Taken from his loved ones much too soon, Jarrod Lewis was a vibrant and fun loving young man who lived life to the fullest each day. He was kindhearted, generous, and forgiving with an optimistic spirit that was truly inspiring to those around him. Jarrod was blessed with many gifts and talents, but he was a humble person who was never boisterous in his accomplishments. He had a glow about him, a certain sparkle and an approachable demeanor that drew others near with ease. A leader not a follower, Jarrod wasnt afraid to be his own person, and through the choices he made he provided other young people with much to aspire for. With so much love left to give, Jarrod leaves behind a priceless collection of memories created with his family and friends.
The 1990s were a decade to remember. Technology was king, the world wide web was born, and personal computers and cellular phones became part of the cultural fabric of our nation. Friends, That 70s Show, and Baywatch were popular shows on television while the Dallas Cowboys dominated much of the decade in the NFL. Amidst this exciting time was the year 1992 that was filled with great joy in Warsaw, Indiana, on May 18th as a beautiful baby boy named Jarrod Anthony was born. He was one of three children raised by his parents, Jack Kenneth and Crystal Mourning (Lewis) Funnell, and he lived in the family home alongside his siblings, Austin and Alexis. He was particularly close to his sister.
From an early age Jarrod had the world by its tail. He was full of adventure and never one to be still with an ever-changing list of interests. He was part of a brotherly rivalry for so many years, and it has been said that he got dirty biting, scratching, and cheating. Jarrod loved things like big wheels, go-karts, and big slides as well as their annual trip to the water park. He also looked forward to family vacations down South where they visited extended family members. Jarrod was interesting, enthusiastic, and caring with numerous friends throughout his life as he could be friends with anybody and everybody. He was an all around lovable character who saw the good in everyone. Jarrod never hesitated to give second, third, and even fourth chances as well.
If you knew Jarrod, you knew that he was a sports fanatic, and both wrestling and football were his passions. He started playing football at a young age as he was mentored by his stepfather who was also his coach. Jarrod attended local schools including Whitko High School where he was a four time varsity wrestler, two time conference champ, and a semi-state qualifier as well. He was also a member of the FCCLA. In addition, Jarrod played on his high schools varsity football team for two years and was their team captain as well as an all conference and all area player. In fact, Jarrod was headed to a Division II college to play football after having graduated from high school in 2010. He was a Baltimore Ravens fan but had an all around love for the game.
Everyone who met Jarrod Lewis would agree that he had a zest for life that was contagious. He wasnt one to focus on following the crowd or doing what was cool, rather, he was all about being true to himself and the things he believed in. Jarrod was always up for having a good time, and he had a special presence about him that all could see whether his teachers, fellow students, or complete strangers. He loved funky tunes and old school rap, but his true passion was for sports. Jarrod will never be forgotten.
Jarrod Anthony Lewis, age 22, of Pierceton, Ind. passed away at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 15, 2015 at his home.Born on May 18, 1992 in Warsaw, he was the son of Jack Kenneth and Crystal Mourning (Lewis) Funnell.
He graduated from Whitko High School with the Class of 2010. Jarrod loved football, and was the Captain of Whitko Football Team and a wrestler for Whitko and member of the FCCLA.
Survivors include his parents, Jack K. and Crystal M. Funnell of Pierceton;brother,Austin Striggle of Fort Wayne; sister, Alexis Funnell; nephew, Brantlee William Scott Striggle of Fort Wayne; maternal grandmother, Lassie Lewis of Pierceton; paternal grandparents, Jim and Darlene Sparks of Pierceton; paternal grandfather, Chane Funnell of Warsaw; maternal great grandmother, Betty Lewis of Pierceton; several aunts, uncles and cousins.He was preceded in death by his great young friend Savannah Labenz.
Visitation will be held on Monday, January 19, 2015 from 1-8:00 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes, a Life Story Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 20, 2015 at the funeral home with Pastor Mark Pratt and Bennie Allen Rose. Committal service and burial will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery, Pierceton.Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Jarrod to the Lewis Family for final expenses.Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.
Tributes
Bill and Deborah Powers wrote on Jan 22, 2015:
"I didn't get to meet Jarrod but I know his mom and grandmother.But I can tell from what I have read that he was an awesome guy.He was truly loved by so many.You guys are in my heart and in my prayers during this difficut time.Lean on the Lord and his strength will get you through!"
Coach Walpole wrote on Jan 20, 2015:
"Jarrod...remember play smart, read your keys and play fast.I know you are doing that in heaven.Godspeed 52"
Jacki Bishop and Whitko High School wrote on Jan 19, 2015:
"Thinking of family and friends at this time and lifting you all up in prayer. Jarrod was a tried and true Whitko Wildcat and will ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED by Whitko High School students and staff who celebrate his life each year during "Jarrod Day.""
Nick and Michelle Cox wrote on Jan 19, 2015:
"Our deepest condolences. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Jarrod was a great kid. The last time I spoke with him, he was at my house with Nickel. He talked about going to a division II college and wrestling. I enjoyed watching the boys wrestle and the way Jarrod would do that big jump thing before he wrestled. It will give me comfort to know that he will be laid to rest by Zachaery."
David & Sherri Hile wrote on Jan 19, 2015:
"Jack & Family
Please know that Dave and I are truly sorry for your precious loss.
We wish you all the comfort that your family and friends can give you, lean on the Lord he will help you through this time of difficulty.
The Lord needed another angel to watch over us all.
God Bless you and your family"
Tom Parker wrote on Jan 18, 2015:
"So sorry for your loss. I can't imagine your pain and I will be praying for you and your family...
Your fellow class mate
Tom"
John & Marian Bollinger wrote on Jan 18, 2015:
"We are so sorry for your loss.You have our condolences.Our prayers are with all the family.John & Marian Bollinger
"
Esther & Shane Lancaster wrote on Jan 17, 2015:
"Our prayer`s are with you while one so loved will be missed but not forgotten.
Shane & Esther Lancaster"
Eleanore D. Steward wrote on Jan 17, 2015:
"My heart is torn between the sadness I know you all must feel, but the relief that your Beautiful Son/Brother/Grandson, has now been released from his prison of pain, frustration, and isolation from life.You've all done a yeoman's job in caring for Jarrod....I hope you can take some solace in that realization.It's been truly a privilege serving you at The Ronald McDonald House....Elly"
Randy Grimes & Brett Gerber wrote on Jan 16, 2015:
"May each of you find courage to face tomorrow as you rest in the knowledge that we truly care about each of your needs and that we will walk beside you in your journey of grief.
Randy Grimes, Brett Gerber and the Staff of DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home"
Deb Newswanger wrote on Jan 16, 2015:
"Sending prayers on behalf of your family as you face the days ahead. We were sorry to hear of Jarrod's passing. Andrew was a classmate of his and is grieved when he read about Jarrod's passing. He is now whole again and in his heavenly Fathers hands. May you find strength and comfort in the days ahead.
Lee, Deb and Andrew Newswanger"
Aj & Angela Himes and Kristina & Michael Ammerm.. wrote on Jan 16, 2015:
"Our deepest sympathy to you & your families. May God comfort you all knowing that Jarrod no longer is in pain and has a new body. Our daughter went to school with Jarrod and Jim & Darlene Sparks are in my Pierceton Lions club."