Christian Joseph (CJ) Coleman was born in Redwood City, Calif., in 1951 and lived most of his life in the Carson Valley. He volunteered for military service and served during the Vietnam War with the 173rd Airborne Brigade. CJ earned many distinctive awards including two Bronze Star Medals for combat duty.
CJ returned to his country after being honorably discharged from the Army and joined the Carson City Fire Department. He was promoted through the department many times but he considered the best job he held there to be that of a frontline fire captain.
CJ met and married his wife of 40 years, Sue, in 1971. CJ is survived by his wife; daughters Cynthia Kannan and Camella Johnson; son-in-law Scott Johnson; father Alec Coleman; sisters Beth Lorenz and Teresa Croy; grandsons Christian, Joshua and Andrew; granddaughter Tera and another granddaughter on the way. CJ was preceded in death by his son Scott Coleman, mother Edna Trager-Hone and brother David Coleman.
CJ was respected and admired by his family, friends, and coworkers for his keen intelligence and extensive wisdom in many areas. He was known for his ability to fix anything and was often called upon for his advice in times of trouble.
CJ retired in 1997 from the Carson City Fire Department at the rank of Administrative Division Chief. He excelled at many sports and hobbies. He was a world class archer, hunter, master fisherman and a talented artist. CJ was an accomplished golfer and volunteered for some time as a golf marshal. He routinely shared his skill and love of these with his family and friends. CJ doted over his grandchildren and family. He always made time to participate in charity fundraisers.
CJ enjoyed riding his motorcycles and loved spending time with family and friends. He was riding his favorite Harley when he died unexpectedly on Saturday night, Oct. 16, in a motorcycle accident. He was riding with friends in a local rally to collect coats for a children's charity the day he died. We will miss and love you always, CJ.
There will be a viewing from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 21, at FitzHenry's Funeral Home, 3945 Fairview Drive, Carson City, NV 89701.
Funeral Services will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 22, at The First Baptist Church at 1750 N. Mountain St., Carson City, NV 89706.
A reception dinner will follow the service. Flowers may be sent to FitzHenry's. Thank you to all who have showed their love and support.