Christopher Lynch

Christopher Robin Lynch was born on April 21, 1966, in Ottumwa, Iowa to Mike and Judy Lynch. He passed away on January 20, 2022 in Pella, Iowa, surrounded by family and friends who loved him dearly.

A graduate of Ottumwa High School’s Class of ‘84, Chris enrolled at Iowa State University in the ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps). Upon graduating with honors with a Bachelor Degree in History, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army.

During eight-year’s active duty, Chris completed Rotary Wing Flight School and served as a Medevac helicopter pilot at Fort Hood, Fort Rucker, Fort Sill, Fort Riley, and overseas in Seoul, South Korea.

Chris met Amy Shockley while attending ISU, and they were married on March 3, 1990 in Vinton, Iowa. In April of 1992, Chris and Amy welcomed their first child, Deckar Andrew Lynch. Four years later they welcomed their second child, Mallory Susan, into their family.

In 1996 Chris completed his military service at the rank of Captain, moved his family to Pella, and began his career with Vermeer Manufacturing. A fiercely loyal employee, Chris devoted himself to Vermeer and became widely known for his work-ethic, willingness to travel, and charismatic personality.

Diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis in 2001, Chris battled the affliction with courage, poise, and a sense of humor second to none. He was fond of telling others that he didn’t suffer from MS, but that MS suffered from him.

Chris, known by many as ‘The Stallion,’ was also known as Vergon, Emperor of Dragons, and the world’s first 18th Level Ninja of Tongular Flippage. He was also a founding member of The Calaveras Crew, The Moose Club, A Book Club without books, and The Pella Country Club.

Chris is survived by his parents, Mike and Judy Lynch, Amy, his former spouse and the mother of his children, his beloved children; Deckar and Mallory, siblings; Michaela, Sean, Shane, and Kevin, nieces; Brynne Lynch, Megan Tarantino, Lauren and Gwen Konchar, and nephew; Owen Lynch.

It was Chris’s wish to be remembered as a loving father, family member, devoted friend, and a man who faced each day, however challenging, with an earnest smile.