Douglas Frank Wiley , 79, of South Whitley, died unexpectedly of natural causes at his home at 5:00 a.m. Friday, November 17, 2023.

Born on September 25, 1944, in Kendallville, Indiana, he was a son of the late Frank and Wanda (Kettlebar) Wiley. Growing up in Ligonier, he graduated from Ligonier High School in 1963.

On March 18, 1964, he entered the U.S. Army.  He was honorably discharged on February 24, 1966.

Moving to South Whitley, he worked in the machine shop of the former Gripco.  He retired with over 20 years of service.

In his retirement, he liked to cruise through the countryside, taking in the scenery of the backroads. Sometimes, he would venture to the area casinos where he enjoyed a game of chance.  A regular viewer of the TV game show Jeopardy, he would challenge his girlfriend, Ellen, to see who could get the correct answer first, sometimes using a time-advanced broadcast to his advantage. He held a special place in his heart for his dog and constant companion, Shorty.

He is survived by his long-term girlfriend, Ellen M. Kelder of South Whitley; a son, John Stanley "Stan" Wiley of Ligonier; grandchildren, Daniel Wiley, Drew Wiley, and Ashley King; two great-grandchildren; a sister, Dawn Wiley of Fort Wayne and a brother, Randal J. (Sandra) Wiley of Jacksonville, FL.

There will be no service. Burial will take place at a later date at the South Whitley Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.

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