Oh yeah, life goes on long after the thrill of living is gone.....

Like so many others, I am struggling to come to terms with the fact that we won't see Chris at the next party, the next trip to Hawaii, the next dinner at the house or at the Alamo or Lemmo's...so many places we've been that I just picture him coming around a corner smiling and laughing.  While we won't see him again in this world, we will always have our memories of him..and there are so many fond ones.   

Below are a few of my favorite memories, things I will miss, and things I loved about Chris.  This list only begins to scratch the surface:  
His spontaneity
His request that I put relaxing in our Maui itinerary
His white framed 80's sunglasses 
The way he could make his boys laugh no matter the mood they were in
How much he loved and admired his entire family  
His speeches at the Xmas party
The beer can chicken he tried at Mr. & Mrs. A's that still came out mostly raw after 2+ hours on the grill 
When he reenacted the sombrero dance from his bachelor party while we watched the video of the real event in his living room
His sense of humor
His BBQing and fire making skills
The way he looked at Jen and the boys
Sunday funday at Brophy Bro's and Mamma Ritas
Ziplining on Haleakala (he may or may not have screamed at some point)
Jack Johnson putting us all to sleep in the car on the way down the volcano
Jack Johnson + Bacara + Sharkeez
When he would tease me about not leaving any water in the ocean when I would do dishes
Covertly helping him with gift ideas
How he was always ready and willing to join or host an impromptu dinner party
When he would stop what he was doing with the adults to help Nick or Matt get through an especially hard part on their video game
His smile


Chris  We love you and miss you so much.  The world definitely pulled one of the good guys out of the game way, way too early.  You might want to offer up some coaching tips

To know Chris was to love him.  To be his friend was to be welcomed into an entire community, who all had something in common - a love for the man that Chris was.  A man, a proud father, a loving father, a caring friend - and all with that smile that was trademark Chris.

I mourn his passing even as I rejoice in his life and the small part of it that I was able to share in.  Life often got in the way and we were not always able to hang out, but I thank the Lord that we were able to see him a few days before he was so tragically taken from us. 

Our times with Jen and Chris are some of our fondest - from when Nicholas was an infant, thru the birth of their second son and our daughter.  The late night dinner dates, the vacation trips, all of it - these memories are something we will dearly preserve.

Every night, we hold our daughter and we go through the animals in her room.  The last one that we say good night to is a panda, who was renamed to Uncle Chris.  We tell him that we miss him and that we love him, and one day when our daughter is old enough, we will explain to her who Chris was and what he meant to us.

A great man is one who leaves others at a loss when he leaves us - and in this, Chris is one of the greatest men I've ever known.

Rest in peace my friend - until I see you again.

Christopher John Alteri meant a lot to many different people. He was a son, brother, husband, father, and friend. Chris always had a special way of brightening everyone's day. When he would call me, the conversation would go like this, "Sommers, Alteri here" and no matter my mood or what happened to me that day, Chris would always put a smile on my face and I was always better off than before. Chris had a unique quality and influence on everyone close to him. Unfortunately Chris has been called to heaven prematurely he had a great impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Now the call would go like this " Alteri, Sommers here you will be deeply missed and forever live in our hearts. We love you!"

On a Wednesday morning, April 22nd I lost my brother Chris. I was 10 yrs old the day my parents brought him home. I remember how we were allowed to hold him sitting on our white sheepskin sofa in Lanesborough, Mass.. With 3 older sisters, we always joked about how many mothers he had growing up but we all knew from day one that the Alteri Prince had arrived. We doted on him as a little boy growing up and watched him grow into a kind, loving and generous man and father. He loved baseball. We would go watch him play and celebrate his joy in the game. My father never missed a game. As we grew up and started our own families, Chris became a favorite uncle and welcomed our children as he would eventually welcome his own. He was a babysitter, a chauffer, a friend & even a partner to the sockhop dance. He was always there. My children loved him. The day came when he brought Jen home to "meet the family". We fell in love with her the day we met her and rejoiced when she became his wife. Their two boys Nicholas and Mathew were greeted as heirs to the throne and a blessing for our family. I have so many wonderful memories, too numerous to count. He was a wonderful brother, son, husband, father and friend. I am so grateful and blessed to have had him as a brother. I am heartbroken that his is gone. 40 years was too short a time. Rest in Peace baby brother, I am going to miss you so very much.

Chris,

Your passing was such a tremendous shock that I am still trying to come to grips with the thought we will never be able to hang out again on this side of God's pearly gates.  

Since we became good friends in high school, it was clear that you were a special guy.  Everyone who knows you is well-aware of your amazing character, good-hearted nature, and sharp wit.  Above all, your most amazing skill was your ability to make friends and bring groups of people together.  You did not have a single tight circle of friends; instead you had many circles of very good friends  friends with diverse backgrounds, interests, and personalities.  If wealth was measured by the friends one accumulates, then you were truly a very rich man.  All these friends were blessed to have you in their lives, as they knew that you would be there in their time of need.  I was always astounded by your ability to bring these various groups of friends together and create knew friendships and connections. 

Your fun-loving spirit never left as you became a family man and good husband.  You found a beautiful, smart wife  and had two wonderful boys (ensuring that the Alteri name would continue!)  I wish our families lived closer so that we could have broken bread more often.  However, every time we got together, I knew it would be a great time and we could effortlessly pick up where we left off.

I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge how special your family made all of us feel growing up.  Your mother, father, and sisters all truly cared about us  and welcomed us into the Alteri home.  We all felt comfortable talking to them and answering Mary's probing questions  questions that even my own mother wouldn't dare to ask me.  

You have provided so much pleasure and enjoyment to those around you in your short life.  Now it is time for us to repay the debt.  You have my promise that I will look in on your family to ensure that they are doing well.  Our bond as posse members extends beyond the original group of 7 high school boys  it extends to our families as well.  It will last forever. Rest in peace knowing that we will be there for them when they need us.

I miss you, buddy.  

- Jim

P.S. I forgive you for missing my wedding rehearsal and dinner.  :-)

I've known Chris for about 30 years. I think the first time we met was at St. Paschal's either in CCD or as Alter Boys (as were many of us). Every single thought I have of Chris makes me smile. He made life fun and he lived a fun life. I've lived in Houston for the last 20 years but Chris would be one of the first people I would call for a pick me up or just to feel good after a hard day. Each time I spoke with Chris or visited Chris he made me feel like no time has passed and we were still close loving friends. Christopher, you are so missed. I think about you all the time. My family always calls me Mathew and Chris was the only friend to call me Mathew from time to time. He was like family but I think every other family felt like Chris was part of their family too. You made me feel special every single time we were together. Chris, you knew when and how to lighten the mood, your sense of humor was always spot on. I'm extremely thankful you made the time for my family this past September. I think about that day in September all the time, Sunday 14th. This is the day my family met your family. I will never forget it. I told you then I loved you and thanked you for always loving me. You made me a better person Christopher. I love you my friend..... Always.

My heart aches for you all.  But most important, I mourn for Christopher who was taken from this earth quite young.  Requiescat in pace.

I am Christopher John Alteri's mother.  More than any other way, that is the way I want to be defined now.  There was no way on God's earth that we could have loved this boy more. From the very beginning, he was good. God did so bless us with Christopher but why did he have to take him back so early?  He had so much more to give, so much more to live, so much more promise for his future.  If the loss was only ours, it would be painful enough.  But to know that Jen goes to bed alone every night and gets up in the morning to face the day alone is heartbreaking.  The greatest loss of all is that Christopher will not be there for Nicholas & Matthew. He would have guided them to become the kind, gentle, loving, thoughtful person that he was.  Time will erase many of the memories of there dad & that is so painful.They should have known the happiness that Chris received from being their DAD. I pray that he can see them & their many accomplishments & guide them in some way.  
   They say "Time Heals All Wounds".  I don't think we have that much time.  Our devastation is total.
    Dearest Christopher...as you made us so happy, you're leaving has left us so broken.  You were everything you could have been and more.  Good night sweet son until we can hold you in our arms again.
Mom & Dad

I moved to Thousand Oaks when I was 5 years old and like many kids when I started school I was scared and shy. Once there I met Chris and instatntly he made feel important. From K-8th grade we were best friends. Ill never have another friend like Chris he always stood by my side even when I didn't always fit in. Also the numerous trips to  Yosemite with the Alteri family will be a memory ill never forget. Im very angry at God for taking away my friend....... but maybe I should thank him for providing all of us with such a amazing person whom changed our lives forever. I love you BIG C and Ill see you on the other side....

p.s Thanks Chris for the $50 you left me on the ground in NYC

MP

I still don't understand why you were taken from this world way to soon. I certainly wish we would have had many years to grow a friendship and share many memories with our boys. And I'm a bit upset that I never got to see you wearing your Cub Scout Leader uniform. I know if anyone could make it look good you certainly would have. We certainly would have had a lot of laughs over it. I know I told you but I really did appreciate you stepping up to help me with the boys. I'm going to miss you and that great big smile of yours that lit up the room. I have had an opportunity to meet all your family and many of your friends. You were truly blessed to have them and like wise they were blessed to have you in their lives. Great people with wonderful hearts and generous spirits. It has been amazing to here some of the stories of your life. There have been many tears but there have also been laughs as all those that love you remember the wonderful times. Every time Nicholas smiles at me I see you in him and that touches my heart. I will due my best to honor your memory and continue to grow our friendship by being there for your boys. In scouts, baseball, encouraging them in school or whatever they are interested in. Even though we haven't know each other long I know if this tragedy had been mine you would have done the same for my boys. That was just the type of person you were. You will be missed my friend. The loss of you is a loss to our entire community. Please keep smiling on us from the clouds and find ways to make us laugh. You will always be remembered and celebrated.

Dear Amy and family.  I did not know Chris, but I know what it is like to lose a loved one.  I can only imagine both the overwhelming sadness and gratitude to have known him.  I am thinking of you all, and hoping that you heal over time.

Chris, I am honored to have had you in my life for the last 24 years. You always brought a smile to my face and always had the perfect thing to say at the perfect time. You lived for life and you lived for your family and friends. You were unconditionally loyal, always tried to do what was right, and nothing was more important to you than your family. 

Jen and the boys were the center of your world. Your face would light up every time you talked about them, and you were such an awesome dad to Nick and Matthew. I have no memory of you being depressed or sad, only of a happy loving father, husband and friend.

It is incredibly sad that your life ended so soon and I cannot put into words how much we will miss you. As I sit here and write this Chris, I know you would want us to be positive, smile, and remember all of the great memories we shared with you.

Chris, thank you for always being such a great friend, we will never forget you. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to Jen and the boys, Mr. & Mrs. Alteri, and your entire family. We love you buddy!

Love always,
Chris, Sara, Ella & Libby Aitkens

I met Chris through Tim Fletcher around 2003. Though we did not know each other growing up, we were around the same age and both grew up in the Conejo Valley. There is a lot that I'm proud of when it comes to people from my hometown, and Chris was the perfect example of that. He was smart, funny, polite, classic, civilized and logical. I loved the social media post from his mom with the bulletin/chalk board with the We Are Awesome, Loving, Talented, Energetic, Respectful, Intelligent - We Are Alteri's. That about says it all. Everytime I came to hang out with Fletch and his crew, I'd always find Chris cuz I was guaranteed he'd be smiling, want to have a good time and he'd be energetic and respectful and loving.... My condolences to Jen, Nick, Matt and their family and friends. Everyone misses you Chris!

Chris, I have thought of you often since your passing.  Memories of Little League baseball, reconnecting after college years, you and Jen's wedding, and our 4-some's frequent golf outings (Chris Aitkens, Tim Fletcher).  

All of your friends will miss random and planned invites to gather at your home.  It feels as though you will walk through the door any moment with arms lifted, fingers waggingsignaling good times.

I would like to pass along love and best wishes to your parents, sisters, wife and kids.  I miss you buddy, pal, friendchief!

You were an amazing person Chris and you will be missed be all that knew and loved you. I am so lucky to have known you. You always made me smile. Until we meet again...

All my love to your family.

I wanted to start off by saying that I know I am lucky to have had Chris in my life. Chris was not only my friend, but he was my brother. Our lives had been intertwined for many years, and everyone that met Chris loved him. What is there not to love? He was always so happy and good-natured, simply being around him was enough to put you in a good mood. He is just that special.

One thing I pride myself on is the ability to pick great friends. Something I don't pride myself on as much is the fact that I can be selfish in wanting to spend time with those I care about. This was definitely the case with myself, Chris and Jen. When Chris first met Jen, she and I started this tug of war. She would want him to come down to Norwalk to spend time with her and I would want him to stay in Thousand Oaks to hang out with me. I was usually on the losing end of that battle. I'm not sure how Jen put up with me, but I'm glad she did because once we realized we were both fighting for his time because we loved him, our friendship grew. Beyond that, once I married Janel and had my daughter, Brynn, we were even more like family than before. We celebrated many holidays and milestones together. Although Chris is gone, that will not change. Jen and the boys will always be family to us.

There are so many things I am going to miss about Chris. The list is probably infinite. However, here are some of the things I will miss the most. I will miss his smile, his laughs and his jokes. It will never be the same without him.

I'm going to miss sitting around, hearing him tell the same stories over and over again and still laughing at them as if it was the first time. I know Janel is going to miss hearing the story about how Bentley peed on this little dog at the dog park. She would joke about how many times she must have heard that same story but I told her that, since we'd only heard it 10 times, it's actually a fresh story.

This might seem random, but I'm even going to miss that silly old Scooby Doo shirt that Chris only retired a few years ago.

I'm going to miss laughing at how terrible Jay Cutler is and how the Bears are choking again. Hey Chris, look at me now, I have been a cry baby all week just like Jay Cutler.

I'm going to miss sitting around, drinking beers with my friend and talking about good times. I'm also going to miss the fact that, when we did drink beers together, he would inevitably misplace his glass. This was such a common occurrence that Jen and I recently came up with a game, that every time Chris would ask, Hey, have you seen my beer?, we'd have to take a drink and have a good laugh about it.

Chris was notorious for losing stuff. He would leave his wallet somewhere or lose his phone, sometimes we would be at my house or a friends house, and when he left his wallet would always be sitting in the middle of the table. It always made me laugh because it was so Chris. Since his passing, I have been asking Chris for signs that he is okay. This week, in true Alteri fashion, I lost my sunglasses twice, lost my keys and left my phone at the deli. I know this was Chris screwing with me, smiling down on me and having a good chuckle at my expense.

I'm going to miss coaching baseball together. Chris and I had just started our coaching careers, and I'm pretty sure we were on our way to the Big Leagues. The boys are getting so good. We planned on coaching together for many years and I'm going to miss that.

I'm going to miss Chris always trying to rally the troops together and getting the party started. Chris always wanted to hang out, he was just like me in that way and as tough as it is going to be, I will rally the troops tonight in your honor Chris.

I'm going to miss everything.

Chief, I want to let you know that I will never forget about you. I'm also not going to forget about our big showdown that we have been talking about for so many years. When I see you next, the first thing we will do is get on a baseball field. I will be pitching, you will be hitting and I plan on striking you out even though I know you plan on hitting a homerun. I look forward to that day. Chris, I love you and I will think of you every day. I'm going to miss you so much. I will make sure your legacy lives on. Cheers to you, my friend.

Tim, Janel & Brynn Fletcher

I really did not get to know Chris until college. As everyone else has mentioned, he was always smiling and just was the nicest guy. When I opened up my ice cream store in Dos Vientos Chris and his family always stopped by to show their support. As Chris picked up deep sea fishing, a hobby we shared in common, I had many conversations with him about the sport and hoped to share the rail with him one day. You were taken away from your amazing family and friends way too soon Chris. I have to believe it's because the Lord has a bigger plan for you! Miss you buddy, keep brightening up our skies with that smile.

You always had a smile and you always had a laugh.  You will forever be missed. 

Until I see your smile again.
Love you brother.
Cameron

Words can not express what a beautiful soul you are... A son, father, a true friend to everyone and of course my moms (Esther Box's) little one. Although you have left a void an emptiness in each of our hearts I know you are in the breeze, moon and stars. You are loved deeply and will forever be missed... Thank You for being my friend... I Love You Forever and I'm positive I'll see you again.. Tell we meet again my friend...

Chris - You are missed in so many ways, and by so many people. I have so many amazing memories of our times together, and one day we'll share those memories again my friend.

It's been almost a month and it just doesn't seem real. I have known Chris and the Alteris since I was 14 and I think we became best buds the day we met. I always felt like part of the family and I'm sure that will never change. Chris, you were truly one of the greatest people I have ever met and you will always have a place in my heart. I love you brother.

My eulogy for Chris:

Good afternoon and thank you all for being here to pay respects to Christopher John Alteri. For those that I don't know, or who don't know me, my name is Jeff Olin, and Chris was my best friend. Chris and I met when we were 11 years old, and we were friends for the next 30 years. When Mr. & Mrs. Alteri and Jen asked me to perform the eulogy for my friend here today, the only words I could muster in response was that I would be honored to do so. Considering the circumstances for which we are here, there is no place else I would choose to be other than exactly where I stand right now. And so here we are. To say this past week and a half have been difficult is an understatement. To not acknowledge the heartbreak and despair that we have all experienced would be a mistake. A beautiful life was lost far too soon. A piece of all our hearts was collectively broken by the news of Chris's sudden passing. The natural human reaction to that news is to mourn, and I know we all have done just that. 

So, what do we make of this loss, and what becomes of our broken hearts? Time will help to heal and to more clearly allow us to appreciate who Chris was. However, for today, I'd like to suggest that we suspend our sorrow, our hurt, and our pain, so that we can remember and celebrate the life of Chris at this time. He would have wanted it no other way.

I thought long and hard about what I would say here today, and how best to honor Chris's memory. I spent the last week replaying our shared experiences in my mind to try and find the proper medium. I recalled that while we were roommates at UC-Santa Barbara, Chris and I religiously watched David Letterman, and specifically his top 10 lists. We both loved those, as Chris and I had the exact same sense of humor. We laughed at the same jokes, most of those juvenile and immature, and I'm pretty sure our brain matter was cut from the same mold. We were bruthas from anutha mutha. As Jen mentioned the other day, we finished each other's sentences, just like an old married couple would. And so, with that said, I thought a top 10 list of what made Chris a truly amazing person would be perfect for this occasion. So, without further pause, and in no particular order, I give you:
 
The Top Ten Reasons Why We Are All Better Off For Knowing Chris Alteri:

#10:  Chris had style  He had style before it was cool for any of us to even consider it. I'm pretty sure the rest of us dressed in plaid shorts and t-shirts on a regular basis. What can I say? We were mouth breathers and knuckle-draggers. Chris, on the other hand, frequented the mall, shopping at his favorite hipster store Structure'. Structure was high society at the time, and Chris would shame us all by showing up in button down shirts, corduroy pants with a high sheen, and slick dress shoes. His pores were marinated in Drakkar Noir or some other fancy stank. And he loved every minute of it. We would all give him grief about it, all in jest and fun of course. But secretly, we probably were all a bit envious that he had somehow figured out how to resemble a respectable human being while the rest of us were still rocking Maui & Sons gear. And I would be remiss if we didn't pause for a minute and acknowledge the head of hair on that guy?!?! For those of you here today who are follicly challenged, I'm here to let you know that Chris personally stole the hair right off your head. Chris was blessed with hair like a perfect salad wedge. It was an ascending hairline. Not a forehead, but a twohead. For those baseball fans here, there were no power alleys, and there were short porches all around. Bottom line, Chris cleaned up well, and in our group of friends, he set the gold standard for lookin' good.

#9: Chris never got angry  well, except for one memorable moment. I'm not kidding when I tell you that I literally only have one memory of Chris ever being truly angry. I'm pretty sure that those in attendance will never forget that night, and I'm fairly positive that most, if not all, of the people who were present that night are here in the room with us today. After college, Chris and I shared an apartment and would frequently get the PPV boxing fights, and would invite our close friends over for watch parties. On this particular occasion, the fight was Evander Holyfield vs. Mike Tyson, which some of you may remember ended up resulting in the infamous ear biting incident. Now, just to level set, we all may have indulged in a few cocktails before and during the fight, so it's safe to say that we weren't firing on all cylinders. When Tyson decided to eat Holyfield's ear, and the ref called an end to the fight, Chris came epically unglued. He stripped down to a beat-up tank top (which fit the moment perfectly), and decided that not only should we not have to pay for the fight, but he was going to personally call the cable company to let them know. So picture Chris, adorned in flip flops, jeans, and beat-up tank top, screaming at the customer service guy from the cable company as to why the fight sucked, he sucked, and the entire cable company sucked. Meanwhile, the rest of us were nearly in tears we were laughing so hard. At some point, I think it was Tim and others who had to escort Chris downstairs so he could cool off. That was the first and last time I ever saw Chris lose it, and it was truly priceless. 

#8: Chris was an amazing friend  As I mentioned previously, Chris and I met when we were 11 years old. We were both drafted onto the same little league baseball team, and we instantly became friends. However, we didn't live in the same neighborhood, and we went to separate elementary and junior high schools over the next couple years, and as such, we didn't get much of an opportunity to hang out. However, after attending Crespi HS his freshman year, Chris transferred to TOHS, where we ran into each other again. Our friendship was instantly renewed, and we were inseparable from that moment on. I'll never forget the first time in HS we hung out. Chris came over to my house and we literally shot pool, played ping-pong, and listened to Pirate Radio all night. We also developed an unbreakable bond of friendship with our extremely tight group of friends that became known as the Posse, which I believe was coined by Mrs. Alteri if I'm not mistaken. We truly were a posse. We did everything togetherfrom playing ball, to hanging out on weekends, going to concerts, and everything else. We all had each other's back, and we were the best of friends. To this day, these guys are family, and I know they would all share the same sentiments. Chris may be gone, but he will always be a part of our family, and we will always have his back, and that of Jen and the boys.

#7: Chris was a caring person  Throughout this top 10 list of Chris's life, you will see a clear pattern developing. Chris cared. He cared about everyone. I'm sure everyone in this room could describe a moment where Chris demonstrated this. I have one anecdote that I'd like to share. While Chris and I were sophomores at UCSB, we played on an intramural football team with several other friends. During one of our games, I tore my ACL, and was taken to the hospital. After the doctors rolled me out of the office, Chris was waiting there for me. He had driven over and patiently stood by to make sure I was ok, and to make sure I got back to our apartment ok. He drove me back home, helped me inside, and continued to make sure I was well taken care of, and had everything I needed (like plenty of hot pockets, ramen noodles, and Natural Light). You know, the standard college elixirs. How many teenage friends would go to those lengths? However, what I did find out was that Chris's caring did have its limits, especially when the opportunity for shenanigans were presented. So after I had surgery on my knee, I found it impossible to get to my classes since I was on crutches. The walk was too far, I couldn't ride a bike, and I didn't have a car at that time. Lucky for me, UCSB offered a commuter service for the mobility challenged, which essentially consisted of me scheduling a pick up at my apartment, and a bus would swing by and get me to class.  What they didn't tell me was that this bus was a short bus. This short bus would arrive at my apartment by like 6:15 in the morning to pick me up (since there were so many drop-offs to be made). My friend Chris, who clearly saw an opportunity for mischief, decided to recruit our other housemates (Todd & Brandon) in order to help send me off each morning. By send me off, I of course mean these three yahoos would drag themselves out of bed practically before the sun would rise (I mean, what college kid ever got up that early?), so that when the short bus double tapped it's short bus horn for me to hobble my way outside, they would essentially heckle me the entire way from the door to the ridiculous bus I had to board. For two weeks straight I had to listen to the following cat-calls: It'll be ok son, You're gonna be just fine, and We're real proud of you spanky. I boarded the short bus each day to find the driver and all others already onboard laughing uncontrollably. This was apparently the stop that they all waited for each day. So Chris, thanks for caring buddy!!!

#6: Chris was a family man  No doubt about it, Chris was a family man through and through. His family was always most important, and he loved them all dearly. As friends growing up, it always struck me how close Chris was with his family. Mr. and Mrs. Alteri always had people at their house, whether it was Chris's sisters (Amy, Kateri, and Gabby), or his brothers-in-law (Ken, Mike, and Dave), or his many cousins, aunts, and uncles. For you Seinfeld fans, the Alteri's would host an annual Christmas party, which they referred to as Festivus. Festive is exactly what it was. Mrs. Alteri would transform their home into a winter wonderland of sorts, and you could just tell that everyone was happy around the Alteri home. Chris carried this tradition forward, as he hosted Christmas parties at his home in Moorpark. I had the opportunity to attend several of these, and they were always so much fun. Catching up with friends and family, remembering stories from our past, and just spending time together.  With Chris, time apart never seemed to make a difference. Many months would pass between the times we would get to hang out, but when the moment arrived and we were all brought back together, it was if time had stood still. We all picked up right where we left off. 

#5: Chris was so funny  There are more funny stories about Chris than I can possibly share, so I decided to share what may be the funniest of all. For those that went to Cabo San Lucas for Chris's bachelor party, we all got to see Chris at his finest.  None of us will ever forget going to the Giggling Marlin restaurant and bar, and volunteering Chris to take part in what can only be described as the idiot Olympics. To begin, two gentlemen were selected from the crowd. Chris was one, and some other poor unsuspecting soul was selected to challenge our hero. Our group was loud, and this other dude had no chance that night. There were several challenges thrown down, but the three that I remember most are 1) a Mexican hat dance dance-off; 2) a vocal battle to see who could sing La Bamba the best; and 3) my personal favorite, the push-up contest. I should note that in between each of these challenges were of course shots of the restaurant's finest tequila, but back to the push-up contest. Both contestants were required to lose their shirts, which Chris was never afraid to do anyway. The MC then chose two waitresses from his staff who were instructed to lie on the back of each contestant while they tried to do push-ups. No easy feat, right?  So the other guy goes first, and tries as hard as he can, but he can't complete a single push-up. This only serves to rile our group up in support of Chris, who promptly rips off like half a dozen push-ups. Our group has completely lost it at this point, as our boy has brought home the gold. So Chris promptly stands up, shirt still off, raises his right arm and points his finger straight to the heavens as if to say, I'm the baddest man alive! Needless to say, the celebration at that moment rivaled any World Series, Super Bowl, or Stanley Cup victory party you can imagine.

#4: Chris was an adoring son  Mr. and Mrs. Alteri, Christopher loved you both so much. I saw it on his face, in his words, and in his actions, always. There was never any doubt who his heroes were in life. You both raised a terrific boy, who turned into a truly amazing man. Mr. Alteri, Chris was blessed to have the opportunity to work alongside you for 14 years. Not many sons get the opportunity to experience that in life. Chris looked up to you, he respected you, and I know for a fact that he was proud to call you his father. Mrs. Alteri, Chris adored you like no other. You raised Chris to be the respectful, intelligent, kind soul that he was. I firmly believe that the relationship he had with you was what made him such a wonderful and loving husband and father. I had a chance to speak with Mrs. Alteri the other day, and she reminded me of a funny story that I thought I would share with you. As I mentioned before, Chris and I both attended UCSB, and we roomed together our freshman year. Both of our parents were kind enough to drive us up to school with all our stuff in order to drop us off for the beginning of the fall quarter. When we arrived, our Dad's helped carry in our boxes of junk, and our Mom's, of course, made sure the sheets were properly configured on the bed and the room was up to sanitary code. When it came time to say our goodbyes, we gave our families hugs and said farewell. Our Mom's, being the super sleuths they thought they were, decided it would be cool to sneak around the building and look in our window, likely hoping to find us bawling our eyes out at the fact that we weren't going to be living at home anymore. To their disappointment, they witnessed Chris and I performing multiple high-fives and chest bumps celebrating that we were free at last, thank God almighty we were free at last! I believe our Mom's, both tails between their legs, realized that we were both all growns up. Regardless of that moment, make no mistake about it, Chris adored his parents, and these two wonderful people helped form the man that Chris became.

#3: Chris was a caring father  Chris had the enviable ability to re-live his youth vicariously through both of his wonderful boys, Nicholas and Matthew. Boys, your daddy loved you both so much. It was always written all over his face. Chris was a boy scout when he was young, and he got to be a scout master for you. Chris played baseball as a kid, and got to coach your baseball team in your youth. Growing up Chris would go on an annual vacation with his family to Yosemite. This vacation was part of what defined the Alteris, and part of what defined Chris's childhood. Chris loved his boys and wanted them to have those same great experiences and memories that he had as a child. So, he continued that tradition for his boys. Even better, several generations of Alteris got to share those moments together. I saw a picture on social media the other day that had three generations of Alteri men in Yosemite. What a trip that must have been! How amazing that both Nicholas and Matthew got to experience the same fun that Chris had when he was growing up. Chris, we will all look forward to watching your sons grow up to be men. We will all look forward to seeing you, in them. Chris defined what a loving, caring, and compassionate father could be. And we will all be sure that both Nicholas and Matthew know what an amazing father they had.

#2: Chris was a loving husband  Jen, I remember when Chris told me he had found the girl for him, the one that he was going to ask to marry. He looked like he was on cloud nine. You could tell how truly happy he was. From the first moment I met you, it was crystal clear why that was so. You two were perfect for each other. You loved each other, you took care of each other, and you enjoyed life together to the fullest. You made each other laugha lot! Chris clearly had good taste, and you were instantly adopted as a sister by our group of friends. You fit right in without an effort, as if you were one of the team from the very beginning. We all have vivid memories of your wedding day. Riding that boat through Newport Harbor, dancing, singing, eating, and watching the two of you become one. And then that gondola came and you floated off to begin the rest of your lives. I remember you both waving to the crowd as you drifted off, both of you smiling from ear to ear. I was so happy for my friend that day. I was so happy that he had found someone like you, someone so perfect for him.  While Chris was taken from you far too early, it's comforting to know that he left this earth a happy man, a fulfilled man, and a loved man. Jen, I know Chris will always be with you, and you with him. Thank you for giving Chris so much happiness during his life.

#1: Chris was loved by all  There's a great quote that says Character isn't defined by what you do when people are watching you, but what you do when nobody is watching'. Chris lived this to the fullest. He didn't do anything in life for his gain alone, but rather, he did what was right, and others gained from it. Chris was compassionate, he was caring, sweet, kind, and loving, and was selfless in doing so. He never asked for anything in return, yet he got so much back simply because of who he was. If you look around this room right now, Chris's legacy is everywhere. A loving wife, two beautiful boys, two proud parents, three caring sisters and brothers-in-law, so many adoring uncles, aunts, and cousins, and a room full of admiring friends and acquaintances. Chris left an indelible mark on each and every one of us. Weren't we lucky to have known Chris? And weren't we blessed to have had him in our lives?

Chris, I'm so very proud to have called you my friend. But truth be told, you were always more than that. You were my brother, and I loved you. We all loved you. So the life you lived is now placed in the memory of those here to celebrate you, and your life will resonate with us the remainder of all our days.  Rest in peace my friend, and one day I'll see you again on the other side.

God bless.

I will always remember Chris for his kind heart and warm, genuine smile.  Even though I hadn't seen him since 8th grade or so, I enjoyed seeing his posts about his beautiful family and was continually reminded of what a wonderful person we were all lucky to have here on earth.  Always gentle, happy and so kind.  What a blessing!  My thoughts, prayers, condolences and much love and healing continue for Chris and the Alteri family.

Chris words are not my gift but actions are. I pledge to your memory to try and bring some light and happiness to the ones that are still here missing you.  Cousin Lizzie

I am finding it so hard to say these words. Chris and I and our families have been close for so long. My wife and I stay with Chris and his wonderful family just last year when we were visiting from NY. My deepest sympathies and prayers go to the entire Alteri family for his loss, and our loss as well because he was the greatest, coolest, person I have ever known. My brother Matt and I often spoke of him and laughed at all the memories we had. Whether it was about hanging out as kids, birthday parties, USCB, music concerts, guitar playing, and so much more. Also his family was so filled with love that being around them just made you want to be that awesome too. Chris I say to you, thank you and God bless for being you. You will stay in our hearts and memories forever.

I can't believe our world is without Chris.  I believe he is laughing with a beer in his hand in heaven sending positive energy to his beautiful wife and babies.  My thoughts and prayers go out to all who knew him and loved him especially his wonderful family.    He was such a kind person with a magical smile.   I have many fond memories of the beach, Magic Mountain, his AZ trip, UCSB Halloween, watching the funny guy on a bike crashing into the sand and many other moments always filled with laughter.  I will always remember and love my friend Chris.

How excited we were to find out that Mary Lynn had had a boy, what fun we had when they were all little.  How blessed we were to have Chris in our lives, how short the time feels. We all loved Chris. My love goes out to all of the family, I know how much everyone hurts at his loss.  He is in heaven with his grandparents and his cousin Terri, and we will all be united some day. From his Aunt Wanda

I am at a loss for words. Even as I am typing this it doesn't feel real. Nothing I say will be a proper testament to this wonderful man. Forty years is not nearly enough time for this planet to have had Chris Alteri. Every moment I spent with him he was laughing and smiling and making everyone around him feel good. Uncle Chris was one of the best people I have ever met and I feel truly blessed to have known him since the very first week of my life. Words cannot describe how much I will miss you Uncle Chris!! I love you!!

Our beloved Christopher passed away on April 22, 2015 following emergency cardiac surgery at Cedar Sinai Medical Center. Chris was born on August 29, 1974 to Mary Lynn and Harry in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. He was a blessing to all from the very beginning. He came with his parents and three sisters to Thousand Oaks, CA in 1976. He worked alongside his father for 14 years as part owner and Vice President of RITEC corporation in Simi Valley. In his youth Chris attended St Paschal Baylon school and church. His freshman year was spent at Crespi Carmelite High School. The remaining three years were spent at Thousand Oaks High School...where he met his best friends for life "the Posse". He went on to graduate from UC Santa Barbara with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. He married the love of his life Jennifer Ponce in 2004 and began the happiest period of his life. Chris and Jen had two spectacular sons, Nicholas and Matthew. He coached baseball for both of his son's teams and was assistant scout master for the Boy Scouts of America. Chris loved his family and friends. He enjoyed life to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to have a party and get together with family and friends. He loved music and was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears. Since his death, it has become apparent how many lives he has touched by the outpouring of love and support his family has received from so many. He will be missed by all who were blessed to have known him.

He is survived by his beloved wife Jennifer and his adoring sons Nicholas - 7 and Matthew - 4; his parents Mary Lynn and Harry Alteri of Thousand Oaks, CA; mother and father in law Mary and John Ponce of Moorpark, CA; three sisters, Amy Manser and husband Michael; Kateri Tobias and husband Ken; Gabrielle Alteri Bernstein and husband Dave; brother- in- law Michael Ponce and wife Jamie.

Chris was a loving uncle to twelve nieces and nephews, Molly and Michael Manser; Michael, Steven and Amy Tobias; Tyler, Claire and Grace Bernstein; Rickee, Joey, Maddie and Mia Ponce.

Services will be held at St. Julie Billiart Catholic Church 2475 Borchard Road Newbury Park, CA on May 2, 2015 at 2:00 pm.

OBITUARIO

Christopher John Alteri

29 agosto, 1974 – 22 abril, 2015

Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks-Griffin Memorial Park, Mortuary & Crematory

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