Richard Lee Loe, 85, of Columbia City, died peacefully in the company of family at 10:05 a.m. Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at his home.

Born on October 22, 1938, in Gary, Indiana, he was a son of the late Walter & Genieve (Heflin) Waters.   Growing up in Columbia City, he graduated from Columbia City High School.

From 1958 to 1986 he was married to Grace Loe and on January 9, 1987, he married Mary Ann Gillespie.  They always made their home in Smith Township.  Mary Ann died February 20, 2017.

Richard started work as a truck driver for Essex and Frick Transport, then moved to W.J. Carey and finally an owner/operator at Richard Loe Private Inspection.

He was a member of the VFW and American Legion.

He enjoyed life and playing Santa Claus to the local children.  He also liked to fish and hunt.  He was a horse trainer and coached basketball.  He liked following the Chicago Bears and generally liked to socialize.

Surviving are his children, Leanna M. (Tom) Trier and Scott Loe, both of Columbia City; brother, Larry L. Loe; grandson, Derek T. (Brittany) Trier; granddaughters, Anna M. (Tanner) Taulbee and Andrea (Steve) Kaduck; nephews, Josh and Jason Loe of Columbia City; niece, Jolisa (Ron) Webb of Albion; step-daughters LuAnn Schuman of Albion and Marsha (Dean) Niccum of Columbia City; 9 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by his wives, Grace and Mary Ann; step-son, Phillip Keith Huffman and step-daughter, Cathie Frey.

The funeral service is at 6 p.m. Friday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial is at South Park Cemetery at a later date.  Visitation is from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Memorials in Richard's honor are to Grace Lutheran Church.