Christian M. Celi, 28 years of age, of 19 John St., Ilion, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 6, 2004 at 3:53 a.m. in St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Utica. Chris had the love and comfort of his family by his side at the time of his passing. He was born on September 17, 1975 in Ilion, son of Christian S. Celi of Ilion and Kimberley A. Grippe who resides in Frankfort. Chris graduated from Herkimer High School and has been a lifelong Ilion resident. He was raised and baptized in the Catholic Faith. The first and foremost priority in his life was his family and friends. His loyalty to them was steadfast, loyal and unconditional. A man of many admirable quality, Chris possessed great strength of character. He truly enjoyed the times that were centered around his loved ones and was respected by many as a loving father and also as a best friend. To know him was to love him. He leaves his parents, Chris Celi and Kim Grippe, his 3 month old daughter, Madison, paternal grandparents, Samuel and Ada Celi of Herkimer, maternal grandparents, Joseph and Mary Alice Grippe of Frankfort, his loving companion, Sandy McAllister of Ilion, three sisters, Kimberley Celi, Rochelle Celi, Tiffany Celi-Jones, a brother, Michael Paul Celi all of Ilion, all who loved him very much, and were extremely close to him, his godparents, Charlie Celi of Herkimer and Karen Rumrill of Frankfort. Also surviving is a nephew, Thaddeus Jones, III of Ilion, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends including, Ken Dineen of Herkimer, Tami Sterling of Ilion, Tom Debrango of Herkimer, Alier Magog, Terence Carson of Ilion and Lisa Arcuri of Herkimer. He was predeceased by his paternal great grandmother, Ida Celi. Relatives and friends are invited to pay their respects to the family on Sunday, August 8, 2004 from 6-8 p.m at the Enea Family Funeral Home, Main St., between Frankfort and Ilion. Chris's funeral will commence at 8:15 am on Monday morning, Aug. 9, from the chapel of the Enea Family Funeral Home, Frankfort/Ilion where prayer will be offered thence to Our Lady Queen of Apostles Church, Frankfort St., Frankfort where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 am by the Rev. Alfred Lamanna, pastor emeritus. Procession will follow to Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Frankfort, where he will be laid to rest. The family would like offer their deepest gratitude to everyone who expressed such wonderful care and concern during this difficult time. For directions to the funeral home, click the facilities link above.