Christopher Drew Middleton, 52, of Champaign, passed away at 10:30 a.m., Sunday, July 5, 2015. A memorial service will be held at 7pm, Wednesday, July 15, 2015 at the Champaign Church of Christ, 1509 W. John St., Champaign. A private burial will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery in Urbana.

Chris was born July 24, 1962 in Urbana, Illinois, to parents J. David and Martha (Kirchgraber) Middleton; they precede him in death. Survivors include an aunt, Adeline Payton, uncles, John Middleton and Henry Kirchgraber, cousins, Ruth Ann Fisher of Urbana, Charles, Randall, and Lance Middleton, Lisa Chapman, George, John, Mathew, Keith and Richard Payton, Mark, Paul, and Todd Kirchgraber, and his church family.

Chris was a 1980 graduate of Unity High School, and later attended Parkland College. Throughout his school life his parents were inspirational in their undaunted struggle at the local, regional, and state levels to allow their son to receive special educational services while being mainstreamed. This achievement was recognized when Chris received the only standing ovation from classmates, staff, administration, and parents when he received his diploma from Unit 7 Schools.

Chris made friends everywhere he went. His former co-workers from McDonald's, Meijer, and Wal-Mart always greeted him enthusiastically when he would come back in. The job he held closest to his heart was that of maintenance man at the Champaign Church of Christ. However, he was much more than that with serving his church in every way he could along with helping in the kitchen and preparing for upcoming events. Chris will always be remembered for his positive disposition and his highly distinguishable laugh.

Chris was an avid Cubs and Illini fan, and was also loyal to World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), and once had his entire cable package changed just so he could watch an upcoming match. Those who attend his memorial service are encouraged to wear Cubs, Illini, or WWE attire.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Champaign Church of Christ. Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.