Earl Dean Werner, 72, of Union Mills, passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. He was born in Valparaiso to Wilfred and Elizabeth (Schoppel) Werner and was a graduate of South Central High School, Class of 1972. Earl was raised on the family farm, where he also began his working life. In addition, he proudly served his community as a school bus driver for South Central Schools. He was widely known for owning and operating The Silver Horseshoe Restaurant and Tavern in downtown Wanatah for more than 20 years, becoming a trusted and familiar presence to countless patrons and friends.
Later in life, Earl dedicated himself to real estate, serving the Wanatah area for more than three decades as a Realtor and Broker with S & W Realty. Through his work, he earned a strong reputation for integrity, knowledge, and genuine care for his clients.
On November 27, 1982, Earl married Colleen Griewank, who survives. He is also survived by his children, Megan (Derek) Allen of Union Mills and Ryan Werner of Carmel; his brother, Gerald (Sandy) Werner of Union Mills; and his beloved grandchildren, Evan and Caitlin Allen, who brought him immense pride and joy. He was preceded in death by his parents.
First and foremost, Earl cherished time with his family. He always made summer vacations a priority, a tradition that continues with his family to this day. Trips with close friends, a good game of poker, and breakfast with his family are memories that will forever be treasured. Despite a busy career that often demanded long and irregular hours, Earl never missed the opportunity to watch his children—and later his grandchildren—participate in their many sporting events.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, January 17, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Wanatah Funeral Chapel, 309 N. Main Street, Wanatah. Close family and friends are welcome to join the immediate family for luncheon at the Union Mills Conservation Club which will follow the visitation.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
GUESTBOOK
Ryan we are so sorry to hear about your loss. Our hearts breaks for you. If there is anything we can do please do not hesitate to reach out. Prayers for your family and yourself. -Norman and Cindy Vanlaningham
Sorry to hear about Earl. He was a kind man and would do anything for you. He will be missed. The family will be in our prayers. -DENNIS GALBREATH
Guy that I'll surely miss when I mow the at the real estate office. He always had time to talk and I always had time to speak to him. Just always up lifting and encouragement to me and my hard work. With always a little humor and wisdom to share. Going to miss you big guy and a lit up smile. Our deepest condolences to Colleen and her family. Archie and Earlene. -Gregory Howard
Earl was the man I looked up to as a child. He spoke kindly, he treated others with respect, and he always smiled and engaged with me. He was the grandpa I never got to have. I’m heartbroken to hear of your loss and will never forget him, he was so special. -Chris Sexton
Colleen and family - We are so very sorry for your loss. Earl was such a great guy. He will be missed. -Mary Spiess
Colleen, we were so sorry to read about Earl's recent passing. His thoughtfulness and kind nature will always be remembered. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. -Kim and Eileen Land
Colleen, Megan, Ryan, and all the family— We are so sorry for your loss. I will always treasure the summers I spent with Earl in Florida as a child, filled with warmth, laughter, and kindness. Those memories mean so much to me and will stay in my heart always. Sending you all our love and deepest condolences during this time. -Jess Parsons
Colleen and Family, I was truly saddened to hear of Earl's passing. I have many fond memories of Earl going back to classes we both attended in High School, to late night poker games at my home, to lunches at the Horseshoe when it was operated by Earl. Each of the memories bring back images of Earl's smile, his laughter and great sense of humor, and his good nature. No matter the time elapsed, whenever I had the good fortune to see Earl, he always went out of his way to talk, reminisce and share a laugh. He will be missed by many. Vicki and I want you to know how sorry we are for your loss. With sincere condolences, -Rich and Vicki Wright
To Colleen, Megan and Ryan and all of your lovely family. We will always always have very very fond memories and love for our very dearest friend. We will always cherish the times we had together both in Florida, Indiana and here in the U.K. Our deepest prayers and thoughts are with you all at this very sad time. All our love, -David and Julie Parsons
Earl was a great neighbor, always friendly and had a smile! He will be missed, our prayers and condolences for the family. -Scott and Tina Kleppe
Dan and I are saddened by the passing of Earl. He was always ready with a smile and good conversation. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. -Dan and Karen Dunbar
Colleen so sorry to hear about Earl. Wonderful and friendly guy. Do anything for anybody. He will be missed alot. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Take care, -Susan and Sandy Lang
