Christopher Richard Chayra

On May 9, 2023 Christopher left his earthly body and went to be with God and his own family already in heaven. Our hearts are broken here, but we know he is at peace and in no more pain, welcomed and surrounded by those who love him.

Chris was born on December 28, 1969 in Sacramento, CA. He was a happy, easy child and loved soccer, school and Rolls Royces! Moving to Santa Barbara when he was 11, he attended 6th grade, junior and high school in Goleta. Motorcycles became a passion and he owned many throughout his life. He was probably happiest when riding and enjoying the speed!

He worked at a number of different jobs in Santa Barbara and Las Vegas where he lived for a few years. He was a natural organizer and loved it when things ran smoothly and looked neat. When he was a young child the employees of a local grocery store loved to have him visit as he would move through the aisles arranging shelves and making sure all the labels were facing exactly forward!

Unfortunately, Chris was one of millions of alcoholics in the US. He battled the vicious disease for many years. We are so proud of him and his successes as he struggled to overcome it. He graduated from the year inhouse program at Santa Barbara Rescue Mission and was sober for 5 years after that. He had found the Lord and Emmanuel Lutheran gave him the spiritual support he needed too. Then his life circumstances changed and he relapsed, with his passing being the result.

He is survived by his parents, Richard and Melinda Chayra, his sister, Dina (Gregg) Meisel of Ventura, and nephew, Harrison. He also is mourned by so many other family members as well as friends all over the state. They have been a huge support for us as we manage a parent’s and sibling’s worst nightmare.

Services will be private. Donations can be made in Chris’ memory to the Santa Barbara Rescue Mission, 535 E Yanonali St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103.