Donald E. Neher

Donald E. Neher, 97, North Manchester, Indiana, passed away on May 4, 2026, at Miller's Merry Manor Oak Pointe in Columbia City, Indiana. Born on December 18, 1928, in North Manchester, to Harold M. and Fannie A. (Bridge) Neher, Donald lived a life marked by service, hard work, and love for his family.

Donald graduated from South Whitley High School in 1947. During a pivotal moment between his junior and senior years, Donald answered a unique call of duty; he participated in the Brethren Service by helping transport three hundred horses from Maryland to Poland during World War II. This act of service highlighted a young man committed to contributing in extraordinary ways.

Following high school, Donald served his country honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War. Initially serving as a barber in the United States, he transitioned to artillery once stationed overseas. Once being honorably discharged, Donald became a member of the American Legion.

On February 28, 1953, Donald married Beverly Jean Seidler, sharing a loving partnership until Beverly’s passing on October 4, 2021. Together, they raised four children and opened their hearts to three foster daughters, embracing the joys and challenges of family life with grace and compassion. After retirement, Donald and Beverly relocated to Lakeland, Florida, before eventually returning to North Manchester, completing a full circle back to his roots.

Donald’s professional career was characterized by skill and dedication. He worked at Bollinger Tin Shop before becoming self-employed, specializing in sheet metal work. Later, he built a long-standing career at Dalton Foundry in Warsaw, serving in maintenance for twenty-five years until his retirement in 1994.

Donald was a happy man and a fan of the Purdue Boilermakers. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, reflected in his involvement with the North Winona Church of the Brethren.

The loving memory of Donald E. Neher will be forever cherished by his children, Lee Neher, Columbia City, Duane (Kathy) Neher, Lawrenceburg, Gail (Steve) Hoke, Plymouth, and Brenda Blacklaw, Bourbon; foster daughters, Becky Reichard, Sheila Culp, and Lisa Dennis; grandchildren, Amy (Ryan) Yanagihara, Jen (Zach) Sommers, Greg (Melissa Knecht) Neher, Heather (Ron) Howard, Ben (Kacey) Wright, Andy (Deb) Wright, and Daniele Blacklaw; twelve great-grandchildren; and brothers, Dean (Shelba) Neher, North Manchester and Dale (Maxine) Neher, New Haven. Donald was preceded in death by his father, Harold Neher; mother, Fannie A. Ulery; wife, Beverly Jean Neher; grandson, Trent Furnivale; and daughter-in-law, Mary Neher.

Family and friends may call Sunday, May 10, 2026 from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, Indiana. A celebration of Donald’s life will begin at the conclusion of calling.

The family of Donald Neher has entrusted McKee Mortuary with care and final arrangements.