Christopher “Chris” Keith Kindel, 56, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, surrounded by loved ones. Born on April 6, 1969, in Maryland, Chris lived a life full of service, adventure, and love for his family.

 

Chris proudly served eight years in the United States Marine Corps, embodying strength, discipline, and loyalty in all that he did. His service took him around the world and into the heart of conflict, where he demonstrated exceptional courage and commitment to his fellow Marines. Throughout his military career, Chris earned numerous commendations, including the National Defense Service Medal, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal with Star, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Sea Service Ribbon with Two Stars, Overseas Service Ribbon, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, and the Devils Landing Salty Warrior Medal. These honors reflect not only his bravery and sacrifice but also the deep respect he earned from those who served beside him.

 

After his military service, Chris devoted over 26 years to the Montgomery County Fire Department, where his courage, humor, and compassion left a lasting mark on his colleagues and community alike.

 

Outside of work, Chris found joy in life’s simple and meaningful moments. He loved traveling to new places, playing different golf courses, attending sports games with friends, and cooking meals that brought people together. He had a gift for storytelling, often having “one better,” and despite his stoic front, he was the kind of person whose presence made everyone feel at ease. 

 

A true testament to how loved Chris was: during his time in the hospital, he had so many visitors that you practically had to fight for space to sit beside him. Even in his final days, his spirit shone brightly. Just two nights before his passing, he spent the evening with his three brothers — telling stories, singing, and joking together, filling the room with laughter and love, just as they had done throughout their lives.

 

Chris is survived by his parents, John F. Cooley, Jr. and Margaret (Webb) Cooley; his children, Andrew Kindel and Bryan Kindel; and his brothers, Jason Kindel Sr. (Mandi), John F. Cooley III, and Nicholas Cooley (Danielle). He was a proud uncle to Jason Kindel Jr., Abby Kindel, Katie Kindel, Connor Cooley, and Milo Cooley. He was a dear friend and “brother” to many, and he is eternally grateful for those that remained close and supported him through the past year. 

 

The family will be receiving friends on October 29th from 1:00 pm-3:00 pm and 5:00 pm-7:00 pm at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church, 17220 Tom Fox Ave, Poolesville, MD 20837 where a Mass will be held on October 30th at 11:00am.  Reception to follow at Upper Montgomery County Volunteer Fire Department, 19801 Beallsville Road, Beallsville, MD 20839. 

 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Operation Second Chance, https://operationsecondchance.org/ in honor of Chris’s lifelong commitment to helping others.

 

Chris will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His strength, humor, and kindness will live on in the countless lives he touched and the stories that will continue to be told about him for years to come.