Keith D. DePew, 82, of Columbia City, died peacefully at home in the company of family at 9:50 a.m. Tuesday, July 12, 2022.

Born on March 16, 1940, in Columbia City, IN, he was a son of the late Vaughn David DePew and Violet Mae (Hoffman) DePew. Growing up in the Wolf Lake area, he graduated from Wolf Lake High School in 1958.

On November 2, 1959, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged from active duty on October 24, 1963.

On June 27, 1964, he married Bonnie Jean Lamle. They made their home on a farm in Noble County, recently moving to Columbia City.

For over 27 years, he worked as a machine operator for International Harvester, Fort Wayne. He also farmed in Noble County.

Throughout his life, he was fond of horses and rode them whenever possible. He enjoyed water skiing into his fifties and liked square dancing with his wife, Bonnie. He often listened to Christian music, especially the old hymns performed by the Gaither's. In his senior years, he delighted in watching old western movies.

Surviving is his wife of 58 years, Bonnie; a son, Kevin DePew of Columbia City; a brother, Max (Vivian) DePew of Port Charlotte, FL and a sister, Darlene (Norman) Level of Garrett.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a young sister, Shirley DePew.

The funeral service is 10 a.m. Wednesday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial at the Merriam Christian Chapel Cemetery. Visitation is from 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials in Keith's honor are to Soarin' Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation Center.