Christopher Rimmasch Bryson, beloved husband and father, returned to his Heavenly Father on Aug. 7, 2017, as a result of an automobile accident with a distracted driver. He was 35.
Born Dec. 27, 1981, his years on this earth were filled with adventure and laughter. A devoted friend, family man and colleague, Chris’ idea of a perfect day was playing with his kids, doing nerdy activities with his wife, reading books or watching prank videos on YouTube.
He had a way of making those around him feel special. He lived each day to the fullest.
Chris joined the Utah Air National Guard prior to high school graduation in 2000, distinctively becoming the first recruit of the new millennium. He served in the 151st Security Forces unit with his father Don. He chose security forces because he admired law enforcement, though his high ASVAB scores indicated he could perform any military job he wanted.
Chris also served a Spanish-speaking LDS mission in Guatemala, where he developed a deep love for the humble people. He wisely used his military service to facilitate higher education, first graduating with an associate degree from Salt Lake Community College and then completing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Utah.
His love of learning continued after graduation; a man with a curious and brilliant mind, he was constantly researching and delving into new topics. He worked as a talented and innovative engineer throughout his career, making friends and gathering wonderful people into our life. He recently became employed at Goal Zero where he experienced renewed passion for his work and made many meaningful connections.
He was a self-proclaimed nerd and loved video games and anything fantasy or sci-fi. He loved his Heavenly Father and Savior. He often professed the comforting words to his wife, “I just know our spirits are eternal.”
Chris met his soulmate, Chantel, at the age of 23 and pursued her with persistence and romance throughout their lives together. They married on June 14, 2008. Despite dealing with infertility, they were eventually blessed with three miracle babies.
He treated his wife and children with complete patience and tenderness, never in their lives together speaking a harsh word. He loved his family fiercely, and they will never stop loving him fiercely.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Heidi Rimmasch Bryson. He is survived by his wife, Chantel Beck-Bryson; his beautiful 4-year-old twin girls Rosalind and Liliana; his 8-month-old son, Ronan; his father, Don Bryson; brothers Steve (Sandy) and Andy (Pam) Bryson; as well as his sister, Elaine (Jordan) Miller. We don’t know what we will do without you Chris. To which you will humbly reply, “You’ll be fine.”
“When he shall die, take him and cut him out in little stars and he will make the face of heaven so fine that all the world will be in love with the night.” (Shakespeare)
Chris’ family would like to offer their most heartfelt thanks to those who were there in our darkest moments. Our thanks to the Utah Highway Patrol officers and other emergency personnel who worked the scene and delivered the news. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the Life Flight crew and trauma team at the University of Utah who worked tirelessly for hours trying to save Chris’ (trauma Caspian) life.
To the hospital chaplain and social workers, you helped us get through the worst of it. Appreciation to the 151st for their funeral and preparation services. We will always remember the kindness and compassion of all involved.
Services will be held at noon on Friday, Aug. 11, preceded by a viewing at 10 a.m. at the Stansbury Park Stake Center, 417 Benson Road, Stansbury Park, Utah.