Newell “Jake” Chase Warrix, of Warsaw, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, at Lutheran Kosciusko Hospital of Warsaw at the age of 88.
Chase was born on April 17, 1935, in Water Gap, Ky., to Hamie Wells Warrix and Theodore Warrix. At the young age of 20, he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Mollie Bernice Wireman, and they were married on Dec. 17, 1955. They were blessed with two daughters, and created so many memories; they would have celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this month. Chase is now celebrating Christmas in Heaven!
Chase and Bernice shared everything in their lives and made their home in Kosciusko County for the past 62 years, moving to the area in 1961. He was a hard-working family man who was not afraid to try anything, and he worked at various jobs before joining Zimmer Inc. of Warsaw in 1967. At the time of his retirement, he was a quality control inspector.
He enjoyed muscle cars, and he loved a great day outside enjoying God’s beauty while fishing and hunting whenever he was able to. Chase enjoyed the fellowship of his church family at First Free Will Baptist Church of Kosciusko County in Claypool, where he served as a deacon for many years. Family meant everything to Chase and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren held a special place in his heart. He definitely enjoyed becoming a grandfather and great-grandfather multiple times. Chase was a devoted and loving husband, wonderful father, brother and friend to many who will be dearly missed.
He leaves behind his wife, Mollie Bernice Warrix, Warsaw; two daughters, Gail (Jay) Jacobs, Warsaw; Terry (Jody) Owens, Warsaw; five grandchildren: Ben Jacobs, Flurry (Sean) McPhail, Gage (Van) Owens, Mason (Davnie) Owens and Mollie (Levi) Dunson; nine great-grandchildren; and his sister, Sue Hall (Orie) Conley, Warsaw. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and two brothers.
Chase life will be celebrated with a service at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 19 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw, and officiated by Pastor Terry Bradford. A graveside service will follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Pierceton. Friends and family may visit prior to the service from 9 to 11 a.m.
Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com.