Anderson "Andy" Oren Groce , 60, of Columbia City, passed away at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, at 4:55 a.m. on May 2, 2025.

He was born on April 11, 1965, in Fayette County, Indiana, a son of the late William J. and Shannon A. (Allard) Groce.  He grew up in Columbia City, graduating from Columbia City Joint High School in 1984.

He entered the residential construction business, working as a tradesman for over 40 years.

On October 20, 2000, he married Julia A. (Hess) McBride.  They made their home in New Haven moving to Columbia City in 2015.

An avid mushroom hunter, he enjoyed searching for the delectables every spring.  When the grandkids came along, they became his focus and joy.  He liked to camp in the area State Parks with his wife and the grandkids.

He leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Julia; his children, Cassandra Groce of Fort Wayne and William Groce of Columbia City; step-daughters, Ashley McBride, Nicole McBride, and Stephanie Gallindo; ten grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and siblings, Laura (Terrence) Meehan, Mathew (Tami) Groce, Tricia Hively and Saree (Michael) Bolinger all of Columbia City.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW Post 5582, 415 E Chicago St, Columbia City, on Saturday, May 24th, from 2 to 5 p.m.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in Andy's honor are to final expenses c/o Smith & Sons Funeral Home.