Christopher Alan Tooley

Christopher Alan Tooley, aged 61 passed away unexpectedly, on October 25, 2023, at UC Health in Greeley, Colorado, surrounded by his loving family. Chris was born in Farmington, New Mexico on May 23,1962 to George and Joyce (Murphy) Tooley. George and Joyce then moved to Kansas in 1963 where they grew their family with the birth of two more children.

Chris was a strong, resilient, and determined man who was vocal about his thoughts, opinions and beliefs. Chris always put his heart and soul into everything he did. As a kid, Chris was brave and fearless, standing up for himself even if that meant a black eye. He was constantly pushing the limits and testing the waters, whether racing and jumping his bike or as a teen pushing the boundaries of his Camaro. He recognized early on that he needed to work hard to achieve the things he desired.

Chris graduated from Liberal High School in 1980 and shortly after he embarked on his career in the oil and gas industry with Barrett Resources in Liberal, Kansas. In 1983, he seized the opportunity to relocate to Greeley, Colorado, where he could advance his career and have more opportunities for himself. In 1987 he welcomed his daughter, Brianna Tooley followed by the birth of his son, Brett Tooley in 1990. While simultaneously raising his family, he tirelessly pursued his education, attending night classes to earn his Associates Degree in Business Marketing.

Over the next 40 years, Chris dedicated himself to the oil and gas industry, forging numerous relationships and becoming a major advocate for the Colorado oil & gas sector, while having multiple roles in several non-profit committees who not only educated but gave back to the community that he served.
On April 25, 2009, he married Leah Hendrix. They purchased a home together in Fort Lupton, Colorado where they blended two separate families into one. Chris was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, son, brother, friend, leader, and most importantly a beloved Papa to his grandchildren. He found joy in traveling, camping, attending concerts with his wife, his love for music, and his vinyl collection. Chris was not only a philanthropist but also a light who was cherished and respected by many. His absence will be deeply felt, and his memory will be cherished.

Chris was preceded in death by his mother, Joyce (Murphy) Tooley.
He is survived by wife Leah Tooley, Platteville, Colorado, father, George Tooley Greeley, Colorado, his daughter Brianna Tooley, Portland, Oregon, his son Brett Tooley (Naomi) Windsor, Colorado, stepson Jason Schleis (Stacie), stepdaughters Michelle Schleis (Alfredo), Mandy Buchwald (Travis), Toni Smith (Roger) Sisters, Kayleen Millman Hernandez (Stan), Kara Holle (Mike). His grandchildren Ambrie, Myah, Paul, Emery, Logan, Haylie, Ignacio, Isabel, Zayden and Mason. His nieces, Kylee, Shayla (Neil) and nephews, Seth and Ethan.

A funeral service for Christopher will be held Friday, November 3, 2023, at 10:00 AM, in Greeley Colorado.

A graveside service will be held Monday, November 6, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Liberal Cemetery, 1900 W. 15th St., Liberal, Kansas with Pastor Rex Petty presiding.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.hornungfuneralhome.com Hornung Family Funeral Home, 1212 W. 2nd Street, Liberal, Kansas