Donating in Memory of Christopher Heitman

Hi, my name is Alexis Ambrosino, Christopher Heitman's niece.

My uncle, Christopher Heitman, tragically lost his life on August 9th 2023, in a boating accident.

My uncle was so much more than just that- he was also a loving son, a brother, a best friend, a father figure, a life partner, a respected work colleague, and loved by all who got the pleasure of knowing him.

Our family wants to celebrate his life for what he truly deserves and to say our last goodbyes- to honor his memory and very special, full-of-life spirit, so we can try to begin this very long healing journey.

We are asking for donations to help cover the cost of Chris's memorial. His unforeseen death has left my family facing unimaginable hardships to try to properly grieve his loss, one being navigating this financially. His parents, Pat and Bill, are already under a mass amount of stress mourning the loss of their youngest child and only son. Raising this money would be a large gesture that will go a very long way, helping alleviate one obstacle on this road of grief and healing.

Our goal is to raise $10,000 before his services on August 31st, 2023. A little bit goes a long way.

Chris was passionate about many things, such as being a dedicated and versatile cameraman, ranging from filming professional sports, concerts, the news, parades, and so much more. He loved taking on new creative projects, such as making our beach bikes or his cherished famous jeep and truck become the talk of the town, spending time adventuring with his girlfriend and her son, and being the source of entertainment at our family gatherings. But Chris especially had a way with the water, where he loved to take his boat out and fish. The only thing that has attempted to bring my family and I solace is that Chris died doing what he deeply loved.

It is time to show my uncle love the way he did for all of us- whether that was through lending a helping hand, giving the best advice, cracking a much-needed joke, and bringing light, love, and laughter into every situation. If you were lucky enough to know my uncle, you know he has the biggest heart and knew how to live and love in ways that inspired others.

Our hearts are broken in ways I cannot explain. We all keep wishing we will see you pull up on your bike or truck, and light up the room again. Although we can't bring you back, you have my promise that we will all come closer together from this tragedy and show up the way you showed up for us. We love you so much. We miss you so much. Life will never be the same without you here. But we will let your unmatched bright and positive spirit shine through each and every one of us daily to celebrate your legacy forever.

Please shed some love on his parents Pat and Bill, his sisters Jackie, Patricia, and Theresa, his girlfriend Shanette and her son Logan, and the rest of our family and Chris's many friends, during this unimaginable time.

Anything helps. Thank you.

EDIT: 8/17/23

Thank you to everyone who donated! I wish I could individually thank every one of you, but there are too many who chose to show up for my family and I- my uncle would be so so appreciative of you all lending a helping hand like he did for all of us. Your kindness does not go unnoticed. Just know, my family and I are forever thankful to see how many of you loved my uncle, and support us during this really tough time.

Here is the link to Chris's obituary, heart-warming memories, and an intimate capture on who Chris really was inside and out- beautifully written by my aunt, Jackie, as well as details of his services for 8/31.

https://www.spilkerfuneralhome.com/m/obituaries/Christopher-Heitman/Memories

Thank you all so much again.