Christopher M Bodden

Chris was a presence – an unforgettable character who made a lasting impression wherever he went.

His will be missed by his three children, Rachel, Chris, and Chloe.

He will be forever mourned by his fiancée of over a decade, Chantele DiBrava, his father, Max Bodden, stepmother Marianne Bodden, his sister, Loren King, his brother-in-law, Rich King, his niece, Brooke King, his nephew, Austin King, his ex-wife and mother of his children Deb Bodden, and so many more, including Chantele’s parents, Anthony and Phoebe, who loved Chris as their own son.

Chris loved being on the water more than anything. He was most at home on his boat, blasting Billy Joel, underway on a trip to Block Island, the Cayman Islands (any island, really) – and participating in adventures including scuba diving, waterskiing, jet skiing, and even skydiving.

He memorably completed the famed Alcatraz swim in great shark infested waters, where he raised money for the Tourette Syndrome Association. He also proudly participated in “Freezin’ for a Reason” in Dublin, Ireland, raising money for charity through the well-known polar plunge fundraiser. Chris was also incredibly proud to have completed four New York City Marathons. He loved retelling these accomplishments and adventures with pride, humor, and enthusiasm for years afterward.

Chris was extremely charitable by nature. Throughout his life he donated his time, money, services, and support to things that would benefit his community, his children, and causes close to his heart, especially education. He was also generous to the nurses and healthcare workers he encountered throughout his many health battles over the last decade, often sending thoughtful gifts and going out of his way to show appreciation for the care they provided.

Chris was incredibly proud to have helped build out the Javits Center emergency hospital during COVID-19 after receiving a call to mobilize within 72 hours to help save lives during the pandemic.

Chris loved music and art. He would often be heard belting his favorites, like Elton John, Billy Joel, and U2. He was proud to have graduated from Parsons School of Design in New York City.

Chris built a successful career through his advertising agency Bodden Partners, producing large-scale events and experiences throughout the country, work he took enormous pride in throughout his life.

Chris loved his friends, loved attending sporting events with his cherished people, and most of all, he loved spoiling his family, chosen family, and friends.

His intentions were always from a place of love, and he had a great willingness to help others.

His time with us was far too short. The family takes solace in his soul being at rest now. The memories, experiences he facilitated, and his thunderous presence will live with us forever.

He will never be forgotten and will continue to live on in his extremely quotable catchphrases, his infinitely contagious mannerisms, his booming laughter, and the many deep relationships he had.

He will forever be remembered as our Comeback Kid.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Tourette Syndrome Association, which was a cause very dear to his heart.

Chris’ celebration of life will take place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Garden of Memories (4207 E Lake Ave, Tampa, FL 33610) at 10:00am. Reception to follow at Columbia Restaurant (2117 E 7th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605) from 1:30-3pm.