Chad Meier passed away peacefully on December 13, 2023, after a 4-year battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His diagnosis never stopped his affinity for living life to the fullest, and he adored every moment with his family. He was a pillar of strength and dependability, and he spent a lifetime bringing people together and making them smile.

Chad was born on July 8, 1967, in Dayton, Ohio. He grew up in Sheboygan, Wisconsin where he played football for South High and was elected as an All-American and All-State. Chad went on to play football for the University of South Dakota as an offensive lineman, punter, and place kicker. He graduated from his alma mater in 1990, earning a B.S. in Arts and Science. He later moved to Tampa, Florida in 1998, where he began working for Gardner-Gibson as a salesman. He was later promoted to Vice President of Sales in 2012, a position which he held until his ALS progression prevented him. Despite his life achievements, what Chad cherished most was meeting his soulmate Lisa Woody in 2006. Lisa and Chad shared a profound love for the outdoors, family, and each other.

Chad leaves behind a loving family, including his beloved life partner Lisa Woody, his daughter Caitlin Meier and his sons Jacob Meier, Coty Meier, Aaron Alford, Collin Woody, and Tyler Woody. He also leaves behind two beloved granddaughters, Haven Alford, and Selah Alford. Chad’s children and grandchildren were the joy of his life, and he was incredibly proud of them and all they have accomplished. His mother, Rosali Meier, and siblings; Greg, Shawn, PJ, and Angela Meier deeply mourn his loss. He was preceded in death by his father, Paul Meier.

Chad had a strong fondness for sports. He volunteered as a football coach for New Tampa Wildcats and Wharton High School for a combined 15+ years. He thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors and sharing those experiences with his family. Chad would plan family camping trips, kayak with his daughter, fish with his boys, and visit National Parks with Lisa. He was a man of the wilderness, and he felt most at home on the water or up high in the mountains. His favorite getaway was Yellowstone, and locally, he loved spending time at bass fishing ponds.

Chad was a dedicated fisherman, a master of his craft for which he was well known for. He was a bass fishing champion and a fly fisherman who was passionate about sharing his knowledge with anyone who would lend a listening ear. Chad enjoyed taking friends and family on fishing trips (even if Caty talked the whole time). His love of fishing was shared with his children, inspiring his son Jacob’s career as a fishing guide.

He will be remembered for his commanding presence with which he led his life, his wisdom in reminding us that life is what you make it, and his legacy of generosity.

“Seeing death as the end of life is like seeing the horizon as the end of the ocean,” by David Searls summarizes the way in which we should see Chad’s passing. He is not gone, but everywhere we look. His loved ones will always be able to feel his memory and spirit in nature. Whether it be in the sound of the wind through the pines or the rushing of water down the riverbed, Chad will be near, casting a line by your side. 

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