Christopher Ryan Schlemmer

Christopher Ryan Schlemmer, beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, and friend, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, surrounded by the family who meant everything to him. Born on April 20, 2013, in Maplewood, Minnesota, Christopher entered the world with a purpose: to live a life full of joy, courage, and love, no matter the challenges he faced.

Diagnosed with Congenital Disorder of Glycosylation PMM2 during his first year, Christopher approached life with unmatched determination. His days were filled with boundless curiosity, resilience, and a spark that lit up every room he entered. Though his diagnosis required hard work for things most take for granted, Christopher met each challenge head-on, transforming effort into triumph and filling the lives of those around him with laughter, inspiration, and unforgettable memories.

A sixth grader with a love for stories, Christopher adored reading and being read to. Some of his favorite books—like Pete the Cat, Eric Carle, Elephant and Piggy, and Bruce the Bear—brought him endless delight. He cherished walks (the longer, the better), swimming at his grandma's house, and marveling at the aquariums at the Minnesota Zoo, where the fish seemed to mirror his own fascination with life.

Christopher’s interests painted a picture of a boy who celebrated the world in his unique way. He loved shows on his iPad, especially Bubble Guppies (which was an all time favorite until it wasn’t and he absolutely would lose his mind when it came on), Zoo Babies, Blaze, Super Wings, and Zoboomafoo. His newfound passion for creepy Halloween songs (the creepier, the better!) kept his family entertained, proving his flair for finding joy in the unexpected.

Above all, Christopher’s heart belonged to his family. He loved them deeply, appreciated their care, and rewarded them with his incredible smile—a smile that will forever be etched in their memories. Clever, opinionated, and an impressive self-advocate, Christopher always made his desires known. He was happy, smart, and even a little manipulative in the most endearing ways, ensuring that the people around him gave him all the love he deserved.

Christopher’s passing leaves a profound void, but his spirit will continue to inspire everyone who knew him. He is preceded in death by his grandpa, Tom Borowick, and survived by his loving parents, Ryan and Melissa; his brothers, Nick, Alexander, and Theodore; his grandparents, Roy and Kathy Schlemmer, Pam and Dennis Berry; his aunts and uncles Erin and Ryan Christensen, Jenny Borowick, Ryan Borowick, Jillian Berry, and Anne and Eric Martinez (his godparents); along with many cousins and dear friends.

Christopher was perfect in every way. Though he left this world too soon, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now whole and at peace. He would often end conversations with a signature phrase: “All done. Goodbye.” And so, as we say goodbye to this incredible boy, we carry forward his legacy of love, joy, and unyielding strength.

Rest peacefully, Christopher. You will be forever loved and deeply missed.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m, Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Hosanna Lutheran Church, 9300 Scandia Trail North, Forest Lake, Minnesota.  Christopher's service will be live streamed via the link on his page.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m., until the time of service at the church.  A reception and continued sharing will be held immediately after the service at the church.