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CONNIE WILLIAMSON 1949-2012

PAULDING – Connie S. Williamson, 62, of Paulding, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 31 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.

She was born Dec. 15, 1949 in Paulding, a daughter of the late Donald and Viola (Proxmire) Craig. On April 15, 1972, she married Jerry Williamson, who preceded her in death on Jan. 15, 2005. She was a volunteer at the Paulding County Senior Center.

Surviving are two daughters, Brenda (Gary) Ross of Paulding and Terry (Thaddeus) Hunt of Bondville, Ill.; a stepdaughter, Patsy; four siblings, Bob Craig of Montpelier and Ellen Hankinson Putnam, Carolyn Hankinson and Ronald Craig, all of Paulding; six grandchildren; & four great-grandchildren.

Also preceding her in death was her daughter, Beth Matthews.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp. Burial will be in Paulding Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3 at the funeral home and one hour prior to services on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

GLENN SUDLOW 1944-2012

HICKSVILLE – Glenn “Suds” Sudlow, 67, of Hicksville, passed away Friday, Jan. 27 at Defiance Regional Hospital.

He was born Dec. 16, 1944 in Van Wert, the son of Glenn G. and Anna B. (Hoover) Sudlow. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1962-66. On Jan. 17, 1970, he married Vickie Saul, who preceded him in death Nov. 2, 2011. He worked for Paul Kennedy & Sons and the Park Station in Antwerp, retired from Phelps Dodge and then worked at Publix in Florida.

Surviving are three sons, Michael and Troy Justinger and Heath Sudlow, all of Hicksville; his mother, Anna Jordan of Defiance; siblings, Linda Brecht of Continental, Judy Copsey of Woodburn, Bill Jordan of Florida and Lori Manon of Defiance; and several grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his father; his stepfather, Jack Jordan; a sister, Shirley; and a niece, Sara Manon.

His funeral service is at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 30 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with visitation two hours prior.

Preferred memorials are to Dooley Funeral Home, P.O. Box 452, Antwerp OH 45813.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

DAVID MEYER 1949-2012

OTTAWA – David E. Meyer, 62, of Ottawa, died at 7:10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26 at The Meadows of Ottawa-Glandorf.

He was born April 24, 1949 in Lima, the son of Norbert and Margaret (Brobeck) Meyer. On June 16, 1972, he married Kathleen A. Stant, who died Jan. 29, 1995. On April 29, 2006, he married Grace Ramon, who survives in Ottawa.

He retired after 30 years from General Motors Foundry, Defiance and had worked at Whirlpool in Ottawa and County Electric, Ottawa. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa. He was also a social member of Ottawa VFW, a member of the Ottawa Eagles, Ottawa Knights of Columbus, Sons of the American Legion, Defiance Am Vets, Leipsic Rod and Gun and Local UAW 211.

Also surviving are three children, Scott (Cindy) Stant of Pandora, Tom (Jessica) Stant of Ottawa and David Meyer Jr. of Columbus Grove; two stepchildren, Joy (Eric) Camarillo and Kevin (Janet) Atkins, both of Paulding; nine grandchildren; eight stepgrandchildren; a brother, Joe (Laura) Meyer of Maryland; and two sisters, Jane (John) Kettles of Ottawa and Janet Meyer-Gonzalez of Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Joan Meyer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 30 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa, with Fr. Alfons Minja and Deacon Don Inkrott officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 and 2-8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29 at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where there will be a scripture service at 2:30 p.m. and a Knights of Columbus Rosary at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Memorials may be made to Putnam County Hospice.

Condolences can be sent to www.lovefuneralhome.com.

JERRY AMES 1944-2012

AURORA, Colo. – Paulding native Jerry Lynn Ames, 67, of Aurora, Colo. passed away on Monday, Jan. 23.

Surviving are his wife, Barbara; four sons, Steve Goins, Monty Goins, Scott (Siria) Ames and Sean (Abby) Ames; six grandchildren, Mandy, Cheyenne, Alanna, Makayla, Kendyl and Sebastian; a great-granddaughter, Paytyn; and two sisters, Joan (Dick) Schmidt and Judy (Bob) White.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 at Newcomer East Metro Chapel in Aurora.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jerry’s name to The Denver Hospice, 501 S. Cherry St. Suite 700, Denver CO 80246-1328.

To leave condolences for the family, visit newcomerdenver.com.

SHIRLEY KNEPPER 1940-2012

PAYNE – Shirley Knepper, 71, of Payne, passed away Monday, Jan. 23 at Parkview Hospice, Fort Wayne.

She was born Feb. 17, 1940 in Findlay, the daughter of Richard and Elise (Bretz) Thompson Knepper.

Surviving are her children, Benny, Tim and Allison Huff and Sara (Huff) McKitrick; siblings, Pat Huffman, Nancy Biller, Beverly Anderson, Jackie Cortez and Gary and Tom Thompson; and grandchildren, Matthew Huff and Tyler and Tiara McKitrick.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

There will be no services. Dooley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

BARBARA MASON 1932-2012

WOODBURN – Barbara E. Mason, 79, of Woodburn, passed away Sunday, Jan. 22 at her residence.

She was born June 12, 1932 in Woodburn, the daughter of Victor and Marie Malfait. On April 23, 1955 she married Carl Mason, who preceded her in death Nov. 10, 2007. She retired from Sheller Globe, Grabill.

Surviving are a son, Mike (Julie) of Woodburn; granddaughter, Nicole (Ryan) Jewell, Fort Wayne; and great-grandchildren Xander and Jaxson Jewell.

She also was preceded in death by her siblings, Joseph and Albert Malfait, Estella Taylor, Ida Dewey, Mary Minnich, Evonna DeFore and Margaret Brindle.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 26 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with the Rev. David Atchley officiating.

Visitation is from 2-8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25 and one hour prior to services on Thursday.

Preferred memorials are to Woodburn Fire & EMS.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

LORETTA TEMPEL DINOFIA 1915-2012

ANTWERP – Loretta Tempel DiNofia, of Antwerp, formerly of Philadelphia and Wildwood, N.J., died Saturday, Jan. 21, at Community Memorial Hospital, Hicksville.

She was born Dec. 7, 1915, in Paulding, the daughter of Albert J. and Olive A. (Schmidt) Tempel. She was an accomplished opera singer in Philadelphia, who moved to Wildwood, NJ after retiring. She was a member of the Moose Lodge. She had recently moved to Antwerp to be with her family and was a devout member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish.

She will be sadly missed by her nieces and nephews, Beverly Rex, Dorinda Jarrell, DoRetta Cline, Marlene Tempel, William Carper and Kevin, John and Gary Tempel.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; a stepson, Joey; two brothers, Linus and Vitalis; a sister, Valerie Tempel; and a nephew, David Tempel.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, at the Divine Mercy Catholic Church in Antwerp.

Hours of visitation will be from 5-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with a Catholic vigil service at 7:30 pm. Visitation also will be from 9-9:30 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Burial will be in the Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, Pa.

Preferred memorials are to Mooseheart Child City & School, Mooseheart IL 60539 or Divine Mercy, 417 N. Main, Paulding OH 45879.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

WILLIAM CARPENTER SR. 1946-2012

HAVILAND – William A. Carpenter Sr., 65, of Haviland, died at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, at his residence.

He was born Aug. 12, 1946, in Continental, the son of James L. and Maggie (Scott) Carpenter, who both preceded him in death. He was married to Jeannie (Timbers) Carpenter, who survives in Haviland. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during the Vietnam era and was a groundskeeper at the Wayne Trace High School.

Also surviving are four daughters, Sherry Moyer of Van Wert, Linda Moyer of Decatur, Ind., and Crystal (Marty Thompson) Carpenter and Samantha Carpenter, both of Convoy; four brothers, Rodger (Jerri), Danny (Rhonda) and Ty Carpenter, all of Payne, and Scott (Linda) Carpenter of Convoy; three sisters, Rebecca (Bud) Conley of Payne, Patsy Mayers of Fort Wayne and Robin (Lee Eaton) Carpenter of Decatur, Ind.; seven grandchildren, Johnathon Coyne, Mark Gillette II, Megan Gillette, Allen Debacher, Elizabeth Debacher, Christopher Carpenter and Tiffany Thompson; and five great-grandchildren.

He also was preceded in death by two sons, William A. Carpenter II and William A. Carpenter III; and a sister, Minerva Carpenter.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, at the Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert with the Rev. Steve Waterman officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert where the Van Wert American Legion and VFW will conduct military rites.

Hours of visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24, at the funeral home.

Memorials may be to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be sent to www.alspachgearhart.com.

OLIVER “PETE” GRABNER

FORT WAYNE – Oliver “Pete” A. Grabner, 95, of Fort Wayne, died Friday, Jan. 20, 2012 at the New Haven Care and Rehabilitation Center.

Born in Edgerton, Ind., he was the son of Jeremiah and Jenny Grabner. He was a U.S. Army veteran. serving in WW II. He retired from International Harvester in 1977, following 30 years of service. He attended the Edgerton United Methodist Church in Edgerton, Ind. and was a member of the Woodburn American Legion Post #377.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Halice; a brother-in-law, Major Klinker of Payne; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two brothers and three sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24, at E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, 740 St. Rd. 930 E., New Haven with Pastor David Dignal officiating. Burial will be in Lehman Cemetery in Payne.

Hours of visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to Heartland Hospice.

To share online condolences please visit www.harperfuneralhome.com

DAVID GOODWIN 1936-2012

PAYNE – Former Payne resident David A. Goodwin, age 75, of Hilliard, died Friday, Jan. 20 at the Doctor’s Hospital West in Columbus.

He was born Oct. 2, 1936 in North Fairfield, the son of Carl R. and Gladys (Foulke) Goodwin. On Jan. 3, 1960, he married Caroline Gray, who survives. He was employed as an automotive office manager by Wal-Mart in Lewis Center. He was a U.S. Army veteran and a member of Payne Church of Christ.

Also surviving are two sons, Michael (Dawn) Goodwin, Paulding, and Samuel Goodwin of Payne; a daughter, Sharon (Carl Reynolds) Thatcher, Hilliard; a brother, Carl (Nancy) Goodwin, Colorado Springs, Colo.; two sisters, Penny (Dave) Kurtz of Willoughby and Sue (Paul) Nixon of Chesterland; and four grandchildren, Alexander, Katrina, Phylicia and Abigiale.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a granddaughter, Ashley Marie Goodwin.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25 at Den Herder Funeral Home with the Rev. Ben Lowell officiating. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding with military graveside services accorded by VFW Post #587.

Visitation will be 2-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 24 at the funeral home and one hour prior to services on Wednesday.

Preferred memorials are to American Heart Association; Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com.

RUTH LEACH 1932-2012

PIQUA – Ruth J. Leach, 79, of Piqua, died at 10:56 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, at Upper Valley Medical Center in Troy.

She was born Feb. 21, 1932 in Battle Creek, Mich., the daughter of Schuyler C. and Irene (Money) Unruh. On June 30, 1979, she married James W. Leach, who preceded her in death on June 25, 2010. She was a 1949 graduate of Oakwood High School. She was a reporter for Paulding Progress for five years and a reporter for Vandalia Chronicle for four years. She proudly served her country as a member of the U.S. Air Force.

Surviving are two sons, Larry Staniger, Piqua and Joel Staniger of Oakwood; a daughter, Susan (David) Brunotte of Union; three stepdaughters, Gay (Thomas) Mastbaum of Centerville, Merrily Noel (Jeff) Long of Huber Heights and Joy Forcier of Boston; one sister, Nan Fox of Grand Rapids, Mich.; a half-brother, James (Brenda) Gary of Defiance; and one granddaughter, Elizabeth Brunotte of Union.

She also was preceded in death by one brother, John Unruh.

A memorial mass was held Monday, Jan. 23, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Piqua, with the Rev. Thomas Grilliot as celebrant. Arrangements were handled by Meicher Sowers Funeral Home, Piqua.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www. melcher-sowers.com

V. PAULINE “POLLY” PURSIFULL

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Virtle Pauline “Polly” Pursifull, age 90, was reunited with her beloved husband, L.J., on Monday, Jan. 9, 2012, six days before their 69th wedding anniversary.

She was born in Payne, the daughter of Fred Phillip and Virtle (Radenbaugh) Olwin. Having been a Peninsula resident since 1943, Polly devoted her life to her family and friends. She will be remembered as a homemaker, member of Grace United Methodist Church, lover of nature and wildlife, and companion to her dogs. Earlier in life, she was active in her children’s school activities; Garden/Home Demonstration Clubs; Peninsula Ski Club; Gem and Mineral Society; Square and Round Dance Assoc.; secretary at Warwick H.S.; volunteer of many hours for the Virginia Living Museum.

Surviving are a daughter, Sharon Winter of Newport News; a son, Krieg (Montreo) Pursifull D.D.S. of Floyd, Va.; two granddaughters; two great-grandsons; a sister-in-law, Georgia Scott Olwin and family, all of Payne; and special friends.

She also was preceded in death by a brother, Francis Olwin.

Remembrance of Polly’s life will be private with burial at a later date in Payne.

At Polly’s request, expressions of sympathy may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105; or Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kanab, UT 84741.

BONIBELLE “BONNIE” STAHL 1924-2012

MONTPELIER – Bonibelle Joan “Bonnie” Stahl, 87, of Montpelier, died peacefully in her home Monday afternoon, Jan. 16, surrounded by her family.

She was born Sept. 17, 1924 in Montpelier, the daughter of Maynard J. and Edith D. (Brannan) Brown. She was a 1942 graduate of Montpelier High School. On Dec. 6, 1944, she married James B. Stahl, who preceded her in death on Oct. 17, 1991. A very devoted mother and homemaker, she was employed a number of years earlier in her life as a clerk and Western Union messenger at the former Foust’s Drug Store, and later employed at Trautman’s Five and Dime, both in Montpelier. She was a member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church of Montpelier and the Miriam Circle of the Church, a 50-year member of the Twice Ten Study Club, the Montpelier Hospital Auxiliary, a former 4-H leader, was an avid euchre and bridge player, and enjoyed crafts of all types and was an accomplished seamstress as well.

Surviving are her children, Tamara (Roger) Thorp, Constance (Marvin) Dunseth and Bradford G. (Robin) Stahl, all of Montpelier, Delores (James A.) Stahl of Paulding and M. Scott Stahl, Elkhart, Ind.; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; five great-stepgrandchildren; brothers, Ronald (Helen) Brown and Barry (Jolene) Brown, both of Montpelier, and Steven (Bunnie) Brown, Milan; and two sisters, Beverly Henry, Montpelier, and Cynthia (John) Storrer, New Bremen.

Also preceding her in death were an infant brother, Larry Lee Brown; an infant granddaughter, Sarah Jean Stahl; two infant great-grandsons, Steven Michael Dunseth and Jack Thorp Keifer; and a brother-in-law, Paul Henry.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22 in St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, Montpelier. with the Rev. Bruce A. Tumblin officiating. Private family burial service will be held Monday, Jan. 23 at Riverside Cemetery, Montpelier.

Visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21 in Wilson–Geesey Funeral Home, Montpelier.

Preferred memorials are to Hospice of Community Hospitals and Wellness Centers or St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.

Condolence and fond memories may be made to her family at www.wilsongeeseyfuneralhome.com.

ROSE MAPLES 1936-2012

HAVILAND – Rose Marie Maples, 75, died Wednesday, January 18 at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.

She was born April 14, 1936 in Haviland, the daughter of Elmer M. and Thelma Marie (Rodman) Baker, who both preceded her in death. In 1957, she married Eugene Elmer Maples, who preceded her in death on Nov. 3, 1988. She was a member of the former Haviland Baptist Church.

She is survived by four sons, Ivan Maples, Antwerp, James Maples, Haviland, Kenny (Lisa) Maples, Celina, and Virgil (Carma) Maples, Indianapolis; a daughter, Angelia (Kenneth) Calvelage, New Haven; two brothers, Glenn (Joyce) Baker, Haviland and Elmer (Cheryl) Baker, Payne; four sisters, Erma Pratt, Haviland, Toni (George) Searfoss and Carolyn (Jerry) Goins, both of Haviland, and Joann (Roger) Barker, Defiance; 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

She also was preceded in death by a brother, John Baker; and a sister, Nellie Hartman.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Monday, Jan. 23 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21 and 2-8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22, at the funeral home, Paulding.

Donations may be made to Feed the Children, Habitat for Humanity, American Cancer Society or World Wildlife Fund.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com.

JOHN HARKINS 1956-2012

PAULDING – John William Harkins, age 55, died Sunday, Jan. 15 at CHP Hospice, Defiance.

He was born Jan. 20, 1956 in New Brunswick, N.J., the son of Eugene V. and Jane Bell (Shedden) Harkins.

He is survived by his fiancé, Karen J. Colley, Paulding; three children, Adam Harkins of Athens, Pa., Joe (Courtney) Harkins of Vacaville, Calif. and Caitlin (Dylan) White, Midenhall Norfolk, England; two sisters, Diane (Dave) Lawson of Lynchburg, Va. and Mary Lou (Bill) Wesp, Plainsboro, N.J.; a brother, Michael Harkins, Ulster, Pa.; and three grandchildren, Jacen, Cheyenne and Janae Harkins.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home.

Donations may be made in memory of John Harkins to Karen Colley or Hospice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com.

BETTY JANE MARTIN 1921-2012

VAN WERT – Betty Jane Martin, 90, of  Van Wert, died at 7:24 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, at the Vancrest Healthcare Center in Van Wert.

She was born Feb. 14, 1921, in Van Wert, the daughter of Homer E. and Emma (Simon) Graham. On June 24, 1943, she married Truman C. Martin, who preceded her in death on April 24, 2005. She was a homemaker and a member of the St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. She enjoyed painting, crafting, genealogy, bird watching and especially her grandchildren. She was a  member of the former Van Wert Woman’s Club.

She is survived by a son, Mike (Karen) Martin of Van Wert; a daughter, Molly Holmes of Van Wert; four grandchildren, David (Tammy) Martin of Loveland, Amy (Lance) Moonshower of Van Wert, Jeff (Jennifer) Hyre of Findlay and Joe Hyre of Paulding; and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by a sister, Helen Bagley.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Will Haggis officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.

Hours of visitation will be from noon-2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, at the funeral home.

Preferred donations may be directed to a charity of the donor’s choice.

DIANE LECHER 1954-2012

FORT WAYNE – Diane Lynn Baker Lecher, 57, of Fort Wayne, passed away Saturday, Jan. 14 at Parkview Hospice.

She was born Sept. 30, 1954 in Fort Wayne, the daughter of Richard and Joan (Banks) Baker. On Oct. 17, 2002 she married Gary Lecher, who survives. She worked at Kay Daniels Hair Salon.

Also surviving are her children, Michael (Debbie) Schuller of Antwerp, Angela (Dennis) Stabler of Payne and Rachelle (Jason) Keesler, Erika (Sean) Stockdale and Stacia (Bill) Sowders, all of Fort Wayne; her mother, Joan Baker of Antwerp; siblings, Dan (Lori) Baker of Antwerp, Debby (Louie) Hessler of Van Wert, Doreen (Albert) Amstutz of Orland, Denise Getzel of Antwerp and Darla Baker of Fort Wayne; 10 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp. Burial will be in Maumee Cemetery.

Visitation is from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17 the funeral home and one hour prior to services on Wednesday.

Preferred memorials are to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

HARRY SCHOMBURG 1932-2012

DEFIANCE – Former Antwerp resident Harry Orval Schomburg, 80, passed away Thursday, Jan. 12 at Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

He was born Jan. 8, 1932 in Defiance County, the son of Oscar and Inez (VanVlerah) Schomburg. He graduated from Ayersville High School in 1950 and served in the U.S. Marines during the Korean Conflict. He married Stella Rister, who preceded him in death on Dec. 23, 2006. He was a former dispatcher at Dinner Bell Meats in Defiance and drove semi-truck in California. He was a member of the Defiance Elks and Eagles, Antwerp American Legion Post and the Defiance Christian Church.

Surviving are five sons, Mark of Oklahoma, Thomas (Valerie) and Jerome (Renee), both of California, David (Connie) of Hicksville and Timothy (Ida) of Florida; siblings, Thelma Frost and Laura Peffley, both of Defiance, Robert (Sylvia) of New Mexico and Rickey (Carol) Schomburg, Arizona; a special friend, Etta Rister, Defiance; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his dog, Missy.

Also preceding him in death were three sons, Dennis, James and Joseph; two sisters, Beverly Land and Frances; and three brothers, Ronald (Margie), Harold and Roger (Dorothy).

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17 at Defiance Christian Church. Burial will be in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp.

Visitation is from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, and one hour prior to services on Tuesday.

Preferred memorials are to Defiance Christian Church or Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

VERLIN “DALE” GRIBBLE 1944-2012

GROVER HILL – Verlin “Dale” Gribble, age 67, died Sunday, Jan. 8 at Paulding County Hospital.

He was born Oct. 5, 1944 in McDougal, Ark., the son of Barney I. and Eula (O’Guin) Gribble. He was a member of Zion United Methodist Church of Grover Hill, Paulding County Senior Center, Grover Hill Lions Club and the Welcome Park Board of Grover Hill. He was previously employed by Perma Glass of Payne.

He is survived by two sons, Brad (Shanna Fink) Gribble of Fort Wayne and Shawn (Jeanne Seffernick) Gribble, Melrose; four brothers, Talma (Marilyn) Gribble, Alvin (Gail) Gribble and Melvin (Barb) Gribble, all of Grover Hill, and Lee Roy (Lolita) Gribble, Van Wert; three sisters, Eladis (Jr.) Hinchcliff of Grover Hill, Emma (Leon) Whittington of Van Wert and Jeanie (Ishmael) Shelton, Oakwood.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Leona Busbey and Sylva Deckard.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday. Jan. 13 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 12 at the funeral home and one hour prior to services on Friday.

Memorial donations may be made to Paulding County Senior Center or Grover Hill Lions Club - Welcome Park Boosters.

Online condolences may be left at www.denherderfh.com.

THEODORE BURT 1920-2011

CLEARWATER, Fla. – Theodore C. Burt, 91, formerly of Oakwood, passed away Dec. 17, 2011.

He was born Aug. 14, 1920 in Pentwater, Mich., the son of Alex and Ferrell Burt. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Minnie A. Burt. He was a farmer, worked at Compo Corporation in Defiance for 19 years, and retired as a realtor in Clearwater, Fla. He was a member of Skycrest United Methodist Church in Clearwater for 43 years.

Also surviving are a son, Ted of Trenton, Fla.; two daughters, Jane Zimmer of Clearwater and Judy Mallett of Seminole, Fla.; his sister, Joyce (Ralph) Wyatt; a sister-in-law, Rosalie Burt; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews who were also very dear to him.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Richard; and a sister, Phyllis Mohr.

Arrangements under the direction of National Cremation Society, Clearwater.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 25 at Melrose United Methodist Church in Melrose.

A special donation to a favorite charity in lieu of flowers would be an excellent way to honor the compassionate, cheerful, and generous life of Theodore.

KENNETH BENNETT 1928-2012

OAKWOOD – Kenneth E. “Gene” Bennett, 83, of Oakwood, died Friday evening, Jan. 6, at his residence.

CAROLYN CARR 1935-2012

ANTWERP – Carolyn Ann Carr, 76, of Antwerp, passed away Thursday, Jan. 5 at Manor House Assisted Living, Antwerp.

She was born Dec. 14, 1935 in Hicksville, the daughter of the late Richard and Mona (Blair) Rowan. On June 30, 1956, she married Wayne Carr, who preceded her in death Nov. 11, 2008. She had worked at Kammeyer’s IGA, Lincoln Life and the Antwerp Local Schools. She was a devout member of Antwerp United Methodist Church and the Eastern Star.

Surviving are three children, Elaine (Dean) Phillips of Hicksville, Steven (Lisa) of Indianapolis and Kevin (Jackie) of Antwerp; two siblings, Richard Rowan of Wauseon and Marilyn Conn of Texas; 12 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 9 at Antwerp United Methodist Church with the Rev. Michael Schneider officiating. Burial will be in Maumee Cemetery.

Visitation is from 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, and one hour prior to services on Monday.

Preferred memorials are to the church or Manor House Activity Fund.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

SALLY YOUNG 1946-2012

PAYNE – Sally J. Young, 65, of Payne, passed away Thursday, Jan. 5 at Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center.

She was born Sept. 18, 1946 in Paulding, the daughter of the late Carl and Helen (Beck) Young. She worked at First Financial Bank Payne for 47 years and was a member of Payne Church of Christ.

Surviving are her siblings, Patricia (John) Gray, Martha Jenkins and William (Jeanine), all of Payne, and Richard (Susan) of New Haven; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9 at Payne Church of Christ with the Rev. Dan Staifer officiating. Burial will be in Lehman Cemetery, Payne.

Visitation is from 4-8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 8 at Dooley Funeral Home, Payne.

Preferred memorials are to Paulding Hospice.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

JACKIE BALSER 1952-2012

ANTWERP – Jacqueline S. Balser, 59, of Antwerp, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 4.

She was born May 19, 1952 in Fort Wayne, the daughter of the late Edwin and Lucille (Frane) Messman. In 2007, she married Jerry Balser, who survives. She was a secretary at Woodburn Diamond Die and a member of Antwerp United Methodist Church.

Also surviving are three children, Eric (Denise) Reeb of Antwerp, Sara (James) Maxwell of Fort Wayne and Jenna (Craig McDaniel) Lichty of Monroeville; two stepchildren, Wade (Melissa) Balser of Cleveland and Sheila (John) Hilton of Antwerp; siblings, Larry Messman of Monroeville, Joyce Copsey, Joan Murlin and Judy Hunt, all of Antwerp, Janet Palmer of Woodburn, Janelle Messman and Gary Messman, both of New Haven, and Jeanne Worden of Auburn; four grandchildren; and five stepgrandchildren.

She also was preceded in death by two brothers, Donnie and Wayne.

Services are private.

Visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp.

Preferred memorials are to Woodburn Children’s Home or Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

BETHEL RAKES SR. 1932-2012

OAKWOOD – Bethel Gene Rakes Sr., 79, of Oakwood, died at 8:15 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3 at Defiance Regional Hospital.

He was born May 17, 1932 in Ranger, W.Va., the son of the late John Sherman and Perlina (Lambert) Rakes. On Jan. 13, 1951, he married J. Wilma Cassidy, who survives in Oakwood. He retired from General Motors in Defiance after 32 years. He was a member of The Church of Christ in Oakwood. He was also a member of Local 211 UAW, president of Defiance Coon Hunter’s Club and member of North American Hunting Club.

Also surviving are three children, Carol Stahl of Melrose, Janet Rakes of Oakwood and Pamela (Darwin) Sherry of Trenton, Ga.; seven grandchildren, David (Niki) Stahl, Michael (Tracey) Stahl, Johnny Rakes, Aaron Rakes, Karisa (Rob) Long, Lance Sherry and Cory Sherry; six great-grandchildren, Shelbie and Tyler Stahl, Jennifer Stahl, Taylor and Hunter Long and Kinlee Jo Sherry; a sister, Madgie (Cliff) Nally of Defiance; and three brothers, Frank (Virgie) Rakes, Arnold (Linda) Rakes and Ernest (Trudy) Rakes, all of Defiance.

He was preceded in death by a son, Gene Rakes; two sisters, Mamie Mullins and Geraldine Rakes; and five brothers, Bub, Russell, Tom, Clarence and Vernon Rakes.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, with Pastor Lonnie Lambert officiating. Burial will follow in Riverview Memorial Gardens, Defiance.

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6 and one hour prior to service Saturday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com.

JEAN SALWAY 1943-2012

MONROEVILLE, Ind. – Jean A. Salway, 68, of Monroeville, Ind. for the past 45 years, passed away at 3:20 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3 in Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne, following a brief illness.

She was born May 5, 1943 in Payne, the daughter of the late Lloyd and Mildred (George) James. She was a graduate of Antwerp High School. On March 19, 1966 in Antwerp, she married John H. “Sarge” Salway, who survives. She retired from ITT in Fort Wayne in 2007 after 10 years of service where she worked as a repair technician. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit #420 in Monroeville, Indiana.

Also surviving are two daughters, Sally J. Miller of Monroeville and Terri L. Salway of Avilla, Ind.; a son, John E. Salway of Monroeville; three brothers, Kenneth G. (Evelyn) James and Walter L. (Robin) James, both of Payne, and Bruce D. James of Columbia City, Ind.; three sisters, Ila M. (Kermit) Duff of Waynedale, Ind., Janet M. (David) Laker of Cecil and Diana K. (Terry) Lacy of Napoleon; and numerous nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by an infant brother, Harry A. James.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 in the Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home, Jacobs Chapel, Monroeville, with Deacon David Laker officiating. Interment will follow in the Monroeville Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 6 and from 10 a.m. until service time Saturday at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to Alzheimer’s Research Center or Parkview Hospice.

To sign the online guestbook, visit www.swickjahn.com.

JOAN LAMBRIGHT 1931-2011

DEFIANCE – Former Scott resident Joan G. Lambright, age 80, died Sunday, Nov. 27 at CHP Hospice, Defiance.

She was born Nov. 7, 1931 in Terre Haute, Ind., the daughter of Vaughn and Maria C. (Dupke) Grubaugh. On June 3, 1951, she married Maxie Joe Lambright, who survives. She was employed by Wayne Trace Schools for 35 years, retiring in 1989. She was a member of Paulding County Retired Teachers Association.

Also surviving are three sons, Maxie Jay (Sarah) Lambright of Beachwood, Steven Michael (Kate) Lambright of Ann Arbor, Mich. and Jeffrey Alan (Mary) Lambright, Bloomington, Ind.; a brother, Vaughn F. (Betty) Grubaugh Jr. of Lima; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Lee Wetnight.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in Riverview Memory Gardens. Visitation will be one hour prior to services.

Memorial donations may be made to CHP Hospice, Defiance College or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

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RITA KAUFMAN 1925-2012

PAULDING – Rita M. Kaufman, age 86, died Sunday, Jan. 1 at CHP Hospice, Defiance.

She was born Oct. 4, 1925 in Putnam County, the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Meyer) Neise. On Aug. 3, 1946, she married Daniel J. Kaufman, who preceded her in death on March 17, 1976. She was a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding, and the VFW Post #587 Ladies Auxiliary. She was formerly employed by Cooper’s Grain and Feed of Paulding, retiring in 1991, and was the former owner/operator of Kaufman’s Bar and Grill from 1959-76.

She is survived by five daughters, Linda (David) Begley of Payne, Konnie Gerber, Jane (Steve) Sprow and Jackie (Tom) Boyd, all of Paulding, and Sue (Dave) Vogel, Lake Cormorant, Miss.; a son, Daniel (Sherry) Kaufman of Paulding; 14 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

She also was preceded in death by four brothers and a sister.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5 at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding. Burial will be in Cooper-Haines Cemetery, Paulding.

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4 with a Rosary Service at 7:30 p.m. at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, and one hour prior to services on Thursday at the church.

Preferred memorials are to Masses; CHP Hospice, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com.

URSIE DeLONG HEMENOVER 1917-2011

ANTWERP – Ursie M. Hemenover, 94, of Antwerp, passed away Saturday, Dec. 31 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.

She was born March 8, 1917 in Harlan, Ind., the daughter Aaron and Jennie (Shaffer) Gorrell. She was a homemaker and owner of The Pine Room Restaurant, Antwerp, and a member of Antwerp United Methodist Church. She was a loving mother and grandmother.

Surviving are two sons, Paul (Robbie) DeLong of Henderson, Nev. and Ray DeLong of Antwerp; four grandchildren, Andy, Tony and Shawn DeLong and Tammie Provines; and seven great-grandchildren.

She also was preceded in death by her husbands, Clifford DeLong and Roy Hemenover; and siblings, Myra Johnson, Dora Hissong and Lloyd, Roy and Joseph Gorrell.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 5 at Antwerp United Methodist Church, with Rev. Michael Schneider officiating. Burial will be in Harlan Memorial Cemetery.

Visitation is from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, and one hour prior to services on Thursday.

Preferred memorials are to the church.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

TROY TALBOTT 1944-2011

VAN WERT – Troy R. Talbott, 67, of Van Wert, died at 11:57 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.

He was born July 16, 1944 in Big Stone Gap, Va., the son of Floyd Marcus and Mae (Back) Talbott, who both preceded him in death. He was a longtime resident of Claiborne County, Tenn.

Surviving are Ruth Healy, his beloved companion of 12 years; four children, Christine Manning, Cathy (Martin Paul) Talbott Newman and John Marcus Talbott, all of Grover Hill, and Kimberly Linton of Ruffin, N.C.; siblings, Lissie (Phillip) Kirk of Van Wert, Nancy (Jim) Scott of Grover Hill, Laura (Leonard) Subler of Van Wert and Doug (Margaret “Bunny”) Talbott of Charloe; grandchildren, Tabatha (Cory) Maynard of Grover Hill, Zachary Manning of Milford Center, Dustin Allen (Kindall) Brooks of Grover Hill, Samuel Holley of Grover Hill, Duaine Healy of Van Wert, Stevanna Linton of Convoy, and Logan and Ivy Linton, both of Middlesboro, Ky.; and great-grandchildren, Faith Maynard, Justin Manning and Jaydan Maynard, all of Grover Hill, Kaden Healy of Rose Hill, Va. and Aurora Linton of Convoy. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

He also was preceded in death by two children in infancy, Troy Talbott Jr. and Tina Marie Talbott; a sister, Betty Simindinger; and two brothers, Charles and Marcus Talbott.

Services will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4 at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, with K.C. Klarner officiating. Visitation will be held from noon-3 p.m. prior to services. A dinner will follow the service at the Van Wert VFW.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider a donation to the family to assist with funeral expenses.

Condolences may be left  at www.bricknerfuneralhome.com or sent bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.

Mildred Ludwig Timma 1916-2011

PAYNE – Mildred E. Timma, 95, of Payne, passed away Thursday, Dec. 29 at The Gardens of Paulding.

Mildred was born in Payne on May 24, 1916, a daughter of the late Melinda (Marquardt) and Frank Ames.

She had been a store clerk at Bachelor's Department Store and was a member of St. James Lutheran Church.

In 1941, she married Lester Ludwig, who passed away in 1973. Mildred then married Raymond Timma in 1997. He passed away in 2003.

Mildred will be sadly missed by her children, Carol Ludwig of Clover, S.C. and Paul Ludwig of Payne; grandchildren, Rick Place of Clover, S.C. and Carrie Grubbs of Edon, N.C. and four great grandchildren.

She is also preceded in death by her brother, Roy Ames.

Viewing is Tuesday, Jan. 3 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Dooley Funeral Home, Payne.

Her funeral service is at St. James Lutheran Church, Payne, at 10 am, with viewing one hour prior on Wednesday, January 4th, with Rev. Fred Meuter officiating.

She will be laid to rest at Blue Creek Cemetery.

Memorials are to the church.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

KELLI HALE 1966-2011

COLUMBUS – Kelli J. Hale, 45, of Middle Point, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 28 at Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus.

She was born Oct. 8, 1966 in Bluffton, the daughter of Jerry and Becky (Anspach) Marshall of Bluffton. On Oct. 28, 1998, she married Shane W. Hale, who survives. She was a former sale executive at Root Outdoor Advertising in Lima and a former office manager at Western/Southern Life Insurance Company. She also was a member of Countryline Christ of the Brethren in Harrod and a 1985 graduate of Bluffton High School.

Also surviving are two sons, Dustin and Jacob; three daughters, Sarah, Cassie and Lyndsey; two brothers, Bruce (Amy) Marshall of Bluffton and Mike (Angie) Marshall of Van Wert; her father-in-law, Gary (Suzanne) Hale of Paulding; and her mother-in-law, Kim (Woody) Woodard of North Fort Myers, Fla.

She was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents.

A service will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 4 at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Pastor Dave Thompson officiating.

Visitation will be from 3-7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to the family.

Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanandsonfuneralhome.com.

Leo E. Winchester 1920-2011

OAKWOOD – Leo E. Winchester, 91, of Oakwood died Wednesday, Dec. 28 at his residence. He was born Sept. 6, 1920 in Toledo to the late Alfred and Nellie (Carnahan) Winchester. On April 6, 1940 he married Beullah Grimes who survives in Oakwood.

Leo worked at Grizzly in Paulding; after Grizzly closed he worked for Koester’s in Defiance.

Also surviving are two children, Helen Winchester and Donald A. (Barbara) Winchester both of Oakwood; two grandchildren, Marlin and Paul Winchester and eight great-grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by a great-grandchild, Amy Winchester; three brothers, Clovice, Howard, and Nile Winchester and a sister, Deliah Winchester.

Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood and one hour prior to the service on Saturday. Services will be held 11 a.m. with Rev. Stan Harmon officiating. Burial will follow in Sherman Cemetery, Oakwood.

Memorials may be made to the donor’s choice or to the Gideon’s.

Condolences can be expressed at:  www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com

LOUISE L. REINHART 1923-2011

FORT WAYNE – Louise L. Reinhart, 88, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 28.

She was born Dec. 16, 1923 in Paulding, to the late Martin and Mae (Kauser) Reinhart. She graduated from Paulding High School in 1942 and retired from General Electric in 1989. She was a member of Elex Club, GE Quarter Century Club, AARP, 901C10 and SPCA.

Surviving are her sisters, Helen Mott and Deloris (Alan) Whirrett, both of Paulding, four nephews and a niece.

Louise was preceded in death by her brother-in-law Glenn Mott.

Visitation is from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30 at the D.O. McComb & Sons Foster Park Funeral Home, with a Rosary at 4:30 p.m. Graveside service will be Saturday at 1:30 p.m. at Live Oak Cemetery, Paulding.

Prayers will be said 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 31 at the funeral home, 6301 Fairfield Avenue in Fort Wayne. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 4500 Fairfield Avenue in Fort Wayne with Fr. Cyril Fernandes officiating.

Memorials may be made to the SPCA. To sign the online guest book, go to www.mccombandsons.com

Patricia M. Darrow 1946-2011

BRYAN – Patricia M. Darrow, age 65, of Bryan, died at 12:16 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 19 at Community Hospitals and Wellness Centers in Bryan, where she was a patient. Mrs. Darrow was a homemaker, enjoyed camping and was an avid garage sale enthusiast.

Patricia M. Darrow was born on April 19, 1946, in Paulding, the daughter of Dale and Marie (Knapp) Vance. She married William J. Darrow, Sr. on November 26, 1966, in Alvordton and he survives.

Survivors also include her children, Tim Vance, Ronda Lewis, Marsha Darrow, Steven (and fianceé, Michele Gabot) Darrow, and Bill (Tammy) Darrow, Jr., all of Bryan; six grandchildren, Tiffany Sidle (and fiancé, Tony Arquette), Lyndsey Darrow, Alaina and Emmie Darrow, and Allie and Katelyn Darrow; and one great-granddaughter, Rylee K. Arquette. She is also survived by two sisters, Connie Starkey of Bryan, and Janet (Bill) Lawson of Mesa, Ariz. and three brothers, Bob Vance, David Vance and Bill (Patty) Vance, all of Paulding. She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, Tom Vance.

Visitation was at Trinity Lutheran Church in Bryan. Services followed in the church with Rev. Mary Beth Smith-Gunn officiating. Interment was in Maple Grove Cemetery near Hillsdale, Mich.

Memorials are requested to a charity of the donor’s choice.

To sign the online register or to send condolences, please visit www.krillfuneralservice.com

Georgeanna Hahn 1954-2011

ANTWERP – Georgeanna Hahn, age 57, died Sunday, Dec. 25 at the Manor House Assisted Living, Antwerp.

She was born March 15, 1954 in Bay City, Mich., the daughter of Charles R. and Edna (Haslip) Hahn.

She is survived by her mother, Edna Hahn, Defiance; three brothers, Ralph (Karen) Hahn, Defiance, Jack Hahn, Napoleon, and Weldon Hahn, Evansport; a sister, Nancy (Larry) Stoller, Paulding and nieces.

She is preceded in death by her father.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, is handling arrangements.

EMERSON WELLMAN 1927-2011

PAULDING  — Emerson H. Wellman, 84, of Paulding, died Monday, Dec. 26, at the Paulding County Hospital. He retired to go to Heaven.

He was born July 17, 1927, in Defiance, the son of George and Mabel (Hall) Wellman Sr. On July 6, 1985, he married Linda Leslie Wellman, who survives in Paulding.

He was a WWII Navy veteran and was employed by Browns Bakery for 45 years as a driver. He also owned Wellman and Sons Electric and had worked at Stokley.

He was a member of the Paulding V.F.W. #587 and was a driver for the Paulding County Senior Center for 17 years.

He is also survived by four sons, Ron (Sharon) Wellman of Defiance, Rick (Sandy) Wellman of Naples, Fla., Jeff Wellman of Belton, Texas and Gaylord John Proxmire of Paulding; two daughters, Kim (Todd) Kruse of Ridgeville Corners, Ohio and Lisa (Marty) Adams of Oakwood; a brother, Bruce Wellman of Tucson, Ariz.; three sisters, Kathleen Ward of Napoleon, Betty Mansfield of Defiance and Arlene (Pete) Miller of Defiance; 22 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and a great-great grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ladonna G. (Mobley) Wellman who died Jan. 22, 1971, a grandson, two brothers, George Wellman Jr. and Edwin Wellman and a sister, Marilean Schwab.

Services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 30, at Hanenkrath-Clevenger-Schaffer Funeral home in Defiance with the Rev. Larry Grow officiating.

Hours of visitation will be from 2-8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 29, at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Riverview Memory Gardens in Defiance County where the Paulding County V.F.W. #587 will conduct graveside services.

Preferred memorials may be directed to the Paulding County Senior Center.

STEPHANIE LEHMAN 1949-2011

Stephanie Lehman,62, of Grover Hill, died at 8:45 a.m., Monday, Dec. 26, at the Van Wert Manor Nursing Home.

She was born April 6, 1949, in Van Wert, the daughter of Floyd and Goldie (Stahl) Stemen, who both preceded her in death.

She was a homemaker and had attended the Zion United Methodist Church in Grover Hill.

She is survived by a son, Joshua Lehman of Grover hill and a daughter, Jessica (Jason) Gillespie of Lewis Center, Ohio; a sister, Jenny Tobias of Indiana; and two grandchildren, Corbin Lehman and Ava Gillespie.

There will be no calling hours or services at this time.

Preferred memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society.

STEVEN SCHMIDT 1955-2011

PAYNE — Steven J. Schmidt, 56, of Payne, left to join Jesus and his mother, Betty (Axe) Schmidt on Sunday, Dec. 25, at his residence, following a brief illness.

He was born Feb. 17, 1955, in Hicksville, the son of Paul  and Betty (Axe) Schmidt.

He graduated from Wayne Trace High School in May, 1973, joined the U.S. Army in August, 1973 and was honorably  discharged in August, 1976.

He attended Defiance College and  worked at Taylor Made Glass until 1997.  He was currently employed at Pleasant Valley Golf Course and was a published author.

All who knew him remember his generosity and kindness. He was not one to desire attention for things he did for others.  He was a private and quiet man and would help anyone in need.  

He was also a hard worker and dear friend to many.  He was not only a wonderful caring son, but also a very dear brother.

He will be sadly missed by his father, Paul; brothers, Mark (Jo) of Altamonte Springs, Fla., Kim (Robin) of Toledo, David (Helen) of Seymour, Ind., Lynn (Brenda) of Salem, Randy (Kathleen) of Muncie, Ind. and Tyler (Kris Sanders) of Payne; sisters, Nancy (Michael) Hicks of Payne, Julie (James) Schneider of Convoy, Cindy (David) Rahrig of Liberty Center and Heidi (Robert) Simmons of Springport, Ind. and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held  at 10 a.m., Friday, Dec. 30 at Dooley Funeral Home in Payne with Rev. Paul Hamrick officiating with viewing one hour prior to services.

Hours of visitation will be  from 4 to 8 pm, Thursday, Dec. 29, at Dooley Funeral Home, Payne.

Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

LUCILLE SESLAR 1913-2011

ANTWERP — Lucille M. Seslar, 98, of Antwerp,  passed away peacefully Saturday, Dec. 24, at Community Memorial Hospital, Hicksville.

She was born March 30, 1913, in Antwerp, the daughter of the late Ada (Banks) and Julius Horn.  She married Gerald V. Seslar in 1932 and he preceded her in death in 1967.

She was a  loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend.  Lucille also was a homemaker, seamstress and a devout member of the Divine Mercy Catholic Parish and the Rosary Altar Society. She was very well known in her hometown, and was extremely knowledgeable of the historical facts that local newspapers often contacted her for insight.

Lucille was beloved by all who knew her and will be sadly missed by her children, Julene Ott of Hamilton, Ind. and Bart (Vicki) Seslar of Bluffton, Ind.; a sister, Ola (Gene) Hughes of Antwerp; four grandchildren, Eric, Ashley and Brett Seslar and Jacee (Bobby) Franz, six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.  

She was also preceded in death by a sister, Elizabeth (Mike) Horn.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 29, at  the  Divine Mercy Catholic Church in Antwerp.

Hours of visitation will be from 4-7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 28, at Dooley’s  Funeral Home in Antwerp with a vigil service at 7:30 pm. Viewing is also from 9-9:30 a.m., Thursday,  at the funeral home.

Burial will be in the Maumee Cemetery.

Preferred memorials are to the church.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

MABLE SESLAR 1917-2011

PAULDING — Mable E. Seslar, 94, died Friday, Dec. 23, at the Gardens of Paulding.

She was born July 1, 1917 in Oakwood, the daughter of Hershal and Blanche (Harmon) Winner. On July 28, 1938, she married William “Bernard” Seslar, who preceded her in death on May 16, 1988.

She was a member of Paulding United Methodist Church, John Paulding Historical Society, Paulding County Election Board, the Paulding County Hospital Auxiliary, United Methodist Church Women, and Paulding High School Music Mothers.  She was previously employed by the former Burke Shoe Store, DeLaet Shoe Store and Stokley Canning Plant, all of Paulding.

She is survived by a son, James (Mary Ann) Seslar of Gallup, N.M.; two daughters, Betty Jean “Cookie” (Dave) Adolph, Columbus, Ohio and Cindy (Dan) Stuart of Fort Wayne; a sister, Kathleen Cooper of Garrett, Ind.; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death  by two brothers, Basil Winner and infant William Winner.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 31 at the Paulding United Methodist Church with Rev. Ben Lowell officiating.

Hours of visitation will be from 2 - 7 p.m., Friday, Dec. 30, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, and one hour prior to services on Saturday at the church.

Burial will be in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp, OH.

Donations may be made to the Paulding United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

RUSSELL A. GRIMES 1931-2011

NEY — Russell A. Grimes, 80, of Ney died on Thursday, Dec. 22, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. He was born May 1, 1931, in Paulding County, the son of Henry and Marjorie (Johnson) Grimes. On Oct. 4, 1947, he married Imogene Ankney, who survives.

He was employed by the Zellers Corp. for eight years and then retired from General Motors following 25 years of service as a millwright.

He was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church and Local #211. He enjoyed gardening, farming and the outdoors.

Also surviving are three sons, Jeffery (Sue) Grimes of Osseo, Mich., Bruce Grimes of Reno, N.Y. and Rick Grimes of Pioneer; a daughter, Cindy (George) Dix of Ney; two sisters, Rita Langdon of Van Wert and Ramona Shaffer of Sherwood; a brother, Ronald (Carol) Grimes of Sioux Falls, S.D.; 12 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Grimes.

Services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Dec. 30, at the St. John Lutheran Church in Defiance with the Rev. Donald L. Luhring officiating.

Hours of visitation will be from 2-8 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 29 at Mast-Mock-Hoffman Funeral Home and one hour prior to services at the church.

Preferred memorials are to the Wonderly family.

KENNY STALLBAUM 1952-2011

OAKWOOD — Kenny “Silky” L. Stallbaum, 59, died Thursday, Dec. 22 at St. Vincent Hospital, Indianapolis, Ind.

He was born April 30, 1952, in Paulding County, the son of Ray F. and Thais (Bryan) Stallbaum.

On Feb. 8, 1986, he married Diane Carr, who survives.

He was employed by GM Powertrain, Defiance, retiring in 1992. He was a member of Melrose United Methodist Church, UAW #211 and was an avid woodworker and pool player.

He is also survived by his mother, Thais Stallbaum of Paulding; three sons, Trevor Tracy, of Defiance, Troy (Wendy) Tracy, of Continental, and Petty Officer Second Class Paul Stallbaum, United States Navy, Oakwood; a brother, Ted R. Stallbaum of De Land, Fla.; a sister, Sally (Dave) Egler, Defiance and four grandchildren, Bradon, Darion, Carson, and Ashlynn.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ray F. Stallbaum; a twin sister, Kathy Lou Stallbaum in 1953 and sister, Sandra Sue Welch.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27 at Den Herder Funeral Home, with Pastor Eileen Kochensparger officiating.

Visitation will be from 2:30 – 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 26, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, and one hour prior to services on Tuesday.

Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.

Donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

OLAN BIDLACK 1927-2011

OAKWOOD- Olan E. Bidlack, 84, of Oakwood, died at 10:40 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21 at Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

He was born April 18, 1927 in Defiance, the son of Orange and Elsie (Matson) Bidlack. He married Oleta Enders, and they later divorced. She survives in Toledo.

He was an operator at Johns-Manville in Defiance and a farmer. He was a U.S. Army veteran of WWII, a life member of Paulding VFW, a member of Continental American Legion Post #541 and the Defiance Eagles.

He is also survived by his children, David (Sharon) Bidlack, Sr. of Cecil, Rick Bidlack of Defiance, Pam (Jerry) Bronner of Deltona, Fla., and Terry (Karen) Bidlack of Oakwood; a sister, Esther Linebrink of Defiance; eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were two sons, Michael and Randy Bidlack.

Services were held Friday, Dec. 23, at Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Oakwood.

Burial followed in Prairie Chapel Cemetery, Oakwood with military rites conducted by the Continental American Legion.

Condolences may be expressed at www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com

SALLY LORDEN

FORT WAYNE – Sally A. Lorden, 61, of Fort Wayne, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011.

Born in Paulding, Sally had worked at Scotts Grocery Store at Pine Valley.

Surviving are her sons, Micah (Sheri) Fullerton and Derek Fullerton, both of Fort Wayne, and Damian (Deena) Daniels of Massachusetts; a sister, Susan (John) Tinlin of Payne; a brother, Mike (Madge) Cadwallader of Valdese, N.C.; 10 grandchildren; her fiancée, Ron Hunton of Fort Wayne; and six beloved felines.

She was preceded in death by husband, Jim; and parents Raymond and Maxine Cadwallader.

Services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 29 at D.O. McComb and Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 East Dupont Road, with visitation one hour prior. Visitation also from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28 at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home.

To sign the online guest book, go to www.mccombandsons.com.

GEORGE RHONEHOUSE 1935-2011

ANTWERP – George F. Rhonehouse Jr., 76, of Antwerp, passed away Sunday, Dec. 18 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.

He was born Aug. 13, 1935, in Sandusky, the son of the late George F. Sr. and Ruth (Kreimes) Rhonehouse. He served seven years in the U.S. Army Reserves and one year of active duty. On July 20, 1957, he married Joan Zuber, who preceded him in death on April 27, 1996. In 1977, he co-founded Tempered Glass Specialists Antwerp, with his brother Don. George was a member of the Antwerp American Legion Post 253 and the Antwerp United Methodist Church. He always suported his community. He was a named Antwerp Citizen of the Year and then Gem of the Year in 2010. He also had been chairman of the board of the Antwerp Exchange Bank.

Surviving are his children, Jill Ptak and Jeff (Cheryl), both of Antwerp, and Julie (Mike) Hicks of West Granby, Conn.; grandchildren, Brittany, Jennifer Kemerer, Caleb Ptak, Miranda and Ethan Hicks; and siblings, Don of The Villages, Fla., Larry of South Carolina, Darlene Mabis of Edon and Pam Ferguson of Mt. Vernon.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 22 at Antwerp United Methodist Church. Burial will be in Maumee Cemetery. Dooley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Visitation is from 2-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21 at the funeral home and also one hour prior to services on Thursday.

Preferred memorials are to Parkinson Foundation, 1930 North State Route, Oak Harbor OH 43449.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

JOHN “JACK” CARR 1922-2011

ANTWERP – John L. “Jack” Carr, 89, a lifelong resident of Antwerp, passed away Sunday, Dec. 18 while wintering in Lake Placid, Fla.

He was born Sept. 3, 1922. On Dec. 29, 1943, he married Juanita Smitley, who survives. He served 4-1/2 years in the Navy in World War II aboard the USS Augusta. He was a retired 25-year employee of Dana-Weatherhead. He enjoyed hobbies of farming, fishing and old Western movies, and took great pride in the upkeep of his property.

Also surviving are a daughter, Kathy (Bob) Myers, Antwerp; four grandchildren, Lyle Jr. “Butch” of Charloe, Lisa (Bill) Sheets of Hicksville, Ginette Myers of Antwerp and Brian Myers of Montpelier; five great-grandchildren; and a sister, Betty Miller of Las Vegas.

He was preceded in death by a son, Lyle; a brother, Rolland Carr; and a sister, Rama (Carr) Stimpson.

At the request of Mr. Carr, there will be no services. A private family burial will take place at Maumee Cemetery at a later date. Dooley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

S. VERNON RAKES 1947-2011

OAKWOOD – S. Vernon Rakes, 64, of Defiance and formerly of Oakwood, died at 9:55 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17 at the University of Toledo Medical Center.

He was born Nov. 28, 1947 in Big Creek, W.Va. to the late John Sherman and Perlina (Lambert) Rakes. He retired from GM in Defiance. He was a member of Twin Oaks United Methodist Church, Oakwood, and a former member of the Oakwood Fire Dept. He was an avid trap and skeet shooter, liked to fish and was an all around outdoorsman. He enjoyed playing his guitar, bowling and loved his bird, George.

Surviving are four children, Michael (Pearl) Rakes of Sherwood, Richard Rakes of Florida, Tonya (Gary Huss) Fisher of Oakwood and Amanda (Chad Rudder) Rakes of Deshler; 11 grandchildren, Andrew, Ian, Ian, Sasha, Tyler, Garrett, Sophia, Chelsea, Michael, Ronald and Kayla; a sister, Madgie (Cliff) Nally of Defiance; four brothers, Bethel (Wilma) Rakes of Oakwood, and Frank (Virgie) Rakes, Arnold (Linda) Rakes and Ernest (Trudy) Rakes, all of Defiance.

He also was preceded in death by two sisters, Mamie Mullins and Geraldine Rakes; and brothers, Bub, Russell, Tom and Clarence.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, with Pastor Eric Daily officiating. Burial will follow in Prairie Chapel Cemetery, Oakwood.

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20 and one hour prior to services Wednesday at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood.

Preferred memorials may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

Condolences may be expressed at www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com.

CLANCY COOMER 1939-2011

TITUSVILLE, Fla. – Clarence Allen “Clancy” Coomer, 72, formerly of Payne, was called unexpectedly to be with his Heavenly Father Friday, Dec. 16 at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla. Clarence succumbed to complications caused by the sudden onset of Guillain-Barré syndrome.

He was born Nov. 26, 1939, the eldest of 10 children born to Cletus (formerly of Payne, now Titusville) and Alice (Stoller) Coomer. and graduated from Payne High School in 1958, where he was active in track, football, basketball and the band. Clancy attended Huntington College, Indiana University and later worked at International Harvester as a journeyman electrician for 16 years before semi-retiring, purchasing the Garden Park Apartments complex with his wife Glenna (Burry) and moving to Titusville, Fla. in 1975 until the present. He was known as a highly intelligent, religious man with an exceptional sense of humor and lightning quick wit. Known for his keen ability to stretch a dollar, Clancy was also a very generous man who will be sorely missed by those who knew him.

Clarence was preceded in death by his mother, Alice Stoller Coomer (1920-1984) and his youngest brother Dean Z. Coomer (1951-1992)

Surviving are siblings, Jerry (Ardis) of Boyceville, Wis., Merrit (Dolly) and Phillip, both of Fort Wayne, Michael (Lois) of Fond du Lac, Wis., Alice (Ed) Wenninger of Haviland, twins Marilyn (Henry) Bertot of Titusville and Carolyn Coomer of Palm Harbor, Fla. and Janice (Brent) Swanson of Titusville; four children, Brian of Tomah, Wis. and Cletus Mark, Matthew and Denise Byrd, all of Titusville; two stepchildren, Cheri Burry-Kharsah and Michael Burry, both of Titusville; 16 grandsons and 11 granddaughters; and one great-grandchild.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7 at the Park Avenue Baptist Church, Titusville. St. Johns Family Funeral Home, St. Augustine, Fla., is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family or the donors’ favorite charity.

LeROY BAUMERT 1927-2011

PAYNE – LeRoy R. “Whitey” Baumert, 84, of Payne, passed away after a short illness, Friday, Dec. 16 at his residence, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Sept. 29, 1927, in Allen County, Ind., the son Carl and Minerva (Louden) Baumert. On Nov. 28, 1946, he married his wife of 65 years, Nadine Myers, who survives. He retired from at Dana Corp. Auburn, and was a member of St. James Lutheran Church and New Haven Masonic Lodge #740.

Also surviving are three daughters, Kathleen (Gene) Flaugh and Kristine (Gary) Gerardot, both of Payne, and Karen (Jim) Derrow of Auburn; siblings, William of New Haven and Doris Doty of Columbia City; seven grandchildren, Trent and Kiley Flaugh, Kimra Williamson, Andrea Haskins, Ryan and Troy Gerardot and Jessica Riebesehl; and 12 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two siblings, Helen McNeal and Charles Baumert.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20 at St. James Lutheran Church, Payne, with the Rev. Fred Meuter officiating. Burial will be in Lehman Cemetery. Dooley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Visitation will be held from 2-7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19 at the church with Masonic services at 7:30 p.m. Visitation also will be held one hour prior to services on Tuesday.

Preferred memorials are to the church or Paulding Hospice.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

PHYLLIS HANSELMAN 1916-2011

HAILEY, Idaho – Phyllis Hanselman, 95, of Hailey, Idaho, died Saturday, Dec. 11 in St. Lukes Hospital.

She was born June 23, 1916 on her grandfather’s farm near Latty, the daughter of Russell Roscoe and Minnie Maude (Leslie) Lamb. Phyllis and her older sister, Mapha, were excellent students and star basketball players on the Latty High School basketball team. After graduation, Phyllis and Mapha raised a small herd of sheep and saved enough money to set off on a six-week adventure touring the American West by automobile in 1938. Her family treasures an incredibly detailed journal of this and subsequent trips.

On Feb. 29, 1936, she married Edward Alfred Buehler and was widowed soon afterwards in a tragic farm accident. Their daughter, Sandra Sue (Buehler/Hanselman) Errett, was born soon after. On March 2, 1943, Phyllis married Ralph Galen Hanselman of Gooding, Idaho, and together they farmed the Ohio farms while raising three more children, Galen, Sharon and Diane.

On one of their many trips to visit Idaho, Ralph and Phyllis purchased the Ketchum Trailer Park in 1961 and then moved there in 1962 with their three younger children. Ralph managed the trailer park and Phyllis became the local Avon representative, meeting nearly everyone in the 700-person town of Ketchum. They sold the trailer park and retired to Twin Falls, Idaho in the late 1970s. When Ralph passed in 1994, Phyllis relocated to Hailey, Idaho to be closer to her family.

She enjoyed traveling, embroidering, cooking, quilting and playing Deuces Wild slot machines in Jackpot, Nev. At the age of 90, she would frequently drive herself to Jackpot for an afternoon of entertainment. As her eyesight became worse, Galen would fly her to Jackpot to keep her from driving.

Phyllis is survived by her daughters, Sandra Errett, Sharon Isom and Diane Clark; a son, Galen Hanselman; a sister, Mapha Schaadt (age 97 and still farming but not playing basketball quite as much); and her loving and loyal companion, Sugie, her Siamese cat.

She also was preceded in death by a sister, Harriet Straley.

A private graveside service was held Saturday, Dec. 17 at the Ketchum Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at the Wood River Inn. Wendy Collins presided over the graveside service.

In lieu of flowers or donations, do something nice for someone.

EDNA SITTON 1918-2011

BATON ROUGE, La. – Former Paulding resident Edna M. Sitton, age 93, died Saturday, Dec. 10 at the Ochsner Medical Center, Baton Rouge.

She was born July 19, 1918 in Dayton, the daughter of Claude and Irene (Joyce) Smith. On Sept. 8, 1945, she married William M. Sitton Sr., who preceded her in death on Jan. 21, 1994. She retired from the former Hometown Nursing Home, Paulding. She was a member of the Paulding Church of the Nazarene.

She is survived by two sons, William M. Sitton Jr., Baton Rouge, and John F. Sitton, Indiana, Pa.; two daughters, Irene Duffany of Portsmouth and Elizabeth (Edward) Hopkins, Baton Rouge; 14 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She also was preceded in death by a son, Charles Sitton; three brothers, Edward, Ray and Robert Smith; and three sisters, Erma Sitton, Kathryn Long and Elnora Wilhelm.

Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17 Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with the Rev. Kim Semran officiating. Burial will be in Rochester Cemetery, Cecil.

Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 at the funeral home, and one hour prior to services on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com.

HAROLD SWEET 1929-2011

WOODBURN – Harold “Junior” Sweet, 82, of Woodburn, passed away Monday, Dec. 12 at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne.

He was born Aug. 10, 1929, in Antwerp, the son of Harold Ray and Mildred (Rupert) Sweet. He served in the U.S. Army in the Korean War, was a member of the New Haven VFW and retired from Woodburn Diamond Die. On May 4, 1963, Junior married Elaine Russwinkle, who survives. He was an avid fisherman.

Also surviving are a daughter, Cheryl (Bill) Walker of Hulen, Ky.; a granddaughter, Brittanie Walker; and siblings, Wayne Sweet and Phyllis Timbrook, both of Hicksville, Shirley Myer of Fort Wayne and Bonnie Walton of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by seven siblings.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp. Burial will be in Scipio Cemetery.

Visitation is from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15 at the funeral home and one hour prior to services on Friday.

Preferred memorials are to the Woodburn Food Bank.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

EDNA FOWLER 1930-2011

PAYNE – Edna L. Wannemacher Fowler, 81, of Payne, passed away Thursday, Dec. 8 at her residence.

She was born April 28, 1930 in Paulding and raised in McGill, the daughter of Samuel and Lillian (Johnson) Harris. On May 20, 1949, she married Alphons Wannemacher Jr., who died Dec. 16, 1969. On Jan. 26, 1974, she married Lester Fowler, who survives. She was a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, the Evening Stars Study Club, the Town and Country Club and the Payne Grange. She worked at the title office in Paulding and the Farm Bureau and Nationwide Insurance under Carl Ankney and Jim Hooker. She also wrote for the Paulding Progress and Antwerp Bee Argus.

Also surviving are her children, Judith (Larry) Hammons of Fort Wayne, Jane (James) Collis of Payne and Michael (Lynette) Fowler, Debra Thompson, Kevin (Diana) Fowler and Bruce (Lisa) Fowler, all of Columbus; a sister, Kathryn Harries of Fort Wayne; 14 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

She also was preceded in death by three sons, Allan Joe, Byron and Myron Wannemacher; and two brothers, Leonard and Wesley Ward Harris.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13 at Divine Mercy Catholic Church, Payne, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation is from 2-8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 12 and from 9-9:30 a.m. Tuesday at Dooley Funeral Home, Payne. The rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials are to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation or American Cancer Society.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

LINDA SCARBROUGH 1937-2011

LEWIS CENTER – Linda Ann Lease Scarbrough, 74, of Lewis Center, passed away peacefully Thursday morning, Dec. 8, at her residence.

She was born Sept. 4, 1937 in Columbus, the daughter of Jean and Dallas Lease. She was a member of the Liberty Presbyterian Church and was an avid gardener who loved to travel and spend time with all her family.

She is surviving by her husband, Tom Rees; sons, Jeffrey Rand “Randy” Scarbrough of Centerburg and Gary Scarbrough of Dublin; a daughter, Gina Heller of Delaware; granddaughters, Jennifer (Josh) Schultz, Amy (Adam) Burke and Mackenzie Heller; a grandson, Bryce Heller; an aunt, Kathleen Winter of Ormond Beach, Fla.; and a cousin, Ruth Ellen Brown of Columbus.

She was preceded in death by her husband, E. Gene Scarbrough.

The family will receive friends from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11 at Rodman Neeper Funeral Home in Delaware.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 12 at Liberty Presbyterian Church in Delaware with Pastor Becky Hart officiating. Family graveside services will be held at the Hale Cemetery in Mount Victory.

Preferred memorials are to HomeReach Hospice.

MARCELLENE NOLL 1933-2011

ANTWERP – Marcellene L. Noll, 78, of Antwerp, passed away Tuesday, Dec. 6 at Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center.

She was born March 31, 1933 in Antwerp, the daughter of the late George and May (Hissong) Elliott. She was a 1951 graduate Antwerp High School. On June 30, 1956, she married Jerry Noll, who preceded her in death on Sept. 19, 2006. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Antwerp, the Chamber of Commerce, the Antwerp and Hicksville Community Theater, the Eastern Star and the advisory board for the Manor House. She also had been active in Scouting.

She worked at Hardware Wholesalers, North American Van Lines and was a corespondent for the Antwerp Bee Argus, the Paulding Progress and the Defiance Crescent. She retired in 1999 from the Antwerp Local School, where she started as a reading aide in 1974. She was instrumental in building the first computer lab and the long distance learning program at the school.

Surviving are her children, Cheri (Mike) Oxender of Napoleon, Evan (Laura) of LaPorte, Ind. and Mark of Indianapolis; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Also preceding her in death were her brothers, Norbert, Gilbert and Elmo Elliott.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 at First Presbyterian Church of Antwerp with Pastor Mike Pennington officiating. Burial will be in Maumee Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp. Visitation also will be held one hour prior to services on Saturday at the church.

Preferred memorials are to Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center.

Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

JESSIE BRANHAM 1958-2011

OAKWOOD – Jessie Branham, 53, of Oakwood, died Saturday afternoon, Dec. 3 at his residence.

He was born May 4, 1958 in Pikeville, Ky., the son of the late Denver and Creedy (Ratliff) Branham. On June 24, 2008, he married Mary Ann Steffes, who survives.

Also surviving are three stepchildren, Dakota Valdez and Christina Valdez, both of Paulding, and Alysha Valdez of Defiance; two brothers, Richard Branham Sr. of Continental and Denny Branham of Pleasant Bend; and five sisters, Brenda McBride of Continental, Marie Budd of Oakwood, and Loretta Butcher, Marjorie Branham and Darla Conley, all of Defiance.

A sister, Lois Branham-Moore, also preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, with the Rev. Bobby Branham officiating. Burial will follow in Sherman Cemetery, Oakwood.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service on Thursday.

Condolences may be sent to www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com