Christopher Wendell Jern AKA Shane Ringo Obituary (1962

Chris Jern (born Christopher Wendell Jern), 61, aka “DJ Shane Ringo”, of Chicago’s Belmont-Cragin neighborhood, passed away peacefully but unexpectedly in his sleep, September 10, 2023. Born in Evanston, Chris attended Highland Park High School before realizing that formal education was not for him. A trusted and beloved dog walker and pet/house sitter, Chris was a fixture in Wicker Park, going back to the late 1980’s. Chris DJ’d under the name Shane Ringo and played in several bands including Mexican Doorbell, Flipper, Jr., F##kface, and DTKLAMF (a Johnny Thunders cover band). He was the loudest guitarist in Iggy Yoakam & His Famous Pogo Ponies, which was together for 23 years. Chris worked various jobs, in and around Chicago’s music and bar scene. He worked for Southern Records Company, and at Cargo Records (distributor), he would cherry-pick the best releases for his clients. Chris was characterized as the most extroverted introvert ever and loved good pizza almost as much as he loved dogs and cats. Chris' knowledge of obscure R'n'B and novelty music was vast. Chris was an avid collector of records and guitars and owned a jukebox. Chris was a good man, and he was always ready to rock! His last days were good ones, spinning records, dog-sitting, and enjoying foods he loved. He was the devoted and stalwart only child of Sharon Lynn Jern (nee Mark), whom he recently moved to Chicago from Kentucky to be closer together. He was preceded in death by his father Jerry Wendell Jern. Chris is survived by his elderly dog Otto, five cats, his best friend Renee Renzetti Krupa, and countless other friends, associates, and clients. A celebration of Chris’ life is being held Saturday, April 13, 2-6pm (eulogies begin 3:30pm) at The Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, Chicago, 60642. Memorial donations to offset final expenses may be made to https://www.gofundme.com/f/chris-jerns-aka-shane-ringo-final-expenses. Arrangements by Inclusive Funeral Care, 773-370-2959 or www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com.