James Denis (Kris) Christie passed away peacefully on February 18, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 28 years, Sue, his daughters Christina Oxendine (Shawn), Joni Hennessey (Todd), son Kristian Christie, grandchildren Chad, Brook, Kasey, Hannah, Vaughn, Brittany, and Hillary and 12 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his much loved sister-in-law, Mary Ellen Anderson and brother-in-law, Joey Wright. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Gertrude Christie, his daughter, Tiffany Wilcox and his dear friend and brother-in-law, Rex Anderson.
Born on August 30, 1945 in Welland, Ontario, Canada, Kris moved with his parents to West Palm Beach, FL at 8 years of age. They soon relocated to Daytona Beach, FL where he grew up, graduated from high school, and developed his lifelong love of beach living. After graduation, he served 2 tours in Viet Nam in the US Army as a demolition’s expert. After his honorable discharge he applied for and became a United States citizen. He then obtained his BA degree from Florida State University as an Architectural Engineer.
Kris was employed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Beaches & Coastal Systems, until his retirement. He was a staunch environmentalist always. During his tenure with the State, he visited every beach or coastal area in Florida, many multiple times. Much of his job involved his being first on the scene of every natural disaster affecting coastal areas where he assessed damage and issued permits allowing reconstruction and repairs to homes, businesses, marina areas, piers, etc. He also devised and implemented plans for nourishment and replenishment of beaches and coastal areas.
An avid motorcyclist all his life, Kris was a proud member of the Viet Nam Veterans Motorcycle Club, M Chapter, for many years. This was a huge part of his life and he so enjoyed the Brotherhood, multiple long trips around the Country, the communion with like-minded Brothers and the Sisters, as well.
Kris also had tremendous passion for the many Irish Wolfhounds, Scottish Deerhounds, and other dogs we bred and shared our lives with. He was well known and loved for the many meals he prepared for years in support of the dog activities we participated in. He also much enjoyed the parrots and other birds we purchased and rescued over the years. His greatest love was for our beloved Skunk, Abbie, who delighted us with her antics for over 13 years.
Kris was a loving, compassionate man, never met a stranger, loved telling and hearing both good and sometimes dreadfully bad jokes! Loved by all who met and knew him.
A life so well and joyfully lived, he will be greatly missed, never forgotten, always loved, and remembered by his family and friends.
Memorial service information will be provided at this venue as soon as all arrangements are made.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Kris' name to your favorite Veterans organization or animal rescue.
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