Christopher Rikli

Christopher James Rikli, 44, of Dallas, Texas, passed away unexpectedly from natural causes on Feb. 26, 2020, in Ouray, Colo.

Chris was born May 29, 1975, in Kearney, to James and Sue (Wiebe) Rikli and grew up at El Charman Lake, Gibbon. He graduated from John Brown University, Siloam Springs, Ark., with a business degree, but more importantly, lifelong friendships. He married Megan Hunnicutt on June 24, 2004.

A self-taught web developer and entrepreneur, he worked with Megan to grow a successful web development and consulting business.

Chris was known for his brilliant mind, loving heart, and huge hugs. He invested time, energy, and love into the children of family and friends, making him “Uncle Chris” to many more than his 17 nieces and nephews. He had a strong work ethic, was driven to excel at whatever he did, lived with passionate urgency, and craved adventure. Fascinated with airplanes, motorcycles, and cars, he attained his pilot’s license, raced motorcycles, and acquired his dream car. He had an obsession with learning and trying new things, especially if it meant buying new gear. For the last eight years, Chris found the mountains’ call irresistible, so he spent much time hiking, climbing, and exploring.

He is survived by his wife, Megan, of Dallas, Texas; mother, Sue (Wiebe) Rikli, of Kearney; sisters, Nancy (Rock) Stahla, Lydia and Maverick of Grand Island, Grant of Lincoln; Sarah (Walter) Green, Maci, Moriah and Amelia of Gretna; in-laws, Daryl and Willa (Jo) (Fruit) Hunnicutt; Brandon and Lisa (Shunkwiler) Hunnicutt, Kinsley, Payton, Bréley, Truett, Fallon, Breslyn and Vashti; Zachary and Anna (Dueland) Hunnicutt, Everett, Adeline, Houston and Townsend of Giltner.

Chris was preceded in death by his father James Rikli; grandparents Calvin and Carol Wiebe, Vernon and Arlyne Rikli; and uncles, Clinton Wiebe and Richard Rikli.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m., Sept. 4, 2020, at The Lodge at Christian Resource Center, 603 S K Rd, Giltner. The memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Sept. 5, 2020, at Hilltop Pavilion at Christian Resource Center with Jordan Grantham and Nate Nauman officiating. Boxed lunch provided following the service.

Memorials are suggested to Ouray Ice Park, Ouray, CO, or Christian Resource Center, Giltner.