NEIL EDWARD STAHL

Neil Edward Stahl, 85, of Columbia City, IN passed away at 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 8, 2014 at his home surrounded by his family. Born on September 9, 1928 in Wells County, he was the son of Howard and Lida (Hoover) Stahl.

He grew up in Ossian and lived most of his adulthood at Tri-Lakes. In 1950, Neil married Marie Katherine Hines in Ossian. After 43 years, he retired from Dana in 1988 as a Supervisor. He was a member of Moose, AIW, NTPA, NMMA and President of Tri-Lakes NMMA.He started racing Midget Cars in the mid 1950's; retiring at age 60. He then started competing in tractor pulls. Neil could fix anything and was known for using Duct Tape and Bailing Wire in his repairs.

Survivors include his children, Patricia L. (David) Culp of Columbia City; EdwardL. (Diann) Stahl of Churubusco;Michael D. (Rebecca) Stahl of Columbia City; Carrie Elaine Perry of Columbia City; David S. Stahl of Osceola; sister, Lillian Ness of Columbia City; 12 grandchildren; and 18 great grandchildren.He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife in 1971; sister, Ruth Beck; brother, Robert Stahl and companion, Doris Rodocker.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 10, 2014 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 11, 2014 at the funeral home with Pastor Bob Siegrist officiating.Burial will follow at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Ossian. Memorial gifts may be given in Mr. Stahl's memory to Humane Society of Whitley County. Please visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send family condolences or sign the guest register book.