Christopher (Gummy) R. Martineau, 59, of Eau Claire, died suddenly on Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at Mayo Clinic Health System – Eau Claire.

                Chris was born November 2, 1964 in Wadena, MN, the son of Robert and Brenda (Genier) Martineau. He served in the National Guard. He was a service technician for Donivan’s for many years.

                Chris enjoyed many pastimes such as playing video games, going hunting, and being a part of dart leagues. But most of all he enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. He was always making sure that everyone around him knew how much they meant to him and how loved they were. As a father he was always a man to lean on and would encourage his children to do their best and reassured them he was always going to love and be proud of them no matter what. As a friend, he was always someone to count on whether it be for a belly laugh or a shoulder to cry on. Alongside 5 other brothers, his family knew just how much trouble he could make and what he could get away with. He was as stubborn as a mule, but you could always tell it came from a place of love. Even when he was wrong, he was still right, and you’d never live it down. No matter the case, Chris was someone to always take care of his people with love and laughter and even the occasional sarcastic remark. At the end of the day, Chris’s life and memories of him will be mixed with all the emotions a person can feel.  Loved by many, liked by few, missed by all.

                Chris is survived his better half, Sheri Eslinger of Eau Claire; two sons, Vincent Martineau of Menomonie and Kristian Martineau of Eau Claire; two daughters, Dannelle (James) Gartmann of Madison and Sienna Martineau of Menomonie; a bonus son, Ian Kettenacker of Knapp; five brothers, David (Sandra of Chippewa Falls, Scott of Madison, Tony of Chippewa Falls, Robert (Brenda) of Colfax and Donald (Amy) of Lakewood, CO; and one grandchild on the way in June.

                Chris was preceded in death by his parents.

                Funeral services will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Horan Funeral Home in Chippewa Falls. Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Gorman will be officiating.

                Visitation will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, February 13 at the funeral home.