Dennis Eugene Lincoln , 72, of rural Columbia City, died unexpectedly of natural causes at 11:03 p.m., Thursday, November 7, 2024, at his home.

Born on May 13, 1952, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was a son of the late Gerry L. and Mary Alice (Simon) Lincoln.  Growing up near Roanoke, he completed Roanoke Elementary School and graduated from Huntington High School in 1970.

He began his work career with General Electric in Fort Wayne working in the manufacturing plant.  He later moved to Hunkler Products.  Earning a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), he began driving trucks for Speedway Gravel and finished his work career driving for Midwest Poultry in North Manchester, retiring this year.

A car enthusiast from an early age, he had several muscle cars through the years, including Corvettes and Mustangs.  He always enjoyed tinkering with anything mechanical and, during the warm months, liked to ride his Harley-Davidson.  A friend to all, he greeted everybody with a warm smile and cared for others before himself.  A loving father and grandfather, he was thrilled to watch his grandkids play football and baseball, ride dirt bikes, and participate in cowboy shooting and dance. Confident in his skills, he built his own house and helped others with theirs.

Surviving are his two boys, Derick Lincoln of Columbia City and Chad (Brooke) Lincoln of South Whitley; grandchildren, Tiara, Dominic, Isaiah, Coltin, Arabella, and Veronica; a sister, Cathy (Tom) Harris of Fort Wayne; and a sister-in-law, Sue Lincoln of LaOtto.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a brother, Steve E. Lincoln.

Visitation is from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, November 14th, at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  The funeral service is at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials in Dennis's honor are to the donor's choice.