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Christian "Chris" Arthur Tickell

11/19/1950 - 10/4/2025

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Obituary For Christian "Chris" Arthur Tickell

Christian “Chris” Arthur Tickell of Virginia Beach, VA passed away peacefully at home after a hard fought battle with cancer surrounded by his family.

Born and raised in Connecticut, Chris Tickell was the son of Arthur James Tickell, Jr. and Shirley Marie (Bruch) Tickell. He graduated from Branford High School in 1968. He later joined the Navy and attended SERE School. He was very proud to serve a 23 year career in aviation mechanics - working on Hawkeye, AE3, Super Constellation, P3, EA3P, and E2 planes. He retired in 1993.

Chris met wife Beverly in Rota, Spain while both were stationed there and began a marriage spanning 52 years and welcoming 3 children and 7 grandchildren.

After retirement, Chris entered the fitness repair business - starting Superior Fitness Service with wife Beverly and continuing to grow it throughout the years with son Brian. He felt great pride for the business and enjoyed all the friendships he made along the way with his coworkers and customers - it is still thriving today.

Chris was always known for his collection of “Dad jokes” having them at the ready to bring a smile to the face of anyone willing to listen. He was an avid inventor - often making creations for his children and grandchildren. He loved cars and fixing things - willing to help whenever needed.

He is survived by beloved wife Beverly (Allen) Tickell, children Stacy Poore (husband Keith), Christie Vtipil (husband Chris), Brian Tickell (wife Christina). Grandchildren - Seth and Kayla Poore, Lauren and Casey Vtipil, Victoria, Angelina, and Edison Tickell.

He is also survived by siblings Dolly (Tickell) Suyker (husband Glenn), Kurt Tickell (wife Denise), and Cynthia Tickell; as well as over 25 much loved nieces and nephews.

Chris fought hard to be there with his family. Family was very important to him as was being there for holidays and special events despite his illness. Those who wish to honor his memory may do so by sharing memories and condolences at SimplyCremationOnline.com. He will be missed by all who loved and knew him.

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Condolences

  • 10/12/2025

    Nisa Cochran

    We will miss him so much. He always had the best "how are you doing" and meant it truly. Loved a good story, and was always willing to help. He also never met anyone that wasn't a friend. The Cochran family

  • 10/11/2025

    PaTricia Crump

    Jim and I will miss catching up on memorable family life events with Chris. Our sincere condolences to the entire Tickell family. Jim, PaTricia and Crump Family

  • 10/11/2025

    Sara Baguley

    Such a gentle man, it was a pleasure to meet you, rest in peace Chris, you will never be forgotten xx

  • 10/10/2025

    Bill Shelton

    I remember Chris and Bev living across the cul-de-sac at Derby Run back in the 70's. Chris was always ready to lend a hand, he will be certainly missed. Bill Shelton

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