James Chris Kilchenman

James Chris Kilchenman, 62, of New Philadelphia, passed unexpectedly on Sunday, October 18, 2015 following a sudden illness.

A son of the late Fred “Fritz” Kilchenman and the late Margaret “Jean” (Roenbaugh) Kilchenman, Chris was born October 31, 1952 at Dover, Ohio.

Chris was a 1971 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and then attended Babson College in Massachusetts. He was employed by Fenton Brothers Electric as a salesman for the past 32 years.

He enjoyed playing golf whenever possible, as well as spreading laughter with his wit. Most of all, he cherished his family and was especially fond of the “back porch chats” with his wife and two sons.

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda (Hites) Kilchenman whom he married on March 23, 1979; two sons, James R. Kilchenman of Xenia, Ohio and Andrew J. (Jessica) Kilchenman of Greenville, North Carolina; his siblings, Sarah Everett of Bolivar, Janie (companion, Brooks McCallister) Pritchard of St. Simons Island, Georgia and John (Willy) Kilchenman of Charlotte, North Carolina as well as many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2015 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. A funeral service celebrating Chris’ life will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home with Pastor Andy McClung and Pastor Max Canfield officiating. Burial will follow in Evergreen Burial Park at New Philadelphia. A luncheon will be held in the Geib Family Center at New Philadelphia following the committal service.

Contributions may be made in Chris’ memory to Community Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 221, Dover, OH 44622.