James "Jim" Fahl

James "Jim" Fahl, 75, of Columbia City, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday night, September 21, 2021 at his home. Born June 25, 1946 in Fort Wayne, he was the son of Fritz and Eileen (Meyer) Fahl.

Jim grew up on a farm in rural Whitley County and by the time he was in high school, they moved into Columbia City. While attending Columbia City Joint High School, Jim played four years of football, ran track for four years and played basketball for two. During that time, he also began a relationship that would last the rest of his life with Vickie O'Brien. He went on to graduate with the Class of 1964. A year after Vickie graduated, he married his high school sweetheart on August 6, 1966.

Aside from being a lifelong farmer, Jim worked for Dana from 1966 until retiring in 2002. He also did seasonal winter work for Stumps in South Whitley for over 15 years and helped his son at Fahl Colors Landscaping.

He enjoyed bowling, being outdoors, mowing, riding his bicycle around Whitley County, horseback riding, camping and cutting firewood. Out of all things though, he loved watching his grandchildren play sports. When he was not busy outdoors or being with his family, Jim found relaxation in watching Westerns, IU, Norte Dame, the Cubs, the Patriots and Tom Brady play for the Buccaneers.

Jim will remember for being hardworking, devoted, loyal and dependable. His integrity was never in question, and he was kind, loving, and was soft hearted.

Survivors include his loving wife of 55 years, Vickie Fahl; twin daughters, Gia (Mike) Reed and Tina (Jamie) Vandersaul; son, Chad (Maggie) Fahl; brothers, Frank (Donna) Fahl and Mike (Carol) Fahl; sisters, Vada (Ken) Gaff, Rhonda Pearson and Sara (Randy) Tester; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be 3 to 6:45 pm Monday, September 27, 2021 at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will begin at 7 pm. Memorial donations may be given in his memory to the Humane Society of Whitley County or the donor's choice. Visit www.DeMoneyGrimes.com to send Jim's family online condolences or sign the online guest book.