Donald W. Fahl, 55, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully at 11:06 a.m. Monday, September 27, 2021, at his home.

Born November 30, 1965, in Columbia City, Indiana, he was the son of Franklin and Donna (Stephens) Fahl. Growing up in Columbia Twp., Whitley County, he attended Columbia City Joint High School and later completed his GED. He held a realtor's license.

In 1989, a motorcycle accident left him a paraplegic. Working through his disability, he became proficient at adaptive sports, especially wheelchair basketball.

He was employed by Walmart, Columbia City for several years, and B&J Rental, where he excelled at small engine repair and chainsaw repair. Fascinated with mechanical devices, he would often disassemble and reassemble just to know how they worked.

On September 10, 2005, he married Alecia L. Baughman. They have always made their home in rural Columbia City.

Before his accident, he enjoyed horseback riding. Later his became proficient in playing the guitar and harmonica. He liked to fish whenever possible. He was a member of the Coesse United Methodist Church.

He is survived by his wife, Alecia; parents, Frank and Donna Fahl of Columbia City; a sister Tamara Fahl, a brother Eric Fahl both of Columbia City; a stepson Nichols (Amanda) Heaston of Fort Wayne, a stepdaughter Jami (Leah) Heaston of Fort Wayne; six step grandchildren; and a nephew Dustin Parrett of Columbia City.

The funeral service is 11 a.m. Friday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial is at the South Park Cemetery. Visitation is 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorials in Donald's honor are to Turnstone, Fort Wayne.