Christopher James Day

Christopher James Day August 21, 1972 – June 1, 2020 Yesterday, I lost my husband, my best friend. I believe that he did not choose to take himself away from us, but that the illness which brings us into that dark and desolate pit from which we feel no escape took him from us.  Chris suffered many years from Depression, but it should not define his amazing life. Chris was a loving husband, father, brother and son.  Our family has so many amazing memories camping, fishing, hiking, boating, and just spending time together.  Chris earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Oregon State University and has worked more than 25 years as a Senior Research Analyst for Oregon’s Department of Consumer and Business Services. Chris was a runner.  He ran about 25 miles per week all around our neighborhood, through downtown, and around every park he could find, then threw in a weekend half marathon a few times each month. Last year, he earned first place in the Iris Festival half marathon.   Chris strongly believed in taking care of our planet, recycling, beautifying our home and yard, and giving back to the community. He was a regular donor with the Red Cross, having given almost 100 times and over 12 gallons of blood.   All of these statistics may describe parts of his life, but none can tell you about the real man we loved.  Chris maintained strong friendships with an amazing group of guys all the way back to grade school.  He brought dinner to his mother every week and called her every Sunday. His daughters can tell you about their “Adventures with Daddy,” as he would often veer off the beaten path to explore all the obscure sights, with the reward of some amazing view from the top of a mountain or a waterfall inaccessible to most people.  They would often get lost, scratched, tired, or hungry, but would always come home with some ridiculously amazing story. Chris and I began exploring the National Parks every year for our anniversary and had dreams of seeing them all and growing old together.  Chris could make me laugh like no one else, and we spent so many nights sitting on our back porch watching the stars and talking about absolutely everything.  He came home to me every evening with a kiss and a long, heartfelt hug.   I just can’t believe that I won’t ever be able to touch him or hold him or hear his voice again.   We are all so very sad for this abrupt end to his long and meaningful life. We don't know yet what kind of service we can have or when. We would like to hear from everyone who knew him, and we would like you to share your pictures and your memories of him. Please help us to celebrate his life, his friendship, and his love. Chris was preceded in passing by his father, Noel Day and his brother, Edward Day. He is survived by his loving wife, Suzanne Day (ne. Varner); his daughters, Nikki Day (partner, Grant Eckelman) and Michelle Day; his stepsons, Brice and Kyle Rosenau; his mother, Judy Ferguson; his sister, Lynne Day; brother, Patrick Ferguson (wife, Debbie); nephews, Chase, Wesley and Scott. - Written by Suzanne Day