Christopher Thomas Carlin

Christopher Thomas Carlin, 45, of Livingston, Montana; train engineer for Montana Rail Link. Chris passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Wednesday, November 21st, 2018.Chris was born on February 25th, 1973 in Helena, Montana to Dr. Thomas D. Carlin and Jackie (Stinson) Inman. He lived in Helena, Dutton and Red Lodge as a youth. At the age of three years and ten months Chris was introduced to downhill skiing in Big Sky Montana. He furthered that passion while living in Red Lodge by competing in the giant downhill slalom. Chris graduated from Helena High School in 1991. In high school Chris was an all-around top athlete and was awarded a scholarship to Carroll College both for football and academics.Chris began his career with Montana Rail Link in 1995. He started as a "gandy dancer" working the rails progressively advancing to switchman, and, ultimately, a train engineer. Chris loved operating a train. In 2015 he earned his 20 years of service commendation. Through a connection met while lifting weights in Billings one day, Chris met Phil Sanderson, an Olympic weight lifting competitor who introduced him to power lifting, another sport that became a competitive passion in which he excelled. Chris competed internationally, winning first place in his weight category in many of the events. He was a "monster" strong and steady. He always made every effort to be the best he could be at what he was doing. Chris eventually took on the role of trainer, coaching and mentoring other aspiring athletes both in Billings and at Montana State University, Bozeman.On April 27, 2004 Chris became a father upon the birth of his only son, Aiden. In 2012 Chris moved to Livingston to be near Liz, his best friend and life companion. They were married on September 1st, 2016.Chris was a jokester; he always had a trick up his sleeve. He had a great sense of humor and cherished being able to make someones day just a bit better with a good laugh. He enjoyed the outdoors, hiking, being in the mountains and sport shooting. He loved his four-legged friends and was ever dedicated to his many friends and coworkers. He will be remembered for his work ethic and the ability he had to get the job done. Above all, he put his love of his family first. Gone far too early, Chris will be missed. We will keep him close in our hearts.Chris is survived by his wife, Liz of Livingston; son, Aiden of Torrington, WY; step-son, River of Livingston; parents, Thomas (Marilyn) Carlin of Clancy, MT and Jackie (Jerry) Inman of Billings; aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins and many dear friends also survive Chris.Chris is preceded in death by his infant daughter, Deign.A celebration of Chriss life will be planned and announced at a later date.Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.