BERKS COUNTY, Pa. — Chris Kaag spent years delivering one message: No excuses. Just move.
“It’s a really sad day today for our entire veterans community, as we lost one of our warriors who just epitomizes that warrior ethos, that warrior spirit, that ability to take a really difficult situation and never quit,” said Jay Ostrich, director of Berks County Veterans Affairs.
Kaag served in the Marine Corps. A rare disease called AMN eventually limited his movement. But in 2007, he founded the IM ABLE Foundation.
“Just a great guy. I’ve seen many, many posts in Facebook about him of the great work he did. He’s very motivational, very inspiring, did a great job here in our community,” said Berks County Commissioner Michael Rivera.
Kaag’s organization gave people with disabilities ways to move, from adaptive fitness classes and bicycles to vehicles equipped for veterans in wheelchairs. Kaag also shared his story in a book called Don’t Quit on Me.
“In 50 years, he did a lot more than most people do in a lot longer period of time,” said Berks County Commissioner Dante Santoni.
Kaag leaves behind his wife, Gretchen, and their son, Carter.
“Chris Kaag is an inspiration to all of us. Whether you’ve worn the uniform or not, we can learn so much from how he lived his life,” Ostrich said.
In a statement, IM ABLE CEO Alex Pilkington said Kaag’s courage and compassion inspired thousands and that the organization remains committed to carrying forward the mission he dedicated his life to building.