Christopher Sandell, a registered nurse at Pelican Bay State Prison, passed away Sept. 25, 2024.
He began his career with California Correctional Health Care Services in January 2021 at Pelican Bay, where he remained until his passing.
“Many knew Christopher both personally and professionally. Christopher was respected by his peers and a well-loved member of the Pelican Bay State Prison family. He was a good friend, partner, and a good human being. He will be missed by all,” according to a statement issued by the institution. “Pelican Bay State Prison extends our most sincere condolences to Sandell’s family, friends and loved ones.”
The family will not be holding services.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
San Quentin mourns passing of Officer Michelle Jones‑Harris
Michelle Jones-Harris, a correctional officer at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away July 21, 2026. Jones-Harris began her career at…
Watch: Agent Byrd memorialized at training center, CMF
Two CDCR memorial ceremonies honored fallen Parole Agent Joshua Byrd, marking one year since his passing. At California Medical Facility…
Ismael Martinez, retired correctional lieutenant
Ismael Martinez, a retired correctional lieutenant from Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla, passed away July 14, 2026. He worked…
CMF mourns loss of Melissa Boos, management services tech
Melissa Boos, a management service technician at California Medical Facility (CMF) in Vacaville, passed away July 21, 2026. She worked…
CSP‑Solano mourns loss of Kevin Thomas, health records tech
Kevin Thomas, a health records technician at California State Prison-Solano, passed away June 22, 2026. Thomas began his career as…
San Quentin mourns passing of Jonathan Castillo, office tech
Jonathan Castillo, an office technician at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, passed away Feb. 1, 2026. Castillo began his career at…