Tim Lavon Gratz

Tim Gratz, 82 of New Haven passed away on August 24, 2023, surrounded by his daughters. He was born on April 10, 1941. Tim was preceded by Albert and Beulah Gratz and brothers, Danny and Terry Gratz. He is survived by daughters Sheila Reich, Sylvia Stevens, Sonya (Thomas) Habecker, and Stephanie (Mitch) Burris; grandchildren, Taya Jacobson, Derec Stevens and Nicolas Stevens, Parker Reich, Chloe and Isabel Habecker, Mason and Lauren Burris; great-grandchildren: Sizko, Silas, Talyn, Jaydin, Madysin, Kyleigh; and two brothers, Tom and Denny Gratz. He was the owner of Al Gratz Body Shop established by his father in 1942 and acquired by Tim in 1972. He was a successful business owner who expanded the business in 1983. His hard work and determination served him well. He lived by the motto of Life’s journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well-preserved body but rather skid in sideways totally worn out shouting “Holy shit what a ride”. He relished friends and family at his lake house on Coldwater Lake in Michigan. He enjoyed snowmobiling, golfing, and coaching his daughters in softball. He had an entrepreneurial spirit that never stopped even in his declining years. Tim was also involved in the Jaycess’s and 100% Club. A visitation will be held on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home, 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815, from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 1, 2023 at 1:00 PM, with visitation one hour prior. Burial will take place at Concordia Cemetery Gardens. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mccombandsons.com for the Gratz family.