Melvin E. Reeg
Melvin E. Reeg, 73, co-owner of Reeg Motor Sales, Columbia City, passed away surrounded by family at 11:36 p.m. Saturday, July 10, 2021, at his Fort Wayne home.
Born June 15, 1948, in Fort Wayne, he was the son of the late Gene and Georgia (Menzie) Reeg. Growing up in Columbia City, he completed primary school at West Ward School and graduated from Columbia City Joint High School in 1966.
He was drafted into the U.S Army during the Vietnam War. Given that he was the only son, he was stationed in Germany and spent his deployment working on and maintaining large vehicles. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1973.
On Nov. 17, 1973, he married Cathy S. Lumm. They made their home in Columbia City.
From his late childhood, he worked for the family auto sales business, Gene Reeg Motor Sales, developing a passion for cars. Meticulous in all aspects of his vocation, he became a Master Technician earning a trusted reputation with their customers.
His exacting standards carried through to his home and property care. Whether mowing the grass or washing his car, he maintained his high standards. A NASCAR fan, he enjoyed following Richard Petty and the late Dale Earnhardt, Sr. In more recent years, he followed Tony Stewart. Having a sweet tooth, he was fond of chocolate, pie, cookies, really anything with sugar.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Cathy; children Melanie Reeg of Fort Wayne and Gavin (Sarah) Reeg of Carmel; and sisters, Jana Reeg of Columbia City and Brenda Robison of Indianapolis.
Visitation is 4-7 p.m. Thursday at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.
Preferred memorials are to the Dementia Society of America or COPD Foundation.