Christopher "Chris" L. Konrad, 62, of Jacksonville, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Tuesday, October 29 at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

He was born on December 22, 1961 in Jacksonville, Illinois to Joseph "Joe" Konrad and Judith "Judy" Hughes. Both preceded him in death. His sisters, Kim (Larry) McComas and Kara (Jason) Wright both of Texas survive.  He is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins and nephews.

Chris was a 1980 graduate of Jacksonville High School. After high school Chris went on to hold several management positions throughout the years until his health began to decline. Chris also served as an EMT for Lifestar Ambulance.

Chris is survived by his two children, Nicole Lutz of Tolono and Brett Konrad of Jacksonville; Papa's three pride and joys - his grandsons, Gavin, Jaxson, and Jenson.  Papa held a special place in his heart for Kynleigh (Mayberry) also of Jacksonville. His children's mother, Michele (Lynch) also survives.

Chris's favorite role in life was being called Papa. He loved taking Gavin to see the Globetrotters court-side and always kept up with his many sporting events over the years. Papa's now earned himself the best seat in the house and will continue to be one of Gavin's biggest fans above. He also enjoyed taking Jaxson and Jenson to the Jacksonville Speedway and the motocross races. He shared his love for dirt tracks and fast cars with them from an early age. Papa was always up for an adventure with his boys and no one can question how proud they all made him.

Chris was best known for his quick wit, sense of humor, antics, and the love he had for his family. He will be missed by many.

In his free time, you could most often find him around a poker table. Over the many years he has played, he has built everlasting friendships with those he shared the table with, well until you won his money!

Enjoy that big poker game in the sky, Konrad!!

A celebration of life for family and friends is pending the family's arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to the family in Chris's honor.