Keeman “Kim” W. Lobsiger, 65, retired area high school principal residing in Columbia City, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at his home.

He was born Sept. 18, 1952 in Decatur, a son of Jerold W. and Marlene (Fuhrer) Lobsiger. His formative years were spent in Decatur. He graduated from Bellmont High School. He continued his education at Manchester College where he earned a bachelor’s degree in education. Later, he earned a Master’s of School Administration from Indiana University.

He began his teaching career with Howe Military Academy as the athletic director and football coach. He then moved to Bloomington South High School for four years teaching physical education and as the football and track coach. In 1984, he moved to Wawasee High School as the football coach and vice-Principal. From 1995 to 2009, he was the principal at Garrett High School. During his tenure there, he was named Principal of the Year in 2009 by the Indiana Association of School Principals (IASP). In 2009, he joined the Kankakee Valley High School and served as their principal until retiring in 2015.  He continued his contribution to education as a consultant for IASP.

On Nov. 23, 1984, he was united in marriage to Connie J. Trier. They made their home in Syracuse, then Garrett, DeMotte and retiring in Columbia City.

A man of many talents and interest, he loved teaching, coaching and making a positive impact on young people’s lives  He was a member of the Columbia City United Methodist Church and lived his life practicing Christian ideals. He enjoyed fishing and boating with his family and maintained a collection of rare fishing lures and gear. He was an avid collector of WWII military history and had an extensive collection that he proudly displayed. Music was a constant in his life, from participating in shows as a child to playing the Music Express during his later years.

He is survived by his loving wife, Connie; his son, Ryan (Hollyn) Lobsiger, Indianapolis; a step-son, Patrick (Teresa) Inks, Fishers; a step-daughter, Tina Inks, Fort Wayne; his mother, Marlene Lobsiger, Fort Wayne; four grandchildren: Cooper and Eli Lobsiger, and Erin and Sean Inks; a niece, Jordan Lobsiger; nephews, Scott and Tony Trier, and a sister, Lori Lobsiger of Cincinnati.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jerold Lobsiger.

The funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 30, at the Columbia City United Methodist Church. Visitation will be 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 29, at Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City and 1 hour prior to the service at the church.

Preferred memorials are to the music department of the Columbia City United Methodist Church.