About Chris Ourtiague
July 7, 1965 - June 5, 2023
Chris was born in San Francisco in 1965 to Basque immigrant parents. He spent much of his youth gardening and hunting with his father, and playing many sports football, golf, anything involving a ball!
He became an Aircraft technician at American Airlines and was there for almost 30 years until he could no longer work. Chris spent his early "retirement"watching those sports on TV!
He was diagnosed with ALS in 2016 and has gradually lost almost 95% of extremity movement. He ate through a feeding tube, had the odd vodka cranberry too, emailed and texted using his eyes, and used a wheelchair to move around.
Chris knew that any new drugs would not help him, however, he had always said that the research must increase to help those who come behind. He partook in many trials to assist in that effort.
Chris will be remembered for all the heart he shared with his family and friends. He truly loved each of them and if you knew him, you knew it. When his time came, he left this world as he lived, a sweet, gentle soul with a loving heart. His legacy will carry on forever reminding us that we control our attitudes.
Thank you for your donation in Chris' memory for ALS research at the ALS Therapy Development Insititute!