- Recent Comments - Chatsworth Metrolink Crash - L.A. Times

Stephanie Betancourt on February 17, 2011

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 07:21:32 -0800

Chris was a really sweet guy and a great neighbor, he made Sharon and the girls so happy. I know that he will always be looking out for them. My heart goes out to everyone that is still missing him.

Donna Aiken on August 15, 2009

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 05:58:44 -0700

To our Beloved Son Chris, It is fast approaching a year since you left us. In so many ways it gets more difficult as the year anniversary gets closer. I know our lives will forever be changed with the loss of you and even though we have become so close to your family and may never have gotten to know them as we have, we still wish you were here with us. Your step daughters have grown into wonderful girls, so compassionate and thoughtful. How proud you would have been of them. And to your honor they still chose to have your name, something you would have done if not for Sept. 12, 2008. We will be there Sept. 12, 2009, in California to celebrate your life and those who also so tragically died that day. It is going to be a very difficult time for us, I know that, but we were so glad it worked out so we could be there. My hope is there in heaven you are enjoying those relatives you never got to know and enjoying those you did know even more. I still hear your voice when your dad scares me with his driving and your imitation of me yelling "DEARRRRRRRRR" as I reach for the handle and I laugh to myself as I always got such a kick out of your sense of humor. We all love you with all our hearts, miss you more than words can express and pray we will see you again. Love, your mom

Monica lichtenstein on June 29, 2009

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:02:53 -0700

You are not forgotten.

Rob on December 14, 2008

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 06:11:42 -0800

My cousin Chris, my memories of You were so long ago, helping you learn to walk was and will alway's be one of the highlights of my life. I wish I had more time with you, but the time I had I will never forget.Yourself and Mel were just to much fun.I will miss you and remember you alway's To Donna and Roy, I can't imagine your pain, but know that I love you and my prayers are with you alway's to Sharon,Samantha and Katie, Though we have not met I feel like I know you, through my Mom. I will pray for you all and hope that somehow you may find peace in all of this, may God bless. -Love to all- Rob&Deann& family XOXO

Stacey on November 1, 2008

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 11:46:59 -0700

Chris, I was just thinking about you the other day. I saw the most perfect apron for you in a catalogue. It said BBQ Master...I couldn't believe it. It made me think about the last time I saw you...a week or so before the accident. You had us over for Sharon's birthday and you grilled chicken and sausages on your new BBQ. You came over to check how my food was...you took so much pride in your BBQ! My friend, that chicken was grilled perfectly!

Michael Sheehan - Denver, CO on October 18, 2008

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 06:47:00 -0700

It has been half a life time, but remember you like yesterday. My deepest condolences to your family.

Monica on October 14, 2008

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 02:10:21 -0700

It is hard to believe that it has been a month. I read these notes and it brings me closer to you. Your desk untouched. I miss you my friend... I really miss you

Diane Adair on October 5, 2008

Sun, 05 Oct 2008 08:23:38 -0700

To the parents of Christopher Aiken. Thank you for the comment on my father's page. My thoughts are with you and your family at this terrbile time. Stay strong! Diane Adair (Daughter of Alan Buckley)

Cheryl Edmond on October 4, 2008

Sat, 04 Oct 2008 04:18:44 -0700

Dearest Sharon, girls, Mr. & Mrs. Aiken & family, Please accept my deepest sympathy and prayers to all of you. Sharon, throughout the last year, the stories you have shared about your wonderful husband Chris, I feel I got a small glimse of how much Chris loved you, the girls and his family...in those monthly trips of picking Kathy & I up from the Chatsworth station. Ryan & Kelly, send their sympathies too, as we all grieve Walt's passing alongside Chris. We now have comfort knowing they are in Heaven together... Respectfully, Cheryl

Doug on October 2, 2008

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:19:06 -0700

Eulogy at his funeral - My friend As far back as I am able to remember you have been a big part of my life. From when we met in 4th grade spending our time sitting on the floor in class drawing pictures day after day during 'free time' we became instant friends. Since 'Mom' Aiken called to tell me that you had past, my head has been swimming with all the memories that we have shared. There is no single person that I was so close to for so long. I have so many childhood memories with you and your family. You would bring me along to a lot of the 'family time' events, the Holidays, the January birthdays, the July 4th 's at Uncle Doug's or whatever was going on, you and ALL your family would always make me feel as if I was another one of the 'gang'. When you were young you were the jokester, the quick wit, the ever wisecracker, which so often landed you into trouble. But, later in life you used those traits to cheer people up, make people comfortable and bring levity to tough situations. In high school it was the 'FAB 5'. You, Chris Pratt, Rich, Bill and myself, we went through a lot together, experienced all of life's trials and emotions and we all just wanted to find our place in the world. Today I speak for the 4 of us that we will all miss you, but never forget you. After high school how you convinced me to move to California I will never know. But we jam packed that 5x8 trailer and off we went. And for the next 5 years I felt like we were an old married couple, never really fighting and doing everything together except when you were with Sandy. And when you moved back to Gasport I felt like we got a divorce, and I missed my friend. I was happy for you knowing you were around family and old friends. We kept in touch when we could, and often I would find myself thinking of you. As time went by you called to tell me that you had met Sharon and you told me about the girls I could hear the excitement in your voice. When you came out to Vegas and Elizabeth and I got a chance to meet Sharon, Katie and Sam it was easy to see where this was headed. To see how happy you were and that sparkle in your eyes when you were talking about the girls brought peace to my heart knowing you had finally found your way.

Doug on October 2, 2008

Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:17:27 -0700

Even now 3 weeks later it just seems so hard to put on paper how much I will miss Chris and let people know what he was about. The way I feel is that no matter what I say it won't be enough to do him justice. Describing Chris he liked things simple but detailed and good. This is what I mean: -Pizza- pepperoni and cheese only (I don't want any of that other crap on there, why mess with perfection). Simple, but good. -Coffee black, fresh. Simple, but good. -Chicken wings (from Buffalo of course) Simple, but good. -Meat (it better be barbecued- and just right). Simple, but good. -Family and friends, he wanted to keep good people close, talk about things of substance and 'Da Bills', sports and fun. Simple but good. The Chris that I remember, I think with pretty much everything, he was like that. And how was the food good, we would wait and watch him to see the slap to the belly with his flat hand and an extended ahhhhhhhh that sounded like it came from the bottom of his stomach and you knew it was good.

Joe Zaremski on October 1, 2008

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 11:30:01 -0700

As I scan my memories of Chris I realize that they are all positive. All happy. All fun. Chris' warm heart and quick smile put everyone at ease. He is missed dearly by everyone that had the good fortune of knowing him.

mey chao on October 1, 2008

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 09:38:07 -0700

Though we all may have lost someone who is a big part of our lives and our hearts and we are not able to replace or fill that emptyness that our love ones have taken with them when they left this world. but i hope that maybe we all can come together and allow each other to come into each others lives since i know that we all share the same pain. when my father passed in that metrolink 2008 crash my life has not been the same and its been very difficult, my father left behind his wife and 5 children and so many grand children, and we all miss and love him so much but talkin about him with my family and remembering all the good times we had with him helps us with our pain of losing him. so i just would like to let you all know i am here if you need to talk or just someone to listen to you. my email is chaomey82@gmail.com my hearts and prayers go out to you.

Anel Azusena, City of Angels (L.A), California on September 26, 2008

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:30:04 -0700

I read this yesterday and thought I'd share it with you: To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say... but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay. I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above. Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love. Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight. Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night. That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through, God picked me up and hugged me and He said, ""I welcome you."" It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on. I need you here badly; you're part of my plan. There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man. God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do. And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you. And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight. God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night. When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears. But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain. I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned. But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand. But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er. I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before. There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb; but together we can do it by taking one day at a time. It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too... that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you. If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain, then you can say to God at night......""My day was not in vain."" And now I am content....that my life has been worthwhile, knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody LAUGH and smile. So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low, just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go. When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind; I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind. And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free, remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me. Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author) ~With All the LOVE from me to you.

Al Magallanes on September 24, 2008

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 07:20:18 -0700

Sharon, Katie, Sammie I am so sorry, and my family prays for all of you and Chris. I met Chris at Adelphia. I really loved Chris as a Boss and as a friend. He made work alot easyer for all who worked under him. Chris had a way of helping me realize things when I had a bad day at work or at home. He would always say something that would make me laugh. I loved talking to him about fishing and hunting. He told me that an uncle or his grandpa havested a deer that was so big they named the deer herkamur. Some how when we chatted we always brought up that deer. I alway bugged him to get me a picture of the deer. I am so happy to have known Chris and to have had him in my life as a friend and co-worker. Chris will always be in my memories I will never forgt you Chris. Al Magallanes and Family Yolanda, Melinda and Andrew Valencia, Ca.

Anel, City of Angeles, (L.A.) California on September 24, 2008

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:15:16 -0700

I dont know you, Chris. I dont know your family but I've read all the messages everyone has left and all the memories and stories from your family, friends and co-workers. I was laughing my head off reading all the fond memories your friends, families and co-workers wrote about you. I realize the kind of a human this man is. That he came from a good close family, like mine, and made me feel like we are all connected as humans through LIFE & LOVE. I just want to tell you that your family, friends, co-workers, and commute friends are in my thoughts and prayers. Nothing, not even death will keep you apart. He seemed like a loving man, who in his short time here on earth gave and received so much love. His friends and family will always celebrate you because I celebrate you and I did not know you. You are so lucky, like me, to have all that in life. Many times people go though life without having any of this or very little of it and from I read his life was Abundant. Its people like this that makes you realize that this world has so much beautiful things to offer. Your family seems very close and with each and every one of you, you will show your family and friends what he taught you. I read this on a card the other day and I remembered it..thinking of you and yours and all the others who lost their loved ones: "Each life is a miracle that comes to this world and leaves it a better place than it was before"...because from what I read he was full of humor, smiles, and most of all LOVE and that alone says so much. This is for your people Chris: A message from above: "You are precious to ME. You are honored and I LOVE YOU! ~Isaiah 43:4 Believe!!!! Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Anel Azusena

Leslie M on September 21, 2008

Sun, 21 Sep 2008 11:59:37 -0700

Although I never met Chris, I mourn his death. Chris's brother, Garrett Berry is very near and dear to my heart and I know how Garrett mourns the loss of his brother. He is so saddened by the fact that he will never again have the chance to be with, or know better his only brother. My sincere condolences to Chris's family and friends. He was obviously very loved and cherished. I wish I could have known him.

Bibi Wardak on September 20, 2008

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 09:22:16 -0700

I did not know Chris personally, but I know his lovely wife Sharon, who is a wonderful human being and loved Chris with all her soul.

In these most difficult of times, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to his wonderful wife Sharon, and Chris' entire family and friends. I pray for strength, courage and love for everyone impacted by the passing of Chris. Sharon, Katie, and Sammie -- I am so deeply, deeply sorry. This tragedy could not have happened to a nicer or kinder family. We don't know why these things happen; it's not fair at all. I hope you can find peace with your great friends, Lara and Ed, Monica, Pilar, George and all the others who love you so much. Today's memorial service was a beautiful reminder to those who knew Chris (and those of who didn't), what a good-natured and loving man he was. What a optimistic view of life he had, and how he grew to be so happy in his last years. I am sorry that I did not know him. God bless you all. We love you Sharon.

Mey Chao on September 19, 2008

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 09:22:51 -0700

i know exactly how you feel. my father also passed in that accident. HUGS

Donna Winfrey on September 18, 2008

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 10:16:45 -0700

Chris touched many lives. You will be missed and your life celebrated.

'Nette (Lynette Trombley-Wigington) - Loveland, CO on September 18, 2008

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:30:38 -0700

Pemo... You were my first real friend. When we moved to gasport right next to you, I remember my mom dragging me out to the back to meet the neighbors. Your mom was holding Shaun & you were standing close to your mom, sucking your thumb. I thought youd never stop doing that! Remember playing kick ball with Jeff & he nailed the ball so hard that it hit me in my "then budding" chest? That hurt! You came to my rescue, made sure I was ok, then we finished the game. Remember standing up on the canal bank chucking stones across? I think you were just showing off. And the CARP we caught out of the canal. Ick! Bridge jumping. Not my forte. My dad started emailing me his memories today. I remember them all too well. All of us - like friggin 15 people around one little campfire behind my house. Drinking. Laughing. The gaseous aromas coming out of your ass & everyone fleeing for cover because we were afraid of the gas hitting the fire & making us all explode... your crappy smirks - we always knew when to run because of that smirk of yours! Going drinking in Canada. Mikey throwing up in his own car in the back seat with Big ol' Billy COWERING in the corner! (Glad it wasn't me that had to clean it up.) OMG the FART TAPE! All of you boys - all of my boys - I miss so much of all of that. Yeah - the snowballs dipped in water - ARGH! You, Doug, Bill & me sprawled out in my living room watching movies. Who's next for a back rub? Niagara Falls. I'm suprised we didn't wear a path in the road up there! I loved our private chats too. You always looked out for me as one of my big brothers. And you always knew when I need to talk. You fixed things for me. I never thanked you. So, Thank You. You always laughed the hardest when I popped out with "OH MY GARAGE!". I remember you asking me to be your substitute when you couldn't deliver the newspapers. I HATED DOING THAT! But I did it because it was for you. I think when I was like 7 or 8, I had a small crush on you. That didn't last long. Sorry. "Hey Chris, Who's that girl with you?" ... "That's no girl, that's my sister." I loved it when you said that! I would love to go back & record evry moment so that I always have them with me. There is so much more with you & the boys (Doug, Rich, Bill, Chrip P., Tony White, Rob Berry - everyone) that I remember but I just can't do it. The more I reminisce, the more saddened I become. The tears are heavy, as is my heart. I have always loved you - I always will. There is a greater plan for each of us & I expect that when my time comes, you will be waiting for me to let me know what it is. I also expect that before you tell me, you will first lick my face (dammit) then start with a dirty joke. Yup. That would be you. Just make sure it's not too stinky - I don't want to eat any! (Thumb on the forehead!) I love you, honey. You will always keep that special spot in my heart that you have always held. My friend. My comrade. My boy. Peace my brother. Love always, 'Nette

Karen Sevillano on September 18, 2008

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 01:41:49 -0700

Chris your smile, your laughter, your great sense of humor, your love for the Buffalo Bills (even though I'm a New York Giants fan)all those wonderful memories with you at Adelphia and Ontario will always be in my heart! YOU, will always be in my heart. With my deepest respect and sympathy ... Good Bye my DEAR friend...

David Horton on September 18, 2008

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:33:52 -0700

I came to know Chris through my then girlfiend and eventual bride, Amy. Chris was a part of a wonderful network of friends that my wife had known for years. They had wonderful holiday and vacation gatherings that I was fortunate to marry into! I am a rather shy person and it is difficult for me to get to know people. Chris was one of those guys that you immediately liked. He made you feel comfortable even though he was not a bubbly, out-going guy. While he was not a man of many words, the words he did say made you smile or laugh and most importantly for an awkward guy, made you feel accepted and welcomed. I think about him every day and miss him. My #1 regret is that I won't have more opportunites in this lifetime to get to know him even better. ...being with Chris was truly memorable...always!

chelsie on September 18, 2008

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 06:10:04 -0700

You will be surely missed. My thoughts go out to your family during this difficult time.

Heath on September 17, 2008

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:53:33 -0700

My dear brother, I'm at such a loss for words. It's amazing all of the memories that are coming back to me, now that that is all I have of you. I can't help but remember and admire the fierce independence and fearlessness that you always seemed to have. You probably didn't know it, but those were good traits for a younger brother to see. Thank you for that. - I remember you beating my ass up, as every older brother should. Hitting your poor innocent brothers and cousins with punishing snowballs, rocks, black walnuts, and even a dirt clod with a rock in it. I still have a large scar on the back of my head from that one... Strange thing to remember you by, but its as good as any, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. - I remember running away with you a couple of times. Walking from Lockport all the way to Gasport on the railroad tracks. Wow, we were so dumb, our lives were perfect and we had the greatest parents, we just didn't know it. - I remember visiting you in California when I was 17, I think that that was the first time I had ever eaten fake Cheerious, much less been away from our parents. Wow, what a great time I had, and what an eye opener. I remember buying a fake Nike (swoosh going the wrong way) tank top at the Chino Market, and then climbing the cliffs at the beach. - I remember visiting you and Sandy when you lived in Camrillo, and how that awesome stray cat (later named Merlot?) came into the sliding glass door in the middle of the night and set up camp next to me in the living room. - I remember the past year and a half when Jen and I got to see you, Sharon, and the girls at Christmas, then in February (Palm Springs), and then again in July. You were so happy, and it made us so happy to be with you. It was like you had found a new foothold on the world, and all was right. I can see from all of the comments that I wasn't wrong. - I think, that best of all (and most selfishly), I remember when you came out for a long weekend in early December. After so many years of searching, we were both really happy and content in our lives. I was so proud and happy for you. We got to spend a couple of days doing cool brother stuff (The Mutter Museum, Pay-Per-View Boxing, Cheesesteaks), and there was no weight of stress or worry. It was just us having a good time. - I'm so proud that you were my brother. I am so proud that you made so many other people happy. And I'm so sad because you are gone. - I know that we didn't talk as much as we should have over the years, but I know that it's going to be a difficult life without you in it. Not only for me, but for all of the people who knew and loved you. - Soon I will flying out to see you off, and I think that I'm going to download some bad Aerosmith so that I can listen to it and remember driving 100MPH down Telegraph rd. in the back seat of your car. What a cool brother you were. I love you. - Heath

Don Tiney on September 17, 2008

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:22:00 -0700

I worked with Chris for years at TCI / Adelphia, and I played softball with him for years, also. He was the type of person that I've always looked forward to being around, whether it's for work or play. Yes, he was a kind and sincere friend, who was usually upbeat and engaging, but I'll always remember the fact that we were usually smart-asses with one another, with neither of us taking offense to the biting wit and jabs that we would direct at one another. It was a good-natured game that we both enjoyed, and he was a unique individual who obviously touched many lives. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who mourn his loss, as he was taken much too soon...

Bob & Sue Pflomm on September 17, 2008

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 05:45:01 -0700

Sue and I have only had the opportunity of getting to know Chris since last October, when we met at his wedding to Sharon. We have been close friends with Sharon's family for the better part of 35+ years. Although we have gotten together with Chris and Sharon only a few times since last October, those times together were very meaningful. It became quite obvious that Chris was that very special person, and that he and Sharon were truely meant for each other, and very much in love. After reading all the "memories" from family and friends, who have had the good fortune to really get to know and enjoy Chris, we feel that we have come to know him so much more, in these past few days. We wish we had the opportunity to get to know him even better. We take so many things in life for granted, that when one of those precious things is taken from us, we cannot accept, much less understand, WHY ???? It just seems that, at times, LIFE is not JUST nor FAIR. We should vow to never take life for granted, for we never know what tomorrow brings. Chris, you have given us a valuable lesson to be learned, and you will forever be in our minds and hearts. Sharon, Sam and Katie you will always be in our thoughts and prayers. May Chris be close by to help guide you through these trying times ahead. GOD BLESS....

mom on September 17, 2008

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 02:23:06 -0700

Chris!our son who has left us so unexpectedly and left an enormous hole in all of our hearts. You were my first born, so small, so perfect, such tiny fingers and toes that amazed me. Such a miracle. We had such great memories of you growing up, and some really funny things you would pull when you got older, things that made us laugh. You loved to fish along the Erie Canal, growing up and living along that waterway all of your first 17 years. You grew to love the out of doors and appreciate nature at its best and worst. I know how you loved the thunderstorms here in New York as after moving to California you found it to be less of an occurrence there. There are so many funny things you did and said I can't even remember them all but as our family sits together we will be remembering them again and again and laughing as you would want us to. I can still hear your voice, and it will NEVER leave my mind, your imitation of me when I would react to your dad's driving and let out a shrieking "DEARRRR" I will always think of that and laugh. What can I say, except after all these years of your struggles you had FINALLY found yourself, finally had true happiness, finally figured out why you were here on earth. You got your children, and even though they might not have been biologically yours, they were as far as you were concerned, YOURS to care for and love like your own. You and Sharon were so very happy together, truly a perfect match and had so much to look forward to. We were so proud of you, your accomplishments, your going back to school to get that degree you had never been able to do before and most of all setting a great example for your twin step daughters. Dad and I were so proud of you, all you had accomplished. We didn't worry about you anymore, you had made it. You had grown into that man all parents wish for their kids. The many birthday cards you have sent over the years, it was so obvious you had taken so much time to pick them out, they had said so much, and always and most importantly the most beautiful comments you wrote on the bottom of how much we meant to you and how much dad had made such an impression on you and given you so much as you grew up. I will NEVER loose those cards, they will always be ours to keep, we will cherish them FOREVER. My hope is I will see you again, and I know you are making everyone laugh where you are now. As I stand here in California looking at the beautiful mountains behind us here, we know you are here also with us and always will be, deep in our hearts. To all of those of you who have written to this website, his dad and I can't tell you enough how very much your messages have helped us through this most difficult time in our lives. Friends, family, strangers alike. Thanks to so many for all your love and prayers. Chris's mom and dad

Juan Carlos, Pilar and Girls on September 17, 2008

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:43:48 -0700

Chris you are so missed! Your smile, you sense of humor, your laughter, your love for life! We are all better people for having you in our lives. You truly placed an impression on all our hearts. Thank you for making Sharon so happy. You were her best friend and soul mate. Watch over her and give her the strength from above to continue to move forward during this most difficult time. Until we meet again at the gates of heaven. We love you and miss you! Your friends, Juan Carlos, Pilar, Arianna, Sophia, Olivia and Isabella Velasquez

Reverend Tom Modd on September 17, 2008

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:31:47 -0700

I did not know Christopher but I do know the Aikins family in WNY. Knowing Roy, his father in particular as well as his brother Shaun, what a loss. It is not only a loss for the family but to all who knew him. After reading all these memories that others have shared I know that Christopher had to be a blessing to others as his family has been to us. To Donna Aiken, please know that the church I serve in Holley, NY will be praying for you and yours. Everythhing that could be said to you with sorrow I am sure has alrady been said but I too must add how sorry my wife and I are for all of you. God's blessing, Rev Tom and Kathleen Modd