Obituary of Christopher M. Waterman

CHESTERTOWN:  Christopher M. Waterman, 42 years young of Chestertown, NY passed away unexpectedly at his home, due to an accident on September 7, 2025, a day our community lost a great man.

Chris was born in Cooperstown, NY on September 28, 1982.

Chris was a genuine American hero. Despite incredibly difficult life circumstances, he remained a positive, upbeat powerhouse for his country, his friends, and his community.

After serving six years as a Defense Contractor in Afghanistan, Chris experienced both the unbreakable bond of friendship and the deep brokenness of this world at a level few ever know. Returning home to the United States brought its own challenges, yet Chris never stopped moving forward. He faced each obstacle head-on, carrying an unshakable and inexplicably positive spirit.

Seven years ago, Chris met the love of his life, Maria Hammond. Together, they settled in Chestertown, NY, where he was often seen driving to work in his beloved Dodge truck painted with the American flag. Behind the wheel was a fiercely devoted friend, a hardworking and talented stone mason, and a man who loved Jesus Christ. Chris chose to focus on his blessings rather than the unfair hardships he endured. He sought out opportunities to protect the vulnerable and gave generously to those he trusted.

Over the past five years, Chris poured his energy into creating a six-acre sanctuary for Maria and their three dogs—a place filled with his love and labor. To his friends and neighbors, Chris was the one who showed up without hesitation: whether your truck battery died on a back road, you forgot your lunch at work, or you needed help lifting something heavy, he was there, and he was glad to help. His greatest wish was always the very best for those he loved.

Chris’s life stands as a shining example of resilience, service, and strength. He rejected the temptation of victimhood and instead turned every hardship into an opportunity to uplift others.

Though his untimely passing brings deep sorrow to those who loved him, it is a great comfort to know that Chris has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” from his Heavenly Father.

Predeceasing Chris is his brother Michael Robert Mumbulo, grandfather Robert Claude Mumbulo and maternal grandparents Harold and Betty Waterman.

Chris leaves behind his life partner Maria Hammond; son Tyler Waterman; parents Michael Neil (Beth) Mumbulo and Sharon (John) Waterman-Rathburn; his devoted stepfather Patrick Fagan; siblings Zachary (Sam) Mumbulo, Crystal (Kory) Mumbulo, Nicole (Aaron) Mumbulo-Fallon, Hannah (Scott) Mumbulo, TJ Waterman and Jenna Waterman; several aunts, uncles, nieces and nieces along with many close friends including Johansel Caraballo, Bob Gotham, Abe Gadjo, Dan Ockrin and Roger Houck.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 11am – 1pm at Lakeside Regional Church, 9803 Graphite Mountain Road, Hague, NY. A funeral service will follow visitation with Pastors Skip Holtz and Dan Ockrin officiating.

Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online condolences and guest book.