Edward A. Handgen, 78, of Warsaw, passed away Sept. 2, 2011, in Peabody Retirement Community, North Manchester, after an extended illness.
He was born June 23, 1933, in his grandparent’s residence in Oswego, to Edward A. and Vida L. Bricker Handgen. On Dec. 19, 1954, at Leesburg Methodist Church, he married Nancy J. Godshalk, who survives.
A lifetime Kosciusko County resident, he graduated from Leesburg High School and Manchester College, earning a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. After college he worked at Mutschler Brothers Cabinet Co., Nappanee, for 22 years, working various positions supporting the manufacturing of wood cabinetry and furniture. From there he held positions for various companies selling wood furniture and equipment in educational facilities throughout the Midwest. At 51, he started his own business, Handgen Equipment Co. Inc., retiring in 1996.
He will be remembered for his love of family, never missing an opportunity to go fishing with the grandkids or to sit and play with toys on the family room floor in his residence. He was a kind and gentle man with a great sense of humor and was always there to provide help to anyone in need.
He suffered from frontal lobe dementia the last years of his life. His optimistic attitude allowed him to face life with zest no matter what. His family wishes to support continued brain research to help others that may battle this disease in the future.
Also surviving are a daughter, Sabrina (and spouse Jay) Johnson, Leesburg; a son, Erin (and spouse Melinda), Fort Collins, Colo.; four grandchildren: Benjamin, Leesburg, and Catherine, Paige and Mark, all of Fort Collins; a brother, Lewis DeVon (and spouse Anna) Handgen, Chancellor, Ala.; and a sister, Colleen Handgen, Sarasota, Fla.
A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Sept. 17 at First Baptist Church, Oswego, with Pastor Gary Colby officiating. Burial will be in Oswego Cemetery.
Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw, is in charge of arrangements.
***** Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church of Oswego, 2985 E. Church St., Warsaw, IN 46582; or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent via www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com
