Shad James Vandewalker, 46, Churubusco, died on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at 5:15 p.m. when the motorcycle he was riding was hit by a vehicle crossing U.S. 33 at Carroll Road in Allen County.

He was born Feb. 26, 1974, at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne, a son of James L. and Marsha I. (Weaver) Vandewalker. His formative years were spent in the Churubusco area, where he graduated from Churubusco High School in 1993. He continued his education at the University of St. Francis, Fort Wayne, where he earned a bachelor’s degree.

After living in Fort Wayne for a few years, he returned to Churubusco, where he has lived for the last 20 years.

Employed by Steel Dynamics, Columbia City as an outside equipment operator, he had over 18 years of service.

Artistically talented, he enjoyed painting by airbrush and more recently turned to photography as his favorite medium. He liked to take pictures of cars at area car shows and would occasionally do wedding photography. He used his talents to craft intricate wooden U.S. flags that he would sell or give as gifts.

His tough exterior belied his tender heart, love for his family, and love for his country. He was generous and is remembered for his dry humor. A Pittsburg Steelers football fan, he also liked to follow the Penn State Nittany Lions.

He is survived by his parents, James and Marsha Vandewalker of Collins, siblings, Shane D. Vandewalker, Shuree D. (Shane) Claymiller, Shay Vandewalker all of Churubusco and Shyle E. (Autumn) Vandewalker of Fort Wayne; his maternal grandfather, Royce Weaver, rural Pierceton; nieces/nephews, Chase Vandewalker, Merisa Bogard, Alyssa Claymiller and Georgia Gallegos; and his beloved rottweiler, Gia.

The funeral service will be 3 p.m. Saturday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Interment is at the Blue River Cemetery. Visitation is Saturday noon until the service.

Preferred memorials are to The Humane Society of Whitley County.