Chris L. Coryn

Dr. Chris Lee Coryn, (7/15/1969-10/25/2021)

We mourn the indelible loss of Dr. Chris L. Coryn, who passed away unexpectedly on October 24, 2021, at the age of 52.

A world-renowned scholar, lecturer, professor, and author, Chris was the Director of the Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Evaluation Program at Western Michigan University since 2008. He received a B.A. in Psychology from Indiana University (IU) in 2002 and a M.A. in Social and Experimental Psychology in 2004, also from IU. He earned his Ph.D. in Evaluation in 2007 at WMU.

He touched countless lives with his brilliance, humility, heart, and irreplaceable gift of sincerity for those he would mentor and encourage to achieve their dreams.

Chris was known to sport a formidable beard and loved his Chuck Taylors. An impeccable sense of style was his trademark, both in dress and character. A tender-hearted gentleman, he was an expert chef and would pride himself at "knowing how to actually cook on a grill." The ritual of drinking coffee was his personal and fundamental right. Watching the birds and tending his birdfeeders gave him quiet enjoyment. An animal lover, he took the time to pet every dog on the street on evening walks, and would often try to rehabilitate injured critters he found in his yard.

Always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed it, he was a true friend to many, and loyal to the high expectations he had of himself and others. He never lost an appreciation for the wonders of childhood and youth, cherishing the simple pleasures each day brought, and maintaining his fascination with knowledge and learning. Chris rooted for the underdog no matter the circumstance, as he valued resilience and tenacity. His snarky wit always brought a smile, and his dry, sarcastic undertones were finely tuned.

Playing guitar was his true passion. He was known to pull his prized truck over on the side of the road to explain the virtues of Randy Rhoads and Alex Skolnick. He expertly played so many genres of music, and most recently took on flamenco. Watching Rick and Morty, Star Wars, and the Lord of the Rings was a must. Envisioning his next tattoo was a real pastime. A voracious reader, he was always exploring new authors, world mythology, and mastering classics to prepare for the next Jeopardy.

He loved spending time with his beloved daughter, Lilly, who adored him. They especially enjoyed fishing together, making arts and crafts, and laughing.

The wood shop he was looking forward to building at home still waits for him, as do so many broken hearts who miss him dearly. Music unplayed will echo his name, calling him back to this world evermore.

Chris is predeceased by his dear grandparents, Horace V. and Patricia Wishart. Surviving him are his daughter, Lilly, his wife, Kristin, two brothers, Chad and Kirk, extended family, friends, former bandmates, and colleagues all over the world. Consistent with his wishes, no funeral will be held. Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 29, 2021, at Langeland Family Funeral Homes, 622 S. Burdick, Kalamazoo, MI 49007 with a private burial occurring thereafter at Riverside Cemetery.

Please consider a donation to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan in his name as an excellent way to honor him. To view Chris' personalized webpage please visit https://www.langelands.com