White River Junction, VT- Christopher McKinley, 68, died unexpectedly on his daily walk in White River Junction on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

Born April 18, 1957, Chris was the first child of the late Edwin and Ann B. McKinley. In the early 1970s, he moved with his family from Connecticut to Thetford Center, VT. Chris was a proud graduate of Thetford Academy, Class of 1976. During his youth, he was an active Boy Scout and developed the curiosity and appreciation for community that would stay with him for years to come.

Chris worked at Dan & Whit’s in Norwich and later at CRREL and Dartmouth Printing, where he was known for being a steady, reliable presence. Wherever he worked, he built lasting connections through his quiet kindness and thoughtful nature. He especially loved holidays with his family and special occasions when everyone could gather.

He had many interests and hobbies, but none captured his imagination more than trains and photography. Chris was a devoted train enthusiast and a student of local history, holding memberships in several historical societies, train clubs, and libraries. Since the 1990’s, Chris has been a beloved fixture at our local train station. Known affectionately by friends and railfans alike as “The Yard Master,” he spent countless hours caring for the Amtrak Vermonter station in White River Junction greeting passengers, helping with train schedules, and keeping watch over the tracks that fascinated him. Locals often saw him tracking arrivals and departures with encyclopedic knowledge and sharing stories with visitors, young rail buffs, and longtime friends. His presence at the station was more than a pastime; it was his passion and way of connecting with the world around him.

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to the individuals who witnessed Chris’s collapse and called for assistance, the first responders who came quickly to his aid, as well as Knight Funeral Home for their kind assistance. Their compassion and efforts are deeply appreciated. Services for Chris will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

He is survived by his sister, Dru and her husband Ralph Boyens of Windsor, VT; his brother, Glenn and wife Cheryl McKinley of Fairlee, VT. and sister, Susan McKinley of New Britain, CT. He also leaves behind two generations of nieces and nephews.

Knight Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed in an online guestbook found at www.knightfuneralhomes.com