Chrisner Kuya Popoy Patao

Chrisner Patao, 38, of Earlimart died April 22, 2015, in a fishing accident. He was born on June 28, 1976 and raised in Earlimart, California. He was the son of Crisanto Patao and Nelia Flores. He attended schools in Earlimart and eventually graduated from Delano High School in 1994. While in high school, Chris was an athlete playing both football and basketball. A humble and hard worker, while in high school he worked alongside his grandparents in the grape fields. After high school, Chris attended community college for a couple of years and worked various jobs. He eventually moved into sales. He had a career in retail cell phone sales and many in the communities of Delano and Bakersfield probably purchased their cell phones from him. His easy-going and kind nature put people at ease. He loved all things Micheal Jordan, was a New York Giants fan, enjoyed watching sports, loved playing golf and was a avid fisherman. He was the eldest of 11 grandchildren and looked up to by his younger cousins. At the end of his life, Chris was able to spend much time with his grandparents in their home in Earlimart and spent many hours fishing locally. He is survived by his parents Crisanto Patao and Nelia Flores, sister Rachelle Hamberson, brother in law John Hamberson and his two nephews, Dominic and Benjamin Hamberson. He is further survived by his grandparents, Dominador and Erlinda Popoy. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Catalino and Iluminada Patao. He was loved by all who knew him. Chris will be remembered as a kind soul, with a big smile and infectious laugh. The family thanks you for the message of condolences and continued prayers.