Kelly Espich

Kelly Espich, age 59, of Columbia City, IN, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Sunday afternoon, March 26, 2023, at her residence. Born April 14, 1963, in Fort Wayne, she was the daughter of Tony G. and Virginia R. (Orick) Neely.

Kelly graduated from Northrop High School with the Class of 1981. On August 24, 1984, she married Matthew James Espich. They moved to Columbia City in 1991.  For over 35 years, Kelly worked at Lincoln Financial in Fort Wayne as a project manager.   Kelly was a member of First Church of God, Columbia City and Fort Wayne Ski Club.  She enjoyed jeeping, 4-wheeling, camping, boating, water and snow skiing, and spending time with family, especially her grandchildren.  In addition, Kelly rode snowmobiles and looked forward to annual trips to the Upper Pennisula in Michigan and to Dale Hollow Lake in Tennessee.

Kelly is survived by her loving husband, Matt Espich; children Emily (Wes) Hare and Natalie (Jason) Leedy; father Tony (Ava) Neely; grandchildren, Dalton, Avery, Ellie, Lucy and Lillian; several nieces and nephews.

Kelly was preceded in death by her mother, sister Lesa Stone, and stepmother Janie Neely.

Friends may call on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at DeMoney-Grimes Funeral Home, 600 Countryside Drive, Columbia City.

Funeral services for Kelly will be held at 12:30 pm Thursday March 30, 2023, at the funeral home.

Burial will follow in Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne.

Memorial donations may be given in memory to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana or to Whitley County Humane Society.

Visit www.demoneygrimes.com to send Kelly's family condolences or sign the online guest book.

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