Donald E. Wilcoxson

Donald E. Wilcoxson, 77, of Columbia City, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, December 19, 2020 at his farm. Born March 23, 1943 in Whitley County, he was the son of Charles Sr. and Margaret (Hess) Wilcoxson.

Don’s family moved around several times in Throncreek Township as he grew up. Like many farm children, he learned the value of hard work but still found time to go fishing, ice skating, taking care of their animals and was active in 4-H. Don graduated from Columbia City Joint High School with the Class 1961.

Aside from being a lifelong farm, Don worked for Weatherhead Dana for 30 years and 1 hour for them. He continued to be a supporter of Whitley County 4-H and passed on his love for this to his children and grandchildren. He also was a supporter of the Whitley County Antique Barn.

Family meant the most to Don and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the reward of his life.  Anything that his grandchildren were involved with, Don was there to support them and never missed an invitation from them. He also loved taking them fishing.

Don enjoyed working on his tractors and farm equipment, rebuilding and painting tractors with his son, going to tractor drives and farm auctions, along with meeting friends for breakfast. As hardworking as Don was, he did find time to relax with a good tv show, movie ,or as he joked, watching his family bail hay!

Don was caring, loving, understanding and loved to laugh. He thought it was very important for people to be truthful no matter what and stated you could judge a person on how animals react to them. He truly was one of a kind. Survivors include his daughters, Carla (Steve) Gebert and Britte (Darian) Stein; son, Mike Wilcoxson; sister, Mary A. (Dennis) Hinen; brothers, Chuck (Linda) Wilcoxson. Jr. and James Wilcoxson; step-children, Angie Smith, Matt (Joni) Smith and Michelle Smith; seven grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandson, Justin Wilcoxson.

Visitation will be 3 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 22, 2020 at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Face masks are required for attendance. Due to the current Covid Restrictions, there will be a private service for the immediate family, but it may be watched live on Facebook through DeMoney Grimes Live at 10 a.m. Wednesday with his granddaughter, Jessica Cordes officiating. Burial will take place at St. Matthew's Cemetery. Memorial donations may be given in his memory to the Whitley County 4-H or Whitley County Antique Barn. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send Donald's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.