Christopher (Chris) Marcello was born October 11, 1979 in Rhode Island, son to Joseph and Cathleen Marcello. At age 6, he moved with his family to Blue Hill, NE. Chris was the middle child, he has two older brothers (Joseph & Anthony) and two younger sisters (Shannon & Amanda). Chris graduated Blue Hill High School in 1998. He then attended the University of Nebraska at Kearney where he met the love of his life, Tami. They were married in 2005, and blessed with four children: Vincent, Mia, Ophelia and Victor. Growing up Chris was described as an outgoing, dare-devil, spontaneous and fun-loving guy by family and friends.
Chris enlisted in the US Army National Guard Alpha Troop 1/167th Cavalry Squadron at age 17, with permission of his mother.
Chris was deployed several times including part of 1-167th CAV Operation Noble Eagle 2001; SFOR 13 Samac-Buelina-Bosnia 2002-2003; OIF AR Ramadi- Iraq 2005-2006; 1-134th CAV Hurricane Relief Gustav/Ike, and OEF Musayi Valley Afghanistan 2010-2011.
Chris was the Grand Marshal at the Nebraska State Fair’s Salute to Our Veterans celebration parade in 2017.
Chris retired at rank of First Sergeant in May 2020 a 23-year veteran to the US Army National Guard Alpha Troop 1/134th Cavalry Squadron.
Chris had a passion for helping others, joining the Grand Island Police Department in 2013. Chris embodied the model of a true hero. He was a recipient of the department Life Saving Award. Chris had the heart and desire to save children as a Child Abuse Investigator, the patience and leadership to train future police offices as a Field Training Officer, and the cunning and bravery to go into the worst situations as a member of the Tactical Response Team serving as S.W.A.T Operator.
To Chris…nothing was impossible. He led by example and inspired others to be better. He believed in family traditions, from home-made popcorn movie nights, small celebrations to big Halloween parties. He was the person we ALL turned to for advice! Chris gained his ANGEL wings July 27, 2022.
