Christopher John Lapinski Jr. "CJ"

Christopher John Lapinski, Jr. “CJ” passed away unexpectantly, on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the age of 47.

CJ was born on February 18, 1979, in Jackson, Michigan. He graduated from Chelsea High School and

attended Michigan Technological University; however, CJ discovered his passion was cooking. After

working at various Michigan eating spots, a major restaurant group moved him to California, where he

worked for over 15 years. Upon his return to Michigan, MACI Manufacturing employed CJ.

CJ will be remembered for having a smile on his face. He was always ready with a witty quip to tease his

acquaintances and took pleasure in friendly banter with family and colleagues. He was an avid reader,

mostly science fiction or fantasy, which he enjoyed discussing with his father. He loved music, going to

concerts and listening to records. CJ met new friends when he joined the Sons of the American Legion

where he assisted with projects supporting veterans.

CJ is survived by his father, Christopher John Lapinski, Sr. Sisters Heather Lapinski, Vanessa Lenski, Adria

Ford, Alexis Bastidas and Adrienne Parker, nephews and nieces Zachary Johnson, Landon Ford, Isabelle

Ford, Lucille Ford, Juniper Bastidas and Augustus Bastidas. Aunts and uncles Shirley Lapinski, Terence

and Mary Lapinski, Kim and Mary Ann Lapinski, Larry and Delphine Cole, Rick and Patty Cole, Kathy and

Rob Truman, Sharon Wilson, Michael and Kim Wilson, Jerry and Eileen Parr. Cousins, David A. Lapinski,

Jr., Ellen Long, Joe Lapinski, Emily Weller, Jeff Lapinski, Jennifer Bishop, Jonathan Truman, Eric Truman,

Bryan Truman, Rick Cole, April Arnold. Stepparents Robert Wheaton, Stacia Teegardin, and Stephanie

Howe. Long time best friend Brian Sutfin and many other friends and acquaintances survive CJ.

CJ was preceded in death by his mother Linda (Cole) Wheaton and his grandparents Simon Lapinski,

Lelah (VanDusen) Lapinski, Jeanne (Young-Wilson) Lapinski, Virgil Cole, Gladys (Rendel) Cole and Wanda

(Parmer) Cole and uncle David A. Lapinski, Sr.

A private memorial will be held for family.

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