IndianaLocalMichiganNews

Art Decio, longtime community leader, philanthropist, champion of Elkhart, has passed away

(Photo supplied/The Elkhart Truth)

The City of Elkhart has lost a giant. Art Decio, longtime community leader, philanthropist, and champion of Elkhart passed away on Friday, Nov. 6, at the age of 90.

Decio made his name in manufactured, modular and mobile homes with his company, Skyline Homes, according to 95.3 MNC’s reporting partners at The Elkhart Truth, which reported that Art’s contributions to the arts, education, community development was felt throughout the Michiana region.

Decio was a key supporter of the community and made significant donations to Elkhart General Hospital and The Lerner Theatre. He also served on the University of Notre Dame’s Board of Trustees, The Elkhart Truth reported.

“Art Decio was a giant in Elkhart. But it never felt that way when you talked to him; you were just talking to Art. His legacy is building community, service, and love for his home that will make Elkhart a better place for many years to come. I am humbled by his contributions and will carry his spirit with me as I continue to serve this great city. We mourn with his family, friends, and with all of Elkhart today,” said Elkhart Mayor Rod Roberson.

Late last year, the donor lobby in The Lerner Theatre was renamed in honor of Decio.

With news of Decio’s passing, WNIT-PBS Michiana has scheduled two encore airings of “Art Decio – A Wonderful Life.”

The one hour documentary on Decio’s life will air Saturday, Nov. 7, at 6 p.m. and again Monday, Nov. 9, at 9 p.m. Two previously scheduled airings will also take place on Sunday, Nov. 22, at 6 p.m. and Thursday, Nov. 26, at 10 p.m.

“Art Decio – A Wonderful Life” can also be streamed online.

According to the Palmer Funeral Homes Obituary for Decio:

The Decio family will celebrate his life in a private Mass, with interment at Cedar Grove Cemetery on the University of Notre Dame’s campus. Palmer Funeral Homes – Hickey Chapel, South Bend, is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Salvation Army of Elkhart, Tree of Lights Campaign, 300 N. Main Street, Elkhart, IN 46516.

 

Related posts

$330 million Madison Lifestyle District proposed in South Bend

95.3 MNC

South Bend woman charged with stabbing death of 71-year-old husband

Jon Zimney

Man arrested on slew of sex-related counts

Jon Zimney

1 comment

Mike Allen November 9, 2020 at 4:14 pm

I had the terrific experience to have worked for Mr. Decio for a number of years hiring on with Skyline from Phoenix Arizona in Credit and then Consumer Affairs. His impact on my life is tremendous from family to employees. His energy and focus on dedication, commitment and excellence with a purpose has been the mentor factor in my life. I met my wife of now 49 years who was Data Processing Manager who Mr. Decio would refer to her as the Wizard of Information and then would add that he didn’t know exactly what she did but it always cost him a lot of money. I owe a great deal of how my life was formulated from the hard driving and passionate work ethic to meeting my wife and our three children who benefited as well as they are all driven, ambitious, happy and successful.

Reply

Leave a Comment