Damon Lee Burkley, 79, of Kendallville, Indiana died unexpectedly Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at his residence.

He was born June 8, 1946, in Kendallville to Damon Doris and Joyce Kathleen (McGuire) Burkley.

On March 29, 1975, in Kendallville he married Mary Colwell. She survives in Kendallville.

Mr. Burkley honorably served in the U.S. Air Force.

Damon retired from the maintenance department at Reliable Tool in Kendallville.

He was a member of the Church of Christ in Kendallville.

He enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting, and working on cars. His greatest joy was time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Also surviving are a daughter, Lori (Roger VanHorn) Stidham of Kendallville; a son, Erik (Brittany) Burkley of LaGrange; seven grandchildren, Aries, Mason, Gunner, Laken, Fenyx, Emmalee, and Kaliopy and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, Damon C. Burkley; a sister, JoAnn Grunden; and a brother, Ralph Eugene Burkley.

Funeral services will be Monday, December 15, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Young Family Funeral Home, 222 South State Street, Kendallville.

Visitation will also be on Monday beginning at 12 noon until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at Lake View Cemetery in Kendallville.

Honor guard services will be provided by the Veterans Honor Guard.

Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association.

View a video tribute after Monday or share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com