Malcolm Forrest Arnold. 89, of rural Columbia City, died peacefully in his sleep at his home at 2:25 a.m. Wednesday, March 24, 2021.

He was born May 25, 1931, in Churubusco, a son of the late Forrest and Helen (LaRue) Arnold. Growing up in the Churubusco area, he graduated from Churubusco High School.

After his graduation, he joined the U.S. Army and was honorable discharged in 1953.

On Nov. 28, 1958, he married Bonita A. “Bonnie” Mullendore. The couple have always made their home in Thorncreek Twp., Whitley County. Bonnie died May 24, 2016.

A career-long employee of Dana Corporation, Fort Wayne, he also owned and operated a farm.

In addition to growing crops, he and his wife had horses, ponies, and feeder calves. He could often be found riding his Farmall tractor around the property.

Surviving are his two children, Karen (Ron) Stump and Steve Arnold both of Columbia City; a grandchild, Josh (Tibbany) Arnold of Columbia City; great grandchildren, Remington and Brixton Arnold; sisters, Norma O’Connor of Wisconsin, Eleanor Lydy of Fort Wayne and Barbara McFadden of Illinois; and brothers, Ron (Beverly) Arnold and Loren Arnold both of Fort Wayne.

Additionally, he was preceded in death by a sister Naomi McFadden.

A private graveside service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Thursday at the Thorn Cemetery, Ormas. Arrangements are by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

Preferred memorials in Malcolm’s honor are to the Whitley County Humane Society.