Obituary: Christopher Coppa Gardner, 75, Underwood

Retired Fire Captain Christopher Coppa Gardner passed away peacefully on October 28, 2026, at the age of 75, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Chris was born and raised in California, the son of a local physician and the middle of five boys. From an early age, he had a natural instinct to care for others and a deep love of adventure. Whether playing competitive soccer, diving for abalone in the ocean, or caring for his pet owl, Chris embraced life with energy, curiosity, and a spirit of exploration.

In 1976, his adventurous spirit led him and his wife, Gwynne (1974–1983), north to Seward, Alaska, where he spent the next two decades devoted to protecting and serving his community. A true first responder, Chris wore many hats throughout his career, serving as a Harbor Master Patrol Officer, rescue diver, EMT, certified fire instructor, and ultimately Captain of the Seward Fire Department. He ran toward emergencies when others ran away, bringing courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to every call.

Alongside his demanding careers, Chris raised his four daughters, two biological daughters and two stepdaughters, with his second wife, Elizabeth (1988-2009), with the same strength and devotion he brought to his work. In his spare time, he could often be found tackling construction projects or riding horses through the Alaskan wilderness.

In 1996, Chris and his family moved to Parkdale, Oregon, and eventually settled in Underwood, Washington. His commitment to public service continued as he volunteered as a firefighter and fire instructor while building a business as a local contractor and handyman. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping construct the new Underwood Fire Station—a lasting testament to his dedication to the community he served.

In retirement, Chris traded flashing lights and sirens for quieter days overlooking the beautiful Columbia River Gorge. With his loyal Great Pyrenees, Icy, by his side, he enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and sharing laughs with close friends at his favorite dive bar—the Red Carpet in Hood River.

In September 2026, Chris was diagnosed with an aggressive small cell lung cancer that had spread to his brain and spine. Though his life was cut far too short, the impact of his courage, service, and generosity will live on in the many lives he touched.

Having joined his parents, Maria & Alfred Gardner, former spouses Gwynne & Liz Gardner and stepdaughters Melissa & Jessica Thorsen in Heaven, Christopher is survived by his brothers, Steve, Zach, Greg (Suzanne), and Jeff Gardner; his daughters, Alder McKenzie and Melisse Gardner (Jesse McAllister); his grandchildren, Addie McAllister (Jesus Castillo), Joshua McKenzie, Derrick Humble, Elexis McAllister, Mihaila McKenzie (Marco Vazquez), and Maria McKenzie; and his great-grandchild, Cleo Castillo.

In keeping with Chris’s final wishes, he will be cremated, with no formal funeral service. His ashes will be scattered at some of his favorite places. However, his family is planning a celebration of life gathering for late spring 2027.

Condolences may be sent to P.O. Box 33, Underwood, WA 98651.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Chris’s honor may be made to either of the fire departments he proudly served:

Seward Fire Department
P.O. Box 167
Seward, AK 99664

Underwood Fire Department
P.O. Box 156
Underwood, WA 98651

Chris leaves behind a legacy of service, adventure, and love—a life measured not only by the years he lived, but by the countless lives he touched.     

Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031.  

Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.