Traverse City, Michigan - Christopher "Chris" Jaymes (born Jaratz), 66, of Traverse City, MI, passed away August 27, 2025.

Chris's life was defined by faith, family, and dedication. A lifelong student of the Bible, he showed his early faith as an altar boy at St. Francis Church, guided by integrity, humility, and leadership. A standout athlete at St. Francis HS, Chris excelled in four sports: football MVP, track (sprinter/hurdler), basketball point guard, and versatile baseball player, helping lead teams to state championships in '73 and '74. He trained independently and embraced physical challenge through skiing, cycling, ice skating, and swimming. Chris grew up playing the violin and reading poetry, loving music and literature.

Chris honed his talents at Michigan Tech and the University of Montana (forestry/football). He became a natural resource technician and advocate for sustainable forestry, including international work in Brazil, where he taught himself Portuguese. Locally, he contributed to vineyards, organic growing, livestock and crop care, surveying, painting, construction, roofing, landscaping, and lawn care, demonstrating skill, craftsmanship, and stewardship throughout his life.

A devoted Boy Scouts leader and baseball coach with TC American Legion, he mentored youth athletes, attended camps and sporting events, volunteered at track meets, and loved spending time with his sons. An outdoorsman at heart, he loved hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, motorcycling, and dogs. Known for his wit and humor, he brought warmth to every room. Chris was also an independent investigative journalist. His influence touched athletes, scouts, friends, and family, leaving a lasting impact through the lessons he taught and the teams he coached.

Chris's legacy lives on through his sons and the many lives he touched as a coach, mentor, and friend. He lived with quiet conviction, discipline, and humilityand at the heart of who he was, Chris loved the Bibleand the Victory of the Resurrectionand the promise it brings to all of creation.