Entertainment director for Whiskey Row dies from covid-19 complications

Condolences to the family and friends of Kris Chupp, a Valley DJ and the entertainment director at Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row, who passed away Sunday after a three-week battle with covid-19.

Chupps, known professionally as DJ Steel, had worked for Whiskey Row since 2013. He was admitted to an ICU with breathing difficulties on June 26.

Riot Hospitality, the Valley restaurant group that includes Whiskey Rows in Tempe, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, mourned Chupp’s passing on social media:

‘‘He has been with Riot Hospitality Group since the beginning, and was instrumental in developing the Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row brand and musical direction.

‘‘His amazing positivity and selfless attitude made him an amazing DJ, father, husband, and friend. He will be missed dearly, and the impact he had on our company will never be forgotten.’’

A GoFundMe account has been set up to pay for his medical bills and funeral.