Franklin Harley Reimers

Franklin Harley Reimers, 89, of Columbia City, died peacefully at 1:40 a.m. Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Miller's at Oak Pointe, Columbia City. Born on August 12, 1936, in Grinnell, Iowa, he was a son of the late Harley O. and Mildred (McConnell) Reimers. Growing up near Brooklyn, Iowa, he was active in 4-H and the Boy Scouts. He graduated from Brooklyn High School in 1955. After his graduation, he joined the U.S. Army Reserves, serving for six years. On September 14, 1958, he married Fern Faye Hautekeete of Malcom, Iowa. They made their home on the family farm in rural Malcolm, where Franklin worked on the family livestock and grain farm. In 1966, they welcomed a son, Scott. Franklin continued to be active in 4H as a leader and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Malcom. In 2001, Franklin retired from the family farm and moved to Columbia City, Indiana, to be closer to his son and family. He took a job in maintenance for the former Toys ' R ' Us store in Fort Wayne. After ten years of service, he fully retired to spend time with his family. An accomplished master woodworker, he made furniture, enjoyed a refinishing challenge and woodworking projects. Being a great neighbor, he always made time to help his neighbors with their projects. In his quiet time, Franklin liked to read history books and any book he could get his hands on. Surviving is his beloved wife of 67 years, Fern; their son, Scott (Paula) Reimers of Columbia City; grandchildren, Samantha (Matthew) Hamlin of Columbia City and Cohen Reimers of Fort Wayne; two great granddaughters of Columbia City; Bailee and Audrey, and a brother, John (Arlene) Reimers of Malcom, IA. Additionally, he was preceded in death by a brother, Harry Reimers. Visitation is 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday (Oct 22nd) at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. The funeral service is at 11 a.m. Saturday (Oct 25th), Trinity Lutheran Church, 3622 US-63, Malcom, IA 50157, with visitation from 9 a.m. until the service. Burial will be at the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to Miller's at Oak Pointe, Activities Department, Columbia City, IN.