Obituaries

November 13, 1937 to October 21, 2021

FRANCESVILLE - Leonard Carl “Sonny” Garling, 83, of Francesville, passed away peacefully Thursday, Oct. 21, at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born Nov. 13, 1937 in Francesville to the late Carl Fredrick and Tena Orpha Kruger Garling. He was the youngest of five children and only son, earning him the affectionate nickname of “Sonny.” He married Evelyn Sue Jenkins on Feb. 27, 1965. She survives.

Leonard Garling

He is also survived by:
Rodney (Kimberly) Garling, Zionsville, Son
Julie (John) Danford, Francesville, Daughter
Adam (Clarisa) Garling, Grandson
Jordan (Rachael) Danford, Grandson
Bethany (Mark Spychala) Garling-Spychala, Granddaughter
Jalia (TJ) Larson, Granddaughter
Five Great-Grandchildren: Landyn, Dawson, Grayson, Sophie and Isaac
Bertha (James) Rose, North Judson, Sister
Lois (Monte) Stiller, Winamac, Sister-in-law
Betty Ploughe, Rensselaer, Sister-in-law
Barbara (Steve) Shidler, Francesville, Sister-in-law
Many Nieces and Nephews

Preceded in death by:
Clara E. (Anthony) Viktora, Sister
Bernice M. (Charles) Rose, Sister
Louise K. (Henry) Dommer, Sister
1 Infant Brother
Robert and Imogene Jenkins, In-Laws

Mr. Garling spent his early life learning to farm with his father, teasing and being teased by his sisters, and exploring with his best friend, Merl. When he was 18 years old, he bought his first property and began to fulfill his vocation as a farmer, while simultaneously working the midnight shift at Eatons. He spent his adult life farming the land his parents cultivated before him. In 1963, he met a young woman named Evelyn at a square dance and invited her to see an Elvis Presley movie. They were married in a blizzard, driving through the fields to make it to their rehearsal. After 56 years of marriage, Evelyn maintains that he pursued her. Mr. Garling was a dedicated member of St. James Salem United Church of Christ, serving over the years as Sunday School superintendent, church board member and cemetery sexton. He loved to play music and spend time with his family. He is remembered as a father who never missed a ball game. He will be remembered for his teasing jokes, bouncing polka skills, unfailing work ethic, easy smile, and willingness to serve his family and neighbors at any time of day or night. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his loving wife and family. The family wishes to thank Elara Caring Hospice for its thoughtful service and tender care in the final days of Leonard’s life.

Visitation will be from 12 noon to 2 p.m., Monday, Oct. 25, at St. James Salem United Church of Christ in Francesville. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m., Monday, at the church with Pastor Nelda Seger officiating. Burial will be at St. James Salem Cemetery in Francesville.

Memorial donations may be made to St. James Salem United Church of Christ or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel, Francesville.