Thomas Ray Wolfe, 88, of Columbia City, Ind., died at 11:20 p.m. Thursday, July 3, 2014, at Miller’s Merry Manor, Columbia City, where he had been a resident since May. 

He was born Feb. 28, 1926, in Whitley County, Ind., a son of the late Ray and Elvirta A. (Buckles) Wolfe. He spent his formative years in Washington Township, Whitley County. The family moved to the Wolf Lake area where he graduated from Wolf Lake High School in 1944. He continued his education at Purdue University receiving a bachelor’s in engineering in 1949. 

Returning to the area, he began his work career with the former Weatherhead in 1950 as an engineer. Concurrently, he began selling real estate. In 1961, he formed Tom Wolfe Realty. A well-known realtor, he operated under his name until 1978, when he became the local affiliate of Century 21 Real Estate. He retired in 1998. 

On Aug. 8, 1970, he was united in marriage to Myrna S. Wiley. They have always made their home in Columbia City. 

In his spare time, he enjoyed golf and camping. He was a former member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and Grace Lutheran Church. 

He is survived by his wife: Myrna; his children: Rita (Bill) Griffith, Warsaw, Ind.; Christine (Michael) Keenan, Kendallville, Ind.; Jerry (Carolyn) Gruver, Pierceton, Ind.; Portia (Jerry) Davis, Warsaw; Theresa (Ed) Dollier, Auburn, Ind.; 15 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren and a brother: Neil (Sue) Wolfe of Arkansas. 

He was preceded in death by two brothers: Jack and Max Wolfe; and a sister: Wilma Easterday. 

Visitation is from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, July 7, at Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 8, at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Thorn Cemetery, Ormas.

Preferred memorials are to the Grace Lutheran Church or donor’s choice.