GAIL "Gene" E. GRAN

Gail Eugene Gene Gran, age 80, of Palmetto, Fla. and Columbia City, Ind. joined the Lord on Monday, May 9, 2011.Beloved husband of Shirley, who passed away in 2008 after 59 years of marriage.Devoted father of 10 children:daughters, Linda (Charles) South of Fort Wayne, Ind. and Lisa Tarr of Geneva, Ind.;sons, James (Linda) Gran of Fort Wayne, Jason (Suzie) Gran of Corpus Christi, Texas, David (Kechia) Gran of Atlanta, Ga, Gerald (Glenda) Gran of Indianapolis, Christian (Missy) Gran of Pekin, Ill., Duane (Sarah) Gran of Charlottesville, Va.; brothers, Gerald (Arlene) Gran of Wolcottville, Ind., Jack Dold of Auburn; sister, Rosemary Smith of Clinton Township, Mich; 20 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.He is also survived by his loving friend, Nora Harvel of Bradenton, Fla., best friend Vera Stapp of Palmetto, Fla., and his cat, Pearl.He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Shirley, and sons Barry and Donald Gran.

Gene was very active politically and ran for Congress with the American Party in 1976.He was a member of the John Birch Society and Toastmasters Club #159.

Gene worked at Dana Corporation in Fort Wayne for 31 years before retiring in 1983.After retirement, he began a second career as the founder of Whitley County Recycling, which he passionately advanced for 1 years.He became very physically active and ran seven marathons in his 50s.He continued to walk 20 miles a week up until his death.

Gene and Shirley travelled in their motor home for the past 10 years, enjoying a large part of the United States.They made Palmetto, Fla. their home several years ago.

Gene was faithful and active in his church.He will be missed by his church family and friends.He asked that, in lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy be made in his memory to the Columbia City Church of Christ, 270 Frontage Rd., Columbia City, IN 46725.Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 from 4:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Dr., Columbia City, Ind.Funeral service will take place on Wednesday, May 18, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. with calling one hour prior at the funeral home.Pastor Jack Hierholzer of Columbia City Church of Christ officiating.Burial will follow at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne.