RICHARD ELMER HEATH

Richard Elmer Heath, age 79, of Columbia City, IN died Friday, July 25, 2008 at Parkview Whitley Hospital Columbia City, IN. Born in Belleville, IL on January 7, 1929, he was the son of Adam L. and Rose (Miller) Heath.A former resident of Fort Wayne, IN he attended Elmhurst High School. He has resided at his current home in Columbia City (Tri-Lakes) since 1973. He served in the United States Navy from 1947 to 1953 where he served his country during the Korean War. In 1952, he married Florence Lahrman at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, IN. He worked as an asbestos insulator with Local #41, and he was an active member of the Tri-lakes Lions Club serving several terms as president.Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Florence W. Heath of Columbia City (Tri-Lakes); daughters, Patricia Colvin of Fort Wayne, IN, Eileen and Beatrice Heath both of Columbia City; son, Richard Heath of Colon, MI; cousins, Sue Reppert and Tammy (Paul) Johnson; 17 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents, daughter, Bonnie R. Heath; great-granddaughter, Heaven R. Swick; brother, Clifford Heath and sister, Bonnie Eldridge.Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. on Monday, July 28, 2008 at DeMoney-Grimes Countryside Park Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City with a Lions Club Memorial Service at 7:30 p.m. Funeral service is 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at the funeral home with Reverend David Mommens of St. John's Lutheran Church officiating. Burial will be at Covington Memorial Gardens with the graveside military services performed by the Whitley County Korean War Veterans Honor Guard. Memorials may be given in Mr. Heath's memory to the Leader Dog Program to train seeing eye dogs for the blind. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. To send family condolences or sign the guest register, please visit www.demoneygrimes.com