Tope, Christopher 'Chris' Robert

Christopher “Chris” Robert Tope, of St. Francis, Minn., and previously of Marion and Center Point, was born July 16, 1971. He was a loving father, husband, son and brother who passed on Oct. 16, 2009.

Services will be held Monday at Methven-Taylor Funeral Home in Anoka, Minn., with visitation at

11 a.m. and funeral services at 1 p.m. Chris will be wearing his favorite Hawaiian shirt and asks that you please do the same.

Chris deserves to be remembered for the spirit with which he lived his life. He had many interests: competitive bass fishing, piloting Cessna 150s, and cheering on his hero, #24, Jeff Gordon. He was a talented pianist who played from the heart. He made friends easily and had many from all walks of life. His frank communication skills were entertaining, and combined with his quick wit and the ability to see the best in people, made him someone you wanted to be around.

Chris showed the ultimate grace in his battle with ALS and was an inspiration to all around him. His untimely death has taken a good person but Chris' spirit will live on in all who had the privilege to know him.

He is survived by his wife Jennifer; son Joshua; and daughters Cassandra and Rachel. He is also survived by his parents Paul and Carol, brother Mike (Wendy Vick), and niece Sydney.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.