DIEHL, Christopher P. "Buckshot" 85, Korean War Veteran, Purple Heart Hero, beloved husband and father, passed away on March 17, 2015 - St. Patrick's Day - so befitting. An avid community servant, Chris was known to many as a man who got things done and will be remembered as a true American Hero. Born in Springfield, Ohio on August 28, 1929 to Carl and Mary (Kelly), Chris graduated from Catholic Central High School where he played football and later was involved with the Catholic Youth Organization. He worked briefly at Steel Products before joining the Army where he served during the Korean War. He was wounded in Combat in October of 1951 but fought to overcome injuries and returned to Springfield where he then worked for International Harvester, met and married the love of his life and raised two great children. Before retiring from Navistar after 36 years, Chris was instrumental in securing donations, materials and dedicated his time to build baseball fields in the Northridge Community and also at Kenton Ridge High School so that kids had a place to grow up and learn to love sports. He, along with other community men and the KR Boosters built the first sports facilities at the high school, using no tax dollars, only sweat equity and donations. In his later years, Chris devoted his time and resources to honoring America's veterans and in particular those injured or killed during combat. Known in the community as a veteran's advocate, Chris was an active member of VFW Post 1031, served as an officer at the DAV Chapter 13, was the Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 620 as well as a past State of Ohio MOPH Commander. Many days, Chris was seen out in the Springfield Community or could be heard on the radio seeking donations so that Springfield could honor all Purple Heart recipients. His efforts, along with that of countless other Purple Heart Patriots resulted in the building and dedication of the Springfield Purple Heart Memorial. He was proud of his service to his country and even during his last days while being lovingly cared for at Forest Glen, he shared stories of patriotism and would lead others during the daily Pledge of Allegiance. He was a true patriot. An avid gardener, Chris loved growing vegetables in particular horseradish which, to the dislike of his family, he used to make some of the strongest horseradish sauce in the Midwest. He had an amazing knack for growing roses and in the summer months, he lovingly would cut dozens to share with his wife and all the neighbors on his street. Some of his roses still grow outside the DAV to this day. Chris was preceded in death by his father Carl, mother Mary (Kelly), brothers Carl Jr. and Robert and his beloved mother-in-law Antoinette Sitchek. He is survived by his wife of 55 years Shirley (Dimperio), son Todd of Springfield, Ohio, daughter Paula and grand dog Darby of Noblesville, Indiana, niece Stephanie (Diehl) Cooley and nephew Clarence. He will be lovingly remembered by countless extended family in Pittsburgh, PA as well as dear friends and fellow veterans and patriots in Springfield and throughout Ohio. A special heartfelt thank you to the loving staff of Community Mercy Hospice, Forest Glen Health Campus and his newest friend, Gene Roush. Family and friends are invited to honor Chris at CONROY FUNERAL HOME from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Bernard's Catholic Church at 1:00 p.m. Saturday. A private committal will be held at a later date. The family requests in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Military Order of the Purple Heart Foundation at www.purpleheartfoundation.org
Published in Springfield News-Sun on Mar. 19, 2015