Billy Dean Tigler

Billy Dean Tigler, 78, Denver, passed away at 1:10 a.m. on Saturday, May 19, 2012 at St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis.

Born July 17, 1933 in Monon, Indiana, he was the son of George and Alma Winegardner Tigler. On Christmas Day, December 25, 1952 at the Bethlehem United Methodist Church near Twelve Mile, he was married to the former Sandra M. Slifer, and she survives.

Billy was baptized into the membership of Skinner Worship Chapel. He was an avid horse lover, tending to the care of many over his entire life. His love for animals brought a variety of excitement to his rural farm. He raised goats, dogs, peacocks, chickens, horses, and donkeys-many in full size and miniature breeds. For several years, his love for horses took him to many pony pulls. He inspired generations of kids with his love of animals and always took time to share that love.

Billy loved spending time with his family more than anything, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his wife, Sandra M. Tigler, Denver; three children, Darlene Reed, Rochester; Howard "Hoss" Tigler and wife Florence, Wabash; and Samuel Tigler and wife Annie, New Waverly; six grandchildren, Cheryl Loer and husband Brandon, Columbia City; Mindy Tigler and companion Nick Wibel, Roann; Erin Tigler, Wabash; and Sidney, Nathan, and Emily Tigler, New Waverly; three great-grandchildren, Christian Loer, Kendall Tigler, and Keagan Wibel; and one brother, Jerry Tigler and his wife Cindy, Denver.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 24, 2012 at McClain Funeral Home with Rev. Johnny Thompson officiating. Burial will be in Skinner Cemetery, Cass County.

Visitation will be from 2-8:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Guardian Angel Foundation.