“beloved father, companion, son, and brother”

CONEVILLE, Pa.—Christopher M. “Chris” Kulbago, Sr., 58, of Coneville, PA, formerly of Niagara Falls, N.Y., passed away in his home on Friday, November 4, 2022, after a courageous battle with ALS.

Born on Sunday, January 19, 1964 in Niagara Falls, N.Y., he was a son of Frank M. and Catherine Zappendorf Kulbago. 

Chris was a graduate of LaSalle Senior High School, Class of 1982, in Niagara Falls.  He then attended Niagara County Community College and was a 1992 graduate of Buffalo State College with a degree in Secondary English Education.  In 2002, Chris received his Master’s Degree in English from Buffalo State College.

For a brief period of time, Chris was employed by the NYS Power Authority before beginning his teaching career for the Niagara Falls City School District from where he retired in 2019.

Chris was an avid outdoorsman.  He enjoyed deer hunting, trout fishing, backpacking, turkey hunting, canoeing, and golfing.  He was a die hard Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres fan.  He had a strong affinity for Potter County, the place he so loved and where he was able to pursue his passions.

He loved his dog and faithful companion, Ruby.  He loved music in general, especially the Grateful Dead and Bob Dylan.  He was a remarkably well read man. He could discuss any subject and enjoyed talking with anyone he met.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Christopher M. (Alise) Kulbago, Jr. of Brecksville, Ohio; his loving companion of 10 years, Sherry Sodano; his father and mother of Niagara Falls, N.Y.; a brother, Mark A. (Michelle) Kulbago of Clarence, N.Y.; and a sister, Michelle D. (Angelo) Penque of Cold Spring, Kentucky.

Family and friends may call from 4pm to 7pm on Friday, November 11, 2022, at the Rhoney Funeral Home, 901 Cayuga Street, Lewiston, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Chris’ name may be made to Teacher’s Pet Rescue, 19 Blackberry Lane, Coudersport, PA 16915 or to the Upstate New York ALS Association, 135 Old Cove Road, Suite 213, Liverpool, NY 13090.

 Chris’ family has entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.

To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Chris, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.