Christopher Daniel Gilley

Christopher D. Gilley, age 51, of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Chris was born on September 11, 1973, in Rockford, IL to Danny and Virginia Gilley. Growing up in Illinois, he loved attending concerts, especially seeing his favorite band Cheap Trick. His love for football was unmatched and as an avid Chicago Bears fan would say every year, “It’s their year.” He loved camping and fishing and would make the best campfires for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores. During his family camping trips, he would tell stories of his childhood vacations and everything his dad had taught him about camping over the years. He always made everyone laugh with the best “Dad Jokes” and funny stories about his upbringing.

After graduating from Boylan Catholic High School in 1992, he attended Rock Valley College and received a degree in business management. While attending College he managed a few family-owned stores in both the Illinois and Wisconsin areas. Chris moved on from management to sales and entered the Insurance Industry where in 2008 he met his wife, Tanya. The two moved to Beloit, WI, where they were later married and blended their families on October 18, 2013. Chris and his family moved to Colorado in 2021. He loved living in Colorado and enjoyed the mountain views, the breathtaking sunsets from his back porch, and the fresh mountain air.

He loved spending time with his wife and children and was the best Pop-Pop to his two grandchildren whom he loved and shared many memories with.

Chris leaves behind his devoted wife of 11 years Tanya Gilley; his father, Danny M. Gilley, and sister Jennifer Bunting both of Rockford, IL. His loving children Arianna Soto (Jahlil Smith) of Aurora, CO. Antonio Fuentes of Colorado Springs, CO. Emma Gilley and Charlie Gilley of Rockford, IL and Sofia Runaas and Rosa Runaas of Colorado Springs, CO. His precious grandchildren Giovanni and Harlo; nieces Gracie and Gabriella; Father-in-law Fred Soto, Mother-in-law Wanda Soto, and many other family members, and friends. He also leaves behind his best buddy and beloved dog Briggsy.

Chris was preceded in death by his Mother Virginia Gilley, his Grandmother Betty Gilley, Grandfather Manuel Gilley, Grandfather Joseph Mannone, and Grandmother Gina Mannone.

Tanya and his children would like to give special thanks to Gentiva Hospice. Especially Nurses Dena and Christina for the special care they gave to help Chris feel comfortable and their endless compassion and caring nature they brought with every visit. Social Worker Kim for her knowledge and gentle words when our hearts were hurting the most. Chaplain Mike for his bible study and words of kindness and spiritual guidance when we felt hopeless. They will always hold a special place in our hearts for their care and comfort in Chris’s final days. We also want to give a heartfelt thank you to Cousin Jackie Strelow for her visits from Wisconsin to help raise us up when we were falling, praying for us, loving us, and supporting us through the hardest days of our lives.

Fly high my amazing husband and best friend. I miss you dearly and life is not the same without your wit and charm. You loved me like no other and I was truly blessed to have you in my life. Forever and always - T.

There will be a private family celebration of life held at a later date.