Christopher Carl Warren

August 2, 1940 – March 20, 2026

Christopher Carl Warren (aka "Papa" and "Mr. Goofy"), age 84, of Lakeville, MN, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family, after a long and courageous battle with mesothelioma.

Chris was born on August 2, 1940, in Lima, Ohio, to Carl and Treva Warren.  He and his family eventually migrated to Pierre, South Dakota, where Chris graduated from high school.  It was at the Pierre High School where Chris met Kathleen (Kay) Eldridge, who would become the love of his life.  Chris and Kay married on September 3, 1959, in Fort Pierre, South Dakota. They later had two children, both born in Pierre: Jeffrey (April 16, 1960) and Lynda (born July 31, 1961).

Chris was a tireless provider for his family, training and working for many years as an electrician. He was a long-time member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).  Sadly, it was Chris' dedicated work on behalf of his family that led to his mesothelioma diagnosis and ultimately robbed him of his life. Early in his career, it was necessary for Chris and his family to move all over the country as Chris pursued jobs in the electrical field.  They lived for brief stints in North Dakota, Montana, Texas and Wisconsin.  In 1968, when both of their children had reached school-age, Kay insisted that they settle into one place.  They chose Rosemount, Minnesota, where they built a home and raised their family.

Chris treasured spending time with his family and friends, including his very good friends Pat Garofalo and Al Cornwell.  He adored his grandchildren.  He enjoyed auto racing, was a voracious reader and enjoyed listening to music, old-time country music being his favorite; "not that new stuff that sounds like rap" he'd say.  Chris could build or fix most anything, whether the task required electrical, carpentry, mechanical or plumbing skills.  After retirement, Chris and Kay spent their winters in Port Aransas, Texas, where they would share laughs and good times with their very close friends, John and Mary Krouser.  Chris loved life, making the most of his 85 years.  Among the last words he spoke were "life is a wonderful thing."  More than one person has described him as quiet, but having a definite presence.  He observed, listened and was always engaged in what was happening around him.

Chris is survived by his wife Kay, his children Jeff and Lynda, his grandchildren Elizabeth (Cyril) and Evan (Emily), his great-granddaughter Cecelia and his sisters Barb Poches and Kathy Knott.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents Carl and Treva, and his son-in-law Wally Nelson.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., at the White Funeral Home (14560 Pennock Avenue, Apple Valley, MN  55124), with a gathering of family and friends before beginning at 10:00 a.m.  Internment will follow at 12:45 p.m. at Resurrection Cemetery (2105 Lexington Avenue South, Mendota Heights, MN  55120).

In lieu of flowers, memorials to a charity of your choosing are preferred.