It is with profound sadness that we share the news of Chris Gobber’s passing.
First and foremost, Chris was a devoted father. Following his passing, his children, Jesse and Maggie, are left to navigate an unimaginable and immense loss. In addition to being a loving parent, Chris was a true giant in the skateboarding community.
Known across the country as a master craftsman, a dedicated mentor, and an "honorary uncle" to anyone who picked up a board, Chris lived by two simple rules: "Rule 1 is FUN!" and "As long as you’re smiling, you’re doing it right!"
A Life Dedicated to the Shred
Chris was the heart of Arizona skateboarding. From his garage, he operated AZ Laminates, where he handcrafted highly sought-after custom decks that were widely regarded as some of the best in the industry. His expertise wasn't just in building boards but in fostering a vibrant community. He helped construct countless skate parks and, most famously, transformed his own front yard into a public haven for skaters. His legendary "Friday Night Skate Sessions" were open to everyone—from seasoned pros to neighborhood kids who were just learning to push. Chris welcomed all with open arms, providing a safe, inclusive space where a new generation of skaters was born and inspired.
Continuing the Legacy for Jesse and Maggie
Chris’s greatest pride was his children, Jesse and Maggie. They grew up in a home filled with the sound of wheels on concrete, banging of pots and pans and the spirit of a community that their father built from the ground up. Our goal is to raise enough funds to pay off the mortgage on the Gobber family home. We want to ensure that Jesse and Maggie can stay in their childhood home—the very place where Chris hosted those famous skate nights and built his legacy. By securing their home, we are preserving a piece of skateboarding history and providing stability for the kids Chris loved more than anything.
How You Can Help
Chris gave so much of himself to our community, often going the extra mile for anyone in need. Now, it is our turn to go the extra mile for him.
- Donate: Any amount helps us reach the goal of securing the house for Jesse and Maggie.
- Share: Spread the word through the GoFundMe platform and social media to reach the countless people Chris impacted over his 30+ year career.
- Keep Shredding: In Chris’s honor, keep the "stoke" alive.
Rest in peace, Chris. Your legacy will live on in every board you built, every skater you inspired, through the countless lives you’ve touched, and through your kids.