Christopher Menker

As a youth, Chris loved the sport of soccer. Beginning as a small child, he continued to grow in the sport and became a player in multiple travel soccer clubs, including the Medina (OH) Rangers, Falcon Elite (Cleveland, OH) and Arsenal (Oakland, MD). He was a goalkeeper, minding the net for Southern Garrett High School and for Potomac State College of West Virginia University. He was also a soccer referee for many years.

Chris served four years in the Maryland Army National Guard as a construction Engineer in Uzbekistan (Afghanistan Theater) and four additional years in the North Carolina National Guard as a Combat Medic in Baghdad (Iraqi Theater). He was awarded the following medals: Global War on Terrorism Service medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary medal and the Armed Forces Reserve medal. He received numerous Certificates of Appreciation for a lengthy list of accomplishments with special mentions for accomplishments from the 416th Air Expeditionary Group and the 774 Expeditionary Airlift Squadron of the Karshi-Khanabad Airfield and Camp Stronghold Freedom in Uzbekistan. Chris was also an accomplished Combat Medic on his second tour of duty, managing over 100 other medics as well as being part of daily route control teams searching for IEDs. He achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Chris was well known for his remarkable service in the beer and wine industry in the greater Wilmington area and beyond. He worked for multiple companies in the industry over the years and assisted numerous establishments with his unique abilities in sales, displaying, and marketing. His knowledge of wines was extensive, and his wine tastings were well appreciated, along with his trademark beard. He was who he was, and he loved people. He was a friend to so many, as noted by the outpouring of love expressed by many clients, co-workers and friends in the industry.

Chris is survived by his paternal grandmother, Rosa Lee Menker, of Dayton, Ohio, his father and mother, Mel and Cathy Menker of Wilmington, brother John Menker and wife Carly of Richmond, Virginia, son Aiden Burns of Oakland, Maryland and numerous other relatives. He is also survived by the love of his life, Tracy Ennis, with whom he shared thirteen years.

A memorial/celebration of Chris’ life will be held on Saturday, April 26 at 10:00 AM at Port City Community Church in Leland for family and friends. A second celebration of his life will be held at Waterline Brewing in Wilmington on the same day from 5:00 until 7:00 PM as a time to stop by and share stories and memories with Mel, Cathy, Tracy and John and Carly. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a donation to a military veteran organization of your choice.