Gary Martin Ludban, 73, of rural Columbia City, died unexpectedly of natural causes while working with a neighbor near his home at 12:22 p.m. Saturday, March 23, 2024.

Born on February 9, 1951, in Garrett, Indiana, he was a son of the late Charles Johnson Ludban and Harriett Belle (Bohler) Ludban.  Growing up in Garrett, he graduated from Garrett High School in 1969. He continued his education by taking construction courses at Purdue.

On August 7, 1969, he entered the U.S. Air Force, becoming an air cargo specialist.  He was honorably discharged on August 6, 1973.

On July 6, 1974, he married Joan E. Turmail.  They made their home near Wolcottville.  For the past ten years, they have lived in rural Columbia City.

He began his work career with the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Fort Wayne as a project manager.  Leaving INDOT after 16 years of service, he moved to Co-State Construction.  In 1995, he went to work for the Allen County Highway Department, retiring in 2007.

He was a former member of the LaGrange County Sheriff's Reserve and belonged to Faith Lutheran Church, The American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Always active and lighthearted, he was innovative and creative and loved tinkering with projects around his home or helping neighbors with their projects.  In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting but remained a fisherman throughout his life.  When the grandchildren came along, they became his joy, and he was a regular at their sporting events.  Rainy days found him flying throughout the world on his flight simulator.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Joan; children Nicole A. (Andrew) Kirchoff of Rushville and Leigh E. (Stephen) Kneller of Columbia City; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Glen Ludban.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Faith Lutheran Church in Churubusco on Saturday, April 20, 2024.

Memorials in Gary's honor are to Donor's Choice.

Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.