James "Jim" Richard Crist, a devoted family man and of deep faith, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2024, at the age of 84. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose warmth and generosity touched the lives of many. Jim never met a stranger. Born on Nov 10, 1939, in Monterey, Indiana to Isadore and Helen Crist, Jim grew up on a family farm, where he developed a strong work ethic and an appreciation for nature. These early experiences shaped his lifelong love of gardening and working outside. Jim spent countless hours gardening, growing things to can and share with his friends and family. He loved working in his yard and tinkering in his shed. Jim was a loving and dedicated husband to Carol Mertens, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. Together, they created a home filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. As a father, he offered wisdom, encouragement, and unconditional love to his children, Thomas, Cheryl, and Daniel. A man of deep faith, Jim was an active and devoted member of St. John's Catholic Church where he enjoyed serving in The Holy Name Society. He found great joy and purpose in serving others with his fellow church members. Jim was an avid sports fan. When his kids were growing up, you could often find Jim cheering their baseball, softball and basketball teams on in the stands. He also loved watching Purdue football and basketball and tried not to miss a game. Jim enjoyed staying active by fishing, walking, playing shuffleboard, and participating in the Fort Wayne Senior Games. Jim is survived by his wife, Carol, his children, Thomas (Trish) Crist of Noblesville, IN Cheryl (Joe) Schmidt of Raleigh, NC, Daniel (Michelle) of Charlotte, NC, his grandchildren, Rose, Cami, Addy, Liza, Olivia, Maddy, Ryan and Alex; siblings Joseph (Dorothy) Crist, Barbara (Francis) Hendrickson, Patricia (Jerry) Girton, and Marsha Gearhart; brothers-in-law Jack McCrackin and Ken (Cathy) Mertens. James was preceded in death by siblings: Delores Miller, John Crist, Alice McCrackin. He will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity and his love for his family and friends. Jim will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Funeral Mass will be held 10:30am Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church 943 Powers St. New Haven with calling one hour prior to the funeral. Visitation also will be held at the Divine Mercy Funeral Home 3500 Lake Ave. on Friday, August 2, 2024, from 5:00 to 8:00pm. Burial at the Saint John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery on Rose Ave in New Haven. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St John's Baptist Catholic School in keeping with his generous spirit. To sign the online guestbook, go to:www.divinemercyfuneralhome.com

Donations

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St John's Baptist Catholic School in keeping with his generous spirit.