Union, Oregon
Christofer C. Bertels, 36, of Salem and formerly of Union, Baker and La Grande, died Nov. 6 at Salem Hospital in Salem. A memorial service will begin at 2 p.m. Friday at the Assembly of God Harvest Church, 3720 Birch St., Baker City.
Chris was born Sept. 3, 1971, in La Grande. He was raised in Union and later attended Baker Valley Christian Academy in Baker City. Chris received an associate’s degree from Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton, and continued his education at the University of Idaho in Moscow. Chris worked for the State of Oregon Insurance Division in Salem.
Chris had a wide range of interests – he knew military history and could quote lines from hundreds of movies. Chris was an excellent bowler and won a number of trophies and rings for perfect games. Chris enjoyed his silver Mustang, on-line gaming and traveling with his good friend, Gail Jones (“Jonesee”).
Those who knew him say he will be remembered for his humor, kindness, generosity and sense of adventure.
Chris is survived by his wife, Jennifer of Salem; mother, Barbara of Pendleton; father and stepmother, George and Virginia of Island City; brother, Scott Bingham of Union; sister-in-law, Beth Bingham of Hillsboro; and nephew and niece, who were like siblings to Chris, Sgt. Tony Bingham of the U.S. Army and Sarah Mwango of Hillsboro. Chris’ great-niece Malaika was born Nov. 8.
La Grande Observer – Obituaries for the week ending November 17, 2007 – Published: November 17, 2007
