Christopher Ohlsen

Christopher Ohlsen, “Big Chris” 76, of Malone, NY, passed away Sunday, March 19, 2023, from complications related to congested heart failure, at the UVM-CVPH Medical Center with his loving family by his side. He was born in New York City on July 24, 1946, the son of James and Jane (Wilson) Ohlsen. He was a proud 100% Disabled American Veteran, who joined the United States Army in November 1966. He completed 2 tours of the Vietnam War and came home upon an honorable discharge in July 1971. While serving he was a light vehicle driver and a cook. He earned the following medals and commendations: Sharp-shooter M-16, National Defense Service Medal, Marksman Rifle, Marksman Carbine, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

He met Deborah Agnew in August 1978 and the two were married in 1980. They would have celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary on July 26th of this year.

Chris’ greatest joy in life was enjoying music of all kinds but especially live country. He imparted this love to his children and grandchildren by playing old records for them, introducing them to different musical instruments and bringing them to live performances. His favorite instrument was the acoustic guitar which he would play for hours at a time. Chris also loved cooking and he and his kids spent lots of time over the years experimenting with recipes. Chris enjoyed fishing and camping in the summers. He and his family would stay at all of the area National Parks every summer. In his younger days he would love to go for long runs outside in the early mornings and evenings. Chris had a great love of life and fondly expressed his appreciation for everyone’s talents and efforts, even when others might find them insignificant. Chris had a way of making everyone feel noticed, special and appreciated.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah, their children; Cezniea Hymowech and her husband Steve, Christopher Shawn Ohlsen and his co-parent Naomi Mitchell, Naomi Leach and her co-parent Jason, Taran Ohlsen, Brittany Ohlsen and her life-partner Nate Geschwind; his grandchildren; Ashton and Novina (Nina) Hallmark, Mae Hymowech, Isaiah, Milo and Jimmy Ohlsen, Emmerson, Juliet and William Leach, and Brittany and Nate are newly expecting; and his sisters Karen Ohlsen and Katie (Bob) Zuckerman.

He is predeceased by his parents; his brothers James Jr. (Bim), John William (Billy), and Vincent Edward; and his daughter Shanon Caroline.

Visitation will be Wednesday, March 22, 2023 from 11:00-1:00pm at the Brown Funeral Home, Plattsburgh. Funeral services will follow in the funeral home chapel with Military Honors. A potluck funeral reception will be held immediately following the service, at 5143 US Avenue, Plattsburgh, courtesy of family friend Marie Elena Watson.

Arrangements are entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Plattsburgh. 518-561-3980, Online condolences may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeinc.com