CHRISTOPHER NEILL McKNIGHT
Chris McKnight 50, of Bellaire, died Aug. 7, 2023 at Wheeling Hospital. He was born at the North Wheeling Hospital on March 18, 1973.
Chris graduated from Shadyside/JVS, St. Clairsville majoring in Math and Electronics in 1992. In 1994 he graduated from the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics, earning an Associates Degree in Specialized Technology as an Aeronautical Maintenance Technician. In 1995 Chris began his career with B.F. Goodrich Aerospace Paine Field in Everett, WA.
A global provider of aircraft annual inspections.
In 1996 Chris was hired by The Boeing Company, Paine Field, Everett, WA. He held a license for over 20 years as a Maintenance Tech. Specialist on Widebody Aircraft, 747, 757, 767, 777 and the newest 787 Dreamliner. Chris also worked as a ramp flight tech. for Alaska Airlines, SEA TAC International Airport.
Chris enjoyed skydiving, camping and snowboarding in the Cascade Mountains. His biggest passion was his love of Drag Racing. He held an NHRA membership and Competition Driver’s License and competed in many Events. He graduated from the Don Garlits Top Fuel School in Gainesville, FL. He dragged cars and motorcycles throughout Northwest Division Six.
Chris’ proudest achievement was winning the most sought after Trophy, the Wally.
He won two Motorcycle Championships in 2008 and again in 2010.
The latter was celebrated with his father and all the Wally Winners at the Awards Banquet in Seattle in Feb. 2011.
Chris was preceded in death by his grandparents, Vincent J. Boido and Louise L McKnight of Bridge- port and Lawrence M. and Helen (Roth) Willming of Martins Ferry. A truly good friend, Jason Meholovitch, of Bellaire and Chris’ beloved Boston Terrier, Spike.
Chris is survived by his parents, Charles A and Carol J. (Willming) McKnight of Shadyside, a very loving sister, Heather M. (Joey) Stewart of Bellaire and several family and friends.
Chris was baptized by Pastor Paul Heist at the St. John Lutheran Church, Martins Ferry.
Honoring Chris’ wishes, there will be no visitation. Private Service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Inurnment will be at Holly Memorial Gardens, Pleasant Grove OH near his great Grandparents, Clarence & Bertha (Thomas) McKnight.
Arrangements entrusted to Care Funeral Home & Cremation Specialists, St. Clairsville, OH. Sympathy expressions may be given at Care chapel.com.
Memorial contributions may be sent to Valley Hospice, Rayland, OH.
St. John 3:16