Christopher Dale Wilken, 53, passed away at home with his loved ones after a courageous battle with cancer, on June 17, 2024. Chris was born on June 8, 1971 in Garden City, KS, to Dale Wilken and Joyce (Arwine) Triebold.
Chris was born and raised in Garden City, attended and graduated from local schools, and although he enjoyed living in Colorado Springs for 10 years, he was always really a Kansas man at heart.
As a self-employed carpenter, Chris was a master craftsman, building and remodeling numerous homes that will leave a beautiful and tangible legacy of his hard work in this community.
Outside of work, he was known for his musical talents, playing guitar with several local bands as well as jamming with family and friends. Chris has been a devoted follower of Steelers football since his youth. In recent years, he developed a passion for cookouts, often posting delicious pics for his online “fans” and enjoying the outdoor time with his family and dogs.
Chris was very charismatic and had a talent for using humor to get through hard times. His animated storytelling and humorous impressions never failed to bring a smile to family, friends, and work associates.
Chris is survived by his wife of 30 years- Rachel Wilken of Garden City;
children- Ayrika (Mitch) Watson, Jacquelyn Jewell, of Garden City and Alexander (Paige) Wilken of Taos, NM;
grandchildren- Karma, Amadeus, Scarlett, and Andi;
parents- Dale & Lois Wilken and Joyce & Mike Triebold;
siblings- Janelle Livingston, Cristin Smith, Kevin Wilken, and Wyatt Wilken.
A memorial service will be held at 11:30am Saturday June 22, 2024 at the Presbyterian Church in Garden City, Kansas with Chaplain Michael Gonzalez officiating. Guests are welcome to stop-by before the service to visit with the family from 10:30 to 11:30. The family would love for guests to bring a story or memory of Chris to share during the service. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Chris Wilken Memorial Fund in care of Garnand Funeral Home.