Roger Dale Crabill , 77, of rural South Whitley, died unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at his home.

Born on May 9, 1948, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was a son of the late Lyman Leonard Crabill and Betty Rosa (Zeigler) Crabill.  Growing up near Collins, he started his formal education at Collins School and graduated from Churubusco High School in 1966.

Drafted into the U.S. Army on September 28, 1967, he served in Company B of the 5th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment in Vietnam, where he received two Purple Hearts and was awarded a Bronze Star.  He was honorably discharged on September 26, 1969.

On July 10, 1971, he was united in marriage to Geraldine Fosnaugh.  They have always made their home on a farm near South Whitley, where they raised two daughters.

Roger started his work career at Zolner Pistons in Fort Wayne.  After his military service, he worked for United Technologies in Columbia City and later for Whitley Feeds in South Whitley.  He completed his work career at W&W Locker in Bippus with six years of service.  In addition, he maintained a small farm near South Whitley.  He was a member of American Legion Post 98, Columbia City.

Through the year, he enjoyed bowling, playing the occasional round of golf, and fishing.  He liked to take his mind off the daily stresses by mowing grass.  Family time was always a priority, and he enjoyed engaging in spirited board games.

He leaves behind his wife of 53 years, Gerri; their daughters, Stephanie Dunfee of Noblesville and Jacqulyn (Jeremy) Thomas of Columbia City; grandchildren, Alexander Dunfee, Breanna Dunfee and Hannah Thomas; siblings Patsy Rollins, Larry (Sue) Crabill, Nancy (Richard) Hess, Vonda (David) McEowen, Arlene (Robert) King and Norma (Steve) Salloway.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a sister, Corita Ann Crabill, and brothers, Richard and Stephen Crabill.

The funeral service is at noon on Monday (July 14th) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.  Burial will take place at the Nolt Cemetery with military honors.  Visitation is from 10 a.m. until the service on Monday at the funeral home.

Memorials in Roger's honor are to American Legion Post 98, Columbia City.