Christian Hotchkiss, 74, of Fairchild, died Sunday, Feb. 1, 2015 at Mayo Clinic Health System - Eau Claire.
Chris was born Dec. 31, 1940, in Chippewa Falls, the son of Robert and Violet (Palmer) Hotchkiss. He attended school in Chippewa Falls. Chris married Gretchen Shepler in Watertown, S.D. in 1964. The couple raised their two children in Eau Claire. He later married Karen Geisdorf in 2011.
Chris served in the U.S. Navy and later worked for the City of Eau Claire for 25 years, working for the Park and Recreation Dept. at the Hobbs Ice Arena where he drove the zamboni.
Chris was dedicated to his family and friends and enjoyed the many family gatherings. He traveled to Florida on many vacations with his family, where he especially liked going to Disney World. He took pleasure in the summer time visits with his grandson, Brayden and their many adventures.
Chris was a hunter of thrift sale treasures, searching for beer signs and other beer memorabilia to add to his collection. He also held many thrift sales at his home. With his friends he enjoyed going to the casinos.
Chris also enjoyed going to auctions with his wife Gretchen and son Rob. After Gretchen’s death, Chris and Rob had a business for some time. Chris met Karen Geisdorf while attending auctions and after they were married they continued their mutually enjoyed pastime.
Chris is survived by his wife, Karen Geisdorf of Fairchild; daughter, DawnMarie (Lynn) Aasen of Underwood, MN; son, Robert “Rob” Hotchkiss of Minot, N.D.; grandchildren, Jessica and Brayden Aasen. He is also survived by many brothers –in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, special friends Bob and Jenny Martin, as well as many other good friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Gretchen; parents; sister Charlene; and brother Dennis.
Visitation will be from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Anderson Funeral Home in Augusta. Memorial services will be at 1:00 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be at a later date in the Fairchild Cemetery.
The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the doctors and staff of the Critical Care Unit and the 3rd. floor at Mayo Clinic Health Sytem- Eau Claire, with a very special thank you to nurse Nina. Everyone’s kindness and concern will never be forgotten.