Wilford O. Young, 77, formerly of Columbia City, passed away at 9:15 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015, at Peabody Retirement Center, North Manchester.

Born June 27, 1937, in Noble County, he was the son of Wilford J. and Mable (Hontz) Young.

He lived in Noble County before moving to Whitley County in 1991. He graduated from Wolf Lake High School with the Class of 1955. On April 3, 1958, Wilford married Sharon K. Decker. He was a member of Operating Engineers-Local #103 for over 45 years, retiring in 1999 from E&B Paving. He attended Warsaw Community Church and was a member of Merriam Christian Chapel. He enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren play sports over the years and was an avid NASCAR fan. He enjoyed working on cars and tractors and was a skilled woodworker.

Survivors include his daughter: Julie K. (Tim) Stout, Warsaw; sons: Michael L. (Dana) Young, Fayetteville, Ark.; and Stuart L. (Courtney) Young, Charlotte, N.C.; brother: Max E. (Carol) Young, Albion; brother-in-law: Tom Stump, Avilla; sister-in-law: Pat Decker, Columbia City; nine grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Sharon Young in 2008; and sister: Mary Anna Stump.

Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at DeMoney-Grimes, a Life Story Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the funeral home with Pastor Denny Wilson officiating. Private burial at Lakeview Cemetery, Kendallville.

Memorial donations may be made in Mr. Young’s memory to Warsaw Community Church or Teach Beyond I.C.O. Jill Young.