Christopher W. Anthony, 65

Christopher W. Anthony, 65, passed away in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, surrounded by his loved ones on May 8, 2016. Chris, also known as “Gator” to family and close friends, was born in Hyannis, Mass., on Feb. 3, 1951, to Allard and Jean (Hibbins) Anthony.

Chris moved to Key Biscayne, Fla., where he was primarily raised with his five sisters and brother. His love of the ocean made island living easy. After graduating from Gables High School in 1969, Gator earned this name when he continued his college education at the University of Florida, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in economics. He had a passion for learning and was wise beyond his years. He would often comment how he could have been a professional student.

Chris discovered his love for cooking (inspired by his mother) and became a professional chef. Chris was also a brilliant mechanic, a trade he learned from his stepfather, Ed Clemente. Living in the Sunshine State also inspired him to become a lifeguard at the Key Biscayne Hotel. This is where Chris found the love of his life, Shelley B. Anthony, in the Florida Tropics where their first born daughter, Jessica Anthony was raised for three years.

Chris and family moved to Coeur d’Alene in 1992, where he continued his culinary career and welcomed his second born son, Harrison Anthony. Chris worked at Dockside restaurant at The Coeur d’Alene Resort for 20 years and was also a chef at Applebee’s restaurant. Chris was a hardworking dedicated man with a passion for his family, friends and community.

Chris is survived by his wife, Shelley and two children Jessica and Harrison. He is also survived by his sisters, Sheri Warren, Cathy Oliver and Susan (Boo) Anthony; brother Tony Anthony; and extended family JoAnn Anthony and Kimberly McKie. Chris is preceded in death by his parents; two sisters Candice (Candy) Kellar and Karen Haffeman and Ed Clemente.

A future service will be arranged in coordination with family and friends. Please visit Chris’ online memorial at www.englishfuneralchapel.com.