Eugene Stanton Darr

Eugene Stanton "Bud" Darr, Jr., 84, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully at his home at 7:15 a.m. Wednesday, October 22, 2025.

He was born in Columbia City on October 29, 1940, the son of the late Eugene S. Darr, Sr, and Marilyn A. (Meier) Darr. Growing up near Churubusco, he graduated from Churubusco High School in 1958.

Joining the U.S. Naval Reserves in 1957, he determined he was too tall for submarine duty and switched to the U.S. Army in 1960. He was honorably discharged in 1964.

On November 18, 1970, he married Vicki K. Maggart. They made their home in rural Columbia City, raising three sons.

He went to work for Dana Corporation in Fort Wayne, becoming a process engineer. He retired in 1992, with 34 years of service. Calling for his expertise, Dana brought him out of retirement to serve as a consultant for their operations in South America and Thailand. He worked another eight years, finally retiring permanently.

In his retirement, he enjoyed fishing, watching the Colts, and following the Little League Baseball finals. He liked cooking and preparing meals for the local VFW Post 5582 and the American Legion Post 98 in Columbia City. Through the years, he collected Franklin Mint and other die-cast cars and trucks, amassing over 100.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Vicki; sons, Ronald (Deb) Darr of Columbia City, Bradley (Cathy) Darr of Detroit, MI, and Brett Darr of Larwill; grandchildren, Ben, Hannah, and Ian; and sisters, Marianne Norman of Fort Wayne and Rebecca Parker of Florida.

Eugene desired to have no services. Arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.