Herbert "Herb" J. Gase, age 80, of Fort Wayne, IN passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Kingston Care Center.  Born on March 11, 1945, he was the son of the late Raymond and Dorothy (LaFontaine) Gase.  Herb was a 1963 graduate of Humboldt High School and honorably served his country in the United States Navy.  On March 29, 1969, he married the love of his life, Judy (Rue).  They spent 56 wonderful years building their life together.  Herb and Judy hosted 10 foreign exchange students from all over the world.  Many of these students have kept in contact over the years as their lives were so positively impacted by Herb and Judy's kindness and hospitality.

Herb worked for International Harvester for 10 years and ITT for 25 years until his retirement.  When not working Herb's interests ran from following Norte Dame football to fishing and camping at Atwood Shores Campground.  For a time, he owned a Corvette and enjoyed being part of a Corvette Club giving him the opportunity to connect with other enthusiasts.

The two enduring elements that framed Herb's life were Family and Faith.  Faithful attention and attendance to both were non-negotiable.  There were very few family gatherings where Uncle Herb was not in attendance.  Sweet memories include Herb and Judy hosting summer pool parties.  Always there would be the "littles" giggling and splashing around in the pool while Uncle Herb would light up the grill and get busy with the hamburgers and hotdogs.

Herb has been a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church since 1978.  Until his illness interfered, he faithfully attended the 7:30 am Mass every Sunday, followed by breakfast with close friends.  This was his steadfast commitment every Sunday.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Judy Gase; brother, Jim (Tracy) Gase; sister, Sue Miller; numerous nieces and nephews; and 10 past foreign exchange students who became part of the family. Herbert was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Eileen (Tom) Fortener; and brother-in-law, Ted Miller.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 4916 Trier Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815 with visitation one hour prior.  Memorials can be written for Mass Intentions in Herb's name at St. Charles.  Condolences can be left at www.divinemercyfuneralhome.com for the family.