COLUMBUS
Wendell Caleb Huff, 83, passed away on November 30, 2024 surrounded by family after a brief but brave battle with melanoma.
Wendell was born in Linefork, Kentucky on January 18, 1941 to John D. and Myrtle (Halcomb) Huff and was proud of his eastern Kentucky heritage. He was a graduate of Kingdom Come High School in Linefork and moved to Indiana in December of 1960. Wendell married Wanda Tarpley and they celebrated their 60th anniversary in January 2024.
He is survived by his wife and three children: W. Keith (Vicki) Huff, Debra Gooldy and Greg (Pam) Huff; five grandchildren: Ryan (Shellie) Huff, Chelsea Huff, Shelby Gooldy, Reagan Huff and Caroline Huff; and one great grandchild, Harper Huff. Also surviving are siblings Waylon (Priscilla) Huff, Grace Parrott and Dale (Brenda) Huff.
He was preceded in death by his parents and thirteen siblings: Mae Ison, Monette Ison, Susie Cornett, Clarence Huff, Edgar Huff, Elmo Huff, Gwendolyn Farmer, Vivian Halcomb, Rodney Huff, Allene Foley, Buel Wayne Huff, Lindell Huff and Gary Huff.
He began working for Cummins Engine Co. in February of 1962 where he worked as a tool maker until retiring in 2009 as a proud and faithful employee of 47 years.
He was a long time member of Shiloh Baptist Church where he served as a Trustee for many years.
Wendell was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge, serving as Past Master of the Westport Lodge No. 52.
His hobbies included gardening, beekeeping, bird watching, hunting, fishing, metal detecting and collecting Indian relics. He was an avid Indiana University basketball fan but also rooted for Purdue and the University of Kentucky when not playing IU. Most will remember him for his work ethic, willingness to help other, friendly disposition and ability to fix things. His favorite time was with family and enjoyed watching his grandchildren participate in basketball, dance recitals, cheerleading, soccer and musicals.
A funeral service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home with Revs. Robert Lay and Ansel Hardin officiating. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until time of service on Saturday. Burial will take place at Flat Rock Baptist Cemetery in Bartholomew County. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Our Hospice and Love Chapel.
You are invited to send a message to the family via the internet.
www.jewellrittman.com
