Fred William Wineland , 70, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at his home at 12:54 a.m., Friday, November 22, 2024.

Born on July 13, 1954, to the late Joseph and Rita (Koenig) Wineland, he grew up on a farm in Noble County.  He completed Avilla Elementary School and graduated from East Noble High School in 1972.

Always working on a farm, he also delivered oxygen for several years and then worked as a machinist for Millennium Mold and Tool in Ligonier, retiring in 2020.

When not working on the farm, he liked to play guitar and study the Bible.  He is remembered as a great storyteller, reminiscing about his past antics.

He is survived by his sons, Shannon (Nichole) Wineland of Kendallville, Matthew (Leanne) Wineland of Columbia City, and Nathan (Julie) Wineland of Avilla; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brothers, Larry (Cindy) Wineland of Avilla and Steven (Alexis) Wineland of Auburn; and sisters, Melanie (Paul) Strack of Monroeville and Sharon Horton of Grand Rapids, MI.

At Fred's request, there will be no services.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.