On February 28, 2026, Kari and her family experienced the unimaginable loss of her husband, Chris. Chris was a devoted father to their two children—a loving 6-year-old son and a bright 12-year-old daughter—who meant the world to him. His family was always at the center of everything he did.

For the past several years, Chris had been unable to work while awaiting a kidney transplant, which placed a significant strain on the family. Over the last six months, he remained hospitalized while continuing to fight through his health challenges with incredible strength and determination. During that time, Chris also underwent the amputation of his leg. Even through such a life-changing challenge, he kept pushing forward, working hard to regain strength and do everything he could to make it back home to his kids.

After that long hospital stay, Chris was finally able to come home. Tragically, he was only home for one night. The following morning, he passed away. After everything he endured, his family was grateful to have had that one night together at home.

Chris was deeply respected and loved by many. His coworkers at Enbridge knew him as someone you could always count on, and his fire family at the department where he volunteered knew him as a dedicated teammate who showed up whenever his community needed him. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Chris will remember his kindness, generosity, and the way he made people feel supported and valued.

In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, Kari is doing everything she can to care for her children and help them navigate life without their dad. Kari serves her own community as an ambulance dispatcher and volunteer firefighter, always helping others in their moments of need. Now, during this incredibly difficult time, we hope to surround her and her children with the same support.

Funds raised will help cover immediate bills and expenses and allow Kari to take some time away from work to focus on her children and their healing in the months ahead.

A portion of the funds raised will also help cover the costs associated with Chris’s cremation and a future celebration of life. These expenses can add up quickly, and your support will help ensure that Chris is remembered and celebrated with the love and respect he deserves.

If you are able to contribute, any amount is deeply appreciated. If you prefer to donate directly, Kari can be reached at [email redacted].

Most importantly, please keep Kari, her children, and everyone who loved Chris in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.