Louis Verlin VanBlair , age 82 of Elwood, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Ascension - St. Vincent Mercy Hospital in Elwood after a good, full life.  He was born on May 18, 1943 in Elwood, the son of Clyde and Wilma (Kirkpatrick) VanBlair.  Louis was a proud 1961 graduate of Wendell L. Willkie High School in Elwood.  He served honorably in the U.S. Army immediately following high school, and remained a loyal patriot.  Louis entered the workforce at Guide Lamp division of General Motors in Anderson where he spent over 25 years of dedication and service retiring as a production supervisor.  Although he retired earlier than anticipated due to a stroke in his late 40's, he remained adamant about staying independent and active in his life.  Louis married his soulmate, Rita S. Vollenhals, on July 27, 1968, and they shared over 57 years of marriage together.

Louis was a former member of Grace United Methodist Church in Elwood and proud union member of U.A.W. #663.  In his free time after retirement, Louis loved watching NASCAR racing, always rooting for his favorite drivers – Dale Earnhardt, Kyle Larson, and Jimmie Johnson.  Nothing was more enjoyable than a night out with his son at the Anderson Speedway.  He especially enjoyed fishing, visiting Lake Shafer with his family, and mowing and caring for his property.  Louis was well-known in local social groups including the Hardees breakfast group and Wendy's weekend breakfast club.  He never knew a stranger.

Louis was always interested in cars and formerly worked as a driver at Hembree Motors in Elwood.  He also had a unique relationship with weatherman Randy Ollis on Channel 8 News.  Louis was an Elwood weather reporter for many years to Randy, reporting serious weather or rainfalls as needed.  He met Randy on several occasions, and they exchanged letters, which Louis enjoyed very much.  More than anything, he celebrated every milestone - big and small with his family, and treasured every moment with his beloved granddaughter, Reece.  He and Rita enjoyed countless days watching Reece's travel softball team playing games all over the state as well as weekend tournaments.  Louis' memory and legacy will never be forgotten.  Louis' family would like to thank the "Angels" of the Elwood Fire Department for their special care of him when it was necessary to call an ambulance.

Louis is survived by his wife, Rita VanBlair of Elwood; son, Chad (Jennifer) VanBlair of Frankton;  granddaughter, Reece VanBlair of Frankton; niece, Paula Garrett; nephew, Thomas (Heidi) Plake; brother-in-law, Jerry Vollenhals; sister-in-law, Colleen McCorkle; and special neighbors, Jim and Susan Abner of Elwood.  Louis was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Patricia Ann Plake; and nephew, Richie Plake.

A funeral service celebrating Louis' life and legacy will be held at 2 pm on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with longtime friend, Pastor Rob McCord officiating.  Entombment will follow in the Elwood City Cemetery Mausoleum.  Military honors will be conducted by the U.S. Army and Elwood V.F.W. honor guard.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 12 to 2 pm prior to the funeral on Thursday at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Elwood Fire Department in thanks for their outstanding care of Louis.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at copherfeslermay.com.