Canal Winchester Baseball Coach Chris Duckworth, 63, Passed After a Brutal Year-Long Battle With Cancer
Chris built his life on the foundation of faith, family, and service.
September 11, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on September 11, 2026
Chris Duckworth, a baseball coach, umpire, and card collector, passed away at the age of 63 after a brutal year-long battle with cancer on September 8, 2026.
After playing baseball at Canal Winchester High School, his love for baseball remained with him throughout his life.
Chris Duckworth first made his mark as a baseball player at Canal Winchester High School, which defined his passion in life.
After graduating in 1981, he continued his athletic journey at the University of South Florida before returning to play at Ohio University.
He was a standout student-athlete and a proud brother of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity, which forged a bond of friendship that would last a lifetime.
His love for baseball never faded, and he remained deeply involved in the sport as a coach, umpire, avid card collector, and devoted fan.
Furthermore, Chris built a highly successful career in financial planning. His strong values of integrity and loyalty led him to found his own firm, Columbus Financial Partners.
Undoubtedly, his tragic passing deeply saddened the entire community, and many paid their heartfelt tribute to him. His unmatched care for others will always be remembered.
Chris was a former President of PCABA, current umpire, and an all around good human being. I always looked forward to talks with Chris when he would be around the ballfields. He traveled to Cooperstown to umpire youth baseball as a volunteer, and served PCABA for MANY years, including over 9 years as President. Chris lived his life through service to others, and that’s how we will remember him. We will miss you, Chris.
Chris Duckworth’s Family Mourns The Tragic Loss
Robert Christopher Duckworth, the son of Mary Lou Hatem Duckworth and Robert “Bobby” Duckworth, was born on November 12, 1962, in Columbus, Ohio.
His parents raised him in Gahanna and Canal Winchester.
Chris grew up understanding the value of hard work and the importance of community.
On July 4, 1992, he married his best friend and love of his life, Susie Vittel. Their 34-year marriage was a beacon of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership.
Chris was a devoted son, husband, father, and grandfather who found his most profound joy in the presence of his family.
He was the proud and loving father of Melanie Niesley, Robert Callahan Duckworth, and Johnathan Duckworth. Moreover, his role as papa to his grandsons, Nash and Jameson Niesley, brought him immense happiness and pride.
His home was filled with the sounds of family gatherings and the warmth of shared memories.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, mother, children, and grandchildren. He shared a close bond with his siblings, Brian, Shawn, Dennis, and Edward, as well as his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Kathy Abraham, Karen Whiting, Bobby Vittel, and Karaolyn Squire.
His life was a true blessing, and his spirit of compassion and unwavering loyalty will be deeply missed.
Chris’s father, Robert Thomas Duckworth; his father-in-law, Robert John Vittel; and his mother-in-law, Betty Jane Stricharczuk; preceded him in death.
Very Tough loss for Plain City. Chris Duckworth was a good man and a friend. I will always remember his love for all things baseball related. Whether it was umpiring or coaching. He enjoyed talking about his family most of all. Say a little prayer for the Duckworth’s.
Furthermore, he was a pillar of the Plain City community, generously giving his time and energy to the causes he believed in.
His faith was the cornerstone of his life and became part of the Saint Joseph Catholic Church Knights of Columbus. He was first to lend a helping hand, offer a word of encouragement, or share his steadfast loyalty with those in need.
The Duckworth family will soon announce the Celebration of Chris’s life.
Instead of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Plain City Area Ball Association or the Saint Joseph Catholic Church Knights of Columbus.
Rest in Peace, Robert Christopher Duckworth.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Robert Christopher Duckworth and his wife, Susie, made their home in Plain City, Ohio.
- He coached, mentored, and supported young athletes for years at Plain City Area Ball Association.
- Check other Articles on
Ashish Maharjan, author at Players Bio, has been covering news with a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling. A writer with a passion for capturing the essence of athletic competition.
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