Joel E. Christman

Joel E. Christman, 64, of Bucyrus, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026 surrounded by family at Ohio’s Hospice in Columbus, Ohio after a short and hard-fought illness.

Joel was born on October 24, 1961 in Bucyrus to the late Frederick and Jeannette (Russell) Christman. He graduated from Bucyrus High School in 1980 and went on to graduate from the University of Cincinnati in 1985. His work in accounting and consulting allowed him to travel for much of his career, which spanned more than 35 years. More recently, he was retired and enjoyed spending time with his family. He cherished his time with his children, and his favorite role was as “Papa” to his two young grandchildren, Charlotte and Nolan, who adored him and will greatly miss him.

In addition to his grandchildren, Joel is survived by his three children, Lauren (Jeff) Mikelson of Delaware, OH, Taylor Christman and her fiancé Dan Smith of Cincinnati, OH, and Michael Christman of Cincinnati, OH; former spouse, Gina Christman of Delaware, OH; siblings, John (Fran) Christman of Ocala, FL, Jayne (Mike) Roessner of Annapolis, MD, and Jody Christman of Bucyrus; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Joel was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Juleen Brantingham, and brother-in-law, Robert Brantingham.

Visitation will take place Saturday, May 30 from 9:30-11am at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus followed by a memorial service at 11am with Pastor Rick Maddox officiating. Joel will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery next to his parents at a later date.

Joel’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff who cared for him at The James Cancer Center at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Mayfair Village Nursing Care Center, Ohio’s Hospice, and Bucyrus Community Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ohio’s Hospice and will be accepted through the funeral home. Expressions of sympathy are encouraged to be shared on his guestbook page at www.wisefuneral.com.