L'Dea Handy

L'Dea ""Skip"" Handy, age 88, entered into eternal rest on September 17, 2025, at Coventry Meadows Nursing Home surrounded by his loved ones and caregivers. He was born on November 27, 1936 in Auburn, Indiana. Known for his kindness, wit, and generosity, Skip led a life filled with relationships, appreciation of art and design, and service to others.

With his love of learning and multiple interests, Skip had many careers over the years. After earning a bachelors of science and a masters degree at Indiana Central College (University of Indianapolis) and University of Saint Francis, Skip began his teaching career. He taught many grade levels, coordinated employment opportunities for prison inmates at the Indiana Electronic Computer Programming School of Fort Wayne, which led to working as an administrator at the Indiana State School. While teaching at University of Saint Francis, he also managed Canterbury Green Apartments. He owned Bailiwick Men's Clothing store for several years. His retail career continued as a sales representative and manager of Dar's Porch and Patio. Lastly, he was the beloved administrator of the Allen County American Red Cross. He brought class, style, enthusiasm and dedication to everything he pursued.

Skip spent his free time with family at his cottage on Jimmerson Lake. He decorated his homes with his collections of art and antiques. He could make a garage sale find into a treasure in one afternoon. Skip's love of cars was evident through his care, detailing, and maintenance of classic automobiles. He had a heart for animals seen through the meticulous care and grooming of his pets, including many dogs, and a pet skunk named Flower. He was frequently sought after for his distinctive artistic style in interior design, both for commercial and residential spaces. He created silk flower arrangements and Christmas trees for different occasions. Skip was a founding member at Aldersgate Methodist Church, Fort Wayne where he and Sherill attended.

Skip's diverse pursuits were matched only by the richness of his relationships as a beloved husband, father and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Sherill Handy, his children, Jonell Trieloff (Scott) and Aaron Raudenbush (Heidi), Steve Handy (Dodi). He was known as "Papa" by his six grandchildren, Taylor Hastings (Matthew), Reilly and Anna Trieloff, Jenna, Patrick, and Michael Raudenbush. He will be remembered by his many friends, employees, and extended family for his generosity, wisdom, and the joy he found in everyday moments. Skip greeted everyone with a warm smile, a happy heart and a listening ear.

Skip is preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Opal Handy, and his brother Jim Haas.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his memory to Humane Fort Wayne, Aldersgate Methodist Church and The Red Cross - a fitting tribute to a man who spent his life learning, giving, and inspiring others to do the same.

A celebration of life is planned for Sunday, November 9, 2025. The family invites all friends and family to gather at The Landmark, 6222 Ellison Rd, Fort Wayne, IN. Open House from 1-4 p.m. Please visit his online guestbook at Home | Community Funeral Care Carmichael Chapel of Fort Wayne. Cremation arrangements by Community Funeral Care Carmichael Chapel.