Christopher Wentzlaff, age 41, of Edina, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, in San Francisco, California. A service to celebrate Christopher’s life was at 12:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at Grace Lutheran Church in Luverne, Minnesota. A private family burial was at Maplewood Cemetery in Luverne. Arrangements are under the care of Hartquist Funeral Home in Luverne. To view Christopher’s life history or sign an online registry, please visit www.hartquistfuneral.com.
Cristopher Paul Wentzlaff, age 41, of Edina, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, in San Francisco, California. He is deeply loved as a husband, son, grandson, cousin, nephew, and friend to many who now grieve his profound loss.
Born on May 27, 1984, in Minneapolis to Paul Wentzlaff and Pamela (Wentzlaff) Olson, Chris grew up with a joyful spirit and lifelong curiosity. He was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith, which grounded his kind heart and sense of community throughout his life. A proud graduate of Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls and Augustana University, he later earned both his MPA and JD from the University of South Dakota.
Chris began his career as a litigation consultant at Thomson Reuters before moving into the field of philanthropy, where he built a successful career as a major gifts fundraiser for the University of Minnesota Foundation. He later served as Chief Advancement Officer at the Constellation Fund and, most recently, with Morae, providing legal consulting services. He also gave generously of his time, serving on the boards of Trademark Theater, GiveMN, and PPL.
Chris met the love of his life, Christine, while working in New York City, and together they shared countless adventures, living in several states before settling in Edina with their beloved dogs, Sasha and Duke, and cat, Oreo. Known for his warmth, humor, and deep kindness, Chris made friends wherever he went and brought joy to every gathering.
He was an avid music lover, gifted pianist, devoted car enthusiast, and lifelong fan of the Minnesota State Fair. Above all, he will be remembered for his infectious laugh, generosity, and the genuine connections he built with all who knew him.
Chris is survived by his wife, Christine of Edina; mother, Pamela Olson of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; grandmother, Lorraine Olson of Luverne; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Wentzlaff.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Trademark Theater, Project for Pride in Living, GiveMN, or any charity that makes you think of Chris.
