Eugene “Gene” Thomas Heidenreich, 87, passed away Dec. 8, 2015, with his family by his side. He was born Oct. 11, 1928, in Fort Wayne, to George and Elsie Auth Heidenreich. He attended St. Peter’s Catholic School and Central Catholic High School until the family moved to Tri-Lakes in 1944, graduating from Columbia City High School in 1946. He was a hardworking man of integrity with many talents. He owned several businesses and farms, built homes, flew a plane, and could fix anything. His excavation company “turned the first dirt” at Industrial Park, Southtown Mall, Pine Valley and many other places throughout the area. He loved his family, playing the organ, listening to music, reading and was very knowledgeable about world affairs. He was a member of Columbia City Elks Lodge 1417. Surviving are his children, (Ret.) Major Tim (and spouse Floy) Heidenreich, Kathy (and spouse Kenny) Bills, Carol (and spouse Rick) Westenfeld and Todd (and spouse Jeannie) Heidenreich; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren plus one due in March; and a sister, Carol (and spouse Lee) Thomas. He was preceeded in death by his parents; a son, Tom; former wife Marilyn; three great-grandchildren; a grandson-in-law, Joe Richards; and a brother, Jerry. Per his wishes, arrangements by Midwest Funeral Home and Cremation Society. Private interment at a later date. A Celebration of Life will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in the Coach Room at Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. ***** Memorials to Heartland Hospice or The Lighthouse in Columbia City.
