Michael A. Knafel, 56, of rural Columbia City, died at 3:44 a.m. Saturday, July 22, 2023, at Stillwater Hospice, Fort Wayne, where he was admitted due to injuries from a motorcycle accident on July 6th.

Born on February 28, 1967, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was the son of the late Nila J. Knafel.  Growing up in Jefferson Twp., Whitley County, he graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1985.  He continued his education at Purdue University.

He began his work career at Wilcoxson Excavating.  In 2012, he became a drainage engineer for the Whitley County Government.  In October of 2022, he went to work for Superior Aluminum in New Haven.

A NASCAR fan, he enjoyed attending the races, when possible, otherwise following the season on television.  He like riding his Harley-Davidson whenever the weather was favorable and looked forward to the spring of the year as it brought out the delectable morel mushrooms.

Surviving are uncles, James C. (Jane) Knafel and Mark O. (Ruth) Knafel both of Columbia City and an aunt, Coreen Knafel.

There will be no services.  Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.