Christian Burnside Obituary

Christian Lee Burnside passed away on June 8, 2025 in Tualatin, OR at the age of 83. Born on November 12, 1941 to parents Ora May (Anderson) and George Kenneth Burnside, he was older brother to Kevin and George. Chris grew up in a log home built by his father in rural Yamhill County and graduated from Newberg High School in 1959. He attended Mt. Angel College and St. Martin's College. After a few years, Chris figured out that sitting in a classroom wasn't for him. His restless spirit (with strong encouragement from his worried mother) compelled him to join the US Air Force.
Chris served on bases in Wyoming and Alaska during the Cold War where he was trained in the emerging field of Computer Science. This choice gave him a future career path, although most of his stories from this period focus on his time off-base racing motorcycles, carousing in local towns, pushing base curfew times and exploring all that nature had to offer.
Upon discharge, Chris moved back to Oregon, reconnected with college sweetheart, Kathryn Haener, and sold his motorcycle to buy her an engagement ring. They were married on November 26, 1966. Quickly, Chris settled down to family life with 3 children in 2 ½ years-Mary Kathryn, Christina Madelene and John Christian. The couple built their dream home on 2 acres in Sherwood while Chris managed computer data main frames for insurance companies and banks in Portland. Chris took a break from corporate life with a 2-year stint as a commercial fisherman based out of Newport, OR. Lastly, he embarked on nearly 20 years with Nike in their emerging Tech Department and as a Project Manager during the period when the company emerged as a dominant leader in the sportswear industry. Chris loved his Nike days--oh, the outrageous stories he told! His career provided deep satisfaction, Nike discounted gear for the family and chance meetings with star athletes until his retirement in the early 2000s.
The next phase of his life focused on his expanding family of in-laws and grandchildren, continued involvement in his church parish, and pursuit of endless hobbies. He and Kathy retired to Waldport, OR, enjoying many years of peaceful coastal living with a gorgeous 180-degree view of the Pacific Ocean. Chris was also a dedicated caregiver to his wife who valiantly fought a lengthy battle with cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Kathy sadly passed away in July 2020.
Ever the outdoorsman, Chris made us believe there wasn't a mountain he hadn't climbed, creature he hadn't hunted or fished or a part of the universe he hadn't pondered. Chris was the consummate storyteller-there was always a nugget of truth in his "big fish stories" and he liked to keep his family and friends guessing which part was fact or fiction! Most of all, Chris will be known for steadfast love of his family, dedication to his Catholic faith and the voracious search for knowledge to satisfy his ever-curious mind.
Chris's survivors include his brothers, in-laws, nieces, nephews and his children Mary (David) Anderson, Christina (Jano Jgerenaia) Burnside, John (Kari) Burnside and grandchildren Victoria (Ashton), Elizabeth, Madelene, Kathryn, Jack, Elenae and Adam. His great grandchildren, Darson and Vincent, were the special delights of his last 3 years spent at Marquis Assisted Living in Tualatin.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Mt. Angel on June 20th at 11am. He will be interred next to his wife at Calvary Cemetery. Remembrances can be made to Catholic Relief Services.