Announcing the recent passing of Colonel Guy D. Crist Jr., U.S. Army Ret.

Colonel Guy D. Crist Jr. U.S. Army Ret., 95, passed on February 9, 2018 with his loving family at his side. Born March 19, 1922 in Philadelphia PA, as a young man he won many awards for running track and photography. He had a strong passion for music, learning, outdoor activities, fast cars, and classic wood boats.

He spoke many languages fluently and was highly skilled in weaponry, combat and martial arts. He was a true renaissance man who loved his family, friends and lived a full exciting life.

After accepting a commission in the U.S. Army, he fought in World War II where he survived D Day, storming the beaches of Normandy and later served in post war reconstruction. He also served in the Korean War and the Vietnam conflict. He was an instrumental part of the team setting up Strike Command at MacDill AFB which is now known as Central Command.

After 30 years of service to his country, he retired and was recognized for his outstanding leadership and service. For the last 50 years as a resident of the city of Treasure Island, FL he has been deeply engaged in civic and political activism to help protect and improve the quality of life along our beach communities.

He was preceded in death by his wife Darce T. Crist a native of New Orleans, LA. and his two sisters: Jane Crist of Philadelphia PA and Elizabeth Seeger of Bucks County, PA. He is survived by his four children: Karen Crist (Frank) of Little Egg Harbor, NJ, Darce "Emmy" Crist-Fleeting (Mark) of Temple Terrace, FL, former State Senator and current Hillsborough County Commissioner Victor D. Crist (Angela) of Tampa, FL, and a step daughter Vicki Davis (Guy) of Skaneateles, NY, four grandchildren: Chance Fleeting, Sophia Crist, Lisa Allard and Laurie Jerome, six great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Memorial service and interment will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at Trinity Memorial Gardens 12609 Memorial Dr, New Port Richey, FL. 34655. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the University Area Community Development Corporation Inc. at: www.uacdc.org or the Wounded Warrior Project at: www.woundedwarriorproject.org/Donate