Jeff Warrix

Jeff was the type of person who never knew a stranger and would honestly and willingly give someone in need the shirt right of his own back. Anyone who met Jeff could sense his kind ease and his love for life. His heart was enormous, yet that was only part of what made Jeff so lovable. He was also amazing at fixing things and creating with his hands. If carpentry or welding was needed, Jeff was the man. He was also capable of installing lighting rods. All of these skills were only bonuses to Jeff's life. Beyond his skills, he was a dedicated husband, a loving father, and a cherished grandfather and friend to so many. We will never forget the times we shared with Jeff.

In the midst of the Autumn season in 1964, all while the world was creating a remarkable place in the history books of the future, Jeff's life began. The nation was slowly gathering their emotions from the presidential assassination of John F. Kennedy while placing their renewed faith in President Lyndon B. Johnson. The world famous band, The Beatles, appeared on “The Ed Sullivan Show” and literally rocked the country, and Bob Dylan released, "The Times They are A-Changin'" which properly captured the general feeling in American society. The notable Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was awarded the Noble Peace Prize, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed into law making it illegal to discriminate against someone based on their race, religion, sex, national origin, or the colors of their skin. To the delight of many car enthusiasts, the Ford Motor Company made the first Ford, Mustang which would be a mainstay for sports cars in the future; it would cost a mere $.30 a gallon to fill up the car's gas tank. During this year of many historic moments, on November 4th, Dayton Warrix and Linda Faye (Conley) Burks welcomed their sweet son into the world. Jefferson Dayton Warrix was born in McDowell, Kentucky.

From the time Jeff was able to remember, he spent his childhood days in Avilla and Kendallville, Indiana. His family lived amongst the middle class, and Jeff enjoyed sharing his childhood with his siblings, Kenny, Greg, and William. His parents worked hard to provide a good life for the whole family, as they both worked in the factory and production plants.

Jeff's youthful adventures included common activities that boys enjoy. Early on, it was apparent that he loved to feel the exhilaration that came from risks taken. With his love for big trucks, motorcycle and dirtbike riding - his desire to be a little daredevil proved to create the future adult daredevil Jeff became. Not all of his time was spent in that fashion though, he also appreciated the quieter times spent by the water with his fishing pole. Additionally, he could spend hours silently waiting while he hunted using the most recent prized gun from the many he collected.

Life continued to swiftly move along, and Jeff matured into a respectable and loving young man. As he did so, he was able to celebrate some of the occasions that make life sweet. He joyfully celebrated becoming a father of two beautiful children. Jeffery and Danielle were truly the light of his life, as he delighted sharing every moment he could with them.

As time passed, Jeff's life took a few unexpected turns, but ultimately, he found exactly the spot for which he was intended. Through a friend, Jeff met the woman with whom he would spend the rest of his life. Donna Lisa Morris captivated his heart and never left it. The happy couple was married on November 29, 1997, in Avilla, Indiana. This union created a new and cherished family for everyone. With their commitment to one another, Jeff's family grew. Donna's children, Joseph and Joshua made the Warrix family complete. Jeff and Donna were excited for the future full of grandchildren with a new grandbaby on the way!

With his new love by his side, Jeff was able to find even more joy in daily life. The holidays were always special to him. The warm summer celebrations for the 4th of July with his family and friends was always a highlight each year. In the fall, Jeff loved to cheer on his favorite Notre Dame football team while looking forward to the crazy antics of Halloween with his children. The best of all, though, was the holiday of Christmas, for Jeff absolutely relished sharing the magic of the season with everyone he knew.

Soon these occasions became even more anticipated because one by one, Jeff's family continued to grow. He and Donna were blessed with the gift of five grandchildren. The young lives of Kyle, McKenzie, Austin, Angela, and Jazzmine filled Jeff's heart with so much joy. He adored all of them and was so excited for the arrival of his 6th grandchild. As a grandfather, Jeff loved to take the kids to the movies and the zoo, but he also just enjoyed watching their innocence and grace. Many say Jeff had a heart of gold, but really it was the love for his family that made him rich.

In his 52 years of life, Jeff lived a full life. He passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 3, 2017. Though it is hard for us to say goodbye to him with such short notice, it is a comfort to know that he spent his life loving every moment. His kindness and his adventurous spirit will live on in our memories. Jeff was a good soul, and we will miss him greatly.

Survivors include: Wife, Donna Warrix of Kendallville. Son, Jeffery and Cheyenne Warrix of Albion. Daughter, Danielle Warrix of Angola. Stepson, Joseph and Samantha Price of Angola. Stepson, Joshua and Sarah Morris of Dandridge, Tennessee. Five grandchildren: Kyle, McKenzie, Austin, Angela, and Jazzmine. Brother, Kenny and Teresa Warrix of Avilla. Brother, Greg and Julie Warrix of Kendallville. Brother, William Marshall, Jr. of Wawaka. Many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Sunday, July 9, 2017, from 2:00 – 6:00 pm at Hite Funeral Home in Kendallville.

Funeral services will be Monday, July 10, 2017, at 11:00 am at Hite Funeral Home.

Burial will take place at Orange Cemetery near Rome City.

Memorial donations may be made to the family. Share a memory or send a condolence online at www.hitefuneralhome.com