I did not know him well, but he left his mark on my life. I miss him.  He made me think...lol. I think about things he has shared and his patience with me. His big smile of kindness towards me. Probably trying not to shake his head.  Chris loved God and shared His love for God. His passion for God's love for others was clearly seen.

Chris, I will always remember the fun times all the cousins had at Grandma & Grandpas!! I regret we have not seen each other in years, but will always hold on to the great memories!!  God bless my cousin, until we meet again!!

I met Chris through work at Jiffy Lube in York PA when we were both in college at York College. We hit it off immediately and we’re good friends. Chris was always true in his faith and his convictions. We spent many hours back then talking about life and the future. One of my fondest memories that brings a smile to my face still today was the day it was snowing very heavily, everything in York was shutting down we had a little over two feet of snow on the ground including the roads. Setting in my apartment and the phone rings, it was Chris. “Hey man whatcha doing ? Let’s go for a ride !” What ? Are you kidding me there’s two feet of snow on the roads ! Chris said no worries man, I drive a Subaru ! Let’s go. He picked me up about 15 minutes later and we spent the next few hours driving the back roads of York county in snow so deep his Subaru Station wagon  1981 I believe it was, literally plowing snow up over the hood ! I will never forget that ! We laughed and talked and had a great time and arrived safely back at my apartment and he at his parents house. That was the first of many car adventures we had. Sadly life and miles separated our friendship as tends to happen. I last talked to you about 10 years ago. My only regret is we didn’t keep in touch more. Chris, you left too soon but you are in good hands now. Rest easy my friend and thank you for the memories and your friendship I could never replace.  God speed. 

It is especially difficult to see someone who was true to his values and beliefs, a good family man and close to God, lose his life so early.  While his family will miss him immensely, I hope soon they can get beyond the grief to bask in the warmth of the memories and love they had with him.  I like to think that he is having a heavenly reunion with those who have gone before and that he, and the rest, will welcome each of us when our time comes.

My favorite prayer is the one from St. Francis of Assisi that ends with:  For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.   So, goodbye... for now, nephew, as you start your reward. 

We had many deep discussions. Your love for God, your family, and your country shone through.  I’ll miss your joyous smile—and your mischievous one too. Rest in the peace of the Lord. 

Mary 

Dear Eric, My sincere sympathy to you and your family in the loss of  your brother. May happy memories sustain you during this time of grief.  Peace and calm to you ---Rae Brown

I will always think of how, when you were a toddler, you would light up at any food anyone shared with you. I think your favorite word was "chow".  Your face would brighten at dinner time. You were such a joyous child. I'll always think of you that way. 


I will dearly miss spending time laughing and talking to Chris. He is a good friend and brother in Christ. Many times I would go to Chris for wisdom, help, and guidance. He never once told me what I wanted to hear, but always encouraged me with what I needed to hear. It was a joy to serve with him and to work with him. I look forward to the day when I will see him again. He challenged me to live as a Godly man while he was with us, and challenges me now to do the same in his passing to eternity. Gretchen, Amber and I love you and are here if you need anything. 

I met Chris within the last 6 months when he came to Pregnancy Choices to learn more about the ministry. Even though we had just met, I felt like we had known each other a long time  and were brother and sister in Christ.  I was impressed with his enthusiasm for mission work and more importantly his love for God. I can only imagine him now rejoicing in being in the very presence of Jesus and him walking around hugging people. 

My thoughts and prayers go out to Gretchen and the entire family. They also go out to MissionView Church Family;  as you have lost a mighty warrior.  

Chris loved the Lord and souls.  He was an asset to the prayer ministry and the missions team.  He will be missed.  Love and prayers to you, Gretchen, and to Nigel and Bailey.  What a comfort to know that Chris is with Jesus. 

OBITUARY

Christopher Michael Doerfler

April 5, 1965 – April 17, 2021

Wood-Kortright-Borkoski Funeral Home

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