Final arrangements for Christopher Waddell

Christopher “Chris” Michael Waddell was born September 8, 1993 in Kingman, AZ. He was nearly born in the backseat of a rental car. He came into this world fast and that’s how he lived, on the move. Chris would climb trees higher than even squirrels dared go. He feared nothing. He was known as Monkeybutt and spider monkey. He was a go-er and a do-er, even walking on his own at 9 months. Whatever he did, he did full speed ahead. Including love.

He met Trisha Rose 8 years ago and though there have been rocky times, there was always love. Together they have 2 beautiful children, “Ana,” 4, and “Zander,” 6. Chris had strong opinions and views of the world; strong in his convictions. He believed what he believed and he loved to argue his views. Especially with his brothers Matthew (Carlisle), Robert (Indianola), James (Britt), and Zachary (Indianola). From the outpouring of love we have seen the past week, he was loved by everyone whose lives he touched. His exuberance for life landed him in trouble a few years ago but he had plans and in 5 short years turned his life around. He was given an opportunity to work for BFC (Bonded Filter) as a filter tech and his work ethic let him shine. He will be missed.

Christopher was preceded in death by his grandfather, Robert “Papa” Headley (Avon Lake). We have no doubt he has been there to walk with Christopher’s spirit and they sit somewhere discussing ants. Shooting stars don’t burn for long, but they sure do burn bright. His light lives on in his loved ones: parents Kathrine Smolnik (Carlisle) and Rafe Waddell (Mason City); grandparents Brigita and Uldis Pavitols (Indiana), and Sally Headley (Avon Lake); aunts Ingrid Horne and Amanda Pavitols (Indiana), Amy Hicks (Carlisle), and Kyle Pentico (Colorado); uncles Robert Headley (Germany) and Rich Pentico (Norwalk); and many, many nieces, nephews, cousins, great aunts and uncles, etc. Our family tree is huge.

Even behind his infectious laughter and that sparkle in his eyes there was a darkness he battled every day. Though there was a catalyst that took his physical body from our lives, his giving spirit provided the opportunity for others to live and he became a hero. Because of his youth, health and circumstances of his death, the Iowa Donor Network helped him save many lives, potentially over 200. His mother just needs to know his heart beats somewhere.