It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Christopher Michael Chandler, who was called home to his Heavenly Father on March 16, 2023, in Alpine, Utah after an extended battle with cancer.
Chris was born August 4, 1972, in Provo, Utah to Lynn (Mortensen) and Michael Chandler and spent his early years in New Mexico until his family moved to Utah in 1984. Chris formed many friendships here that enriched his life and ignited his passion for the scriptures, ancient languages, and the history of the people of the Old and New Testaments. As a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, Chris served a mission to Western Samoa before meeting and marrying the love of his life, Ofa (Tua'one), in Salt Lake City, UT on August 16,1996 And so began a life of adventure and growth that took them across the United States, to Tonga, Africa, India and back, over the next several years as they grew from a family of 3 to a family of 9.
Chris was a serial entrepreneur, launching businesses in fiberoptic communications, marketing, international mining operations, and most recently as an investment manager, where he particularly enjoyed doing onstage interviews with business elites across the globe. Besides his business ventures he enjoyed spending much of his free time teaching classes of faith and hope in Christ. His enthusiasm for life, learning, and the gospel of Jesus Christ were consistent patterns throughout his life that deepened as he matured.
His battle with cancer was notably his last, and he underwent several painful procedures to extend his life with his devoted wife Ofa at his side every step of the way. During this time, he was able to see each of his daughters gain loving partners for life as well as the birth of his first grandchild. He was a devoted father who nurtured deep relationships with each of his children, and they in turn served and cared for him in his final days with patience and tenderness.
The Chandler family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Shelby and Brittney from IHC Home Care for the compassionate care rendered to Chris during the final months of his life. And to KLAS Research who generously supported Chris during his illness. And to the many friends, family, neighbors, and angels who have sacrificed in countless ways.
Chris is preceded in death by his mother, Lynn; and is survived by his loving wife Ofa; their children, Liz (Spencer), Esther (Jonah), Nate (Jalyn), Kalei (Shania), Emily (Oscar), Hampton, Ben, and Gabe; as well as his grandson Malulani.
A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, March 24, 2023, with the viewing from 9:00-10:45 a.m. followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Larkin Sunset Gardens (1950 East 10600 South, Sandy, UT 84092).
Sending love and prayers to the Chandler family during this very difficult time. ❤️
He was a noble soul, and will be greatly missed. I have been so impressed with the family's reaction to his illness, and all the support that has been given to him. This was a family ordeal, and the family rallied around him. His friends did not forsake him either, and all of this is a testament to his impressive, noble character. Many of us grieve with the members of his family and extend our prayers and best wishes on your behalf.
We were so saddened to hear of Chris’s passing….but we know he is in the arms of His Savior, what a reunion he must be having! We will miss him! He was an amazing man! May time fly quickly until we are all reunited on that Great Day! May God bless you in the coming years with comfort and peace. Darrell and Sharon…….( Taylor Child’s parents)
We extend our sympathy and condolences to the family of this sweet and gentle soul. We consider it a privilege to have known Chris.
Sending all my love to the family. I met Chris a couple of times when we were younger and remember him being friendly and kind. I am surrounding you all with comfort and love.
Dear Ofa and Family,
I was so hoping through all the fasting, prayers,
and medical interventions Chris’s life could be extended for a few more years. It was not to be. He was such an inspiration to so many both in his health trials and his teachings. You are his equal in the example you have set in enduring all things, caring for a large family, supporting Chris’s work and mission and in hearing about your own path
of finding new truth. I pray for you and your family to continue your support and comfort for each other. May the Lord bless you in your grief of the loss of your sweet husband. With love, Lark Cyr, Prescott Arizona.
So grateful to have had the privilege of knowing Chris and Ofa and their children. They took us in as family. Remembering the Marvel movie marathons, delicious food, inspiring conversations and lots of questionable humor! It was truly an honor to sit bedside with Chris earlier this month, his kindness, love and faith will always be cherished and remembered. Our hearts mourn with Ofa and her family.
Chris will never be forgotten nor will his wise council. We love you.
Till we meet again brother…
Ofa I am so sorry. To hear of your loss. I send alll my love to you and your family. May God bless you and the family. My prayers are with you. Love Mom Peterson.
We are near you with our hearts . We send our love and prayers your way. Your forever italian family, the Simoncinis
Dear Ofa & family
Wishing you peace, comfort and love at this time of sorrow. Our hearts go out to you and the children at this difficult time. We we always cherish our good & fun memories of our dear brother Chris.
Alofa atu from Auckland, New Zealand
Faa & Tili
Our deepest Love to Chris & Ofa Chandler family! We know that we will see Chris again! Chris has always been a loving friend and brother to me and my family. I have so many fond memories of Chris. He has been a great example to me in my early years and have learned so much from him. ❤️
Dear Ofa and the family
Sending you all hugs and love. May all continue to feel of our Saviors love for you all this time while mourning for your loss. What a blessing it has been of knowing Chris and interacting with you all in the past years. Love you Chris. Ia manuia lau malaga. Love you Ofa and the family..❤️❤️
Fati Faatau and family..
I cried when I heard of Chris's passing. I know of the sadness of loss, the emptiness, the longing, the denial. My heart goes out to you, Ofa, my sister.
Love you brother. Rest easy mate till we meet again. Your memories will remain with our family forever.
Ofa and the kids, am thinking of you all. I love you guys.
Awww so sad to hear of your passing. I know i havent seen or connected in a long time but I will never forget the face of the angel who got through my dad and brought him to the waters of baptism. You will see my dad and mom on the other side. Please say hello to them. Have a safe journey back to our Heavenly Father. Tofa my brother til we meet again!!!! Ps Heaven has gain another angel.
Awww so sad to hear of your passing. I know i havent seen or connected in a long time but I will never forget the face of the angel who got through my dad and brought him to the waters of baptism. You will see my dad and mom on the other side. Please say hello to them. Have a safe journey back to our Heavenly Father. Condolences to your beautiful Ofa and family! Tofa my brother til we meet again!!!! Ps Heaven has gain another angel.
Just know that all the love and prayers and good thoughts in the world are being sent your way from afar. We very much miss you all, and are heartbroken about Chris. We wish we could be with you, and just be.
We love your family so much...
Chris and Noriko
