Christopher Luke Caminiti

Christopher Luke Caminiti, renowned for his zany humor, animated storytelling and love for life, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 14th, after battling cancer with a stoicism that left his loved ones in awe. At just 48 years old, Chris departed this life far too soon.

Born on October 5,1975 to John and Terry Caminiti, Chris grew up in Tehachapi, California alongside his two older brothers and younger sister. As a child, Chris was always up to something. A family holiday wasn’t complete without the retelling of at least one Chris-ism from days gone by. Whether it was reminiscing about his ninja phase and his attempts to climb a utility pole in his authentic ninja costume complete with foot spikes, his plans to move out on his own by digging caves in the backyard, or the time he rescued an abandoned bird nest and built his own “blanket” nest so he could incubate the eggs until their hatching, there was never a dull moment in his world or a shortage of stories that exemplified his unique spirit. 

His mischievous nature remained unwavering into adulthood and with it a deep wonder about the world around him. He would spend hours with his nose stuck in a book learning about his latest curiosity or talking to his family and friends about some new cooking technique he’d just discovered. 

After graduating from Tehachapi High School in 1995, Chris joined the Air Force. In his 30 years of service Chris saw the world, made lifelong friends and left his mark on the hearts of those he met and spent time with. After holding several different jobs and deploying many times over the years, Chris found his home at Hill Air Force Base as a Loadmaster with the 514th Flight Test Squadron. Lovingly known as “Rammer”, Chris loved flying and felt fortunate to have found a career he thoroughly enjoyed. Chris was a Senior Master Sergeant at the time of his death.

Chris truly enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. Floating the Boise River, camping out of the back of his truck, bbqing steaks (only Kobe beef for him), or sipping a cold beer while sitting by a campfire with his loved ones, Chris was always quick to laugh and uninhibited in his love for family. He is survived by his love, Marcy Nelson; his beloved daughter, Jordan Caminiti; his parents, John (Devra) Caminiti and Terry Caminiti; his siblings Steve Caminiti, Scott Caminiti and Katie (Brandon) Wallace; and his nieces and nephew, Ellen Caminiti, Hailey Caminiti, Madelyn Caminiti and Sam Caminiti.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date in Boise, Idaho. As Chris lived a life of easy laughter and in pursuit of the things that brought him joy, the family asks that you do the same. Spend some time doing something that genuinely brings you happiness and share a laugh with those around you. If you feel moved, reach out and tell us a joyful (or funny) memory you shared with Chris. 

The Caminiti family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to St. Lukes Hospice and the 514th FLTS for all their support during this challenging time.

We love you to the moon and back Chris and are so grateful we got to walk alongside you in this life.