Christian Stauffer, age 91, passed away Wednesday, March 20, 2024 in Fort Wayne. He was born in Fort Wayne to the late Daniel and Anna Stauffer.

Chris developed a fierce work ethic from an early age and quickly established himself in the home building industry. For 50 years, Chris Stauffer Homes was a leading home builder in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas. The company was more than just a business; he worked alongside his wife, Susan, to develop a reputation for caring about his employees, customers, and quality. He was an active member of the Fort Wayne Home Builders Association and served a term as its president. He was also an enthusiastic participant in the Fort Wayne Business Forum and created many lasting friendships from these organizations. On November 22, 2002, Fort Wayne mayor Graham Richard declared "Chris Stauffer Day" in recognition of his commitment to the community. Chris was also appointed as a Sagamore of the Wabash by Indiana governor Frank O'Bannon for his service to the people of Indiana. While Chris was happiest with "mud on his shoes" from hard work, he always found time for numerous other passions. Over his lifetime, he was an avid runner, motorcycle rider, amateur SCCA race car driver, and long-distance bike rider. In every endeavor, he looked for the opportunity to test the limits of his ability. The greatest showcase of this passion was completing 5 road bike rides across America. In 2009, at 77, his team became the oldest group to complete the 3,021-mile course in a record-setting 8 days, 14 hours, and 49 minutes. His comments after that achievement are the perfect summary of a life lived to the fullest, "If you have faith, family, friends, and health, you are wealthy."

Chris is survived by his wife of 38 years, Susan Stauffer; children, Terry Stauffer, Jill (CJ) Mayer, Mitch (Mimi) Stauffer, and Joel (Jill Frederickson) Grove; 10 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and brother/sister-in-law, Mark and Chris Rupp. He was preceded in death by three sisters and two brothers.

A Celebration of Life is 11:00 am, Thursday, March 28, 2024 at Covenant United Methodist Church, 10001 Coldwater Rd., with calling two hours prior beginning at 9:00 am. Memorials may be made to Turnstone. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com