RIP in Peace: Chris Gobber
The "Pope of Gullwing" shows how he got the name
February 15th 1973 – December 29, 2025
Chris Gobber was the skater's skater, a second-generation skateboard manufacturer with wood ramps in the back and concrete and brick in the front. His yard hosted weekly "Friday Night" sessions that ran up to midnight. His couch was open to traveling skateboarding friends. His collection of skateboarding memorabilia was overwhelming and unique; his favorites were the Grosso boards and Gullwing truck collections. Not only did Chris know all the pools in West Phoenix, but he also knew every big skateable pipe, past and present. If someone wanted a backyard or indoor skatepark, "Gobear" was where it started. Not to mention, he had a dog named Thrasher! I hope you can see the picture of our dear friend, and the hole he has left behind.
Catching air and crushing coping, Chris could do it all
Chris was the pillar in his community and his family. A sage of sorts, with the natural ability to bring like-minded individuals together. He encouraged DIY activities, creativity and fun. He supplied his community, as well as many skatepark and DIY builders across the nation, with the highest quality skateboards from AZ Laminates. Chris Gobber always had something to show you and would do so with an unforgettable giggle that will echo on forever. He truly left his mark on all his friends and this world, and will not be forgotten. Our hearts go out to his kids, Maggie and Jesse, who always came first. —Clayton Graul
In the wake of his sudden passing, the family has put together a GoFundMe.
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