Christopher Paul Kallfelz, aka Ian Michael Corkery, who found deep satisfaction in the power of the written word, the roar of racing, and the quiet of the outdoors, passed away on April 25, 2023 at his home in Lusby, Maryland. He is survived by Melissa (Worthington) Kallfelz, the love of his life for 38 years.

Chris adapted early and often, starting with his birthday, which was changed from July 26, 1961 to April 6, 1962 on his adoption papers. He is predeceased by his adoptive parents, Paul and Beverly (Bishop) Kallfelz.

He served his country as a sergeant in United States Army from 1980-1983. He first served as a medic, then completed his service as the youngest tank commander at the time. His dedication to his fellow military service men and women was life long and unwavering.

Chris graduated Magna Cum Laude with a degree in philosophy from St. Mary’s College of Maryland in 1987 and moved with Melissa to Baltimore, where he attended the University of Maryland School of Law. He put that legal knowledge to work for the American Motorcycle Association in Westerville, Ohio, fighting for motorcyclists’ rights in courtrooms across the country.

As a writer and rider, he shared his passion for motorcycles in the association’s magazine, American Motorcyclist. Beyond just riding, Chris loved road racing, and he was good at it, winning races at every major track on the East Coast.

Chris’ passion for asphalt was matched by his love of Southern Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay. This drew him back to the region in 1987. Here he rallied anglers around issues important to the future of sport fishing and fostered an early online cadre of fishing enthusiasts at Tidalfish and the Moo Board in the days before social media.

His belief that “we build our families” was demonstrated again and again over the course of Chris’ life. One of his greatest gifts was the ability to connect with people through the written word. Chris combined his considerable power of mind and his skill at the keyboard to challenge people to clarify their thinking, to share his own unique perspective, and to bring people together through humor and genuine empathy.

Chris has a large group of friends—on social media and off—who miss him deeply. He will be remembered for his dedication to Melissa and his friends; his passion for motorcycles, fishing, a lively discussion, and the military; and his ability to turn words into art with wit and wisdom. His memory will be cherished by those who knew him. May he be at peace.

Donations and Services:

In lieu of flowers:

If you are an employee of Calvert County Public Schools, please consider donating a day of leave to Chris’ wife Melissa Kallfelz. Due to Chris’ extended illnesses in the 2022-2023 school year, she is without enough leave to give her sufficient time to grieve and complete family business during this difficult time.

Monetary donations can be made in memory of Chris to any one of the following or to a charity of your choice:

• End of Life Autonomy: Compassion & Choices 
• Motorcycles and Road Racing: Mid-Atlantic Roadracing Club
• Environmental Stewardship: Interfaith Partners of the Chesapeake
• Veteran Care: Operation Second Chance

Visitation for Christopher Paul Kallfelz

Saturday, May 13, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Patuxent Friends Meeting
12185 Southern Connector Blvd
Lusby, Maryland 20657
Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Attire is informal and masks are optional.

A celebration of Chris’ life for friends and family will be held in late July. Please check back or contact Melissa for more information.