Obituary of Christopher Mahia

“A Life Remembered,”

Chris was born on November 12, 1974, and passed away at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics on Thursday, September 17, 2026, after a short illness, surrounded by his loving wife, June.

A longtime resident of Iowa City, Chris later relocated to Cedar Rapids. Chris was a kind and remarkable man who was deeply loved and cherished by many. His passing has left a great void in the lives of his family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

There was never a dull moment with Chris. To know him was to know love. He loved people, and people loved him. He was a man without borders, whose warm spirit and generous heart touched the lives of so many.

Chris was a devoted sports fan. He loved the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Indianapolis Colts, and the Indiana Pacers. Time Out Lounge was like his second home, where many knew and loved him. He shared a particularly close friendship with Jim Wagner, who was more like a brother to him.

Last summer, Chris had the joy of being united in marriage to the love of his life, June Chege. He was also an amazing father to his son, Kaylum Chege, a loving cousin to many, and an uncle to those who held him dear.

Chris’s loving spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to share in his life.

He was preceded in death by his father, Mr. Francis Mahia; He is survived by his loving mother, Nancy Mahia; his beloved wife, June Chege; sons, Kaylum Chege, Nicholas Tesdahl, Michael Tesdahl;  his brother, Nicholas Ndirangu, and wife Zipporah Wangari; his sisters, Jemimah Mahia and Dorothy Mahia.

Celebration of Life

Visitation and a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Gay & Ciha Funeral Home in Iowa City.

Chris's wish was to be laid to rest in Kenya.

Family and friends are invited to come together to honor Chris’s life, share memories, and celebrate the love and joy he brought to those around him.

A special expression of gratitude to his cousin Anne Gichia, who spent many hours by his bedside. Thank you to all the family and friends for your visits, calls, and messages; Chris knew he was loved.