Thomas Wayne Crisler

Thomas Wayne Crisler, born March 10, 1962, in South Bend, Indiana, was a man whose life was defined by love, laughter, faith, and a deep commitment to people—both the two-legged and four-legged kind.

Thomas dedicated 25 years of his professional life to PepsiCo, where he started as a delivery driver and worked his way up to New Asset Coach, earning the respect of colleagues through hard work, humor, and an unwavering work ethic. Never one to sit still, he later followed his entrepreneurial spirit and opened Irene’s Café, going on to own and operate multiple family-run restaurants over a 15-year period. For Thomas, business was never just business—it was about people, relationships, and community.

Family was Thomas’s entire world. Growing up surrounded by many aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings, he carried that closeness into every stage of his life. His many nieces and nephews were treated like his own children—loved fiercely, protected instinctively, and spoiled unapologetically. He showed up for birthdays, milestones, hard moments, and everyday life, leaving each of them with memories of laughter, guidance, and unconditional love.

Thomas was especially devoted to his mother, Zelma, (known to many as Irene) honoring her with deep loyalty, and care. His dedication to her was a reflection of his character—steadfast, selfless, and rooted in love. That devotion shaped the way he cared for others throughout his life.

A lifelong animal lover, Thomas never met a creature he didn’t want to protect. He often rescued stray animals, and on occasion, he rescued stray people too—those who simply needed kindness, help, or a second chance. He treated everyone’s children as if they were his own and had an open-door, open-heart approach to life. If someone was in need, Thomas was already there.

Thomas studied Business and Accounting at Purdue University, earning his BA and becoming the unofficial accountant for nearly everyone in his life. Taxes, financial advice, or calm reassurance—Thomas handled it all, usually with a joke and a sly smile.

Faith was the foundation of Thomas’s life. He was deeply influenced by his uncle, Howard T. Ford, founder and pastor of the Church of Acts 4:12 in Bremen, Indiana, under whose mentorship Thomas grew spiritually. His faith guided how he lived—freely loving, generously giving, and welcoming all.

Thomas loved music, especially gospel, and had an unforgettable presence. He was incredibly funny, quick-witted, a little (okay, maybe a lot) mischievous and capable of filling any room with joy. Once you met Thomas, you never forgot him.

Thomas was preceded in death by his parents, Jeral V. Crisler and Zelma I. (Ford) Crisler. He is survived by his siblings Rodger (Rachel) Crisler, Richard Crisler, and Stacie Balentine, along with his beloved nieces and nephews, extended family, dear friends, rescued animals, and countless lives forever changed by his compassion.

To know Thomas was to be loved by him—and that love never left quietly.

A time to visit with the family will be on Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 from 4-8 p.m. at Palmer Funeral Home – Bubb Chapel, 3910 N. Main St. Mishawaka, IN. A private burial at Bremen Cemetery will take place at a later date.

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