Larry Alan Meinika

Larry Alan Meinika, 71, of South Whitley, Indiana, passed away at 8:35 am on Monday, September 12,  2022, at his residence.  Born on January 12, 1951, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of Richard and Helen  (Hosler) Meinika.

Larry attended local schools and graduated from Columbia City High School with the Class of 1969.  He  married Deborah Jean Wood, at Calvary Temple, Fort Wayne on July 26, 1969. He was a lifetime  livestock and grain farmer and former co-owner of Meinkia Farms, retiring in 2012.  He was active in  Whitley County 4-H and raised Dorset Sheep for 4-H children. He was also a former member of  Washington Township Volunteer Fire Department, joining at age 16, and served in numerous  positions, including Fire Chief. Larry was an avid fisherman and enjoyed traveling to Vermont to fish. He  loved to hunt deer, coon and coyotes with his dogs. He was a lifetime member of Ideal Fish and Game  Club. He was honored to be a part of the SDI Breaking Ground Organization.

Survivors include his wife of 53 years Deborah Jean Meinika of South Whitley; children Michelle (Carrie)  Meinika of Zanesville and Kerry Alan Meinika of South Whitley; 3 grandchildren, including Jacob Bradley,  Branden and Gracie Meinika; siblings Rick (Cheryl) Meinika, David (Tam) Meinika, and Cheryl Pilgrim, all  of Columbia City.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call on Saturday, September 17, 2022, from 11-1:00 pm at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral  Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services for Larry will follow 1:00 pm at the funeral  home. Burial will follow in Eberhard Cemetery, Columbia City. Memorial contributions in memory of  Larry may be made to American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association. The family has   requested that all attendees dress casual for the funeral service.    Visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences sign the online guest register.