Columbus Carr Jr.

In Loving Memory of Chris

A Life Well-Lived, A Legacy Cherished

Family

Chris is survived by those who held special places in his heart:

• Spouse: Lisa Moorehead-Carr, his loving wife of 32 years
• Children: Christina Carr and Cameron Carr
• Grandchildren: Jaida Van Dunk and Jared Van Dunk
• Sisters: Cathana Carr, Alison Carr, Kimberley Kuykendall, Lisa Carr Robinson, and Trudy Noble, and Phaesandra Carr who preceded him in death.
• Nieces: Michelle Pitts-Torres, Kimberley Kuykendall, Leslie Kuykendall
• Nephews: David Kuykendall, Michael Noble, Curtis Jr (CJ) Robinson
• Godsons: Edward Hambrick and William Hambrick

He is also predeceased by his parents, Columbus Carr Sr. and Katie Mae Cook.

Early Life and Roots

Chris was born in San Francisco, California, where the city’s energy and vibrancy would become woven into the fabric of his character. As a young man, Chris relocated to Shepherd, Texas to live with his beloved grandmother—a move that left an indelible mark on his heart. It was in the wide-open fields and under the Texas sun that Chris first discovered his love of the country and the great outdoors. Working alongside family on the farm, he found joy in the camaraderie and satisfaction in seeing the fruits of their labor. This early connection to nature and the rhythms of country living became a lifelong passion, later reflected in his craftmanship and the care he poured into the rose bushes and lush houseplants that filled his home.

‍Return to San Francisco: Youth and High School

Eventually, Chris returned to San Francisco, a city he cherished for its history, charm, and distinct glow. He attended Balboa High School, embracing all the city had to offer. Chris loved sharing stories from these formative years, whether reminiscing about the vibrant neighborhoods or delighting loved ones with his famous “three bridge tour.” If you were fortunate enough to join, you’d find yourself treated to a narrated drive across the city’s iconic bridges, complete with his favorite picnic lunch—KFC and grape soda. Sharing the city’s history and hidden gems was more than a pastime; it was a way for Chris to connect with people.

Military Service

In January 1968, Chris enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed on the U.S.S. McKinley in San Diego, California. During his service, he participated as a boxer, humorously attributing the early conclusion of his boxing career to a significant incident. Nonetheless, his involvement in military boxing fostered a lifelong interest in the sport, leading to numerous boxing-themed gatherings at his home over the years. He deeply respected the dedication, discipline, and strategic acumen integral to boxing.

During his tenure in the Navy, Columbus discovered both an affinity and aptitude for the culinary arts, ultimately shaping his subsequent career as a chef. He received an honorable discharge to the Naval Reserve in October 1969 following an injury sustained during his Vietnam tour and subsequently returned to San Francisco. Columbus was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star.

Marriage and Children

Columbus married in March 1969 and welcomed his daughter Christina in October of that year. On July 11, 1993, he remarried and that union lasted until his passing. He later celebrated the birth of his son Cameron Carr on March 28, 1994.

Education

Columbus earned an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts Degree from Laney College, an Accelerated Culinary Arts Certificate from the Culinary Institute of America and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from California State University, Hayward, providing a strong foundation for his career in Food Service Management. He also attended the highly esteemed the Cordon Bleu. His culinary expertise led to designing meals for notable individuals including Kristi Yamaguchi and Condoleeza Rice. Columbus was consistently recognized for his innate management abilities, exceptional work ethic, servant leadership, and pursuit of excellence in both service delivery and presentation.

‍Professional Achievements

Columbus advanced his culinary career in the Bay Area, working with esteemed organizations such as Amtrak, Hornblower Yachts, the Park Oakland Hyatt, and Skates on the Bay. In each role, he displayed outstanding creativity in food presentation, utilizing techniques like ice carving and fruit sculpting. His commitment to community and acts of service contributed to a distinguished 30-year career in college and university food service, including appointments at the University of California Berkeley for eight years, Stanford University for ten years, and Sacramento State University for twelve years until retirement.

Personal Qualities and Interests

Chris was driven by six core passions: family, learning, music, nature, poetry and the San Francisco 49ers. His devotion to family was evident through his deep connection with his wife Lisa, his sister Cathy, and his children Cameron and Christina. He expressed his affection through culinary expertise cultivated in his distinguished career as a chef, with his renowned lasagna serving as a centerpiece at family gatherings and fostering meaningful connections among loved ones.

Above all achievements, Chris regarded his family as his greatest success. As a devoted husband, he often spoke of his wife’s care for him and the strength of their marriage. He took immense pride in his role as a father, finding joy in the accomplishments of his daughter and son. He maintained a close bond with his sister, cherishing their time together and creating lasting memories during extended visits. Collectively, his family formed the cornerstone of his life. His favorite times were when both sides of his family could break bread together.

Chris demonstrated a lifelong commitment to learning. Following retirement, he developed an interest in upholstery and transforming old furniture with the same care and craftsmanship he applied to all his passions, attending local classes in Sacramento and skillfully reupholstering furniture for his home and his sister’s residence. These pieces are now treasured by his family as enduring reflections of his craftsmanship.

A passionate enthusiast of music, Chris enjoyed a variety of genres, particularly jazz. He frequently listened to legendary musicians such as John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, and Charlie Parker while tending to his backyard or cultivating his roses, which exemplified his dedication to gardening and natural beauty.

His appreciation for any natural body of water, natural phenomena and the outdoors encompassed iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon, Grand Tetons, and Yosemite alongside activities including camping, farming, and gardening, with roses being his specialty.

Chris also held a profound respect for poetry. Early in his relationship with Lisa, their shared love of poetry—especially the works of Langston Hughes. It served as a foundation for cultural connection and self-expression. Poetry provided him with insight into both the world and his personal identity.

Last, but certainly not least, Chris was a die hard 49er fan, forever faithful to the Bay. He never missed a game or an opportunity to debrief on a current or previous game.

Legacy

Chris lived authentically, characterized by warmth, individuality, and a subtle sense of humor. His wit and “Dad jokes,” though sometimes met with gentle teasing, enriched his family's experiences and contributed to his enduring charm. In the days, weeks, and years to come, there will be countless moments where his jokes will be missed.

He maintained a youthful perspective, often engaging in animated conversations, sharing stories, and offering treats from his cherished “Snackey Snack” bowl.

His youthful perspective and engaging conversational style, complemented by thoughtful gestures, left lasting impressions on those around him. Columbus’ legacy is defined not only by his professional achievements but by the strength and unity of his family, who remain a testament to his values and dedication. Roses were his specialty, a testament to his nurturing spirit and appreciation for natural beauty.

Memorial Service

A memorial service is scheduled for 1:00 pm on Monday, October 13, 2025, at the East Lawn Mortuary in Elk Grove, California. The service will be livestreamed at viewlogies.net.

In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to the American Cancer Society and the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society.

Death of An Old Seaman

Langston Hughes

1901-1967

We buried him high on a windy hill, But his soul went out to sea. I know, for I heard, when all was still, His sea-soul say to me:

Put no tombstone at my head, For here I do not make my bed. Strew no flowers on my grave, I’ve gone back to the wind and wave. Do not, do not weep for me,

For I am happy with my sea.

From The Weary Blues (Alfred A. Knopf, 1926) by Langston Hughes