Clarence E. Christian, Jr.

CLARENCE E. "JUNIOR" CHRISTIAN, JR.

Age 90, of New Carlisle, passed peacefully Thursday,August 24, 2017 surrounded by family. Born to Clarence E. Christian, Sr. & Bessie Jane (Friend) Christian on April 12, 1927 in Dayton, Ohio. Married to Peggy Reaver on September 25, 1948. Junior worked for 60+ years as a heavy equipment operator. Starting out with his father until leaving for the Army in 1945. He was stationed in Italy. After returning from the service in 1947 he again worked with his father until 1952 when he went out on his own. He worked extensively on many projects in Dayton, Springfield, Tipp City & New Carlisle areas. From clearing sites, digging basements, clearing fencerows, & etc. He loved pushing dirt. He was especially prized in creating many ponds in the area. In 1962 Junior developed Country Haven Mobile Home Court near Medway. Also in Medway, he started C&M Ready Mix Co. One of Junior’s most favorite hobbies was his love for steam, owning 8-9 steam engines over his lifetime all perfectly restored. He was a member of the original Darke County Steam Threshers Assoc, Greenville, Ohio. Tascawarus Valley Steam Threshers Assoc., Dover, Ohio and Mad River Valley Steam Threshers Assoc., Urbana, Ohio. Junior’s prized engine was a 110 Case fully restored with son-in-law, Greg Thomas. In 1985, the 110 Case was trucked to 5 shows, 4 in the states & one in Canada. He and his wife, Peggy made many dear friends in the Steam Family Circuit. He was also a member of the Nation Pike Assoc. in Brownsville, PA featuring antique heavy equipment. Among other pieces here he showed and operated a CAT dozer fondly named "Felix". Along with this show again came many new wonderful friends. He was also part of the Flying Angels Club at the New Carlisle Airport. Junior is survived by his loving wife, Peggy of nearly 69 years; a son, Rodney & wife, Pam; a daughter, Nancy & husband, Greg Thomas; grandsons, Christian Thomas & wife Shannon; Matt Wilkerson & wife, Jennifer; great grandchildren, Gage & Chloee Thomas, William Cameron & Taylor Wilkerson. Special friend, Eliza Hershberger; extended family & dear friends. Preceded in death by his parents, one brother & two sisters. A very special thanks to caregivers, Kate, Keri & Kortney and also Campassus Hospice. Visitation will be 5-8 PM Monday, August 28, 2017 at the TROSTEL, CHAPMAN, DUNBAR & FRALEY FUNERAL HOME, New Carlisle, Ohio. Funeral services will be at 1 PM Tuesday in the funeral home. Burial will be in New Carlisle Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to your favorite charity.