ANDOVER

Colonel Christopher J. Wilson , USAR retired, age 53, passed away on September 8, 2018. His passions were God, family, running, mountain climbing, supporting his fellow military, and enjoying life with those close to him. He was a devoted husband to his wife Sherry of 26 years, and his daughters Haylee and Natalie.

C hris was born March 15, 1965 in Hutchinson, Kasnas, he was the son of Charles and Marilyn Wilson. He graduated from Buhler High School in 1983 and is a graduate from Kansas State University. Chris Wilson served the citizens of Hutchinson, Kansas with dedication and honor as a Police Officer for the Hutchinson Police Department from April 19, 1993 to June 6, 1998. He loved his country, joining the United States Army Reserves in 1984. He proudly served our Nation for 33 years as a Military Police  Officer, deploying to Iraq during Operation Desert Storm and twice during Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as Kuwait, and Turkey for Operation Enduring Freedom. He excelled as a leader who Soldiers wanted to follow. He was consistently recognized as a top performer and was selected to serve at the Pentagon for two years, where he earned 2 Bronze Stars and the Legion of Merit in recognition of his exceptional accomplishments and leadership. He was equally successful in his civilian career, serving in many roles over the years. In 2014, he joined Spirit AeroSystems as a Senior Manager.

C hris was an avid member of the Wichita running community. He will be remembered for his devotion to family and friends, serving his country and positively affecting many lives throughout his lifeteam.

H e is survived by his wife Sherry (Paxton), daughters Haylee and Natalie of the home; parents Charles and Marilyn Wilson, sister Cindy Patton, nephew Christopher Patton all of Glasco, Kansas; father-in-law Joseph Paxton, Lee's Summit, Missouri; brother-in-law Jay Paxton, Belton, Missouri and brother-in-law Keith Paxton, Belle Vista, Arkansas.

A memorial service to celebrate his life and homecoming will be held Monday, September 17, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ Church, 14242 E. 21st St. N., Wichita, KS.

M emorial donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Homeless Veterans or Veterans Suicide Awareness, 420 Osage St Manhattan, KS 66502.