Christopher J.E. Arriaza (1965-2013)

Christopher John Edward Arriaza, a former USCF member from Fern Park, Florida, formerly of Arlington, Massachusetts, died Feb. 15, 2013 in Orlando, Florida. He was 47.

He was born July 20, 1965 in Worcester, Mass., the son of Armand J. and Elaine E. (Carlson) Arriaza. He graduated with honors from Belmont (Mass.) High School in 1983. He had lived in Orlando from 1998 to 2004 before moving to Casselberry, Florida in 2006. He then moved to Arlington, Mass. before returning to Florida. Mr. Arriaza enjoyed music and writing short stories. He especially enjoyed playing chess, competing in the early 1980s in scholastic tournaments sponsored by the Massachusetts Chess Association and the Chess Organizers of New England (CONE). He also participated in the very popular Newton Open tournaments organized by CONE and in other events before 1985.

Besides his parents he leaves a sister, Elizabeth R. Arriaza, and a niece, Elena Christopher.

His funeral was held Feb. 23 at the Nordgren Memorial Chapel in Worcester, followed by burial in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton, Mass.

Obituary submitted by
George Mirijanian, Massachusetts Chess Association

Christopher J.E. Arriaza may you rest in peace.