Rick Lynn Lakins, 69, Columbia City, died unexpectedly of natural causes at 8:39 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020, at his home.

He was born June 11, 1951, in Bremen, a son of the late Carson James “Lee” and Marie Kathryn (Turley) Lakins. Raised in Bremen, he graduated from Bremen High School in 1970.

Becoming a licensed insurance agent, he sold insurance in the Bremen area. Retiring from insurance sales, he did property management and repair in Warsaw. Moving back to Bremen, he worked for Copperfield in their wire extrusion department. After retiring, he moved to Columbia City, where he has lived for the past 12 years.

He enjoyed riding his motorcycle until health problems prevented him. He took pleasure in yardwork and landscaping his new home. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and held a special place in his heart for his beloved dog, Suzie.

He is survived by a son, Toby (Sheila) Lakins, and a daughter, Stephanie Lakins, both of Bremen; grandchildren, Olyvia Lakins, Jillian Lakins, Kylee St Cin, Taylor Yoder, and Collin Heyde; his significant other, Sandra L. Hill and her children, Angel (Brian) Bowman, Syracuse, Lisa (Chuck) Rausch, Columbia City, and Mike Hill, Syracuse; grandchildren, Emily Sewell, Nick Rausch, Kassidy Rausch, Ellsie Bowman, Carter Bowman, Charlie Hill, and Samantha Soto; two brothers, Jack (Pam) Lakins, Plymouth and Mike Lakins, Bremen, and a sister, Barb (Chuck) Goble, Akron, Colo.

Memorials in Rick’s honor are to the Humane Society of Whitley County.

Arrangement are by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.