Christopher Michael Spurgeon

MISSOULA - Chris Spurgeon's spirit left his earthly body on June 14th for the ultimate backcountry ski adventure.

Christopher Michael Spurgeon, 37, of Missoula was born to Susan (Burton) Spurgeon and Mike Spurgeon on November 16, 1972 in Spokane, WA. Chris grew up in Lewistown, MT, where he attended school, graduating from Fergus High School in 1991. Chris attended the University of Mary, Bismarck, ND, for 4 years, and the Radiologic Technology Program at St. Patrick's Hospital, Missoula, MT, for 2 years. In 1997 Chris began his work in the field of diagnostic imaging as a RT/CT/MRI Technologist. Chris has been employed at St. Patrick's Hospital since 1998.

At a young age, Chris began his trek of athleticism, striving to do his personal best in swimming, downhill skiing, motorcycle racing, basketball, football, baseball and water skiing. After 2 years of playing college football, Chris discovered mountain biking, long distance trail running, exploring back roads on his motorcycle, hunting, gardening, and his greatest love, backcountry skiing. Chris embraced the outdoors, absorbing the beauty of nature with respect and appreciation. He was a gentle person, enjoying a simple life style, whether alone or with close friends.

Chris is survived by his mother, Susan, Missoula; father, Mike (Yayoi) Great Falls; brother and best friend Rick, Missoula; Grandmothers, Maxine Burton and Rae Landru; Grandfather, Gayle (Chris) Spurgeon; Aunts: Sherry (Doug) Cramer; Terry (Richard) Hinderer; Shelley Andrus. Uncles: Sam (Jackie) Burton; Rory (Leslie) Spurgeon: David and Alan (Mary Jo) Landru; Cousins: Tiffany (Bodie), Dusty (Jennea), Lindsey, Carli, Destiny, Stephanie (Shawn), Ashley, Brooke (Marcus), Sammy, and Mavryk; and many friends.

Chris was preceded in death by his Grandfathers, Sam Burton, Sr. and Bob Landru as well as a close friend, Cal Williams.

The family has suggested that memorials be made to Wilderness Watch or Five Valleys Land Trust in Missoula. Memories of Chris can be shared at cspurgeon.blogspot.com.