Christopher Alden Slay

Christopher, or Chris as he was known to his family and numerous friends, was born at Martin Army Hospital while his biological father was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia. He moved to California with his mother where he attended local schools in Santa Cruz and Soquel. At Soquel High School, Chris swam on the swim team, played water polo, and excelled in the auto shop. After high school, Chris worked for the City of Scotts Valley, Santa Cruz Auto Parts, and Davis Auto Parts before establishing Chris's Precision Machine Shop and Slayer Racing Engines in Watsonville. He was a highly skilled machinist and well respected in the automobile and racing communities. Chris' love for speed translated into drag racing at the old Baylands Raceway, motorcycle riding, Friday night racing on the dirt track at Watsonville Fairgrounds, and Quarter midget racing with his sons, and then Western Midget racing with his oldest son Tyler. Chris was a supportive father to his three children, participating in archery and scouting, and encouraging all three in wrestling.

Chris is survived by his three children, Tyler James, Levi Daniel, and Alexandrea Hope of Watsonville, his mother, Janet S Slay of Soquel, brothers, Keith Slay (Noelle) of Soquel and Dean Slay of Watsonville, stepfather "dad" Milbern G. (Glen) Slay (Jan) of Watsonville, former wife, Sandra Slay of Watsonville, and Virgil Cooke of Welasco, Texas. He is also survived by a multitude of aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous clients and associates who called Chris "friend."

A gathering will be held at a later date when we are able to celebrate safely and remember Chris. May he be at peace.

Published in The Pajaronian · February 3, 2022