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Virginia Beta & Phi Society
at the University of Virginia
Category:
News

Remembering Chris Kimbel ’77

Image of Phi Society brothers from1970sChristopher Allan Kimbel of Atlanta, Georgia passed away on March 25, 2023, from early onset Alzheimer’s disease. He was 67 years old.

Chris was born in St. Louis, Missouri, the oldest child of Richard and Nancy Kimbel. He lived in Winnetka, Illinois, in his early childhood. He graduated from The Westminster Schools in 1973, where he was inducted into the sports Hall of Fame. Chris graduated from the University of Virginia in 1977. Chris was one of the most outstanding athletes in his fraternity and lead them to several High Point Intramural Championships. Chris built his career at The Coca Cola Company over 25 years and completed his career at Womble Carlyle. Chris was an active member at Northside Church, where he served for many years. His faith guided him as he led his family with peace, love, and strength.

In 1977, Chris met his wife, Martha, on a blind date set up by her sister and brother-in-law, Janet and Bob Vogel. It was love at first sight. They married in 1979 and shared a marriage that spanned nearly 44 years. Chris was a wonderful father to their three children and often spoke of how proud he was of each one of them. His children were the joy of his heart.

Chris is survived by his devoted wife, Martha Knisely Kimbel; his children, Christopher Ross (Stephanie) Kimbel, Laura Kimbel (Kevin) Capps, Paige Kimbel (Brian) Hrubik; and his five grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret (Justin) Shadbolt, and brother, Jeff (Julie) Kimbel. He is also survived by his dear friend, Hill Jeffries (Phi, class of ’77).

His family would like to thank the Orchard at Brookhaven community for their love and support, and especially Chris’s caregivers: Ike, Kettie, and Henry. We will be forever grateful for the love and care you provided.

Chapter Grand

Below are the Phis passing on to the Chapter Grand during 2023. If you wish to share your own memories or photos of any Phis that passed to the Chapter Grand, please send them to aig@virgina.edu and we will post them to the Phi Society’s Chapter Grand webpage.

  • William H. Albrecht, Jr. ’52
  • Thomas M. Blanchard, Jr. ’70
  • Hugh A. Burrell ’61
  • William R. Edwards, Jr. ’53
  • John Howze ’57
  • Christopher A. Kimbel ’77
  • H. William Porterfield, MD ’50
  • Donald C. Richards ’57
  • Russell H. Roberts ’60
  • Daniel T. Russler ’58
  • COL C. L. Schelhorn, USA(R) ’55
  • COL Peter B. Southmayd, USMC(R) ’62
  • Charles L. Weatherhead ’65
  • Carl D. Whitmer, Jr. ’54