Christopher was a curious and dignified member of Kiley’s family. He loved spending afternoons lounging with his closest friends and had a soft spot for Lisa Marie, who he often sought out for company, which varied from gentle grooming sessions to rambunctious play fights.
One of Christopher’s most charming quirks was his role as the “official foot inspector.” He would carefully check the feet of his chimpanzee companions while carrying around his beloved blue surgical mask. He also enjoyed poking his own feet through the mesh to get a gentle tickle from care staff using a tickle stick.
“Christopher had a dignified nature about him,” says care staffer Jamie Dowling. “He often stepped in to mediate disagreements and spent most afternoons out on the saloon platform with his friends. He loved apples and did a happy dance on green apple days. He will be greatly missed by all of us who had the privilege to know and love him.”
Christopher’s early years in a medical laboratory had initially left him wary of humans. After his rescue in 2002, we are grateful to have witnessed him open his heart—slowly, but surely—to reveal the thoughtful, playful chimp he was always meant to be.
Christopher passed away peacefully, likely due to a sudden cardiac event related to his long-standing heart condition. He was found reclining on a bench, in the place he had come to call home.