It is with great sorrow that we must announce the passing of Christopher John Straka, 50, on April 7,2025. He is the beloved son of James R. Straka (Celeste) of Dallas, Georgia and Sally Knowles Straka (William Shirley) of Jamestown. He is the cherished brother of Amanda Straka-Sullivan (Jim) of Taos, NM and Julia Straka of Dallas, GA.

Christopher was born July 23, 1974, in Anderson, SC, and moved to Perrysburg, Ohio from 1979-1989. His family then moved to Jamestown, NY where he graduated in 1993 from Southwestern Central School. He continued his education at JCC, SUNY Cortland, and then graduated from the Culinary Arts School in Denver. Chris most recently lived in Kennesaw, Georgia.

His passion for the culinary arts marked the rest of his life. His knowledge of foods and wines led him to be a successful sommelier and manager in the restaurant industry.

Chris was a hiking enthusiast who found joy and solace in nature. He also enjoyed immense joy and companionship with his dog, Pic Meister. But his love for family and friends drove his caring actions. In this moment of grief, we remember a vibrant spirit who touched many hearts and whose memory will forever remain in our lives.

May he Rest in Peace.

The funeral will be held at 4pm on April 24, 2025, in the Lind Funeral Home. Friends will be received two hours prior to the service from 2 to 4pm in the funeral home.

Christopher will be laid to rest at 11:30am on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Sunset Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County, 2 Academy Street, Suite 201, Mayville, NY 14757, or to your own local group.