Christopher “Chris” Randahl Knels, 31, passed away far too soon on Monday, June 2, 2025, at the Sidney Health Center in Sidney, Montana, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, and deep compassion. Chris was deeply loved by his children, family, and friends, and will be missed beyond measure.

Chris was born to Julie (Knels) Klein on February 15, 1994, in Seattle, WA, and was welcomed home by his two older brothers, Joshua and Sean, along with his beloved Grandma Pat. He was later joined by his two sisters, Sara and Sadie, and youngest brother, J.J. Growing up in a lively household, Chris shared a strong bond with his siblings and cousins. Whether they were playing, teasing, or supporting each other through life’s ups and downs, the connection they shared ran deep. He brought energy, humor, and a big heart to the family, and the memories they created together remain a cherished part of their lives.

From a young age, Chris had a fiery spirit that matched his red hair, always keeping his mom on her toes with his boundless energy and mischief. Their bond was filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments – his childhood was never dull, and his mom and dad were always right there beside him, guiding and supporting him through every adventure. Chris enjoyed spending time outside in the dirt with his hot wheels and tractors, playing and riding his bike with his friends, or with his dad, Jason Klein Sr, working on different things around their home and working on his dad’s Demolition Derby cars.

Chris had a deep love for the simple joys of farm life, especially the time he spent with his Grandpa Larry Knels. He lit up when riding in the tractor or driving pickups around the farm—moments that brought him both excitement and connection. When not at the farm, Chris treasured family time at the lake and in Medora. Chris cherished the time he spent fishing and baking with his Grandma Pat and Grandpa Larry Davidsen. Some of his fondest childhood memories were made on the water, casting lines and sharing stories. He shared a special closeness with his Grandma Pat—her steady presence and love were a constant source of comfort and joy throughout his life.

Chris attended school in Fairview, MT, where he built many lifelong friendships and made lasting memories. Summers were often spent working on Asbeck Farms, where his deep appreciation for farming truly took root. After high school, Chris explored various jobs in the oilfield – where he made many lifelong friends, but his heart was never far from the land. He was especially devoted to lending a hand at Payette Farms, working alongside his best friend, Jantz Payette, during beet harvests and whenever help was needed. Farming wasn’t just work for Chris—it was a way of life, and one he embraced with dedication and pride.

One of the few things Chris loved more than farming was being a father. In 2014, he welcomed his eldest daughter, Ashlynn, into the world—a moment that filled him with pride and purpose. Not long after, Chris met Hunter and embraced her three children—Meya, Steley, and Beau—as his own, loving and guiding them with the same unwavering love and care. Together, they added three more children to their family: Milly, McCoy, and Theodore. Chris was a devoted and loving father who found his greatest joy in the time he spent with his children. He created countless memories filled with laughter, adventure, and love. His legacy lives on in them, and the deep love he had for each of them will forever remain in their hearts.

Chris is survived by his parents, Jason Sr. and Julie Klein of Fairview, MT; his beloved children Ashlynn Stanford of Wheeling, WV; Meya, Steley, and Beau Vondall; and Milly, McCoy, and Theodore Knels, along with their mother, Hunter Vondall of Trenton, ND. He also leaves behind his siblings: Joshua Knels of Bismarck, ND; Sean (Karen) Knels of Virginia Beach, VA; Sara (Tyler) Wacha of Sidney, MT; Sadie Klein of Sidney, MT; and Jason Jr. (Rikki) Klein of Billings, MT, along with his best friend, Jantz (Jess) Payette. Chris is also survived by his grandfather, Larry Knels of Billings, MT, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He will be deeply loved and missed by all who knew him, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

Chris was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, John and Irene Knels and Walter and Ida Stordahl; his grandparents, Pat Knels and Larry Davidsen, Terry and Vickie Klein, and Diane Knels; his uncle, John Knels; and his cousins, Justin Rang and Cody Knels; along with many other loved ones.

He is now reunited with these beloved family members, and their memories live on through the legacy Chris leaves behind.