Christopher Leif Columbus

It is with deep sorrow we announce that Christopher Leif Columbus, dedicated husband, loving father of five, and friend of many, unexpectedly passed at home in Chesterland, Ohio, on October 28th, 2022 at the age of 72. Chris was born on January 10th, 1950, in Olean, New York, to parents Howard Cletus and Elizabeth Jane Columbus. He is survived by his brothers Philip (Donna) and Robert (Jane).

Chris met the love of his life, Michelle Gemme, in Tonawanda during the summer of 1971 and married on June 24th, 1972. He is survived by his wife of 50 years and their five children, Nicole (Terry Foxworth), Jennifer (Andrew Wood), Amanda (Zander Schaus), Christopher, and Beau (Sarah). Chris was also a proud Grandfather of nine and a Great Grandfather of one, and had many nieces and nephews, and grand nieces and nephews. As a canine crusader Chris often had a menagerie of furry friends and is also survived by his black lab Hoser. Chris was an athletic kid starting his sports career early as a proud member of the “Ives Boys” playing hockey on frozen Ives Pond taking on all new comers from the surrounding towns. His high school Tennis skills would eventually pay off leading to a partial college scholarship. He continued his athletic endeavors on the golf course and in bowling leagues.

Chris attended primary school in Tonawanda, New York, before attending Union College in Barbourville, Kentucky (across from Booger Mountain). After college, Chris began delivering bread in the greater Niagara Falls area before establishing himself as a seasoned salesman in the steel industry leading him and his family to Charlotte, North Carolina, Greenville, South Carolina, Marietta, Georgia, and ultimately Chesterland, Ohio where he retired in 2015. He enjoyed his career’s perk of traveling around the country which also allowed him to work on his golf game. After retirement he pursued glory and prosperity in as my scratch off lottery tickets his wife would allow and continued his lifelong commitment to the Sabers and Buffalo Bills while fishing as often as possible, playing cards with the neighbors, and traded in his amateur BBQ skills to become a fine connoisseur of everything candy and ice cream.

Chris had a way of lightening the mood of any room he entered with his outgoing personality, carefree attitude, and a ridiculous sense of humor. He loved Billy Joel concerts and listening to artists such as John Denver, Heart, and Celtic Woman to name a small selection.

“I’m not lost” could often be heard as Chris eventual discovered where he was going. Chris was a proud Columbus, always supporting his historic family heritage in any way possible. Around Columbus Day, he was frequently featured in the local newspapers discussing his family’s historic ties. A longtime member of the Knights of Columbus he loved collecting all Columbus memorabilia. He loved exploring and educating anyone that would listen about the significance of 1492.

Family and friends may call at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland on Saturday, November 19, 2022, 1:00 – 3:30 pm, where a Prayer service will follow at 3:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may also be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation at

t2t.org" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">t2t.org or per Chris's wish, scratchers can be sent to Michelle (but maybe look at t2t.org first).