Christopher Robert Cope

A Tribute and Toast to Chris Cope

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Christopher Robert Cope, 53, on December 6th 2024; surrounded with love by his wife, Traci, and children, Sky, Star (James), and Paxton (Bri). Born on April 26th 1971, Chris lived a life filled with tremendous love and passion for family, friends, and adventure. 

The roots of our family tree are grounded with Chris. He was the very best husband, the very best father, and our very best friend. We counted on him for sound advice, we turned to him when we needed problems fixed, he guided us effortlessly to be the best version of ourselves, and he was the keeper of all of our everlasting jokes. Chris was our navigator – always guiding us to approach life with calmness, directing us to find our way out of traffic jams, and always navigating us to a new restaurant, brewery, adventure, or fun time. Chris leaves an indelible stamp on our hearts and he will forever be our true north.

Chris was very dedicated and took pride in his work. He was perfectly matched for his career in the hospitality industry. From Clubhouse Manager at Robert Trent Jones Golf Course, General Manger at Waterford Receptions, Clubhouse Manager and Director of Food and Beverage at Kinloch Golf Course, to Assistant General Manager at Lake Toxaway Country Club, his ability to make meaningful connections with anyone that met him was truly remarkable. He had the incredible gift to anticipate what would make you smile and he shared that gift generously. 

His legacy lives on with his family. Chris was a loving husband and father who found enjoyment in sharing all his many passions with us and imparting us with a neverending sense of exploration. From baseball card collecting, to camping and hiking trips, to Geocaching, to Jimmy Buffett concerts, to golfing, to Capitals games, to fantasy baseball and football leagues, and to new beer releases, his passions flowed through all of us. Chris encouraged us all to grow, to take the next step, and chase the horizon. Whether it was blazing a trail, opening our palates, making that unexpected detour, or leading the family to his latest discovery; he showed us all that life is better when you take the road less traveled.

A tribute and toast to Chris will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 at Väsen Brewing (3331 W Moore St. Richmond, VA 23230) from 6-9PM. Chris was a T-Shirt guy. He loved to buy a new shirt whenever he attended a concert or while visiting a cool place. Show up as you are! T-Shirts and jeans are encouraged. Please share this with others that might like to know. In lieu of flowers, if you would like to make a donation, some places dear to our hearts are, Duke Cancer Center, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and The AIDS Foundation.