Gene L. “Wally” Nicodemus, 71, Columbia City, passed away at 4:02 a.m. on Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019, at his daughter’s home.

Born on Oct. 2, 1947, in Wolf Lake, he was the son of Keith V. and Evelyn Frances (Hollenbaugh) Nicodemus.

He was a lifetime resident of Columbia City, attended Columbia City Joint High School. On June 12, 1971, he married Evelyn E. Kyler in Pierceton. He worked for the City of Columbia City as an electrician for over 25 years until his retirement in 2008.

He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping.

Survivors include his loving daughters: Leslie (Denver) Saylor and Monica (James) Wagner, both of Columbia City; grandchildren: Lucas Wagner and Emersyn Wagner; sister, Janet (Bruce “Mike”) Johnson, of Churubusco; brother, William Nicodemus, of Columbia City; sister, Charlotte Nicodemus of New Mexico; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Evelyn Nicodemus; and sister-in-law, Patty Nicodemus.

Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., Monday, Sept. 23, at DeMoney-Grimes, a Life Story Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services for Gene will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday Sept. 24, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Oak Grove (Compton) Cemetery, Columbia City.

Memorial contributions in memory of Gene may be made to Disabled American Veterans or Columbia Township Fire Department.