Jerry L. Bales, 72, of Rome City, Indiana, died Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.

He was born January 29, 1952, in Bluffton to Charles William Bales and Dixie I. (Betz) Merriman.

On September 11, 1971, he married Vicki E. Altom. She preceded him in death on April 10, 2024.

Mr. Bales retired from Wal-Mart in Sturgis, Michigan, where he worked maintenance..

Jerry loved fishing, hunting, and just being outdoors. He enjoyed visiting with people and was a driver for the Amish. Having purchased a zero-turn mower, which was his prized possession, he would be mowing most every day. He not only mowed his lawn, he mowed the lawn of several neighbors. He liked to watch college and NFL football, especially the Colts and Notre Dame.

Surviving are a daughter, Michelle (Jeff) Chrisman of Decatur; two sons, Christopher (Tracy) Bales of Kendallville and Jason (Rebecca) Bales of Rome City; nine grandchildren, Kara, Joshua, Brittany, Alex, Audrey, Destiny, Ethon, Skyla, Blake; nine great-grandchildren; and three sisters, Avanelle "Abby" Rose of Kendallville, Tamara (Terry) Boothby of Decatur, and Donna Niblick of Kendallville.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and seven siblings.

Celebration of life services will be Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Five Corners Baptist Church, 2995 E 600 S, Wolcottville.

Visitation will be one hour prior to the services at the church.

Flowers and memorials to the family may be delivered to the church.

Young Family Funeral Home, Wolcottville Chapel, State Road 9 North, Wolcottville is assisting the family with arrangements.

Share memories and condolences at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com