Christopher Lee Refsdal

With great love and sadness, we share that Christopher Lee Refsdal, 40, died in an automobile accident after colliding with a vehicle that had crossed the centerline in Kingston, WA on Saturday, November 29, 2025. He was born August 9, 1985 in Bountiful, UT, the beloved son of Eric and Patricia Refsdal. He grew up in Kaysville, UT and Long Valley, NJ, where he began shaping the generous spirit and quiet strength that so many came to cherish throughout his life. He attended Long Valley, NJ schools and graduated from West Morris Central High School with honors in 2004. His computer and gaming skills led him to seek a bachelor’s degree in computer science from The College of New Jersey, graduating magna cum laude in 2008.

Chris was the most generous, caring individual who always made others feel comfortable and welcomed. Friends have commented “he is one of the kindest humans I knew who held our group of friends together, always offering help to those who needed it.” He enjoyed traveling, games of all kinds, supporting his employer and co-workers as a senior software engineer, and simple everyday moments shared with family and friends. He was a passionate food lover with an adventurous palate who enjoyed cooking, seeking new restaurants, and trying diverse cuisines.

Chris is survived by his parents of North Ogden, UT; brother Brian (Lindsay) Refsdal, of Bellevue, WA; sister Veronica (Derrold) Smith of Hastings, MN; grandfather, Florian Mankowski of Shoreview, MN; niece Zoe, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by the love of his life, his beloved girlfriend, Andrea Hinds of Poulsbo, WA.

A celebration of life and reception will be held on Monday, December 15th at Sunset Hills Funeral Home, 1575 145th Place SE in Bellevue, WA at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends will gather to honor him and share pictures and stories about the life he lived with love and grace. A second celebration will be held in Utah at a later date.

As Chris and Andrea enjoyed many special trips to our national parks, memorial contributions may be made to the National Park Foundation or a charity of your choice in his honor. National Park Foundation link can be found below.

Thank you to all who have reached out to share and support the family during this time of great sadness. “A life that touches others goes on forever…”