We are saddened to announce the passing of Christopher Paul Mazetis, on April 20th, 2025. Chris was born on May 2nd, 1980 in Riverside, California. He was fortunate to be surrounded by those who loved him deeply. He was 44 years old.
Christopher was the beloved son of Stan and Pam Mazetis and loving husband of Shalimar Mazetis, whom he married August 29th, 2015. He was a devoted father to his daughters, Miranda Butler and Jaeger Mazetis, and an adored brother to Shelly (Todd) Williams, Racheal (Evan) Jones, and Jamie (Jill) Kadel. He was Uncle Chris to Adam (Jenna) Hebing, Tyler (Kelsey) Williams, Garrett Williams, Mitchell (Delayne) Geyer, Daisha (Mitchell) Easton, Gavin (Brit) Geyer, Trey (Jenna) Cleaveland, Taten Williams, Jaxon Kadel, Owen Kadel, Addison Kadel, Piper Ryon, Carter Ryon, and grandpa to Brinley Jo. Along with several great nieces and nephews who he cherished. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Daniel Reitner and many other loved ones.
Chris lived his life in Oakland, Iowa, and loved his community with his whole heart. Growing up, Chris could be found outdoors with family and friends doing all the things he cherished most: camping, fishing, golfing, cracking jokes and causing mischief with a twinkle in his eye. The memories are endless: Christmas mornings started with a full-on dogpile on his bed to drag him up for presents; Halloween meant handing out king-size candy bars like royalty; and summers were for learning how to camp, fish, and occasionally survive wild wrestling matches with nephews who were basically brothers. There was always laughter, plenty of teasing, and a whole lot of growing up together as one big, happy, slightly chaotic family.
As he grew older, he became a pillar in the community. He was the one who spent hours helping any child learn a new task, whether it be teaching others how to light a firework “safely”, weld a project, catch a fish or ride a bike. Chris loved a simple life and he didn’t need much more than a comfy camping chair, an ice cold Bud Light and a great conversation- all with his dog, Tipsy, by his side. He listened intently to others and found ways to check back in with you to see if you needed any of his help.
He was famously known for his hot dog roller at the campsite and he knew how to make sure everyone had a full belly and a good drink. It was said that you were “Mazetis’d” if he could convince you to stop what you were doing and have a good time with him until all hours of the night. The magic of Chris was that people never left his side without a smile on their face. He was ever eager to lend a helping hand and spread kindness wherever he went.
He spent much of his career working in the farming industry and had a deep passion for all aspects of farm life. He was known for his incredible handyman skills and ability to fix anything that crossed his path. Chris had a real knack for showing up when you needed him most—usually with a tool in one hand and a joke on his tongue. He took pride in putting his service gift to good use, whether it was clearing snow off your driveway, rescuing your truck from a ditch (before anyone’s parents had a chance to find out), or finishing that project you swore you’d get to someday. He was the guy who just got stuff done—and made you laugh while he did it. Nearly everyone who knew him has a ‘Chris to the rescue’ story. What made it even better was how he made you feel seen and cared for, like your needs were top priority. He didn’t just lend a hand—he lifted spirits.
Chris was a devoted husband to Shalimar, his bride of nearly 10 years. Together, they built a wonderful life and had a happy and welcoming home full of laughter, friendship and love. Their love grew on Shal’s grandpa’s farm, around Oakland and at the Stone Quarry. The pinnacle of their love story was their journey to welcome Jaeger and the formation of the amazing family they became. Shal, Jaeger and Miranda knew they were loved and they loved him in equal measure.
Chris adored his family, especially his daughters. He spent the last 3 years creating a lasting connection with Jaeger, whom he called “JJ” and who was his little best friend. You’d be hard pressed to find a single memory of Jaeger’s earliest years where she is not in her daddy’s arms. She loved to tell everyone “My daddy at work” with great pride when he wasn’t around. His relationship with Miranda grew in depth the last few years and she became a cherished part of his life. He was proud to be a father to both of them and they got the best of him. His love for his girls ran deep and will be carried on through the stories and memories of their shared bond.
Chris met his final challenge with unwavering courage and strength, facing a brief but courageous battle with cancer. His heart was huge and welcoming and his loss leaves a massive hole in the Oakland community. He is not a man that can be replaced, only remembered with deepest love and thankfulness for a life well lived. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.
All are welcome to a short graveside service on April 26th, 2025 at Oaklawn Cemetery at 3:00 PM.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held immediately after the services at the cemetery. It will be held at The Stone Quarry, 13071 400th St, Macedonia, IA. Please bring your lawn chair and beverage of choice. Food will be provided.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to https://gofund.me/b0b0faee or the Chris Mazetis Benefit Fund at Arbor Bank.
