Jean Vivian Creech, 96, Columbia City, died at 2:10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, at Miller’s at Oak Pointe, Columbia City, where she had been a resident for the past two weeks.

Jean Creech

She was born Oct. 1, 1924, in Whitley County, a daughter of the late Alfred and Vivian (Herr) Cramer. She grew up in Columbia City and completed elementary school at West Ward and attended Columbia City High School.

On Sept. 7, 1942, she married William P. Creech. They made their home in Columbia City. William died on Sept. 11, 1992.

She began waitressing for Florence and Walter Keiser at their local restaurant and then worked for Mullendore’s Restaurant. She completed her work career at Columbia Locker, working there for six years. In addition to her work, she was a homemaker, raising five children.

She was a member of the American Legion Post 98 Auxiliary. She enjoyed crochet and cooking for her family. She is remembered for her delicious cookies. She delighted in camping during the summer months, with her favorite destination being southern Indiana.

In her senior years, she liked to read novels and play mahjong. Concern for her family was always a priority as she didn’t want them traveling in the winter weather of the Christmas season.

She is survived by her children, Dennis (Esther Smith) Creech, Tri-Lakes, Rick (Diana) Creech, Tippecanoe, and Larry (Liane) Creech, Jackie Herbst and Kenneth (Lisa) Creech, all of Columbia City; 14 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; a brother, Larry Cramer, Columbia City; and a sister, Pat Cramer, Tri-Lakes.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Jack and Joe Cramer; a granddaughter, Missy Walters; and a son-in-law, Jim.

A graveside service is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 6, at the Stough Cemetery, 50W and Etna Road, Columbia City. Arrangements are handled by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Memorials in Jean’s honor are to the Blue River Senior Apartments.