Bryan Douglas Felkner, 61, beloved husband, dad, son, papa, brother, perfect neighbor, ultimate party host, and friend to all, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Born in Goshen, Indiana, Bryan was the son of the late John Sanford and Karleen (McIntire) Sanford, who survives.
Bryan attended North Side High School and went on to build a remarkable 41-year career with C.L. Schust Construction, where he served as a loyal and dedicated Field Superintendent. He also was passionate about volunteering in the community Giving his time every year to support the Arcola Volunteer Fire Department, assist with Arcola Baseball, hosting Parliamentary Procedure meetings and events for the Carroll FFA, fostering animals and helping with the Pet Food pantry for Humane Fort Wayne. Bryan met his wife to be Kristi at Pro Bowl where they were nothing but “punk kids” hanging out at the arcade and having fun. They were married four years after they met on May 21, 1988 at Trinity United Methodist Church and had a wonderful life together. He was fiercely dedicated to his girls and there are no words to describe his devotion to them and their happiness. Bryan and work truly went hand in hand. He loved what he did, took great pride in his projects, and formed lasting friendships along the way.
Bryan was never one to sit still. He was always on the go—whether puttering in the garden, cutting wood, working outdoors, or riding his tractor. He found joy in simple, honest work and being outside. A gifted and passionate musician, Bryan loved playing the guitar, his love for music began with playing the upright bass in a bluegrass group, but his joy was found in playing for family and friends. Music was another way he expressed his heart.
He was a great Papa, deeply devoted to his grandchildren and their activities. You could always find him cheering them on at school events, proud and supportive in every way.
Bryan’s garage was his favorite gathering place and home to the legendary Friday Night Garage Parties, a place filled with laughter, storytelling, euchre games, good music, and a steady supply of cold beer and good food. Bryan loved bringing people together. Whether grilling, hosting, or simply pulling up a chair, he made everyone feel welcome.
He enjoyed IU basketball, fishing, hunting, canning, and raising animals—especially chickens, homing pigeons, and bees. He had a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors, as well as a genuine love for animals and birds.
Above all, Bryan was known for his generous heart. He was often the first to reach out, lend a hand, or show up when someone needed help. His kindness, humor, work ethic, and ability to make everyone feel like family will be remembered by all who knew him.
Surviving are his wife, Kristi Felkner; daughters, Jessica “Jessi” (John Jr.) Forker, Abigail “Abbi” (Derek Coolman) Felkner; grandchildren, Skyler and John Forker III; siblings, Michael (Sue) Felkner; Dawn (John) Straessle; sister-in-law, Shari Felkner; along with many nieces and nephews and extended family members.
A Celebration of Bryan’s Life will be from 1 pm to 5 pm on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at the FOP (Fraternal Order of Police) 2125 Olladale Dr Fort Wayne, IN.
Memorials may be made to Humane Fort Wayne Pet Food Pantry or Wellspring