Christopher Brian Michiels passed away at the age of 51. He leaves behind a legacy defined by an immense, wide-open heart, a legendary sense of humor, an unparalleled design genius, and a triumphant spirit.

He was a proud graduate of Barrington High School (BHS) and the University of Illinois (UofI). At BHS, he excelled in visual and performing arts with leading roles in productions such as Godspell and West Side Story, as well as with the school’s dance company. At UofI, he enjoyed being a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and leveraging his studies to broaden his skills later applied to his craft.

Christopher poured his creative soul into a highly successful career as a talented interior designer in Chicago and Southwest Florida. He was frequently recognized for his design work in numerous publications, like i4Design, Design + Décor, and Chicago Magazine. He was a prominent designer for the Chicago Merchandise Mart’s DreamHome and Barrington Showcase House, decorated for the Daytime Emmys in Hollywood, and starred in two episodes of HGTV’s New Spaces.

He spent decades transforming spaces into vibrant masterpieces, yet his truest gift was how he treated people and was their greatest champion and personal cheerleader. Christopher had an extraordinary, effortless way of making every single person in his presence feel incredibly special, deeply valued, and loved.

He lived proudly out and unapologetically himself. Christopher was active with the Southwest Florida Harmony Chamber of Commerce and with the region’s Pride community. He devoted his time to varied causes, including the American Cancer Society’s Cattle Baron’s Ball.

Traveling – domestically and abroad – was among his favorite passions and sources for inspiration. From a young age spent boating, he was always drawn to spending time on the water – from the Delaware River, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Bangs Lake, Lake Michigan, Gulf of Mexico, the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, and so many more.

Christopher was an adventure enthusiast, foodie, and fashion icon. His light and joy were infectious, using his razor-sharp wit to turn ordinary moments into raucous, unforgettable memories.

Christopher’s love for his family and friends was fierce, absolute, and completely unconditional. He is deeply, profoundly mourned by his devoted parents, Cathy and Dennis Michiels, and his loving siblings, Eric & Bridget and Meg & Mark. He was the ultimate "fun uncle" to Wyatt, Avery, Dylan, Lucas, and Mikaela, with a unique, mischief-filled bond with each of them. He also leaves behind a vast, heartbroken circle of family, aunts, uncles, cousins, besties, and lifelong friends. Christopher’s beautiful, magnificent spirit lives on as a permanent smile and an everlasting warmth in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Celebrations of Life

Two gatherings will be held to honor Christopher's remarkably bright life. We welcome you to join us, please join us:

☀️ FLORIDA SERVICE

Date & Time: Saturday, July 18th from 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM

Location: B Hive Event Center, 17650 S Tamiami Trail, Ste 202, Fort Myers, FL 33908

🍂 ILLINOIS SERVICE

Details: A gathering will take place in Fall 2026. Specific date, time, and location details are forthcoming.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the charitable scholarship in Christopher's name for Interior Design Studies that will be accepting donations.