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John Christopher Earp
Chris thrived in the roles he cherished most: devoted father, loving life-partner, son, true friend, leader, and, above all, soldier. He spent the majority of his life proudly serving in the United States Army. In his early active-duty years, he served in the Regular Army as a paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division, conducting long-range reconnaissance patrols during his first tour in Iraq.

A decorated servicemember, one of his greatest professional accomplishments was becoming an M1 Abrams Tank Master Gunner. He attained the rank of Sergeant First Class and served as a Non-Commissioned Officer, taking great pride in mentoring, caring for, and leading the soldiers under his command. Near the end of his career, he continued his service in the Mississippi Army National Guard as a Tank Platoon Sergeant and Active Guard and Reserve (AGR) NCO.

During his distinguished 24-year military career, Chris completed three combat tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and was awarded the Combat Action Badge, among other decorations. Following his retirement from active duty, he continued his commitment to service as a member of the Retired Army Reserve.

In his younger years, Chris was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed both small and large game hunting, fishing, range shooting, sleeping under the stars, and searching for hidden treasures. Donations can be made to the ASPCA. A Celebration of Life will be held at Lucy's Venue, 123 Main St., Chicago, IL 606606 on March 3rd, 2026 at 7:00pm.