Mr. Christopher "Chris" Krellwitz's Obituary
Mr. Christopher "Chris" Krellwitz, born on December 25, 1952, in Flint, MI, passed away peacefully on
July 31, 2023, at home on Lake Martin, AL. Chris was a loving and caring father, husband, grandfather,
brother and uncle. He was a man of exceptional character, marked by his humor, affable nature, realist
viewpoint and down-to-earth personality, and beloved by his family and friends.
Chris was born to Frank Joseph Krellwitz and Margaret Eileen Krellwitz. He was the brother of Mary
Jones (Terry), Kathleen Pappageorge (George), Michael, James (Arlene), and Thomas (Laura) Krellwitz,
brother-in-law to Martha Harris. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Frank Jr. Krellwitz,
and sister-in-law Carole Krellwitz. Chris is survived by his wife, Jeannine Krellwitz of Suttons Bay, MI,
his daughter, Olivia Ward of Ypsilanti, MI, his sons, Joseph Krellwitz (Christina) of Dallas, TX, and
Nicholas Ward of Chicago, IL and his grandson, Otto Krellwitz of Dallas, TX. Chris is also survived by
many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, cousins, and so on, who he loved dearly. One of
his greatest joys in life was being a grandfather to Otto.
Chris was a 1971 graduate of Powers Catholic High and went on to receive his BS in Biology from the
University of Michigan-Flint. He brought his intellect and dedication to his career as a tax assessor and
appraiser for the townships of Elmwood and Empire, Michigan. He retired after over 35 years of service
leaving an unforgettable impact through his work.
In addition to being a devoted family man and lifelong friend to many, Chris cultivated diverse and
unique personal interests. With one of his passions being the arts, he seized and cherished every
opportunity to see his children perform in theater and varying musical productions. Those whose lives he
touched knew him as a jack-of-all-trades: from art appreciator to avid outdoorsman, from chef to auto
mechanic to magician to handyman, Chris had a deep appreciation for living life to the fullest. He had a
lifelong love of fly-fishing, ever-pursuing the elusive "brookie". His curiosity and drive gave him the
innate ability to pick up on whatever interest he pursued, such as mountain bike racing, golfing,
cross-country skiing, target shooting, bird hunting, magic, juggling and ice-skating/rollerblading. Chris
enjoyed dabbling in writing, often using his words to entertain and provoke thought. He had a fascination
with airplanes, trains, light decorating and the stock market. Chris was an avid hockey fan, especially for
UofM and also liked to watch college football and basketball, golf and the Olympic games. His creativity
could be seen in the many home projects completed, fixing cars, cooking and his dapper attire attending
special events.
He spent many peaceful days watching hummingbirds, reading the classics, listening to music, putzing in
the garage, floating in the lake, enjoying a cigar and a "cocktail", and video calling with Otto, creating
lasting moments of laughter, joy and love.
In the end, Chris Krellwitz was more than a beloved family member, friend, and co-worker. He was a
source of humor and wit, and a man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to
know him. His legacy will live on in the memories of those who loved him.
The family is planning a Celebration of Life service at a later date
Donations can be made to St. Jude's
Memories and condolences may be shared at www.radneyfuneralhome.com
Radney Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements
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