John R. Christian

John R. “Dick” Christian, 89, of New Brighton, passed away peacefully Monday, August 10, 2026, at his home.

Born March 4, 1937, in Freedom, he was the son of the late John W. and Alice (Potter) Christian. Dick was a veteran of the United States Army and a graduate of Freedom High School and Geneva College.

Dick is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Tamara (Addison) Christian; his son, Thad (wife Dana) Christian; his grandchildren, Hunter, Sierra, and Giavanna; his sister and best friend, Kay Yohn, and her children Scott, Sherry, and John; and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Dick’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He never missed a single birthday, dance recital, school concert, family trip or any other important moment in the lives of his grandchildren. He was always there for the people he loved, no matter what they needed.

If something was broken, Dick was the person you called. He was a master at fixing just about anything and was always working on something for someone. Whether it was a car, a household project, or something that simply needed a little figuring out, he was happiest when he could lend a hand. He never hesitated to drop what he was doing and show up to help.

One of Dick’s greatest accomplishments was the cabin he built 62 years ago. It became a special place where he spent countless days enjoying the outdoors, hunting, and making memories with his family. He also loved traveling to the beach, especially Topsail, North Carolina, and could often be found working on cars or tinkering with his latest project.

He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. His hands were rarely still, and he was always ready to fix something, help someone, or simply be there. The cabin he built became a special place that will be cherished for generations, but the greatest thing Dick ever built was his family. His greatest legacy is the laughter and memories he created with the people he loved. Those memories will be the pieces of him we carry with us forever.

Friends will be welcomed Saturday, August 15, from 10 a.m. until the time of the Blessing Service at 1 p.m. at J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Ave, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pennsylvania SPCA in Dick’s memory.