Chris Keuhlen

Hard-working, generous, and kind, Chris Keuhlen lived a life rich in faith, family, and friends. Chris embraced each day as a gift, fully celebrating its joys, confidently facing its challenges, and leading with his heart. Whether giving a neighbor a ride or volunteering at church, Chris' gentle kindness was evident in his never hesitating to share his gifts and talents. A devoted husband, loving father, cherished brother, and treasured friend, Chris will long be remembered by those he so dearly loved.

1951 proved a year of increased comforts and exciting new possibilities. While unemployment dropped to 3.3%, the nation additionally celebrated the first direct-dial trans-coastal phone call, easier travel in more comfortable cars and on newly paved interstates, and the premieres of "I Love Lucy," "The Day the Earth Stood Still," and "An American in Paris." Nowhere was the sense of hope for the future more celebrated than in the hearts of Albert and Splendora (Montini) Keuhlen as they welcomed their son, Christopher, into their family on December 29, 1951.

The second of seven children, Chris grew up in New Jersey, where his father served as a volunteer firefighter. Chris enjoyed building forts with his siblings in their neighbors' backyard, and sometimes got into some mischief, like building a still on the third floor of their home and using potato peels to make their special concoction. Known for always having the biggest cuffs on his pants, Chris graduated from Glen Ridge High School in New Jersey in 1970.

After graduation, Chris enlisted in the Navy, following his dad and older brother into submarines. Chris worked as an electronics technician, earning the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Always good with computers and solving problems, after completing his military service, Chris continued his education at Old Dominion University. He earned his bachelor's degree in 1995 and enjoyed a long career in Information Technology at the Federal Center in Battle Creek, Michigan. Many of the projects he worked on involved Pentagon oversight or required secret clearance.

In time, Chris was blessed to meet the love of his life, Carol, whom he found stunning. Instantly smitten with one another, the couple soon realized they shared the same birthday; though born in different years, they always got a laugh out of sharing this fun fact with others. Chris and Carol were happily married in 2011 in the rectory chapel at St. Catherine of Siena Parish. Chris treasured being Carol's husband and was proud of his children, Tim, Tracie, and Brian. Adopting Carol's adult son, Brian, as his own became an important and symbolic moment for both of them.

Chris and Carol built their marriage on the firm foundation of their unwavering faith; having God present in their lives was paramount. Outgoing at church, Chris served as a eucharistic minister, lector, and altar server. He helped train the younger servers and also assisted Carol with her duties as sacristan, including setting up for Sunday Mass.

A man who relished life's simple pleasures, Chris enjoyed family gatherings, woodworking, and time outdoors. For Christmas, he cooked his signature prime rib coated in his secret horseradish sauce on the rotisserie, which his family loved. He also enjoyed playing marbles or Cut Throat with his family. Woodworking in his garage was another joy. He made his own kitchen cabinets, built fences and trellises for his garden, and made special items on request for his friends. Chris loved the outdoors and countless hours were spent fishing around Portage in the folding boat, on which he would install benches on each trip. It wasn't fancy, but it got them on the water and helped them catch plenty of crappie and bass. When the motor would conk out, they'd have to paddle in.

Gardening was Chris' biggest passion after retiring. He grew fresh herbs and vegetables that he loved to tend, harvest, and make into dinner. He especially loved growing squash and tomatoes and had a great time helping his neighbor build her own garden. A wonderful chef, he lovingly made many Italian family recipes handed down through generations. For a time, he had a beehive to support the pollination of the garden. Sadly, a neighbor sprayed on their side of the fence, killing the bees. In more recent years, his garden fed the deer more than the family.

As we celebrate Chris' life, may we find much comfort in our many treasured memories. May we also find comfort in carrying Chris' legacy of unwavering faith, generosity, and kindness forward. In each moment we lead with our hearts, confidently solve life's puzzles, serve others, tend to our garden, enjoy gathering for a home-cooked meal, and fish in local waters with our beloved, we keep Chris' memory alive and inspiring others as he so inspired each of us.

Christopher Keuhlen of Portage, age 74, died on July 4, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Carol; and his brother, Phil Keuhlen. Surviving are his children: Tim Keuhlen, Tracie Keuhlen, and Brian Henderson; siblings: Danny Keuhlen, Joe Keuhlen, Larry Keuhlen, Rosy (Ken) DiPrimo, and Susie (Jim) Gadd; and several nieces and nephews.

Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, July 22, at 11 AM at St. Catherine of Siena Parish. Visitation will begin one hour prior. Burial will follow at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Celebrate Chris' life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Catherine of Siena Parish. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900.