Obituaries

Chris Neff, 53, of Oak Harbor, Ohio, a skilled and resourceful craftsman whose hands could mend and build nearly anything, passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024. He was born on October 16, 1970, in Port Clinton, Ohio, the son of Elba and Waltraud Maria (Bendel) Neff.

Chris was renowned for his unwavering dedication to his craft, his boundless generosity, and his deep commitment to his family and friends. He proudly embraced his identity as a jack-of-all-trades, humorously noting he was a master of none. Yet, his aptitude for fixing and building things was unmatched. Whether it was through hands-on experience or by becoming a devoted student of "YouTube University," Chris's ingenuity and determination were evident in all his endeavors. His early years instilled in him the belief that broken things were meant to be fixed, a philosophy that defined his approach to life.

Throughout his varied career, Chris left a lasting impact. From his early days at the Oak Harbor gas station and Little Caesars in Port Clinton to his work at TriMotors, Guardian Glass, and Seneca Wire, Chris earned a reputation for his work ethic and integrity. His roles at Fremont Speedway, by being the mean guy at Turn 2, and Schiets Motorsports further demonstrated his skill and dedication. However, his most notable achievement was his role as a career technical instructor at Penta Career Center in Perrysburg, Ohio. Over the past nine years, Chris inspired and educated over 200 students in PowerSports and Engine Systems. His patience, honesty, and ability to lead by example made him a beloved mentor.

Chris's generous spirit extended beyond his professional life. Known for his selflessness, he was always ready to lend a hand, whether working on motorcycles, snowmobiles, cars, boats, or jet skis, expecting nothing in return. His kindness was evident in a recent gesture where he reassured a friend's family about the PowerSports program at Penta, despite his own challenging circumstances.

Chris's life changed when he met Debbie at the Sandbar on the Portage River twelve years ago. Their relationship was a perfect balance of personalities—Debbie's vibrant energy complemented Chris's more reserved nature. Together, they built a dream home along the Portage River, creating a haven of love and joy. Their life together was filled with cherished moments, from boating and camping with Debbie’s daughters, Emily and Erica, to exploring the US on memorable road trips. Chris proposed to Debbie on Christmas, a heartwarming surprise that highlighted his deep affection for her and her daughters.

Chris was not only a loving partner and stepfather but also a steadfast supporter of his and Debbie’s family, celebrating their accomplishments and sharing in their joys. His meticulous attention to detail, his dedication to his trade, and his love for family will be remembered fondly. His infectious laugh, passion for adventure, and his fabulous "Shed Burgers" will be dearly missed.

Chris Neff leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and unwavering support. He is survived by his beloved wife Debbie, step-daughters Emily (Matt Ely) and Erica Winters, sister, Heidy Burdine, niece, Jennifer (Chris) Burdine, nephews, Matthew, Josh, and Michael Burdine, and a host of friends and colleagues who will cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents. Chris's presence will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he has touched.

Rest in peace, Chris Neff—Christopher, Christoff, The Neffster, Screwey, and Mr. Neff. You will forever be remembered and never forgotten.

Visitation for Chris will be held from 2:00-8:00 PM, Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at the Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory, 501 West St., Genoa, Ohio. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 11:00 AM, in St. John Ev. Lutheran Church, 122 W. Ottawa St., Oak Harbor, Ohio. Interment will follow at the Salem Township – Union Cemetery, Oak Harbor. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Penta Career Center, 9301 Buck Road, Perrysburg, Ohio 43551, where a tool scholarship is being established in Chris’s name. Online condolences may be shared with family and friends at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.