Obituaries: Christopher J. "Chris" Woitel

  • by BAR staff
  • Tuesday March 9, 2021
Share this Post:
Christopher J. "Chris" Woitel
Christopher J. "Chris" Woitel

March 20, 1970 — February 15, 2021

Christopher John Woitel, "Chris," age 50, passed away suddenly on February 15th in San Francisco.

Chris was born at Loyola Hospital in Maywood, Illinois on March 20, 1970 and grew up in Oak Park, Illinois. Chris was a loving son, caring brother, thoughtful uncle, and a generous friend. He loved nothing more than spending time with those closest to him discussing all things eclectic and thought-provoking. A compassionate soul that lived a relatively quiet life, Chris could often be found outside with friends enjoying some of San Francisco's lesser-known gems.

Chris is survived by his parents, John and Marilyn Woitel; his siblings: Kathy (Robert) Flynn, Frank (Genelyn) Woitel, Lara Haben, Michael Woitel, and the late Geoffrey Woitel; his nieces and nephews, Jennifer Haben, Kaitlyn and Meghann Flynn, Melvin & Gary Woitel, Sophie and Jack Woitel, and Zachary, Alayna, and Gabriel Woitel.

Chris was a proud graduate of St. Giles Elementary in Oak Park and Oak Park River Forest High School. Over the years, Chris tried his hand at a few different career paths, but enjoyed working as a computer programmer most of all. Talented with technology, Chris was always on call to help friends and family members with computer-related issues and questions.

Chris had a very humble personality but left a lasting impression on everyone in his circle. He often opened his home and cared for those less fortunate in their time of need. His incredible empathy as well as his desire for peace and harmony were unparalleled, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and lives he's touched.

We ask that you share your memories of Chris with us at https://www.vidhug.com/

Visitation is scheduled for Thursday, March 11, from 3 to 8 p.m. at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Road, Westchester, Illinois 60154. Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 20 (also Chris' birthday) in St. Giles Church, Oak Park. The Mass will be livestreamed on YouTube. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a memorial contribution in Chris' name to the Community Housing Partnership in San Francisco or to Faithful Fools.

Help keep the Bay Area Reporter going in these tough times. To support local, independent, LGBTQ journalism, consider becoming a BAR member.