Chris was born in Brooklyn, New York and grew up in Valley Stream, New York. He played trumpet in the marching band at Sewanhaka High School and marched in the Macy’s Day Parade.
He served in the U.S. Army before joining the U.S. Navy where become a naval aviator. As a Navy pilot, he participated in Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica, serving as co-pilot of ski-equipped LC-47 Dakota aircraft conducting pioneering flights from Byrd Station. He ultimately achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander. In recognition of his work during this expedition, Christoffersen Heights, located in the Jones Mountains, was named in his honor.
While in the Navy, Chris married Judith Harrison. They had one child together, Gregg, before divorcing in 1984.
Chris joined Seaboard as a pilot in 1968 and flew with Flying Tigers and FedEx before retiring. While living in Virginia Beach, he met Linda Evans, whom he married in 1986. After retiring from his flying career, they continued to live in Virginia Beach until 1997, when they moved to Florida.
Chris is survived by his wife of 39 years, Linda P. Christoffersen; his son Gregg Christoffersen and Gregg’s wife Toni; his stepdaughter Cynthia “Cyndee” Heelan and her husband Robert; his grandchildren Anders, Emma, Hans Christoffersen and Caitlyn Heelan; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. He was predeceased by his older brothers, Henry and Peter Christoffersen.
Chris is seen here with Linda in April 2005 at the reunion in Gulfport/Biloxi Mississippi>.