Eugene M. Birky, 90 of DeMotte and formerly of Hebron, passed away Thursday, January 12, 2023. He was born October 1, 1932 in Kouts, IN to the late Emory and Elsie (Gingerich) Birky. Eugene was a lifetime farmer and was the co-owner of B & E Body Shop, Valparaiso. He was member of Hopewell Mennonite Church, an avid motorcycle racing fan, enjoyed boating, and loved family gatherings and spending time with his grandchildren.
On November 10, 1951 in Valparaiso, Eugene married Mary Bernice Gray who preceded him in death in 2014. He is survived by his children, Robert (Karleen) Birky, Diana Sonnenberg, and Kathy (Kerry) DeYoung; 4 grandchildren, Ryan Sonnenberg, Adam (Jen) Birky, Zachary (Brie) DeYoung, and Emily (Alex) Cooper; great grandchildren, Connor Birky, Sawyer and Harper DeYoung, and Kinsley and Avery Cooper; siblings, Shirley Wenger, Merritt Birky, Melvin (Jane) Birky, Curt Birky, and Tom (Marilyn) Birky; and companion, Helen Miller. He was also preceded in death by his son, Charles Keith Birky; son-in-law, Charles Sonnenberg; companion, Virginia Birky.
Visitation will be Sunday, January 15, 2023 from 1:00-4:00 PM at Kosanke Funeral Home, New Location 309 S. Main St., Kouts. A graveside service will held at 10:00 AM on Monday, January 16th at Hopewell Cemetery, Kouts, with a Memorial Service to follow at 11:00 AM at Hopewell Mennonite Church 805 N. Main St., Kouts. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to the VNA Hospice of NWI or Hopewell Mennonite Church.
GUESTBOOK
We celebrate Gene and the amazing life he led. I had so much fun with he and Mary! He taught me to ride a dirt bike, but I went up a tree! So much love to you all. -Debbie (Birky) Swiers
