Christopher Robert Budinger

You are my bestest friend in the whole world Chris. I hope to see you again. -Patrick

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As many of you know, my brother Chris has been a Cancer survivor most of his adult life. After beating Hodgkins Lymphoma at age 29, he had 10 great years, but eventually the long-term effects of the radiation and chemo caught up to him, The damage to his lungs and heart caused a couple of very scary health incidents seven years ago, including a near-death experience, which helped him understand that death is not scary- in fact, he knew it would be awesome. Around the same time, our dad's health was failing here in Wisconsin, where Tim, Sarah and I moved in 2007, moving our parents nearby. Since Chris could no longer work, I asked him to come help with Dad, and he came to live with us. His help during Dad's final year was incredible. We would not have survived that period without Chris, and he is the reason that Dad was able to live at home until he died. Chris was a valued part of our home. He cooked restaurant-quality meals for us almost every night and taught my daughter Sarah and me so much about cooking, He taught me to paint, and could fix anything around and outside of our home. I never failed to be amazed at all he knew and could do. The last couple of years, his health really begain to decline, with ongoing lung and heart problems, more difficulty doing what he wanted and needed to do because of his breathing, and repeated hospitalizations. Despite his personal challenges, he continued to do what he could to help around the house, and he kept us entertained with his unique sense of humor and his knowledge of almost everything under the sun. I'm amazed that he was never bitter and never felt sorry for himself. He just kept going, with hope for the future until the very end. Two and a half weeks ago, Chris went into the hospital for pneumonia. He was sicker than he had ever been before. He received excellent care, but despite everything, his breathing problems didn't get better. However, I thought I would be able to take him home with the use of a breathing machine at night, and just a few days ago we were getting all prepared for this. However, on Thursday morning the nurses could not wake him up, no matter what they did. Knowing his history and what he wanted, we opted for comfort rather than ICU, but with more use of the breathing machine. This helped temporarily, and a few hours later, he was feeling well enough to have lunch with me, sitting on the edge of the bed. He was talking, in a great mood. But then things started to change, and a few hours later we knew then end would come sooner than any of us expected. From Thursday evening until Saturday morning, Tim and I stayed with Chris in the hospital to ensure his comfort and his peace. I think of what I did as being his fierce protector, making sure he got what he needed as quickly as possible when he could not speak for himself, and I feel that we did everything we could to anticipate his needs, promote his comfort and support his dignity right up until the end. Chris passed away peacefully at 1:20 am CST on April 18, 2015 with me and Tim by his side, and knowing that so many of you loved him. I need to thank a number of people who were a great support during this time. My wonderful husband Tim, Chris' brother-in-law, was awesome, staying with me at the hospital for 2 nights, getting me food and fresh clothing, supporting me when I got stressed, and watching out for him when I had to sleep or take a bathroom break. Tim's sister April took Sarah into our home and cared for our pets. And our dear Sarah was an ongoing source of love and support. She had a very special relationship with and appreciation for her Uncle Chris, as a child can only do growing up in the same home with an extended family member. The staff at University Hospital in here in Madison ere wonderful, and he received excellent care throughout his 15 days there. We miss him, and have many fond memories of him that we will cherish. I hope you will share your memories and pictures here or on his or my Facebook page.

I would like to express my sincere condolences to the loss of your loved one.In the scriptures Job 14:14,15 and John 5:28, God promises that he will resurrect our loved ones in the near future .I hope that Jehovah , the God of comfort grant you peace. If you have any questions visit www.jw.org

Chris was a stand-up guy. He faced a lot of head-winds but never stopped doing all that he could to make life better for his family. I loved the Easter meal that he fixed, and admired his knowledge of all things practical. You were lucky to have Chris, and he was lucky to have you. Your homage reminded me of how you and Tim and Sarah cared for my mother. You three gave them the opportunity to live meaningful lives to the end. Thank you. Sarah, I'm so sorry for you. You've lost a lot in the last few years. I'm glad that Chris and your Grandpa Budinger and Grandma Susan had you around them to brighten their days, and I hope that whenever you feel sad you you can close your eyes and think about their arms around you.