Donald “Bud” E. Byrer, 91, Wakarusa, a former longtime resident of Bremen, peacefully passed away Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016 surrounded by his loving family at the Community Hospital of Bremen.

He was born Dec. 24, 1924 to Dorcy and Maggie (Heckaman) Byrer in Kosciusko County.

Bud leaves behind his loving wife, Frances (Minnes) Byrer, 68 years; four daughters: Cindy (Ed) Parks, Bremen; Terri (Jim) Richardson, Bremen; Marcee (Phil) Flora, Elkhart; and Jennifer (Mark) Krieger, Niles, Mich. He was the proud grandfather of ten and great-grandfather to 30.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Hilda Dinkeldine, and two brothers Samuel and Warren Byrer.

He was part of the greatest generation and proudly served his country in the US Army during WWII. He was a lifetime member of the VFW and the American Legion. Following his military service he worked at Studebaker for 17 years and then retired from AM General in 1988.

He was a member of Bremen United Methodist Church. His greatest joy came from being in the company of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He also enjoyed dancing, traveling and spending winters in Texas.

The family would like to thank Dr. Rosentrater and the nurses at Community Hospital of Bremen and the nurses and aides at Miller’s Merry Manor of Wakarusa for their care and dedication.

Friends may visit with the family from 4-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30 at Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral home, 950 N. Main Street, Nappanee. A celebration of life service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1 at the Bremen United Methodist Church, 302 W. Plymouth Street, Bremen. Friends may also visit with the family one hour prior to the service. Rev. Ron Bowman will officiate and burial is to follow at Bremen Cemetery with Military Graveside Rites.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospital of Bremen or Bremen United Methodist Church.