Claude Eugene Bennett, 74, of Columbia City, passed away at 6:19 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at Parkview Whitley Hospital, Columbia City.

Born on November 23, 1951, at Luckey Hospital in Wolf Lake, he was a son of the late Marvin Joyce and Margorie Evelyn (Maggert) Bennett. Growing up in the Etna-Troy Township area, he graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1970 where he excelled in horticulture.

With his love of horticulture, he became an expert at landscaping and creating floral arrangements, working for Phipps Flower Shop in Kalamazoo, MI, and then for Carriage House Flowers in Columbia City until his retirement.

Claude enjoyed walking to the Main Bowl in Columbia City to spend his time at the bowling alley. He was dedicated to his landscaping projects, tackling even the more difficult tasks, like clearing brush along the riverside. He is remembered by those who knew him for his big heart and willingness to help others.

Claude is survived by sisters, twin Claudia J. (Rich Lange) Goodman of Madison, FL, Kathi A. (Keith) Roman of Columbia City, and Lisa J. (Ronnie) Campbell of Bramwell, WV; sister-in-law, Malinda Bennett of Fort Wayne; nine nieces and nephews; seven great nieces and nephews and one great great nephew.

He is preceded in death by a brother, Dennis Bennett.

Per his wishes, there will be no public service.