Christopher Roy Schultheis, known affectionately as Chris to all who had the pleasure of crossing his path, embarked on his final adventure on October 4, 2024. Born on a chilly winter's day in 2001 in East China, Michigan, Chris's journey through life was anything but cold. His warm, vivacious spirit left a lasting impression on everyone he met, and his departure from Westland, Michigan, has left a void that can only be filled with the laughter and joy he so freely shared.

Chris was the epitome of a family man, wearing the titles of husband to his adoring wife, Heaven, and father to his one-year-old son, Atlas, with pride that rivaled the Pepsi logo emblazoned on his ever-present swag. His family was his world, and he was their steadfast sun, around which all their love revolved. He was a cherished son, grandson, uncle, nephew, and, without a doubt, the best friend anyone could ask for.

Professionally, Chris was the guy who could sell ice to a polar bear—or in his case, Pepsi to a Coke drinker. His career as a sales representative for Pepsi Co. was fueled by his friendly and kind nature, making him a beloved figure not only within his company but also among his so-called competitors. Chris's ability to befriend anyone was legendary, and it was not uncommon to see him decked out in Pepsi attire, a walking, talking embodiment of the brand he represented with such gusto.

Growing up in Port Huron, Chris was the quintessential "happy-go-lucky" guy. His spontaneous, silly, and goofy demeanor was a breath of fresh air in a world that often takes itself too seriously. After a three-year stint in Crossville, Tennessee, he returned to Michigan, bringing his infectious laughter to Detroit and Westland. Chris was a man of many passions: airplanes, cars, trains, history, video games, animals, food, and whiskey. But if you asked him what he loved most, without skipping a beat, he'd say his son, Atlas, with a twinkle in his eye that rivaled the stars.

To describe Chris as loving, adventurous, and friendly is like saying the sky is blue—it's a given. He was the kind of guy who could turn a trip to the grocery store into an epic quest for the perfect snack. His love for life was as boundless as the open road, and he embraced every twist and turn with a grin that could light up the darkest of days.

Chris's legacy is one of laughter, love, and the kind of stories that will be told and retold at family gatherings for generations to come. He was a man who lived life to the fullest, never missing an opportunity to make a memory or crack a joke. His spirit, as free and joyful as a child chasing bubbles, will continue to inspire those he left behind.

As we bid farewell to Christopher Roy Schultheis, let us remember the echoes of his laughter, the warmth of his embrace, and the mischievous sparkle in his eye. He may have taken his final bow, but the curtain will never close on the impact he made in our hearts. Chris, you were a one-of-a-kind original, and the world is a little less bright without you. Keep the heavens chuckling, and save us a seat at the table for when we meet again.

A celebration of life will take place on Halloween, October 31, 2024. Please check back for updates regarding the location and times.

"Through the long nights, I will be right

There for you if you drift too far

I'll leave a light on for you." (Leave a light on by Papa Roach)

"Fill my heart with song

Let me sing for ever more

You are all I long for

All I worship and adore

In other words, please be true

In other words, in other words

I love you." (Fly me to the moon by Count Basie and Frank Sinatra)

"We laugh until we think we'll die, barefoot on a summer night

Nothing new is sweeter than with you

And in the streets, we run afree, like it's only you and me

Geez, you're something to see" (Home by Edith Whiskers)

"You load 16 tons, what do you get?

Another day older and deeper in debt

St. Peter, don't you call me 'cause I can't go

I owe my soul to the company store" (Sixteen Tons by Tennesse Ernie Ford)