Skim Park Owner Remembered By A Friend and Colleague

"Roseville Police Department spokeswoman Dee Dee Gunther said that police were responding to a call they received at 3:19 p.m. regarding an argument and shots being fired. SWAT team and other officers arrived on the scene and found a man dead with at least one gunshot wound. Roseville officers at the scene reported this as a homicide and interviews of potential witnesses were conducted."

Source:  http://www.news10.net/news/article/139877/2/Roseville-Police-investigating-a-homicide

I received a call shortly after 4 p.m. yesterday from a close friend, telling me the tragic news of the passing of a friend, colleague and boss, Christopher Northam Sr. It still hasn't fully hit me, so my words may not be the best, but please, bear with me.

I first met Christopher in 2008 when he was in the beginning stages of starting an action-sports company, located in Roseville, SkimX. A mutual friend introduced us and shortly after I began working for the company, sharing my knowledge of the skimboarding industry as well as helping design the park.

For two years I worked for the company, the last half as a manager and head of media. Although, like most co-workers, Christopher and I didn't agree on everything. He did have a big heart though, and a vision in which all who were involved believed in. 

Christopher was one of the most passionate, hard working people I have had the privilege to work with. He put his whole heart and dedication into the company and families that were involved. 

When the concept park opened in 2009, Christopher took the time to give every single kid who came through the doors, hands-on instructions of how to properly ride the ramps without facing injury. His dedication and thoroughness showed when families kept returning, bringing more friends and families with them.

Since 2010, the company had purchased a 40,000sq/ft building where the first-ever, full SkimX Park was planned to open. The scheduled opening had been delayed several times but was said to finally be opeining in June. 

Christopher leaves behind two sons. I remain friends with both of them to this day, Christopher Jr. and Codi. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys and I hope whoever did this is found and brought to justice.