Joel Shumaker, 80 and a lifetime resident of the Warsaw area, passed away 10:34 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, at Kosciusko Community Hospital.

The son of the late Leroy H. Shumaker and the late Rosella I. (Meredith) Shumaker, he was born in Warsaw on Nov. 13, 1938. He attended Warsaw High School and on Aug. 6, 1958, was united in marriage to Judith Julian. Together they would share more than 61 years before his Saturday evening passing. Their family includes five children, seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Mr. Shumaker was a hard worker. He was raised on a farm south of Warsaw and learned his work ethic at a young age. He went on to hold positions at Sun Metal, Creighton Brothers and would spend more than thirty years at Dalton Foundry where he operated a forklift in the Core Room. He enjoyed antique shopping and hunting for treasures at garage sales. He also enjoyed breakfasting at Maria’s and was known for his ornery sense of humor. He was genuinely fun to be around and was a loving, kindhearted father and grandfather.

Those who survive with memories to cherish include his wife, Judith Shumaker of Warsaw; son, Rex (wife, Tracey) Shumaker of Warsaw and daughters: Shelly (husband, Patrick) Gilley of Etna Green, Melissa Long of New Haven, Carol (husband, Kevin) Bartley of Warsaw; and Sherri Wilson of Columbia City. Also surviving are seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren (with one on the way) and his sister, Shirley Frantz of Pierceton.

A private graveside service will be held this week at Oakwood Cemetery with arrangements entrusted to Titus Funeral Home of Warsaw. To send condolences to the family, please visit www.TitusFuneralHome.com