Claudia Jane Kneller, 67, of rural Columbia City, passed away at 3:20 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Majestic Care of West Allen, Whitley County.

Born on May 22, 1959, in Muncie, Indiana, she was a daughter of the late Robert Nelson and Sarah Lou (Reser) Gayer. Growing up in New Castle, she graduated from Chrysler High School in 1977. She continued her education at Ball State University, earning a Bachelor’s of Arts in Biology and Natural Resources.

Claudia joined the Indiana Air National Guard. On December 20, 1991, she married Robert W. Kneller, and they made their home in Fort Wayne and then rural Columbia City. Robert died on February 12, 2025.

For over three decades, she worked as a sales associate at Walmart, starting in Fort Wayne, then transferring to Columbia City, before retiring in 2023.

Claudia loved sewing clothes and knitting, making everything from small coasters to large blankets. She was fond of cats. An avid fan of Disco music, she could be found listening and dancing to her favorite songs. Family was important, and she adored her step-grandchildren. She was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church in Churubusco.

Claudia is survived by her step-children, Stephen P. (Leigh) Kneller of Columbia City, Alyssa D. (Daniel) St Georges of Columbia City, Thomas L. (Britta) Kneller of Columbia City, and Megan A. (Bobby) Lister of Alpena, MI; 13 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Kneller, and a brother, Robert Gayer Jr.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on December 5th, 2026 at the Faith Lutheran Church, 9251 E SR 205, Churubusco. Arrangements are by Smith & Son’s Funeral Home of Columbia City.