Obituary of Christopher Joseph Jarding

JARDING, Christopher Joseph

October 7, 1990 - October 29, 2021

Chris Jarding passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday, October 29, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer.

Chris began his exciting life’s journey on October 7, 1990 with parents Joel & Paula Jarding in Singapore.  They instilled in him the love of travel, moving to Jakarta, Indonesia, Houston, TX, and finally relocating to Calgary, AB in 1998 – the place he always called home.

Chris graduated from Bishop Grandin High School in 2009 and the University of Calgary in 2014 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Although he took his studies seriously, he was a firm believer in not letting school get in the way of his “education”.  Chris was always very bright, and to the delight of his parents developed the knack for understanding and solving complex problems.  He used these skills extensively, bringing integrity and ingenuity to the oil and gas industry, working the past seven years for Cenovus Energy in Cold Lake, AB, AECOM and then Flint Clearstream in Whitecourt, AB. 

While Chris always worked hard, he played even harder. He developed a love of playing sports and outdoor activities including baseball, hockey, lacrosse, softball, golf, snowboarding, skateboarding, boating, and wake surfing.  Those who were lucky enough to know him, best knew his softer side through country music. He could often be found shooting a game of pool while listening to his favorite songs and could get the crowd going with a mean karaoke version of Toby Keith.

Chris had a tremendous passion for life and put his heart and soul into everything he did, living life to the fullest.  He packed more memories into his 31 years than most others will ever do in an 80-year lifetime. His love for travel started early and he only became more adventurous with age. He loved to travel with friends, both those he brought with him and those he met along the way. His destinations included more than 25 states/provinces and about 20 different countries spanning the globe.  By far, his most memorable adventures were the several months spent in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica.

But more than anything in life, Chris loved spending time with his friends.  He was grateful to grow up with them, and he was immensely proud of the men they became. He was particularly honoured to stand alongside his buds as they became husbands and fathers. Chris was loyal and steadfast.  He frequently acted as the catalyst in planning their next adventure.  The family cabin in Montana became one of his favorite destinations, where he and his friends liked to snowboard, play pond hockey, golf, ride ATVs, wake surf, and just hang out creating lasting memories.

Chris is survived by his parents, Joel and Paula; his sister Ashley (Jeff Smith, San Jose, CA), and brother Nick (Denver, CO). He is also survived by dozens of loving aunts, uncles, and cousins from South Dakota, Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, Nevada, Michigan, Virginia, Iowa, Texas, Kansas, Spain, and Zimbabwe. Chris was predeceased by grandparents, Joe and Teresa Rieger (Aberdeen, SD), Ray and Helen Jarding (Alexandria, SD); and first cousin Michael Jarding (Alexandria, SD).

Chris loved life. The best way for us to honour him is to live every day to the fullest. We will be remembering him every day, and through a Celebration of Life held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Saturday, November 6, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.  Reception to follow at the Hospitality Centre. Those attending will be asked to confirm one of the following, (A) COVID vaccination (date requested), OR (B) a negative COVID test (within 72 hours), OR (C) Medical exemption AND valid government identification (with name & date of birth) OR (D) Under 12 years of age. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join via livestream (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed here.

The Christopher Jarding (“Jards”) Memorial Foundation Fund has been established to carry on Chris’ legacy and will support meaningful charities that exemplify his strong commitment toward education, teamwork/youth sports, and community.  In lieu of flowers, please consider a tax-deductible donation at chrisjardingfoundation.com.

In living memory of Christopher Jarding, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.

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