Michael Dewayne Clabaugh , 69, of rural South Whitley, passed away at 9:36 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the Waters of Columbia City.

Born on April 10, 1957, in Warsaw, Indiana, he was the son of the late Dale A. and Ethel M. (Brown) Clabaugh.  Growing up in Bourbon, he completed Bourbon Elementary School and graduated from Warsaw High School in 1977.  With limited mobility, he served as a sports team assistant throughout his high school years, earning him special recognition for his contributions and dedication.

Continuing his education, earned a Communications Certificate from Vincennes University and Video Tech in Dallas, TX.  He became a TV station transmitter operator in South Bend, later moving to El Paso, TX, where the job required him to access the mountain transmitter by helicopter.  He completed his TV career in Vivian, LA.  Moving back to Indiana, he located in Indianapolis, where he operated a Taxi for 11 years.

In 2000, he moved to Pierceton and in 2002 to South Whitley.  Always fond of sports, he followed the season of the Miami Dolphins and later the Indianapolis Colts.  A fan of NASCAR, he watched the series, rooting for his favorite driver, Jeff Gordon.

Surviving are his brothers, Cecil (Brenda) Clabaugh of Warsaw and Chris (Amanda) Clabaugh of Pierceton; nephews, Nicholas Adam Clabaugh and Christopher Michael Clabaugh; and a niece, Kinsley Clabaugh.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by his long-term girlfriend, Becky Jarvis.

Michael desired to have no services.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley.