful to family and friends,  supportive and fun loving. 
A great dad, husband, papa, friend and cousin who was always willing to be there for you.  Cousins can turn into extended siblings and I am grateful for the great times and many laughs.
During childhood we spent holidays and family time together (even though we were not allowed in the boys group!)
As adults we were able to share those holidays and family events together with our own children, what a blessing to share the joy of family to the next generation.
We will continue to share those holidays and family events as Chris' adventurous, fun filled spirit.
Kandy, Christopher, Alex, Keon, Melo and Kamrynn we are here for you with an open invitation anytime.  Chris will always be a huge part of our lives and cherished memories as bartender, camper, engineer, tech guru, Buick "truck" driving,  always up to something   and overall really really good guy. 
Grateful for no more pain and suffering, may he rest easy.

It’s with a heavy heart that I reflect on the life of my cousin, Chris Mohar, whose boundless curiosity and creativity left such a lasting mark on me. Growing up together, Chris and I shared countless moments that shaped who I am today. At St. Patrick’s School, we were side by side, but it was at his house—where I’d often spend the night—that I truly saw his brilliance shine. Chris had his own room, a hub of endless projects, and the garage was like his laboratory. He taught me more about science than I ever learned in a classroom, sparking my own desire to dig deeper and learn more.
Chris’s drive was something else. Whether it was a project in his room or a mission in the garage, he chased perfection with a focus that left me in awe. I’d be ready to call it a day, but Chris would push on, teaching me the value of perseverance through his example. His creativity wasn’t just inspiring—it was contagious.
After high school, life took us in different directions. I joined the Air Force, and Chris grew close with my brother, pouring his energy into new projects with him. But the bond we shared never faded. I’ll never forget the gift Chris and my brother gave me when they came to Seattle for my wedding. They created a film about my life, filled with humor and heart, capturing the joy of our childhood and the warmth of family holidays together. Playing it for our wedding guests was a moment of pure connection, a testament to Chris’s ability to tell stories that brought people together.
Chris’s passion, humor, and relentless spirit made our lives so much richer. I’m forever grateful for the time we had and the lessons he left with me. He’ll always hold a special place in my heart.

Chris and I always had so much fun when we got to hang out together as young cousins. He had such a creative mind that he was hard to keep up with him and his energy. He saw humor in every day life. I will always remember those days together as special and they make me smile to this day. Rest in well deserved Peace cousin. Steve

OBITUARY

Christopher "Chris" Joseph Mohar Sr.

24 November, 1957 – 7 April, 2025

Blount & Curry Life Event Center

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services