Steven J. LaLone , 78, of Columbia City, passed away at 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at his home.

He was born on October 30, 1947, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to the late Robert LaLone and Doris M. (Balzer) LaLone.  An only child, he grew up in Pierceton and graduated from Pierceton High School in 1965.

On May 17, 1996, he married Barbara J. Curry.  They made their home in Columbia City.

A professional truck driver, he drove for Genova Products in Fort Wayne from 1989 until 2012. He also had driven for Essex, Columbia City, and Metzger Trucking in Silver Lake.  He retired in 2012.

An active member of West Point Trinity Church of Columbia City, he worked maintaining the property and keeping the lawn mowed. Coming from a farming background, he liked the outdoors, helping on the farm, and attending area Farm Auctions. He kept his property neat and often mowed the grass for his neighbors.  Steve enjoyed auto racing, attended many NASCAR events, and the Indianapolis 500.

Steven is survived by his wife, Barbara; his sons Bryan (Karen) LaLone of Orlando, Florida, and Brent LaLone of Indianapolis; a step-son, Richard (Cathy) Curry Jr. of Jarrell, Texas; grandchildren, Kayla Kuehner of Columbia City, Tyler Curry of Jarrell, Texas, and Brian LaLone of Orlando, Florida; and six great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, May 31st at Smith and Sons Funeral Home in Columbia City, with visitation from 1 p.m. until the service at the funeral home.

Memorials in Stevens honor are to the Humane Society of Whitley County.