Family's tribute to talented Chesterfield tattoo artist whose work 'brought joy to so many' after unexpected death

Chris Cross, who was well-known as an artist and co-owner at Tattoo HQ in Chesterfield passed away peacefully at his home in Dronfield.

Chris’ sister, Gill Harris, said he will be missed by friends, family and the many people who enjoyed seeing his artistic creations.

“The art work he lovingly created amazed and brought joy to so many people,” Gill said.

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“Apart from his art, Chris enjoyed many hobbies including shooting, roller skating, sculpting and of course his collection of trainers and boy's toys!

"He went in to each one with great enthusiasm and passion and didn't rest until he had bought every variation, colour and style possible and customised them in his own unique style.

“He lived life to the full and will be very sadly missed by all his family and friends.”

When he was unable to work in the first coronavirus lockdown last spring, Chris spread a little happiness and raised money for the NHS with a series of sketched portraits, including one of Captain Sir Tom Moore.

Chris told us at the time that his love of art, and the fact he has probably drawn something every day of his life for 25 years, prompted him to keep his skills up to scratch and provide some welcome cheer to other people during the crisis.

The Captain Tom portrait was raffled and raised £639 for the NHS and Ashgate Hospicecare.

Chris said that if he ‘could make just one person smile’ on each day it would have all been worth it – but at one stage he checked his Facebook messages and saw 43 people were requesting a portrait.

After completing 63 drawings, and spending 324 hours sketching, Chris said he was pleased to have ‘to spread a little happiness in these terrible times’.

A private family funeral will take place on Tuesday, March 16 at 2.30pm at Chesterfield Crematorium.

To view the service live use the following link: https://www.wesleymedia.co.uk/webcast-view

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