Marion "Gene" Neff

Marion "Gene" Neff, age 94, of Edwardsburg, Michigan, (formerly of Rolling Prairie, Indiana) passed away. Gene was a man of honor and integrity; he passed away peacefully in his home Jan. 17, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Gene was born on Dec. 28, 1931, in Elkhart County, Indiana, the son of Clifford and Myrtle (Frederick) Neff. Gene's greatest achievement was his marriage of 64 years to Gloria D. (Parcell), the love of his life. Together they created a legacy of love and family with four children, James D. Neff (Kathleen), Ted W. Neff (Cheryl), Gena L. Oake (Kim) and Tim A. Neff; 14 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. Gene was a role model and cherished by his family and those who knew him.

Gene graduated from New Paris High School in 1949, and shortly thereafter, he proudly served his country as a corporal in the United States Army from 1953 to 1955. Following his military service, he dedicated a significant portion of his career to law enforcement, retiring as a lieutenant from the Indiana State Police. In 2017, Gene was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash award for his efforts to promote traffic safety with the establishment of Operation C.A.R.E., one of the nation's longest running traffic safety initiatives.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria; his son, Tim A. Neff; his grandchildren, Jenna K. Neff and Brock D. Neff; as well as his siblings, Veloris Neff (Margaret) and Elaine Eby (Devon).

There will be a private family graveside service. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the Rolling Prairie Methodist Church Food Pantry in Gene's honor.

Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in La Porte have been entrusted with funeral arrangements.