In Loving Memory of Chris Leidel: A True Colleague, Mentor, and Friend

In Loving Memory of Chris Leidel: A True Colleague, Mentor, and Friend

My heart is broken as I try to come to terms with the sudden and tragic passing of my dear friend and colleague, Chris Leidel. It feels so surreal, almost impossible to wrap my head around. Chris was more than just a coworker—he was a mentor, a motivator, and a friend. His loss has left a void that is hard to put into words, and the grief I feel is beyond what I ever could have imagined.

We first started working together at AMLI in 2010, and Chris was my peer trainer. From the very beginning, he had this presence about him, a drive and determination that was contagious. He didn’t just do his job—he owned it. And that attitude was something he passed on to everyone he worked with, including me. He pushed us all to be better, to challenge ourselves, and to never settle for mediocrity. His competitive spirit was infectious, and while it sometimes pushed us to the brink, it also brought out the best in us.

Chris was meticulous in everything he did, to the point where it could be exhausting at times. I would often find myself frustrated with his attention to detail, his insistence on perfection, but looking back, I realize that’s what made him so good at his job. He had a standard that was unmatched, and his work ethic was a constant reminder of what it meant to truly dedicate yourself to something. Chris didn’t just meet expectations—he exceeded them, every single time.

A Drive That Inspired Everyone Around Him

Chris was the kind of person who didn’t just inspire you through words—he led by example. He was relentless in his pursuit of excellence, and his energy was unmatched. Whether it was during a training session, a team meeting, or just an everyday task, Chris made sure everyone around him was striving for greatness. I admired that about him—his ability to make others feel like they could do better, be better. But what made him stand out even more was how genuine he was. He didn’t just want to be the best for his own sake; he wanted the whole team to succeed. He found joy in seeing others reach their potential, and he would celebrate even the smallest victories along the way.

Chris was competitive, yes, but not in the way that made you feel small or insignificant. He challenged us because he saw the potential in all of us, and he wanted to bring that out. He wanted to see us rise, and that drive was something that was impossible to ignore. He pushed us to do better, but he did it in a way that made you feel supported and encouraged, never diminished.

A Friend Who Was Always There

Beyond the professional world, Chris was a friend you could always count on. No matter the situation, he had your back. He was the type of person who would show up when you needed him most, whether it was for a quick chat to talk things through or to help you through a rough patch. He was kind, loyal, and always ready with a listening ear or a word of encouragement.

Even though he could be tough on the outside, Chris had a soft side that came through when it mattered most. He cared deeply about the people in his life, and that care was always evident in his actions. Whether it was helping someone with a project or offering advice, Chris made sure people felt supported and valued. I’ll never forget the times when his leadership wasn’t about giving orders or getting things done; it was about showing up for people, making sure they felt seen and heard.

The Impact of His Legacy

The loss of Chris is a profound one, and I know I’m not alone in feeling this. He made a lasting impact on everyone he worked with, and his influence will continue to be felt even though he’s no longer with us. He helped shape not just the work culture at AMLI but also the people who were lucky enough to work alongside him. His drive for excellence, his competitive spirit, and his commitment to helping others will always be a part of us.

It’s hard to imagine the world without Chris in it—without his meticulous habits, his infectious energy, or his unwavering commitment to making everyone around him better. But even though he’s gone, his legacy will live on through all of us who were fortunate enough to know him.

To Chris, thank you. Thank you for being a mentor, a friend, and a constant source of inspiration. You pushed me, and all of us, to be better than we thought we could be. You made an impact, and that impact will never be forgotten.

Rest in peace, my friend. You will be missed more than words can express.