Staunton Star - Times - Published in the Interest of the Staunton Community for Over 143 Years

Christopher M. Whitlock, 49, of Gillespie, Ill., died on Oct. 22, 2022, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Mo., surrounded by his family. Even through two battles with cancer and an accident that left him paralyzed, Chris exhibited an immense amount of courage in facing life’s challenges with a smile and stayed strong to the end. Chris was born on May 3, 1973, to Michael Whitlock and Darlene Robinson Gregory.

He pursued a career in animal agriculture, working most recently for Jarden Farms in Bunker Hill as a farm manager where he oversaw dairy operations and also provided seasonal farming help. Chris enjoyed watching his son, Jason, play sports. He loved to spoil his nieces and nephews, too, and attended any t-ball and soccer games that he was able. Chris was an avid sports fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis Blues, and Pittsburgh Steelers. He also spent time helping with youth sports in the area, coaching little league football and wrestling. He was an umpire for youth sports and led the Gillespie JFL Mustangs football program for several years, and helped to create a youth wrestling program in Gillespie. In high school, Chris kept stats for the Gillespie Miners football team and the track and field program, helping run timers and keep stats during track meets.

Chris is survived by his mother, Darlene (Bernard) Gregory; father, Michael Whitlock (companion Brenda Hillhouse); son, Jason Whitlock; siblings, Kyle Gregory (Evelyn Farrell), Brittany (Matthew) Frizzo, Samantha (Shawn) Jack, Erin (John) Schwartz, Shane (Sonya) Gregory, Linda (William) Klopmeier, Don (Tricia) Gregory; and several nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Chris was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Richard Robinson and Rose Robinson; paternal grandparents, Earl and Fern Whitlock; and his aunt, Peggy Kahl.

Memorial services were held Saturday, Oct. 29, at United Methodist Church of Gillespie.

Memorials are suggested to Gillespie Miner Soccer Association or Gillespie JFL Mustangs organization. Condolences may be left online at http://www.kravanyafuneral.com. Kravanya Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.