Dale E. Geiger 1933 – 2012
Dale E. Geiger, 78, of rural Columbia City, passed away at 4:34 a.m. on Friday, February 17, 2012 at Manatee Memorial Hospital in Bradenton, Fl., where he spent his winters.
Mr. Geiger was born on December 11, 1933 in Columbia City, a son of Clifton J. “Jake” and Irene (Krider) Geiger. He spent his formative years in rural Columbia City all within a mile of his current residence.
He lived at his current residence since 1965 and had been a dairy farmer for 17 years. He was also a grain farmer until he retired at the age of 70.
On January 18, 1958 he was married in Decatur to Janice Irene Owen.
Mr. Geiger was a member of Sugar Grove Church of God, Churubusco, and the FFA of Whitley County. He enjoyed fixing old John Deer Tractors in his older years. He was the Bicycle Man of Florida. He would buy and fix old bikes to resell.
His spouse preceded him in death on August 31, 2009.
The surviving relatives include a daughter Debra (Phil) Gebert; a son Dalen (April) Geiger both of Columbia City; three sisters Helen Blanchard of North Manchester, Mary Sutton of Huntertown, and Shirley Rugg of Lagrange; a brother Charles “Chic” Geiger of Churubusco; three granddaughters Brelle (Brandon) Bridge, Bralen Gebert, and Brittany Geiger; a grandson Colton Geiger; a great-granddaughter Ella Bridge.
He was preceded in death by his parents Clifton J. “Jake” and Irene (Krider) Geiger; a brother Guy Geiger in 1970; three brother-in-laws Robert Blanchard, Herb Sutton, and Jack Rugg; a sister-in-law Dottie Geiger.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM Tuesday at Sugar Grove Church of God, with Pastor Timothy Grable, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm Monday, or one hour prior to the service.
Burial will be in the Eel River Cemetery, Allen County.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to Sugar Grove Church of God.
To leave an online condolence for the family in Mr. Geiger’s memory, please click on “Condolences” below. . .
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February 17th, 2012 at 2:17 pm
Our deepest sympathy to you at this time. Dale was an exceptional man, cousin, friend and neighbor. We will greatly miss him! Our neighborhood won’t be the same without him! May God Bless you all and give you comfort and peace during this time.
February 19th, 2012 at 10:06 am
Dale made the world a brighter, happier place and I feel blessed to have known him. Whenever we were in Florida, he was a friend with whom we never failed to visit and share laughter. May his family be comforted by the love and friendship he gave.
February 20th, 2012 at 11:19 am
My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you duing this time. Not knowing Dale I know he was a wonderful man who was cherished by his family especially Bralen. Bralen definately shared with me how very special her Grandpa was to her now and throughout her life. I am so blessed God gave her a trip to Florida so they experienced their last memories together. God bless our Bralen and your family during this most difficult time. Sincerely, Dianna Holmes
February 20th, 2012 at 1:34 pm
We were so sorry to hear about Dale’s passing. Please know that our prayers are with you all. Although we didn’t know Dale, just knowing Dalen, April and the family is a testament to what kind of man he was. May God bless you all with comfort, peace and wonderful memories, that you can share.
Ford, Brenda, Ford, Jr. and Michelle.
February 20th, 2012 at 1:38 pm
You have our deepest sympathy regarding your Dad and Grandfather. We know the angels took him straight to Aunt Janice so they are together again and at peace. May the love they gave you be with you always.
God Bless you all.
February 20th, 2012 at 4:24 pm
Dalen,
So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family to find comfort and peace.
February 20th, 2012 at 5:47 pm
Dear Debra & Dalen
You have our sympathy
Wanted to let you know that we won’t be able to attend the funeral. You are remember and will be in our prayers
May God bless you with good memories of both Dale and Janice
Philip & Sandy Dunn
February 20th, 2012 at 5:57 pm
Deb and family – We were so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. Jim so enjoyed working with him over the years with his insurance. Please know that our prayers are with you all. Praise be to God that he has been reunited with your dear Mother in Heaven. God Bless you all.
February 20th, 2012 at 9:31 pm
Debbie and family:
So sorry to hear of yet another loss for you. I guess it was time for him to join your mother. God Bless you and wrap his arms around you in this difficult time. Much love and Hugs.
Penny Felger
February 20th, 2012 at 10:21 pm
I was truly surprised when I heard the news about Dale. What a joyous man! He always had a smile on his face and a laugh in his heart. He was an encouragement to me and a tremendous example. Dale was a gentleman in every sense. A devoted grandfather, father, and husband. A true man of God.
I rejoice that he is reunited with his beloved Janice. What a reunion in the presence of the Lord!
February 21st, 2012 at 10:27 am
Dalen and Debbie – so sorry to hear of your dad’s passing but what a glorious reunion he had in Heaven with Janice. Your parents were wonderful people and will be missed very much. I so enjoyed getting to visit the farm with my brothers and sister and staying up late while our parents played hours of euchre. Your parents meant so much to me growing up and spending time with you all was a joy. Please know that we all are thinking of you during this difficult time and raising you up in prayer. God Bless your families. Dennis, Rodena, Jake, Cassie and Kyle Ollier
February 21st, 2012 at 2:36 pm
American Legion Post 157 Honor Guard was very honored to be asked by Dale’s family to conduct the Military Honors for his funeral. This was our opportunity to show our Honor and Respect to one of our Commrades in arms. Thank you for allowing us to participate in his services. For God and Country we associate ourselves together for these purposes.
February 21st, 2012 at 10:27 pm
Sorry to hear that Dale passed away. He and I went to Collins Elementary School at the same time.
February 22nd, 2012 at 3:53 pm
Dalen,
I was so sorry to hear about your father’s passing. I know this is a very sad and difficult time for you and your family. You have my very deepest sympathy.
Sincerely,
Dora “Anderson” Gaither
Bedford, VA
February 22nd, 2012 at 8:28 pm
Debbie, We were so saddened to hear Dale had passed away. We always enjoyed visiting with your parents in Florida, having coffee and cookies, and just laughing and having fun. Both he and your mom hold a special place in our hearts and we feel blessed to have known them. May the Lord bless you and your family with heavenly peace.
Randy & Linda Jacobs
February 23rd, 2012 at 9:16 am
Deb and family, I was so sorry to hear of your father’s death. I can only imagine the reunion that he had with your mom!! My prayers are with all of you in the days and weeks ahead.
February 23rd, 2012 at 9:19 pm
Deb and Dalen and families:
You have our condolences and prayers in these rough days ahead. We are sorry to hear about your dad but I’m sure your mom and dad are having a great time again. God bless