RootsChat.Com
General => The Common Room => Topic started by: pentio on Thursday 28 May 09 00:36 BST (UK)
-
Christopher Peake a much loved and well respected member of Belfast Forum and Rootschat has died suddenly at his home in Ballynahinch. I found out tonight and thought I would let all his friends on Rootschat know about this very sad news.
Christopher worked tirelessly on both sites and will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. He was a true gentleman and was always willing to give advice and help to others especially on Family History.
Rest in Peace old friend.
This message was posted on Belfast Forum by Les who knew Christopher.
I have just returned from Ballynahinch.
I called at Christopher's apartment, where his landlord and landlady were in the process of clearing out his belongings. He hadn't been seen for a few days, and last Saturday, when they were unable to open the outside door to the flat, they had to get the police, who broke down the door. Christopher was found on the floor, near his bed.
A post mortem will have to be carried out, and I have no further details.
I don't know if he had any living family ....... there may be a sister living in England, and I doubt if there will be any announcements in the local papers.
I have asked the landlord to keep me informed.
-
Goodbye My old friend till we meet again, keep me a seat beside you :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Colette
-
A man who will be sadly missed, his help has been invaluable.
Morrison
-
Oh that is so sad, a real loss to Rootschat and its family :'(
Margaret
-
How sad. :'(
Nanny Jan
-
Very sad indeed. Rootschat and Belfast Forum will not be the same without him, he was so helpful to everyone. :'(
-
Sad news indeed, and a loss to all the sites he put so much time and effort into posting on and promoting/sharing with others.
A great many will miss his help and, I say with respect, some will not miss the odd run-ins (for he was a man of plain speech and sometimes it did not always come across well in the printed word on forums, but I believe his intentions were always good and his heart was in the right place, even if there was ocassionaly upset/frustration caused to others). added: From comments made to me, perhaps some even knew a different side to Christopher than I and others here, and so feel differently about him than those posting. I respect this also, as none of us can ever truly know all sides of someone, but can only comment on the Christopher I came across, which is what I, and I trust the others, have tried to do.
He enjoyed poetry and once, in the early years of Rootschat, shared the following with me (no copyright, I believe, but please remove if found otherwise, although I think Christopher wrote it himself as from an old PM I note "Many thanks for your kind comments about the poem. Writing poetry is one of the other hats that I wear when I am able to find the time"):
The Daisy Chain
When tracing your family tree
Don't let your mind run free.
When you find out where they live
That area will have more to give.
Recall when you made a daisy chain
A daisy far away was not to your gain.
Sit in one place. Pick daisies all around
Then having covered that bit of ground
Move forward just a tiny little pace
Tis there more kinfolk you will trace.
Christopher truly seemed to love Family History and sharing/helping others. May this be a tribute to his life and speak volumes, that so many will instantly recognise his name on this sad post and feel, as has been said, that a friend (albeit in cyberspace) has been lost. No one, I'm sure, would have wished for him to die alone and we can only hope that he did not suffer.May he Rest in Peace.
-
Rest in peace dear Christopher you will be sadly missed.
Susan (aka Floozy)
-
Awww shucks. A great poster of Irish links. :(
-
God Bless you Christopher. May you Rest In Peace. You will be greatly missed.
Well said Scotmum a lovely tribute to Christopher.
-
What a shock ....He was such a boon to Rootschat.....
-
i am very sorry to hear of Christophers death,he was a true legend on rootschat and not just on the irish boards.the amount of work he put in to help people and to find new resources was unbelieveable.
he was the only poster that you just had to read whenever he posted, just to see what he had to say.the help he has given will always be found on this site and people will continue to learn from his old posts for years to come,so Christopher will not be forgotten. rest in peace Christopher.
tony
scotmum-you gave a lovely tribute.
-
Christopher helped me on both forums and did not ask for anything in return, just that we don't give up searching!
RIP Christopher you shall be sadly missed by your friends here.
Scotmum Christopher would be roud to call you a friend. What a nice tribute. Snap Tony :)
From Matt.
-
Very sad news about a much respected member of Rootschat.
Jen
-
R.I.P Christopher..........you will be missed.
Barbara
-
How sad, always eager to help Christopher will be missed by so many.
Rest in Peace Christopher .
Susan
-
How very sad :'( :'( :'( :'(
We will miss you Christopher, R.I.P
Irene
-
How very sad.
Christopher embodied the true spirit of RootsChat.
He will be sorely missed by all the many friends he made on here, as well as by those of us who didn't know him too well, but always read his interesting posts.
Rest in peace Christopher.
Judy
-
He always came across as a very lovely man - and so willing to help and encourage others. He will be sorely missed.
Stoney
-
Very sad news- Christopher was a part of Rootschat - he helped me too.
RIP Christopher
Viv
-
Goodbye Christopher - such a nice chap who helped so many in many forums on the web.
His kindness will be missed.
I will hold you in my heart, Chris.
XXXXXX
-
I'm so very shocked and sorry to read this, may you rest in peace Christopher.
Pauline x
-
I'm very sad to hear this news, I have not been on this site long, but his advice and links were invaluable to me.
Rest in peace Christopher
Michael
-
Farewell Christopher.
You were an invaluable member of this community and will be missed by many people.
Rest in peace
Karenlee
-
This is such a shock! Christopher was always happy to help and I will miss him on the boards. Very sad ....
-
Good bye, farewell and amen to a wonderful man. You will be missed.
Jude
-
I didn't know Christopher but have read his posts on here and other forums on a daily basis. I have clicked on many of his links to new and useful information and I always admired the unending help & encouragement he gave to others. He will be sadly missed.
tc
-
This is very sad news
I had some good help locating Irish ancestors from Christopher and feel so privileged to having his help.
May he rest in peace and we keep his memory alive
Trees
-
Christopher was unfailingly helpful and kind. He will be missed very much.
Jan
-
We will miss you awfully Christopher. RIP. Kalypso
-
What awfully sad news, Christopher was part of what makes RootsChat the great site it is, his individual help and the links he posted have been a great help to me and many others.
Rest in peace Christopher
Simon
-
Christopher was always there to help others, this is very sad news
Rest in Peace Christopher
Helena
-
R.I.P Christopher, you will be missed by us all
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family
Newbe
-
Very sad news. Fair winds Christopher.
Heather
-
Sad news. I will miss the sight of that cheery green hat.
Andrea
-
What a tragic loss. A lovely man.
R.I.P Cristopher.
Trish
-
What sad news.
Rest in peace Christopher - we'll miss you
Ann
-
The name on its own didn't ring any bells for me, but the mention of the green hat jogged my memory.
Very sad news indeed.
I'm sure Christopher will continue his research and give good advice even from so far away.
Rest easy, Christopher, you will not be forgotten.
Philippa
-
Shocking news indeed :(
RIP Christopher
Kerry
-
Sad news indeed, I will miss seeing his avatar.
RIP Christopher
KHP
-
I am so sorry to hear this sad news.
May he find all those elusive ancestors in a far better place.
Rest in Peace Christopher
Di
-
May he be sitting on his cloud with a nice cool pint of of his favourite looking down telling us the answers :)
RIP
-
What sad news.
Christopher was a great enthusiast for family history research, and it has been the energy of him and others of a similar disposition that has done so much to make Rootschat a special place.
JULIAN
-
Christopher helped so many people. He will be missed.
Kooky
-
Oh, dear, - what a loss!
Rarely do we find a gentleman such as Christopher, and I'm sure all RC-ers will miss him greatly.
-
Im so sorry to hear this sad news. He will be missed very much.
R.I.P Christopher
Sue
-
So sorry to hear about the death of Christopher
He will be sadly missed
Jane
-
Christopher was the first to greet me on my first posting on Rootschat. A wonderful and kind gentleman. He will be sorely missed on this site.
R.I.P. Christopher.
DoireM
-
You were always a True Gentleman Christopher. May You .R.I.P.
-
He was such a familiar face. He will be greatly missed.
Margie
-
A very sad time for all us rootchatters.
Christopher will be very sadly missed by us all :'(
RIP dear Christopher.
Rhonda.
-
Like others I am shocked to hear of the passing of Christopher, a true cyber friend to many. In researching our family history we are assisted by many but very few stand out for their assitance, their guidance and more importantly their friendship as Christopher did. Although not helped directly by Christopher he provided links that had helped me (and others no doubt) to understand the small part of my own family roots, and as others have said his postings were ones to look out for and read with interest. Christopher will be missed by many and it is a tribute to the man that many have posted their respect to him here with warmth and heartfelt thanks to a true gentleman. Thank you Christopher for taking the time, and the touble for helping others.
Rest in peace Christopher,
old rowley
-
He may not have had a huge immediate family but the response here shows he had a large caring rootschat family.
RIP Christopher, you'll be missed
Madpants
-
What a terrible shock. I always enjoyed reading Christopher's posts. He had the knack of being interesting whatever he was saying. I will miss him.
Thank you for posting, Pentio, we may otherwise never have known.
Aniseed
-
Yes, thanks Pentio.
Christopher was a large character and there was a refreshing lack of self-promotion in what he did. As others have said, always keen to help, whether the topic was genealogy or accommodation for visitors to his beloved Ireland or even the local animal shelter!
We had our run-ins but he was always graceful.
It's a shock and I'm sad to hear of his passing.
Arranroots ;)
-
So sad, he will be very much missed.
Spring
-
Very sad (for us) but I'm hoping where-ever he is now he is having a welcome home party on the other side with his kin-folk!!!
hugs
-
I just saw this and am so saddened by this news.
Christopher was always so interested in people's Irish needs and always had that question about religion to try to determine where to start.
I occasionally posted something of interest which I knew that Christopher would read or comment on if no-one else did ;)
He will be sadly missed by so many and please God he realised that he had made a difference to people on here.
May he rest in peace
heywood
-
It is with great sadness that I learned of Christopher sudden death .I have had many a telling off off Christopher over the years ,mainly about my spelling which he picked me up on many an occasion ,if your reading this out there Christopher I hope you are dancing with angles. God Bless and thanks for all your help and yes I did use spell check
Audrey
-
farewell old friend, i bet your were in heaven an hour before the devil knew you were gone.
will miss you much mary.
-
I didnt recognise his name until I saw the green hat! And then realised I had read and enjoyed a lot of his posts.
What a shock for everyone on RC his BIG family,
Abiam
-
Rest in Peace Christopher - at last you can ask all the questions we all wished we had asked when our families were here.
God Bless.
Grandma Sheila
-
Rest in peace Christopher, you have been a huge part of RootsChat for me! Unfailingly
helpful and generous. Such sad news.
Elin
-
So sad ... and to die alone. I do hope he didn't suffer. He will truly be missed on here, by those he helped and encouraged.
Rest in peace, Christopher ... and may you now have the answers to your brick walls ...
-
I find this all so tragic. Christopher was such a whole personality on here. He was the only person who found a possible lead on my one Irish line. We had some good discussions about Welsh, Irish and Scottish Gaelic as well.
I would have enjoyed having a pint and a chat with him :)
How very sad.
RIP
Gadget
-
So sad..... a great loss to all of us that he has offered help to on the Ireland board.
Rest in peace dear Christopher.
A true gentleman.
Tazzie
-
Its very sad to hear of Christopher's passing. I often read his postings which were very interesting and informative.
Rest Well.......
lil
-
I don't mean to poke my nose but I saw this thread... I didn't know Christopher but by all accounts he was a lovely man; well respected and helpful. May he rest in well-deserved peace.
Let's pray that he is at rest.
Matt
-
Christopher will be very much missed on RootsChat.
May he rest in peace.
Betty
-
What sad news.
His advice and links were an invaluable aid to many Rootschatters.
Who will take his place? The Irish Board is always so difficult as their records, in many cases, no longer exist.
God rest your soul dear Christopher.
Judy
-
What very sad news.
Christopher was the guy who introduced me to Rootschat. He told me about all the wonderful people on here, and how everyone was so nice and helpful.
R.I.P Christopher,
Red
-
So sad to hear the news of Christopher's death he will be greatly missed here especially on the Irish boards.
My condolences to his family and friends.
God Bless Christopher - Rest in Peace
-
R.i.P.
-
Shocked and saddened to hear of Christopher's passing and the circumstances.
He was a big part of the Rootschat family and a great 'link' man in the chain.
Agree with other comments, also he did such a grand job trying to offer some response to old unanswered posts lately.
Bless and R.I.P.
mare
-
:'(
Oh dear, how sad. I never met him but feel I know him through his invaluable help with Irish ancestry. Sleep well Christopher in the knowledge that you did more than your share to further this funny old hobby of ours, Family History. Will raise a glass or two to you next St Pat's day and the first chance I get to have a Guinness when I finally get to visit Ireland will be a salute to you.
Jan
-
Rest In Peace Christopher
You will be missed
Just Moi
-
What a lovely lot of tributes for Christopher.
RIP
Bev
-
R.I.P Christopher and as the late Dave Allen used to say I hope you were in Heaven half an hour before the Devil knew you were gone.
You are surely missed by all of us. I know that I will miss your Postings.
Jean
-
That is really such sad news. He was a major contributor to RootsChat.
RIP Christopher.
Geoff
-
Christopher you will be greatly missed. A truly interesting personality, the perfect mix of an old curmungeon and consummate gentleman when a comment made or ommitted shook your sensibilities.
The lack of a sign off on a message was something you found bewildering so I will end with
Respectfully yours,
dollylee
-
I am saddened to hear of Christopher's passing. He was a great help to so many people.
Leslie
-
Christopher was a very generous kind contributer to RC..
charlotte
-
I'm very sad to hear of the passing of Christopher, what a good man he was, we'll all miss his help and advice on here, particularly on the Irish forums.
Goodnight Christopher
Mary
-
a great man rest in peace Christopher you will always be remembered :'( :'( :'(d
-
What extremely sad news.
Rest in Peace Christopher.
Kim
-
I hope he is at peace and didn't suffer.
It's nice to see that his profile has been amended with his dates.
RIP.
B.
-
Uncle Chris
You will know by now that even with my paper tree and string...I was correct in my assumption.......We might have been a few bits removed ,married into etc .....and my spelling and grammer were much to be disired.....
I often told you .....your interpersonal skills ..needed much refining.
You came...You helped...thank you
May God bless you
Steve
P.S Chris....if you talk to them Twig's can you still P.M me please
-
Just returned from a few days away. Signed on to RC to find out about Christopher's passing!
R I P CHRISTOPHER :'(
Annette
-
R I P Christopher
-
I am one of the many people who benefited from Christopher's posts and I, too, will miss seeing his photo.
God rest his soul.
Josephine
-
Oh dear, just been notified of poor Christopher's passing :'(
how sad, RIP Christopher
-
So sad to hear this news.
I did not have any dealings with Christopher but often read his very interesting posts.
Stood out among the crowd.
R.I.P.
-
HOW SAD!
Just wanted to say
R.I.P.
-
How sad
I have had a lot of help from Christopher
I am sure he will be a big loss to the likes of myself and anyone else
who really didn't know were to start with Irish research
wear your wings with Pride Christopher
you have earned them
RIP
Elaine
-
So sorry to hear about Christopher..even a few exchanges read create ties here. Here's a tip o' the hat to the Green Hat..thank you.
Kiddo
-
Saddened to read the news of Christopher's death. He will be greatly missed.
AliceO
-
Very sad news, Like many here, I read Christopher's posts with interest over the years and he also provided me with many links to useful information.
RIP Christopher.
Nina
-
Sad indeed he died alone. Hoping he did not suffer.
I did not interact with him but always saw his photo as i trawled the site so know he contributed a lot! I'm sure he will be sorely missed.
Sarndra
-
So very sad.
None of us know what's round the corner, do we.
Maddie
-
So saddened to hear this, I didn't have many dealings with him personally but I certainly knew the green hat and have used his links and info. He was an invaluable member of RC and will be sorely missed. Rest in peace
-
I'm sorry to hear of Christophers death
His wit and help over the years will be missed by us all so I hope he is catching up with all of his ancestors and enjoying a good pint and gossip on the other side
Lets all raise a drink and praise his memory - rest in peace dear friend
Willow xx
-
Very sorry to hear this. I haven't been active on RC for some time, but I know how close some of the relationships here are.
However to die alone and to not have any family around you is a very sad affair. For the people who have to sort out your affairs who don't even know if you have family or not, it's also very distressing.
As usual it's good to see so many fellow RC members taking the time to say farwell to an old friend.
Farewell Christopher, Rest In Peace in a happier place.
Tony
-
Thanks for the information on Christophers passing. It is a very sad occassion but I suspect he would prefer us to celebrate his life. He was the first one to try and help me with my elusive Irish Reids. Despite his best efforts I haven't got far.
We will all miss his help and wise information
R.I.P Christopher.
wini
-
I am sad at Christopher's passing, he will be missed.
So as Willow said .... let's raise a glass to his memory and celebrate his life.
Here's to you Christopher.
-
Am Really Sorry to here about Christophers Passing ..
Even Though we Never Spoke ..he replyed to Posts that i was Following ..and he was a Really Nice Guy ..and he wil be Sadly Missed on the Rootschat Forums
R.I.P Christopher a Kind and Caring Gentleman
Regards
Iria
-
R.I.P. Christopher
Kindest Regards from Pam in Western Australia.
-
This has really tugged at my heart. Thank you so much Christopher for all the tips and suggestions to help me find out who I am. Have fun meeting up with all your ancestors,
RIP
from Michelle (NZ)
-
I've already posted a message for Christopher ... but I'd like to thank Pentio and Les, for letting us all know. Much appreciated.
Deb
-
Never need Christophers help but just want to say
RIP Christopher and hope you are watching over us
-
So Sad, I hope his passing was quick & painless.
I never met him, but I think he would be honoured so may people thought so much of him.
May he be resting in peice, gathering all the information that may have eluded him, and asking all his ancestors the questions he has puzzled over, no more brickwalls now, only answers ..........
Rest in piece.
Gaille
-
R i P Christopher,How sad to be alone at the time of your passing..... Ricoba West Aust
-
God Bless, Christopher. What a great loss he will be.
-
RIP Christopher so sad that you were alone :'(
I'll miss reading your posts
Vicki
-
As he always said .....
There are only two kinds of people in the world
The Irish ...... and those who wish they were !
RIP Christopher
-
God Bless you Christopher. May you Rest In Peace. You will be greatly missed.
R I P
Daizi and family
-
Rest in peace, Christopher.
Mandy
-
I was shocked to see that Christopher had passed away. It seems so sad that he was alone at the time.
Hope he is now surrounded by the Ancestors he was seeking.
Sarra (in OZ)
-
Rest in Peace Christopher.
RBC
-
thankyou to christopher for helping myself and many others on both forums.
sorry to hear the sad circumstance of his death.
peace be with him.
god bless
ann
-
May I please add my condolances to all at the passing of Christopher. What a gentleman he was and a great help to me and I am sure hundreds of other rootschatters in the arduous task of locating their Irish ancestors.
May Christopher Rest in Peace and thanks for the generous help you gave so willingly to the many people on here.
sincerely
tisgrannie
-
Rest in peace Christopher, a very kind and helpful man. You will be missed.
-
R I P Christopher
Sad you were alone.
Omega
-
This is such sad news. Christopher, you will be greatly missed.
Rest in peace
Siobhan
-
so sad to hear that he past away
Rest In Peace Christopher
Jan
-
Yes I agree ,what a lovely gentleman and tireless worker for us all.
He will be hugely missed by all his internet friends.
Rest in peace.
Tsumi :(
-
Thank you so much for your help and suggestions, they were much appreciated.
Rest in peace Christopher.
PippaKim
-
So sad to hear about Christopher dying alone he was a very helpful person and may he rest in peace
Rita
-
How sad Christopher is gone, as has been said he always went out of his way to help everyone and will be sadly missed on roots, I had the pleasure of meeting him a couple of years ago at the Dublin meet and he was quite a character, it only remains to say "Christopher if theres a net connection in heaven will ya answer all of my family history mysteries for me and a few others if you get time between all the partying and testing out the new wings ! Rest In Peace Christopher, Bernadette :'(
-
Cheerio Christopher, dear old friend.
Lesanne.
-
Very sorry indeed to hear this news...
jed
-
Very sad to hear of the death of Christopher,who was a very helpful guy.He will be a great loss to Rootschat.
Bless him. xx
-
What sad news......thanks to the Rootschat Team for letting me know.
Rest in peace, Christopher.
Yorkslass
-
This as come as a major shock to myself. Chris and I were distantly related through our DeBANK lines and we spent hours discussing our tree. I only last week passed his addy onto another twig in our tree. I will miss his sense of humour and knowledge of our N. Ireland branch.
Rest in Peace cuz
Rob
-
I am so shocked and saddened to hear the news of Christopher's passing, he will be greatly missed on Rootschat.
May you rest in peace Christopher and God Bless
Elaine
-
I am going to miss Christopher so much.
He was one of the first Rootschatters to guide me on my way ,with kind words of encouragement ,never made a fool of my complete lack of knowledge, in Ireland particularly.
A great loss to all of us .
God Bless you Christopher ,a true gent and a heart of gold.
Lin
-
How very sad and such a shock, he will be greatly missed by all on Rootschat.
My condolences to Christopher's family.
May he rest in peace.
Scatty
-
I am so sorry to hear of the sudden death of Christopher.
He may have died alone and have few ,if any relatives, but he was very rich in having thousands of Friends.
The Peace of God be with him.
Kind Regards Amber39
-
Thank you to the Rc team for letting us all know about Christopher's death.
I had replied earlier but just wanted to thank the team
RIP
Newbe
-
I've just heard the sad news about our friend Christopher.
As others have said he was a true gentleman and my sister
celtic damsel and I attended a dublin meet arranged by him.
the picture below was taken then,it shows him taking notes
for a future rootschat meet which sadly never happened.
rest in peace Christopher,I know I will still click into your profile to
find the many helpful resources you posted. :(
Anne
-
I have lost count of the number of times Christopher helped me, or I responded to a thread where he was already actively helping.
Norbert Elias' words say it all:
“Death hides no secret; it opens no door; it is the end of a person.
What survives is what he or she has given to other people – what stays in their memory.”
Justin
-
R. I. P. Christopher
I will never forget the help you gave me in my Irish search.
Such a sad loss to so many of us on this site
May he rest in peace.
jericho :'(
-
So very sad, Christopher gave me a history lesson that i will never forget. He was so helpful and hard working on my petition to save our churches. I know he will be very sadly missed by so many people.
Rest in peace. May you find all the information you were looking for on the other side.
Lynn.
-
I didn't think I knew Christopher until I saw his photo and the penny dropped. Of course I knew the green hat man. He'd touched my life every time I logged on because I usually came across one of his threads.
R.I.P. Christopher, your work on this plane is done.
Rena
-
I have just heard the very sad news about Christopher's death. How kind of Rootschat to let us all know, and what a shock.
He was a true Irish gentleman, who will be so very sadly missed. May he reap his rewards in heaven.
Rest in Peace Christopher, The Irish board will never never the same again without your little green hat.
Rabbit B
-
Very sorry to hear this news.
Rest in peace Christopher. :(
-
I, too am saddened to hear the sad news of Christopher's passing, he helped me through some of my Irish connections, for which I thank him,
R.I.P. Christopher
Jane and family
-
Very sad news indeed, but I'm grateful to the team for sending out the news - I've been away from the forum for a few weeks.
Christopher, you will be greatly missed, you were the source of so much help and information to so many of us. You will live on in the hearts and memories of Rootschatters and in the results of the research they couldn't have done without you.
I hope your links will stay as a lasting memorial, to help even more people in the future. It's a legacy to be proud of.
As the late Dave Allen used to say:
'Goodnight, and may your god go with you'
Mean_genie
-
We shall all miss this gentle Irishman who went out of his way to be helpful to others.
Taid, your picture is lovely! Let's raise a glass of Guinness to his memory - Sláinte, Christopher!
Rest in peace.
Gill
-
I was deeply shocked to hear of Christopher's sudden death. He was such a kind, helpful man and a real gentleman. He will be sadly missed on RC but we will never forget him and his gorgeous green hat. Requiescat in Pace, Christopher.
CP
-
Thanks Gill, but don't think Christopher would be impressed!
one of his first replies to one of my posts was about
one of my pictures stretching his screen.
mods feel free to reduce it if its too big.
Anne
-
Rest In Peace, such sad news
-
What awful news! how sad,
As the late Dave Allen used to say:
'Goodnight, and may your god go with you'
Mean_genie
Sleep peacefully Chris
Suey
-
Celtic Damsel kindly let me know the dreadfully sad news about Christopher.
He was a stalwart friend to many here on Rootschat and so kind in helping others. His help and advice will be sadly missed
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam May he rest in peace
Mo
-
So sorry to hear the sad news of Christopher's death; and in such lonely circumstances.
I crossed paths with Christopher several times on rootschat,and found him full of useful information on sites. He was equally very complimentary to those who also came up with ones he hadn't found (though he came up with many).
I remember particularly how keen he was that youngsters should be introduced to the fascinating world of family history - lets hope his wish comes to fruition.
Rest in peace, Christopher - God Bless xxx
Paulene :)
-
Christopher was a lovely man very hard worker on rootschat will be sadly missedxx
'Ar dheis Dé go raibh m'anam' rest in peace
-
Such sad news.
Whilst having no direct contact with Christopher i often read his posts which i always found interesting and informative and i know he was selfless in his help to others. I know he will be sadly missed.
Rest easily dear sir!
regards ,Tony
-
how sad christopher give a link for the oxford university police the bulldogs which help me a lot with my 2xgreat grandfather charles flaxen.this was the best bit of info ive had on roots.
neil
-
So sad...
I was just thinking of him this week as June 07 was when I first found Rootschat and was tempted to join in when talk then was of a 'Dublin meet'. Christopher was the 'human' face that brought this website to life for me. He has left an amazing archive on this website - a legacy that will live on. Apart from helping fellow rootschatters with queries, he seemed to have time to do a large amount of research on Irish sources of information and was generous to share with all of us.
He may have had a small family but I like to think he considered us here as part of his extended family,
May he rest in peace,
Anne
-
I met Christopher at a meet in Dublin in April 08.
He had come all the way from the North, he said he told the lady when he bough his train ticket, he was just going down to Dublin
to have a cup of coffee.
We had a good meet up and a lot of laughs.
R.I.P. Christopher.
Mags.
-
Rest in Peace Christopher...
a million thanks for all your hard work, links and advice
Shane
-
I was so sorry to hear the news of Christopher's death. He was a fantastic help to me on Rootschat, and will be sadly missed.
Jaylay
-
I have just heard the news.
We agreed and occasionally disagreed - but he was always polite. Often hilarious!
He will be sadly missed.
meles
-
Absolutely devastated at the news of Christopher, I will miss his humour greatly, he was always there to help, this is so sad.
Carol
-
I am deeply saddened by Christophers " lonely" death.
He was a most helpful man, and keenly shared his knowledge with anyone that asked for help..
Men like Christopher gave so much on this site , I salute him for his dedication .
Farewell pal, Dolly.
-
Such dreadfully sad news, such a kind man and always ready to help absolutely everybody.
He will be greatly missed.
R.I.P Christopher xxx
millerina
-
Very Sad to hear of Christophers Death he was very helpful on a couple
of occasions regarding my Irish .
God Bless . pancho
-
RIP Christopher and thanks for all the help you have given me and so many others. We shall all miss you.
Ellen
-
Rest in Peace Christopher,you'll be missed.
Barbara
-
Let's hope - as a true RootsChatter - that he's finally broken down those last brick walls and met all the ancestors he's got to know through his research - RIP, Christopher.
-
Although I never personally came into contact with Christopher, it is clear just from the sheer number of posts made on the news of his death, just how much respect and affection people on Rootschat had for him and what a loss to the site he will be.
Rest in peace Christopher. I hope that you had some idea of how much you meant to so many people.
CJL
-
"Dear Friend",
not a lonely death at all- he has left his legacy to us all,---- and will be remembered .
-
R.I.P Christopher - a respected man, always willing to help.
Our loss is Heavens gain....
-
How very sad indeed .. he helped in my search for my Irish Ancestry giving me some good websites
Rest in peace Christopher x
-
Having been away from Roots for a while the receipt of the email shocked me.
Never having had direct contact with Christopher did not diminish the respect I had/have for his knowledge and postings to the boards to others in search of their elusive ancestors.
May he now be at peace, having helped and guided so many.
Mair
-
:'( How very sad and shocking to hear of Christopher's death and in such sad circumstances, Isn't it sad that someone like that can die completely alone?
He has certainly helped me in the past giving me ideas of where to look for my impossible Irish connections.
He will be sadly missed, may he be at peace
RIP Christopher
Crystal :(
-
You have left a wonderful legacy, Christopher.
Rest in Peace
Sue
-
Who ever knows what is behind this screen that I knew you through.
I was glad to know you Christopher, always the gentleman. Rest in God's Peace.
Wendi :)
-
Such sad news...
Reading through the many posts shows how well respected Christopher was.
May you rest in peace Christopher...
justmej
-
I have been away from rootschat for a while but felt I must visit when I heard the sad news about Christopher.
Goodnight "UNCLE" Chris - so glad I had chance to meet you and put a face to the name! Who will I argue with now? :(
Goodbye and God Bless
SAZ
-
Have only learnt the sad news now. Rest in Gods peace and love Christopher. He was a kind helpfulperson, through his geneaology work brought a lot of happiness to those searching fortheir 'roots' Yes indeed he will be sorely missed.
-
I was saddened to hear about the death of Christopher. I may not have been well connected with his postings, etc., but his presence on RC was enormous and I know that green hat from a mile off. To me, a colourful and brilliant member of the RC community has been lost but not forgotten... May he rest in peace.
Elfie
-
I also had the pleasure of meeting him at the Dublin meet in 2008.
A true gentleman. I'm very sorry to hear of his untimely death.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
Trish
-
Very sad news indeed.
Even amongst this Rootschat community he stood out as a particularly helpful chap.
-
I too had the pleasure if meeting Christopher at the "Rootschat Meets" in Dublin.
These occasions were not as grand as their title might imply as the contingency plan for more attendees than expected was to pull over a second table. But as a consequence our meetings became more of a conversation between like-minded friends and in the centre of us all sat Christopher.
He was so familiar to each of us, his online persona being no different to the real thing. Quiet spoken, quick to smile, always encouraging and behind his eyes his mind was constantly whirring, searching for the connection between the information we were looking for and the place were it might be found. On matters of Irish genealogy he was a living breathing "Cyndi's List".
Countless Rootschatters have been and will continue to be assisted by his many valuable posts and these will stand as a monument to his memory.
Truly a Gentleman and a Scholar.
RonnieG
-
Hi all...I was sad to learn that Christopher had passed away. He was very helpful to many people on this site, me included. Condolences to his family.
May your Irish eyes keep smiling Chris!
Hunnyb22
-
have just come across this thread
i have not had many 'dealings' with Christopher but he did give me some advice re searching Ireland records way back and its sand to hear of his passing
but hopefully he wil be reunited with his family that hes been looking for on these forums
-
Christopher Peake - The First Internet Librarian of Irish Family History
Much respected and will be always much missed,
BallyaltikilliganG aka JimG or just plain Bally when he got irritated!
-
Bravo Ronnie I couldnt have put it better meself !!
I too had the pleasure if meeting Christopher at the "Rootschat Meets" in Dublin.
These occasions were not as grand as their title might imply as the contingency plan for more attendees than expected was to pull over a second table. But as a consequence our meetings became more of a conversation between like-minded friends and in the centre of us all sat Christopher.
He was so familiar to each of us, his online persona being no different to the real thing. Quiet spoken, quick to smile, always encouraging and behind his eyes his mind was constantly whirring, searching for the connection between the information we were looking for and the place were it might be found. On matters of Irish genealogy he was a living breathing "Cyndi's List".
Countless Rootschatters have been and will continue to be assisted by his many valuable posts and these will stand as a monument to his memory.
Truly a Gentleman and a Scholar.
RonnieG
-
I too was profoundly saddened to read of Christopher's death. He was such an enthusiastic Rootschatter and so helpful to many. May you go on ferreting out missing rellies in the next world, Christopher - send them to communicate with their desperate descendants! We'll miss you.
MarieC
-
I am very sad to hear of Christopher's passing.
God Bless!
deb
-
Very sad news indeed. The world has lost a friend.
Snooker
-
I heard of his death from an e-mail from Rootschat. His contribution is simply awesome.
R.I.P.
-
What very sad news about Christopher - he will be sadly missed
R.I.P
Evelyn
-
In the relatively short time I've been a member of Rootchat Christopher has become a familiar face from various threads I've followed. I'm saddened to hear about his death.
Rest in peace Christopher
Jean
-
Rest in peace Christopher. God bless you and thank you.
Karen
-
Such sad news about Christopher,
his threads were always interesting,and helpful.
He will be missed.
Bennett
-
Very sad to hear of Christopher's passing. He made great contributions to the Lancashire board, on the Irish in Manchester and many other topics. Lovely fella.
RIP Christopher
Barbara
-
I was really sad to hear this news of Christopher. In the months I have been a member of Rootschat he has gone out of his way to help with my family in Ireland and over here, directly and through his posts.
His generous giving of his resources, his expertise and his time as well as his gracious replies will be a great loss. He was a man who sought out where he could help.
In grateful appreciation
RIP Christopher.
Emms
Emms
-
I am so sad to hear the news about Christopher. He has helped me many times.
You will be missed Christopher. "Rest in Peace"
-
Such sad news,
May he rest in peace
-
Just thought this would be of interest,there have been so many tributes to Christopher.thanks to pentio and Les for letting everyone know.
http://www.belfastforum.co.uk/index.php/topic,21348.15.html
-
Thanks very much, Anne, for giving us this link. I feel so sad for Christopher's sister, and I do hope that a good number of his online friends can get to his funeral. And I hope that wherever he is, he knows how cherished he was by his friends in genealogy.
MarieC
-
such sad news
christopher has helped me enormously on my irish heritage
rest in peace
god bless
berni
-
Thank you for the link, I know many of us will be too far away to attend but we can say a little prayer at 11.30 on Thursday morning in his memory.
Mary
-
Thanks for the link Anne. I will think of him on June 11th.
Mags.
-
R.I.P Christopher
Ken
-
Christopher was a kind & helpful person RIP Yes I will definately light a candle and pray for him on the 11th JUne.
-
Have only just read the news on here.
So sad, But how great that he had a world wide network of friends who are missing him and taking the time to say so.
RIP Christopher
-
Thank you for the Belfast Forum link. I couldn't work out what that referred to.
Emms
-
It's good to see how many people's lives were touched by Christopher and how much he was appreciated.
Dave
-
Who could ever mistake the green hat.
Much missed, RIP
-
I have been reading all the lovely messages an it really does get to you :( totally made me well up to realise that he wont be here anymore. The messages I have read show what a really lovely man he was, so kind and helpful to all. I almost gave up at one stage from finding my family, he stepped in and took the reins actually intervening for me. Without Christopher I would not have found family and friends that I now have in County Clare, so for me knowing Christopher, was not just a big help in my research but actually life changing, without him I wouldn't have them. I always remember when I first joined seeing his messages all over boards helping people out, one person had gained a lot of knowledge from somebody else and had not acknowledged that person, he stepped in to tell them off for not thanking them, I thought at first he was a bit scary ;D being a newbie.....but always made a point of thanking each and every person on here for any help received.....so with a tear in my eye.. I thank you once again Christoper, you will never be forgotton and will always be missed, so sad we never got to do our Father Ted Tour x
-
From Les on the Belfast Forum, I have been advised that Christopher's funeral will be on the 11th June at 11.30 a.m. at Roselawn Crematorium, Ballygowan Road, Belfast.
-
I am so sad to hear of Christophers passing.
He helped me and others so much. I am so grateful for his help as I wouldn't have found my family on my own.
I received a post from Christopher on Tues 2nd June helping me with my Delaney family and I never replied to say thankyou.
Thankyou Christopher.
Kristina xxxx
Moderator's Comment: reply was from seanmac not Christopher
-
I hope Christophers Heavenly Keg never runs dry and his company is as he would like.
Solid, sound and very much respected.
-
So sorry to hear this sad news, Christopher will be much missed by all his Rootschat friends
Barbara
-
For anyone who may have been waiting confirmation of Christopher's funeral, as indicated by Pentio in an earlier post, I have just been online and see that the notice is now in the Belfast Telegraph:
http://www.rootschat.com/links/06gl/
His friends on Belfast Forum have also posted a notice in the Telegraph:
http://www.rootschat.com/links/06gm/
-
Thanks, scotmum!
Every time I think of him I feel so sad that he died alone like that, and so sorry for his sister. I hope there is a great mob of people at his funeral, and I hope too that someone who can go will post a report here.
MarieC
-
I am reasonably new to RootsChat, but could not help but see a lot of green hats on the posts.
I am so very sorry, particularly that he died alone.
R I P Christopher, and 'Thankyou'.
Molly
-
As 11.30 approaches....thoughts are with those attending Christopher's funeral today.....may they each take strength and comfort from their own memories and use these to help them through the day.
-
I'm thinking of you, your sister and all your many friends this morning, Christopher. May all your Gods go with you.
You are sadly missed.
-
I cannot be there for Christophers funeral but I have lit a candle and said a prayer for him.
RIP Christopher.
Johngirl
-
Such sad news.
Rest in peace Christopher.
Christine
-
What can I say?
Just that I'll also miss him.
Leonie.
-
I've just come back from hols & found this sad news:-(
Christopher was very kind and helpful to me when I first joined RC, & I always enjoyed reading his posts. He was a true gentleman, always couteous and considerate, & I will miss his contribution on here.
RIP Christopher.
Romilly.
-
I'm wondering if any Rootschatter managed to get to Christopher's funeral. I am sure lots of us were thinking of him, and his sister - I know I was - and I'd love to know if there were friends there to give him a sendoff (and maybe an Irish wake?)
MarieC
-
Marie,
that's what I have been thinking and keep looking for. I checked the Belfast Forum too in case there was something.
As you, I thought of him and said my prayer around the time and hope that his family and friends were able to think of the many, many positive things which Christopher did and the great help and inspiration he was too us on here.
It's funny isn't it how when we found something of interest to Ireland, Christopher was the one person you wanted to share it with.
May he rest in peace
heywood
-
heywood,
If you do find out anything, of course you'll let us know on this thread, won't you?
Thanks,
MarieC
-
Hello everyone. I have just joined this website (yesterday) and by chance Christopher's link was the first one I have gone to, in an effort to trace my Moody family in Ireland.
I was amazed at the information that he had sourced and shared, and regret that I was too late to 'meet' him through the forum - though not too late to have the benefit of his help.
My thoughts are with all of his friends, who will miss him enormously. May he rest in peace.
kind regards :(
deva
-
so sad, :(, hardly knew you but you were a great influence on all of us "searchers" - you will be missed - rest in peace our friend
-
Hi deva, and welcome! :)
How lovely that Christopher was the first person on here to help you, from beyond the grave! Brought a tear to my eye.
I am sure he will have an ongoing legacy helping many others through the posts he has made!
MarieC
-
hi MarieC
thankyou for your welcome :)
I am just starting out on the long and adventurous journey and I am sure that I will get help from many, over time, on this site (including through the legacy left by Christopher)
How lucky I am to have found rootschat fairly early 8).
I'm looking forward to all that I will discover and hope I don't have too many hiccups on the way.
cheers
deva
-
I don't come on Rootschat often these days and I am very sad to read about Christophers death.
Christopher tried to help me trace my Irish ancestors many times so he will be missed by us all.
God Bless RIP
Matty
-
So sad, a true Rootschatter who has helped me too and will be sorely missed
-
very sorry to hear that.... me and sloppyjoe will miss his great wealth of information.. he was so good to everyone...hope he rests in peace...
-
I was so sad to hear about Christopher.
God Bless you Christopher.
Nessie xx
-
This is sad news. RIP Christopher.
Maggie
-
Hi
I have been slow hearing the sad news. Christopher was a great contibutor to Rootschat although sometimes controversial. It is times like this that although we knew him well on Rootschat there was so much more we did not know. I was sad to think he died alone and was found sometime after. Wherever he is now and whatever our beliefs I hope he has found peace and love.
If you had a God Chris may he be with you, if you did not and you don't mind may my God be with you.
What more can I say
Jane
-
I had an e-mail about Christopher whilst on holiday but couldn't find a link on here until today.
Christopher will be sadly missed. He helped me with bits of family history research even though my ancestors weren't Irish just in Ireland with the army for a few years.
May you rest in peace and I hope your sister can take consolation from all the kind thoughts on here.
Lizzie
-
Christopher and others like him, should be considered National Treasures of Ireland. His tireless efforts to help others discover their roots in Ireland, lifted the spirits of many and encouraged them to continue their search. I am so glad my path crossed his, even if only by internet. I know Christopher is in the presence of his ancestors and they are very proud of him.
-
I have just picked this up tonight
How sad ,Christoher will be sadly missed
He is in my thoughts
Elizabeth
-
what sad news he was such a help to all .I always looked when i saw that Christopher had posted some thing up.He may not have met everyone he helped but ill bet no one will forget him . REST IN PEACE .
-
R.I.P. Christopher
Fizzy
-
Rest in peace and thanks for all your help.
Ger
-
I came on line to night and seeing there were no new posts since 12 May from Christopher, who was extremely prolific in posts. My first thought was something surely has happened to Christopher. It was then with great sadness that I learned of his passing. I met Christopher when I was at PRONI whilst visiting in Ireland in 2007. Having come over from Australia for a holiday, it was a treasured experience, to sit down and chat over lunch with such a knowledgeable man. He is surely missed.
-
Christopher, always ready to help all,
Jacky
-
I have just read a post and was wondering if it were true about Christopher sadly no longer being with us. If it is true, I am so sorry as he was such a good and valued helper to this site, who I will sadly miss. I also send my condolences to his family.
Regards
Ginny
-
Thank you for moving my post.
So it is true, R.I.P dear Christopher. No more searching now eh, as I am sure you have met up with a lot of those you have been researching in your own family tree.
Thank you for your time and and help.
You will be missed.
Ginny
-
Christopher seemed to me to be remarkable mix of:
knowledge
awareness of how much was yet to learn
strong opinions
the ability to listen
patience with neophytes
occasional irritation with those he thought should know better
Above all, I will remember his passion, enthusiasm, extensive knowledge, and willigness to give his time and expertise for others.
-
R.I.P Christopher Peake.
God Bless.
Thanks for your help and wisdom
Dowdy
-
Sad news indeed, a great loss. My condolences to his family.
-
Goodbye Christopher - thanks for all the help you have given to me and all our friends here on Rootschat. Rest in peace my friend.
-
I haven't used this site very much recently. However, I remember Christopher helping me many years ago when I posted, for which I was very grateful.
So sorry to hear of his passing.
-
The wonderful thing is,that his help is still here .
Often when doing a search, there he is with a helpful hint or an answer.
Where else could he have left such a great legacy.
Gone, and much missed, but never to be forgotten as long as Rootchat lasts.
Spring
-
Had the same thoughts myself.....the other day searching on rootschat came across an old post that I hadn't seen before which steered me in the right direction :)
Carol
-
Hi, all!
Just got back from a week touring in Ireland.
One day we found ourselves in a place called Bunratty - which brought back memories of Christopher, who used to post on these boards!
I remember his icon used to carry the words "St Patrick's night at Bunratty" - I'm not sure if this was the same place (how many CAN there be?) - all the same, we went into "Durty Nelly's" (next door to Bunratty Castle) and raised our glasses to Christopher's memory.
Wherever you are, Christopher, I hope you are now able to unravel some of you genealogical mysteries!
Cheers, mate!!
Stoney
Moderator Comment: topics merged
-
I've been to a banquet at Bunratty! In the 1960s. I noticed Christopher's avatar too.
Cheers,
China