Claude Edward Wise, 91, of Elkhart, passed away at his home on Saturday, August 2, 2025.

Claude was born on July 9, 1934, in Elkhart, Indiana, to Clyde and Ruth (Sensenbaugh) Wise. He was united in marriage to Janice "Jan" (Null) Wise, who preceded him on death on March 4, 2023.

He is also preceded in death by his parents Clyde and Ruth and brothers, Shaylor, Lloyd, Robert and Harold and his faithful companion, Bella.

Claude is survived by his beloved children, Brenda (Jackie) Burdin, Cathy (Jon) Anderson, Mark (Renee) Finn, daughters, Christy (Richard Hurt) Finn, Julie (Charles) Smith and Kim (Kevin) Ols; 15 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his brother, Ernest "Ernie" Wise; sisters, Betty Shaver and Nancy Cummins, along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends and customers from the local businesses he was associated with.

Claude retired from NIPSCO Gas after 25 years of dedicated service. Claude, raised like the generations that preceded him, provided well for his family.

During his life he worked at many small businesses where he made his wonderful friends and lifelong connections.  Some of the businesses were Shelley Bros. Bike Shop, Wrightsmans Mobil, Jim Stone's Mobil Service all in downtown Elkhart, Virgil Reed Heating and Cooling and Dolphs Excavating

Then after he retired from NIPSCO he was the proud owner of The River Inn in Bristol and then The Main Street Café in Elkhart.

He was known for his welcoming spirit and strong work ethic.

He served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War era, a time he remained deeply proud of throughout his life.

Claude had an appreciation for antique cars and belonged to several antique car clubs.  He had a 1928 Pierce Arrow that was his pride and joy and he took it in many parades over the years.  He was also a long time member of the Moose Lodge in Elkhart #599.  He will be remembered for his stubborn attitude and sense of humor.

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held  Sunday, August 31, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST at The Bristol Street Cafe, 500 W. Bristol St., Elkhart, IN 46514. Friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and honor a life well lived.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to The Humane Society of Elkhart County, 54687 County Road 19, Bristol, IN 46507.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation will take place.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the family.

Condolences, memories, and flower orders may be shared at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.