Vaughn Whitcomb, 62

Vaughn S. Whitcomb, age 62, of Sturgis, passed away Thursday morning, July 24, 2025, at the Sturgis Hospital Emergency Room.

He was born March 6, 1963 in Sturgis, the son of the late Harvey Max and Beverly Lea (Pierson) Whitcomb.

A lifelong resident of Sturgis, Vaughn graduated from Sturgis High School with the Class of 1981. On November 4, 1995, he married Karen Johnson in Kent City, Michigan, and together they built a loving home and raised two children.

Throughout his working years, Vaughn was employed at several area companies including Raxam Plastic Packaging in Constantine, Sturgis Molded Products, and Morgan Olson. He was also a talented mechanic and applied those skills at Jack’s Auto Service in Sturgis, where he was known for his reliability and know-how.

Vaughn had a deep appreciation for antique tractors and enjoyed attending shows and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. He was a member of both the Antiques Tractor Association and the Northeast Indiana Steam & Gas Association. He loved being outdoors and found joy in snowmobiling, mushroom hunting, camping, fishing, boating, water sports, and participating in old iron dirt drags. A devoted sports fan, he remained a loyal supporter of the Detroit Lions and Tigers.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karen; daughter, Korin Whitcomb, a student at Michigan State University; son, Korbin Whitcomb of Sturgis; sister, Lynette (Jim) Taulbee of Stanton; brother, Myron (Joanne) Whitcomb of Sturgis; sisters-in-law, Nancy Johnson of Montague and Jan (Don) Opalewski of Portage; brothers-in-law, Dave Johnson of Kent City and Les Johnson of Thailand; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Brian Lynn Whitcomb; and nephews, Max Taulbee and Corey Whitcomb.

In honoring Vaughn’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 2nd from 2:00 to 5:00 at the Oak Enrichment Center, 306 N. Franks Ave., Sturgis.

Memorial donations in Vaughn’s memory may be directed to:

• Alcohol Research Group (Please make checks payable to: Public Health Institute), 6001 Shellmound St, Suite 450, Emeryville, CA 94608

• American Heart Association, 3940 Peninsular Dr SE #180, Kentwood, MI 49546

• Gift of Life Michigan, 3861 Research Park Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48108

The Hackman Family Funeral Homes of Sturgis has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.