Christopher John Walsh
November 2, 1962 ~ February 8, 2024
Born in:
Wyandotte, Michigan
Resided in:
Marietta, Georgia
Christopher John Walsh, cherished son, beloved husband, devoted father, and esteemed colleague passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 8, 2024, at the age of 61. Chris was preceded in death by his parents, James and Maureen Walsh.
Chris was a man of subtle wit, known for his dry sense of humor and his ability to bring laughter to any situation. He was a loving son and a steadfast presence in the lives of his siblings, Jim and Lisa. Chris treasured his family deeply and was always there to offer his support and guidance.
Chris was born in Wyandotte, Michigan, on November 2, 1962, and spent his formative years in Hudson, Ohio. Always a standout in sports, Chris was both starting quarterback and starting pitcher in high school, continuing when the family moved to Jacksonville, Florida his Junior year.
That led him to the University of Florida, where Chris graduated and remained a proud Gator. He then ventured to Chicago, where he met the love of his life, Vickie Pankow, who at the time worked in the shoe industry. The couple moved to Jacksonville, Florida and married in 1988.
While there, Chris began his 26 year career with Reebok, which in 1991 brought them to Marietta, Georgia. In 2013 he joined Mizuno and then Crocs, where he continued to make significant contributions and built lasting relationships.
Finding their permanent home in Marietta, Chris and Vickie started their family, welcoming their sons Brady and then Riley. Chris was dedicated to instilling valuable life lessons in his boys. Through coaching and mentoring, he imparted essential values and encouraged his sons to strive for excellence both on and off the field. He was immensely proud of both of his sons’ achievements in sports and in life.
Chris was actively involved in his community and was beloved in his neighborhood, always ready to join the local kids as the designated pitcher or quarterback. He found joy in playing golf and tennis, winning the ALTA city championships as a proud member of the neighborhood’s mens and mixed doubles tennis teams.
He is survived by his loving wife, Vickie; cherished sons, Brady and Riley; daughter-in-law, Jordan; siblings, Jim and Lisa; extended family, and a multitude of dear friends and colleagues who will forever hold him in their hearts.
Funeral services will be held at Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, 4814 Paper Mill Road, Marietta, Georgia, on Tuesday, February 13th at 2:00 p.m. followed by a celebration of Chris’ life at the family home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New York’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in his honor.
Chris’s presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. May he rest in peace, knowing he made a lasting impact on the world and those he loved.
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Vickie:
Chris is a treasured friend. The times we had together I will always keep fondly with me. These are difficult times for us all and especially the Walsh family, but the memories and the love you shared will hopefully ease some your pain. God speed.
Stuart
We didn’t get to know Chris and Vickie until 2013 at GSU baseball. We were the parents of room mates Brandon and Brady . Chris knew how to control a dinner table. His coy wit always amazed me. It was a little indescribable. He left a perfect legacy with his family. We will be here for you when you need us. Love you Vickie, Brady, Jordan, and Riley.
So sorry for your loss. Wish we had the opportunity to get to know him better. Sounds like a fun and loving brother, husband and father. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Patty and John
Patty and I offer our heart felt and deepest sympathy for your family!
I am very sorry for your loss. I know it’s cliche, but you all are in my thoughts and prayers during this very sad and difficult time, but I know your celebration of Chris’ life will bring much joy and laughter.
I did not personally know Chris, but I know with Lisa as a friend that she looked up to and cherished her brother Chris immensely. I’ve seen the commitment, love, guidance she has given to her nephews over the years on a constant basis. Know that Jimmy and I are thinking of you all and are in our hearts at this difficult time.
Vickie & Jimmy Smith
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. He was, like you, a gracious host and brought so much joy and laughter to his friends. I will have fond memories of him. Sending you strong hugs my friend.
May all of the loving memories bring you peace, comfort, and strength TODAY and ALWAYS!
I will remember Chris for the Wonderful Father, Husband, Brother, and Friend that he was!
Sending my Love and Deepest Sympathy to you and your family. ❤️🙏
Chris was my best partner at Mizuno. Every word in his obituary is so true. What I really admired about him was his focus on developing the people around him. But most importantly, he was a true family man. He always talked about his sons and Vickie. I will keep your big smile in my memory forever. You are gone way too early my friend.
Praying for the Walsh family. Wonderful memories of Chris as an amazing father.
Vickie – I am so sorry to learn of Chris’ passing. Our prayers will be with you and the boys during this difficult time. Please let me know if there is anything you need.
It is an honor to have known Chris and work with him at Reebok. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing. I pray that Vickie, Brady and Riley and his find peace and comfort in all their wonderful memories of him. He is truly an unforgettable man.
SO many great memories of Chris and the Walsh family and Gonzalez family, where/how to begin and end! Reebok- Chris hiring Jennifer and being such a great mentor and role model! Of course, Jennifer winning a Mini Cooper at a Reebok sales meeting-Wow! ALTA Tennis- Chris and Jennifer teaming up many summer/winter seasons . US Open/NYC- so much fun together watching tennis w Vickie and you! Of course, forever endebted to Chris for introducing us to both Primola and Campagnola! Now 2 of my favorite NYC restaurants. Golf- so much fun playing golf together and you sharing your Scotland/Ireland golf trip tips! Baseball- with baseball such a big part of both of our families, sharing baseball stories and watching games together such great memories! RIP Chris Walsh, you were a GREAT husband, GREAT father and GREAT friend and will not be forgotten!
We are so sorry to hear of Chris’ passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. I hope you can find comfort in all your wonderful memories of an amazing husband and father who will not be forgotten!
Vicki, Brady and Riley So sorry for your loss!
Chris was a dear friend and colleague, with such passion for family, friends and life! Working with him for years was so special to me.
The Pierce Family thoughts and prayers are with you.
RIP Chris !
Vickie, Brady, Riley…thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad and difficult time.
We’ll all miss Chris, his quick wit, big heart, and life of the party demeanor. I learned much from Chris, not only business, but life lessons as well. Being on Walsh’s team proved challenging as he drove hard to grow the business but also to get the most out of every teammate, he pushed us to perform at a high level. Chris was a great coach who was incredibly loyal, supportive and protective of his team. I’m often reminded of Chris, he had a lasting impact on me both personally & professionally. We’ve been together in board rooms, on ski lifts, golf courses, road trips, gyms and dozens of great restaurants. Chris will be missed but the affect he had on many of us will live on. RIP my friend.
My sincere condolences to the family, Chris and I met in college the year he attended Jacksonville University. Chris and I remained friends as we both chose the athletic industry for our careers. I got Chris his first job in the industry working for John Smith at Athletic Attic. Chris always had the best laugh I’ve ever heard. I’m sure that laugh will be remembered by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
Jeff and I send our condolences to you, your family, and friends. We are praying for you all during this most difficult time.
Stephanie and Jeff White
I am so sorry to hear this news. Chris was one of a kind and had an energy that I will never forget. He brought a smile to many of us that worked with him at Mizuno.
My deepest condolences for the entire Walsh family. It has been years since I have had the pleasure of being in Chris’s presence. Much time was spent at the Walsh homestead in Jacksonville. Our JU times were filled with boating, water-skiing, bbq’s & laughter. Chris was always such a kind, sweet soul. I can still hear his laugh. It’s apparent he became a beloved husband, father, friend & family man. May he rest peacefully.