Christopher P. Heaney ’78

Chris died Oct. 12, 2023, of complications of Marfan syndrome, a genetic condition that had challenged him throughout his life.

Chris entered Princeton with the Class of ’77, joined our class, and later withdrew without a degree but with cherished friends and splendid memories. Eventually he landed in California and worked in technical management for Cadence Design Systems. After retiring from Cadence, he moved to Austin, Texas, and finally to Durham, N.C.

After losing his father to Marfan syndrome when he was quite young, Chris began his own consuming series of medical treatments and surgeries. Facing these challenges, he determined to live his life to the fullest and in service to others. Colleagues in the Marfan community said he shattered the boundaries of what was considered possible for them. This was never more evident than in his dedication to the Marfan Foundation, where he served on the board and as an adviser. He was particularly passionate about teens within the community and created the Chris Heaney Angel Fund to give their families the means to attend the foundation’s annual conferences. His love of bringing people together also wove into a long practice of hosting fabulous dinner parties.

We honor his life, well and richly lived.