HELEN BOTT
1911-2005
HICKSVILLE — Helen V. Bott, 93, formerly of Defiance, died at 1:08 a.m. Saturday, Jan 1, at the Community Memorial Hospital in Hicksville.
She was born Feb. 28, 1911, in Defiance County, the daughter of Homer and Samantha (Venis) Walters. In 1930, she married Isadore P. Bott, who preceded her in death in 1984. She was a homemaker and a member of the St. John Catholic Church in Defiance and St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Hicksville, and a member of the Rosary Altar Society of both churches.
Surviving are a son, Raymond L. Bott of Defiance; two daughters, Catherine (John) Meyer of Antwerp and Alice (Robert) Breidenbaugh of Hicksville; 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; 10 stepgrandchildren; 32 great-stepgrandchildren; and 16 great-great-stepgrandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were a son, Clarence Bott; one great-grandchild; one great-stepgrandchild; one great-great-stepgrandchild; two brothers, Don and Burt Walters; and a sister, Edna Moore.
Services were held Tuesday, Jan. 4, at St. John Catholic Church in Defiance, with Father Thomas Oedy officiating. Burial was in the Riverview Memory Gardens in Defiance. Mast-Mock Hoffman handled the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society or the Osteoporosis Foundation.

GENEVIEVE BURNETT
1910-2005
FINDLAY – Genevieve R. Burnett, 94, died Saturday, Jan. 1, in Findlay.
She was born April 12, 1910 in Van Wert, the daughter of Elmer O. and Addie (Potter) Riffle. On Sept. 1, 1938, she married Walter W. Burnett, who preceded her in death in 1975. She graduated from International Business College in Fort Wayne. She worked as a secretary at Donnell Junior High School and as financial secretary at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church. She was a long time member of St. Andrews, Martha Circle and the Wesley Sunday School class. She especially enjoyed the fellowship of those groups and of the various bridge groups with whom she played in recent years.
The family wishes to recognize the staff at Taylor House for the care and attention given to Genevieve during her residence there and also to Bridge Home Health and Hospice for the care she received in recent weeks.
She is survived by her two beloved sons, Robert of Farmington, Conn. and David of Grand Ledge, Mich.; grandchildren, Angela and Stephanie, both of Washington, D.C., Amanda, Tracy, Robert, and Travis of Michigan; and a great-granddaughter, Anna Rose.
Also preceding her in death were two sisters, Leah Riffle and Pauline Eaton Otey.
Services were held Tuesday, Jan. 4, at the Kirkpatrick-Behnke Funeral Home. Burial was in the Maple Grove Cemetery.
Memorials in lieu of flowers may be sent to St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, 120 West Sandusky, Findlay, Ohio, 45840.

EDWIN GERMANN
1935-2004
OAKWOOD — Edwin A. Germann, 69, of Oakwood, died at 1:50 a.m. Friday, Dec. 31, at his residence.
He was born Feb. 10, 1935, in Van Wert, the son of Frederick and Mildred Germann. On Nov. 21, 1954, he married Marguerite Burcaw, who survives. He retired from B.F. Goodrich in 1996, following 36 years of service, and was a retired farmer. He was a member of the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Paulding, and the men’s club of the church. He was also a member of U.S.W.A. Local #715, Flat Rock Creek Gas/Steam Engine Association, Big Boys Toys Car Club, and the F.O.E. #2556 of Hicksville.
Also surviving are a daughter, Debra (Doug) Hawkey of Hicksville; a son, Dean (Cheryl) Germann of Oakwood; four brothers, Al (Carol) Germann and Herman (Mary) Germann, both of Convoy, Gerald (Dorothy) Germann of Scott, and Clifford (Teresa) Germann of Wren; three sisters, Hannah (Jim) Jerome of Phoenix, Lora (Larry) Brothers of Zanesville, Ind., and Donna (Rev. Herbert) Gerken of Fort Wayne; and two grandchildren, Jason Germann of Continental and Angela Hawkey of Hicksville.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a grandson, D.J. Hawkey.
Services were held Tuesday Jan. 4, at the St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Paulding, with the Rev. Mary Beth Smith-Webb officiating. Burial was in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to Hospice of Defiance County or St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church.

NED BECK
1929-2005
HICKSVILLE — Ned Beck, 75, of Hicksville died Sunday, Jan. 2, at his residence.
He was born July 4, 1929, in Paulding, the son of Harry and Runetta (Gorman) Beck. He was a 1947 graduate of Hicksville High School. On Aug. 25, 1951, he married Eloise Voght, who survives in Hicksville. He was the owner of Beck’s Bakery from 1957-1967. He retired from the Paulding School system’s maintenance and custodial department. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.
Also surviving are two sons, Stephen (Lori) of Carmel, Ind. and Joseph (Keri) of Alpharetta, Ga.; six grandchildren, Andrew, Travis, Aubrey, Samuel, Sarah and Jordan; and two great-grandchildren, Alexandra and Brianna.
He was preceded in death by six brothers, Earl, Darl, Virgil, Bob, Kenny and Raymond.
Services will be held at 2:30 p.m. today, Jan. 5, at Brown Funeral Home in Hicksville. Burial will be in the Six Corners Cemetery with Clarence Zimmerman officiating.
Preferred memorials are to the Crippled Children and Adult Society.

LEC BUEHLER
PAULDING – Leslie R. “Lec” Buehler, 77, died Monday, Jan. 10. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn. Arrangements are pending at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding.

CARL CARIS
1915-2004
GROVER HILL — Carl F. “Cy” Caris, 89, went to be with the Lord at 2:05 p.m. Friday, Dec. 31, at Van Crest Healthcare Center in Van Wert, where he had been a resident for two days.
He was born Sept. 15, 1915, in rural Haviland, the son of Clark and Ella (Glaze) Caris. On Sept. 28, 1940, he married Catharine Caris, who survives. He retired from the former Continental Can Corp. in Van Wert, following 36 years of service. He was affiliated with the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church of Grover Hill and had attended the former Bethel Methodist Church in Grover Hill. He had worked on the construction of Baer Field Airport in Fort Wayne and was the owner of the former Grover Hill Restaurant. He enjoyed lawn care and was an avid sports fan.
Also surviving are two sons, James (Kay) Caris and Terry Caris, both of Paulding; five grandchildren, Karen Caris of Paulding, Sharon (David) Arens of Sherwood, Bruce (Cheryl) Caris of Sherwood, James (Angie) Caris and Brian (Susan) Caris, all of Fort Wayne; and two great-grandchildren, Madison and Bailey Caris; a sister, Elizabeth Hammond of Van Wert; and a brother-in-law, Furl Sanderson of Van Wert. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather.
Preceding him in death were two sisters, Esther Dunlap and Dola Sanderson; and three brothers, Joel, Virgil and Dana Caris.
Services were held Jan. 5, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. Paul Miller officiating. Burial was in the Middle Creek Cemetery in Grover Hill.
Preferred memorials are to the Paulding Area Visiting Nurses, Grover Hill EMS, Mt. Zion United Methodist Church or the donor’s choice.
The preceding is being reprinted due to errors in information from the funeral home.

ZEB
DeLONG
1925-2005
ANTWERP — Zeb DeLong, 79, of Antwerp, passed away peacefully at 3:03 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 6 at Community Memorial Hospital in Hicksville.
He was born July 12, 1925, in Edon, the son of Arthur C. and Hazel (Marlin) DeLong. On Nov. 13, 1948, he married Janet C. (Friend) DeLong, who survives. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII, worked as a supervisor at Phelps Dodge in Fort Wayne, and was a member of the Antwerp VFW Post 5087 and the Antwerp American Legion Post #253.
He will be sadly missed by his wife; two daughters, Lana Peters and Gina Phlipot, both of Antwerp; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Cletus, Glenn and Carl DeLong; and a sister, Viola Gorrell.
Services were held Saturday, Jan. 8, at Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp, with the Rev. Jim Edwards officiating. He was laid to rest at the Maumee Cemetery in Antwerp with military honors.
Preferred memorials are to the donor’s choice.
You may send on-line condolences to www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

MARTA DUNDERMAN
1961-2005
DEFIANCE — Marta Jan Dunderman, 43, of Defiance, died Saturday, Jan. 1, 2005. Dooley Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

HELEN ENGLISH
1920-2005
MELROSE — Helen O. English died at 2:45 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 4, at the Paulding County Hospital.
She was born Oct. 8, 1920, in Dupont, the daughter of Henry and Ila (Coble) Ladd. She was a homemaker.
Surviving are a son, Rick (Margaret) English of Paulding; two daughters, Anna Liffick of Paulding and Betty English of Defiance; a brother, Paul Ladd of Grover Hill; 16 grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Preceding her in death were her husband, Riley English; and two sons, Richard and Ray English.
Services were held Saturday, Jan. 8, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. Bob Parker officiating. Burial was in the Prairie Chapel Cemetery in Oakwood.
Preferred memorials are to the Helen O. English family.

NELLIE GREER
1910-2005
PAULDING — Nellie V. Greer, 94, died Friday, Jan. 7 at the Convoy Care Center in Convoy, Ohio.
She was born Feb. 18, 1910. The Allen County, Ind. native had resided in Paulding for the past 50 years. She retired from Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, following 15 years of service.
Surviving are cousins, Jeannette Lortie, Mary Jane Reuille, Sharon Savieo, James Hake, and Nancy and Russ Leach; and good friends, Jo and Monte Hoover, Patricia Bryan and Sonia Peeper.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Greer.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Jan. 11, at E. Harper and Son Funeral Home in New Haven. Burial was in the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in New Haven.
Preferred memorials are to the First Presbyterian Church in Paulding or to the John Paulding Historical Society.

SAMUEL STORK SR.
1933-2005
COLUMBIA, Tenn. — Samuel G. Stork Sr., 71, of Columbia, Tenn. died Sunday, Jan. 9.
Mast-Mock-Hoffman are in charge of the arrangements.

STEVEN ADAMS
1966-2005
DEFIANCE — Steven L. Miller, 38, of Defiance, died at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 12, at the Defiance Regional Medical Center, from injuries sustained in a car crash.
He was born born Oct. 21, 1966, in Marshall, Mich., the son of Jim and Janice (Ray) Adams. On May 9, 1992, he married Lisa Townley, who survives. He had been employed at Defiance Metal Products for six years as a tool and die coordinator. He coached Little League baseball, football, basketball, YMCA soccer, and was assistant den leader for WEBELOS II Cub Scout Pack 75.
Also surviving are two sons, Kyle and A.J. Adams, both at home; his parents, Jim and Sue Adams of Defiance and Leon and Janice Walters of Sidney, Ky.; three brothers, Mike of Middletown, Ohio and Brian and Bob Adams, both of Defiance; a stepsister, Sandi (Brian) Kirkendall of Napoleon; and three stepbrothers, Mike (Catrina) Schramm of McClure, Joseph Walters of Sidney, Ky., and Eric Walters of Rogersville, Tenn.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Myron James Adams.
Services were held Saturday, Jan. 15, at Mast-Mock-Hoffman Funeral Home in Defiance, with the Rev. Keith Hunsinger officiating. Burial was in the Riverside Cemetery in Defiance.
Preferred memorials are to the family.

LEC
BUEHLER
1927-2005
PAULDING — Leslie R. “Lec” Buehler, 77, of Paulding, died at 12:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 10, at the Laurels of Defiance in Defiance.
He was born Aug. 7, 1927, in Haviland, the son of Alfred and Bertha (Haefli) Buehler. On Sept. 19, 1948, he married Marilyn J. Moore, who survives in Paulding. He was a veteran of the Coast Guard and was employed by the Lafarge Cement Co., retiring in 1989, following 23 years of service. He was a member of the First Christian Church in Paulding and a life member of the VFW Post #587.
Also surviving are a daughter, Laurel (Doff) Procter of Tuscaloosa, Ala.; a sister, Clare Lanz of Payne; a son-in-law, John Joyce of Bryan; three granddaughters, Leslie, Christina and Jessica Procter, all of Tuscaloosa; a stepgrandson, Scott Joyce of Dallas; a step granddaughter, Kyra King of Colony, Texas; and a great-stepgrandson, Johnathon King, also of Dallas.
Preceding him in death were a daughter, Holly Joyce; two brothers, Charles and Edward; and a sister, Esther Stoller.
Services were held Friday, Jan. 14, at the First Christian Church in Paulding with the Rev. David Carr officiating. Burial was in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Paulding County, with military graveside services. DenHerder Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the First Christian Church in Paulding.

ANGELA GLANDER
1945-2005
EDGERTON, Ohio — Angela L. Glander, 59, of Edgerton, Ohio, died Sunday, Jan. 16 at her residence following a lengthy illness.
She was born July 23, 1945, in Hicksville, the daughter of William and Lula (Slaughter) Miller. On July 12, 1997, she married Greg Glander, who survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Michelle (Blace) Glander of Edgerton and Sheila Abreu of Palm Arbor, Fla.; a stepson, Greg Glander Jr. of Grover Hill; a stepdaughter, Lisa (Mitchell) Maroney of Grover Hill; two grandchildren, Michael Sebastian of Edgerton and Joseph Prince of Edon; two stepgrandchildren, Bailey and Corbin Maroney of Grover Hill; her stepmother, Phillis Miller of Bryan; three brothers, Bill (Lynn) Miller of Edon, Dennis “Dink” (Sue) Miller of Montpelier and Toby Miller of Bryan; and four sisters, Bobbie Miller and Wardena (William) Johnson, both of Bryan, Vernetta (Delbert) Backus of Columbus and Phillis (Joe) Daughtery of Texas.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Services will be held at 7 p.m. today, Jan. 19, at the Oberlin-Ford Funeral Home in Bryan with Pastor Mark Holbrook officiating. Burial will be at a later date.
Visitation from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. today.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the hospice program of Community Hospitals and Wellness Centers.
Condolences may be sent via email to the family or the on-line guest book may be signed at www.oberlin-ford.com.

CHARLES HOFACKER
1927-2005
CECIL — Charles Junior Hofacker, 77, died Wednesday, Jan. 1, in Thornton, Colo.
He was born May 23, 1927, in Broughton, the son of Charles E. and Iva (Taylor) Hofacker. On June 25, 1949, he married Betty Jane Ringger, who survives. He was employed as a maintenance man for the former Grizzly Corporation of Paulding for 33 years and was also engaged in farming. He was an active member of the United Auto Workers labor union, serving as local president for a number of years. He also was an active member of the Rose Hill Church of God for 47 years.
Also surviving are a daughter, Mary (Rev. Sam) Dunbar of St. Louis, Mich.; three sons, Eugene of Wellington, Colo., Dennis (Lori Lyons) of Thornton, Colo. and Ronald of Defiance; three grandchildren, Nathan, Jenny and Ben Dunbar; five brothers, Royal (Janet) of Defiance, Luther (Delores) of Napoleon, Gerald (Shari) of Bluffton, Ohio, Bill (Vi) of Scott, Ohio, and Ray (Nancy) Hofacker of Van Wert; and three sisters, Helen (Ed) Yeutter of Defiance, Betty (Bill) Bumbalough of Fruitland Park, Fla. and Ilo (Lloyd) Marvin of Van Wert.
Preceding him in death were two sisters, Rebecca Miracle and Tabitna Burt; and a daughter-in-law, Karen Hofacker.
Services were held Friday, Jan. 7, at the Rose Hill Church of God, Paulding, with Pastor Tim Hauenstein and Pastor Sam Dunbar officiating. Burial was in Live Oak Cemetery, Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Rose Hill Church of God.

MAX
JOHNSTON SR.
1938-2005
CECIL — Max L. Johnston Sr., 66, of Cecil, died Friday, Jan. 14. Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp was in charge of the arrangements.

GENEVA PHIPPS
1932-2005
NEW BAVARIA — Geneva “Nebo” Phipps, 72, of New Bavaria, died at 8:12 p.m. Friday, Jan. 14, at the Toledo Hospital.
She was born Sept. 11, 1932, in Rockhouse, Ky., the daughter of Paul and Vallie (Rowe) Cantrell. On May 11, 1948, she married Raymond Phipps, who survives in New Bavaria. She was retired from the Campbell’s Soup Company in Napoleon, following over 30 years of service. She was a member of the Pleasant View Baptist Church in Junction and a member of the Continental Eastern Star Chapter 129.
Also surviving are three sons, Steve (Rachel) Phipps of Holgate, and Jim (Guavana) Phipps and Dana Phipps, both of Defiance; five daughters, Barbara (Delbert) Densmore of Defiance, Theresa Phipps of New Bavaria, and Rhonda (Doug) Rau, Vaughnda (Darin) Prowant and Diane (Les) Bok, all of Continental; one brother, Kenneth Cantrell of Defiance; two sisters, Alda McCurry of Peyton Creek, Ky. and Sharon Ramey of Rockhouse, Ky.; 18 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Patsy Phipps; a brother, Charles Cantrell; and two sisters, Juanita Coleman and Ann Branham.
Services were held Tuesday, Jan. 18, at the Second Baptist Church in Defiance, with Pastor Max Begley and the Rev. Terry Brock officiating. A special service was held Jan. 17 by the Continental Eastern Star. Burial was in Myers Cemetery in Highland Township. Heitmeyer Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Highland Township Fire Department or the Second Baptist Church.

JERRY
WILLIAMSON
1948-2005
PAULDING — Jerry S. Williamson, 56, of Paulding, died at 7:13 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 15 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He was born Sept. 21, 1948, in Fort Wayne, the son of Clyde and Marie (Barfield) Neal Williamson. He served in the U.S. Army. On April 15, 1972, he married Connie Craig, who survives in Paulding. He retired from GM Powertrain following many years of service. He was a member of the Paulding VFW Post 587 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, and enjoyed playing golf and pool.
Also surviving are four daughters, Patsy Williamson, Beth Matthews and Terry Hunt, all of Paulding, and Brenda Ross of Cecil; a sister, Cindy Bennett of Paulding; a brother, Jim Williamson of Green Up, Ky.; and six grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Kate; and two brothers, Pert and Steve.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 20, at Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp, with the Rev. Melvina Baxter officiating. He will be laid to rest at Paulding Memorial Cemetery in Paulding.
Visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. today, Jan. 19, with an Eagles service at 7 p.m. Visitation also will be held one hour prior to services at Dooley Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be sent to www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

DOROTHY ADAMS
1912-2005
VAN WERT — Dorothy A. Adams, 92, of Van Wert, died Tuesday, Jan. 18. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

BETTY BEVERLY
1932-2005
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Betty Jean Beverly, 72, died at 8 p.m. Monday, Jan. 17, at Good Shepherd Hospice Center in Auburndale, Fla.
She was born May 21, 1932, in Paulding County, the daughter of James and Leona (Brown) Pryor. On Oct. 20, 1973, she married William R. Beverly, who survives. She retired from Paulding-Putnam Electric Co-op in 1993, following 31 years of service. She was a member of the VFW Post 578 Women’s Auxiliary.
Also surviving are five sons, Kevin (Cathy) Eitniear of Oakwood, Rick (Rosanna) Eitniear of Las Vegas, Bill Beverly of Tampa, Fla., Dean Beverly of Sturgis, Mich., and Jim Beverly of Brooksville, Fla.; a sister, Yvonne Jackson of Lake Alfred, Fla.; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Preceding her in death were her parents; and a brother, Harold Pryor.
Services were held Saturday, Jan. 22, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. Stan Harmon officiating. Burial was in the St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.
Preferred memorials are to the Hospice of Auburndale, Fla. or to Gideon’s International.

MATTHEW EDDY
1982-2005
NEW ALBANY, Ohio — Matthew L. Eddy, 22, of New Albany, formerly of Grover Hill, died Friday, Jan. 21, in Logan, Ohio.
He was born March 3, 1982, in Van Wert, the son of Mark W. and Karen M. (Bauer) Eddy of Grover Hill, who survive. He was a 2000 graduate of Wayne Trace High School and a 2004 graduate of Ohio State University. He was the office administrator for Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow in Columbus. He attended the North Baptist Church in Columbus.
Also surviving are two brothers, Benjamin Eddy and Aaron Eddy, both of Grover Hill; his maternal grandfather and stepgrandmother, Arthur and Jeannie Bauer of Van Wert; paternal grandparents, Lloyd and Lois Eddy of Grover Hill; and aunts and uncles, Bruce (Pamela) Bauer, Beth (Scott) Wilson, Kent (Pam) Eddy, Marcia (John) Laukhuf, and David Eddy.
He was preceded in death by a grandmother, Gloria Bauer; and an uncle, Robert Eddy.
Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Jan. 26, at the Mt. Pleasant Church in Van Wert County, with the Rev. Phil Mercer officiating. Burial will be in the Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert is handling the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Mt. Pleasant Church.

LUCILLE KEEZER
1938-2005
DEFIANCE – Lucille A. Keezer, 66, of Defiance, died at 3:40 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 20, at her residence.
She was born Feb. 24, 1938, in Defiance County, the daughter of William Fred and Mazie (Kern) Theis. On Oct. 30, 1954, she married Rex Keezer, who preceded her in death Nov. 16, 2002. She was employed at the former Zeller Corporation in Defiance, retiring in 1995, following 32 years of service.
Surviving are three sons, Jerry Keezer of Junction, Dennis Keezer of Defiance, and Paul (Angie) Keezer of Antwerp; three daughters, Nancy Keezer of Antwerp, Judy (Sammie) Jones of Cecil, and Marie (Mark) Coressel of Defiance; a brother, Roger Theis of Cecil; four sisters, Marjorie Singer of Oakwood, Patsy Palmer of Hodges, Ala., Dorothy (Dean) Reed of Paulding, and Valera (Richard) Beair of Lima; 17 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were her parents; three brothers, Orville, Kenneth and Arnold Theis; and a granddaughter, Amy Keezer.
Services were held Monday, Jan. 24, at the Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with Pastor Robert Merriman officiating. Burial was in Sherman Cemetery in Oakwood.
Preferred memorials are to the Paulding County Area Visiting Nurses/Hospice.

DORITA LYNCH
1937-2005
TUCSON, Ariz. — Dorita Lynch, 67, of Tucson, died Jan. 20. Smith & Brown Funeral Home in Hicksville was in charge of the arrangements.

CHARLES
PEPPER
1926-2005
PAULDING — Charles J. Pepper, 78, of Paulding, died at 9:10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 21, at St. Joseph Hospital in Fort Wayne.
He was born July 18, 1926, in Paducah, Texas, the son of Glen and Laura (Johnson) Pepper. On Oct. 7, 1951, he married Wilma D. Morris, who survives in Paulding. He was employed as a foreman by Lafarge of Paulding, retiring in 1988, following 35 years of service. He was a WWII U.S. Army Air Force veteran, a member of the Paulding United Methodist Church and the Masonic Lodge of Sherwood.
Also surviving are a daughter, Mary (Michael) Hohenberger of Paulding; three sons, Robert Pepper and Richard (Elizabeth) Pepper, both of Paulding, and James Pepper of Indianapolis; a brother, Claude (Jane) Pepper of Big Rapids, Mich.; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by an infant son, Michael Pepper; and an infant sister.
Services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 28, at DenHerder Funeral Home, with the Rev. Jack Berry officiating.
Visitation will be from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 28, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding.
Memorials may be made to the Paulding County Hospital Foundation.

GEORGE SLADE
1936-2005
PAYNE — George W. Slade, 68, of Payne, died at 2:40 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 18, at Paulding County Hospital.
He was born Sept. 22, 1936, in Cincinnati, the son of George and Sylvia (Wilson) Slade. On Dec. 22, 1962, he married Dorothy Alice Wittes, who survives in Payne. He attended the Miami University at Oxford, Ohio, and attended the Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science.
He was the owner-operator of Slade Funeral Home Inc. in Payne for 32 years, retiring in 2004, and Slade Ambulance Service from 1962-1972, and was responsible for the development of the Payne EMS. He was a U.S. Army veteran, a member of the St. Jacob United Church of Christ in Payne, Ohio Funeral Directors Association, National Funeral Directors Association, Paulding County Hospital Board, chairman of the Paulding County Board of Elections from 1984-2004, American Legion Post 297, where he was a past commander, Paulding VFW Post 587, and the AMVETS Post 72 in Payne. He belonged to the Flat Rock Masonic Lodge 580, where he was a past master, a former member of the city council of Payne, and a member of Payne Fire Department and Payne EMS.
Also surviving are two sons, Kenneth (Angie) Slade of Payne and Robert Slade of Ossian, Ind.; a daughter, Kayla (Craig) Miller of Grover Hill; and four grandchildren, Luke, Reid and Elise Miller of Grover Hill, and Korbin Slade of Payne.
Services were held Friday, Jan. 21, at the St. Jacob United Church of Christ in Payne, with Pastor Jim Langham and Pastor Joe Allen officiating. Burial was in Lehman Cemetery in Payne, where American Legion Post 297 conducted military graveside services.
The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorial contributions be made to the Payne EMS or the American Legion Post 297, or to the Buckeye Boys and Girls Fund.

BETTY STEINER
1925-2005
DECATUR, Ind. — Betty J. Steiner, 79, of Decatur, died at 4:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22, at her residence, following an extended illness.
She was born May 17, 1925, in Antwerp, the daughter of Frank and Madonna (McCurdy) Wilson. On June 26, 1948, she married DeWayne Steiner, who survives in Decatur. She was a longtime active member of the Decatur Church of God, where she taught Sunday School for 48 years, and was the greeting coordinator for many years. She was secretary of the Decatur Church of God in the 1950s to 1960s. She was also a secretary at Blue Flame Gas, prior to owning and operating Country Craft and Gift for 30 years. She has been retired for the past two years.
Also surviving are a son, Jerry L. Steiner of Decatur; a daughter, Terri S. Harrison of Long Island, N.Y.; a sister, Ruth Deventer of Antwerp; two grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. today, Jan. 26, at the Decatur Church of God, with Dr. Robert Brink and Pastor Sandy Hildebrand officiating. Burial will be in the Decatur Cemetery. Zwick and Jahn Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Children’s Ministry at the Decatur Church of God.
To sign the online guest book visit www.zwickjahn.com.

MARY WALDRON
1931-2005
HICKSVILLE — Mary L. Waldron, 73, died Wednesday, Jan. 19, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne.
She was born Oct. 5, 1931, in Scott, the daughter of George Henry and Ella Mae (Moyer) Stuttler. She graduated from Paulding High School in 1950. On Oct. 7, 1950, she married Merle Waldron Sr., who preceded her in death in 2002. She was a lifelong homemaker.
Surviving are six daughters, Sandra Dove, Pamela Fraley, Debra (James) Mellon and Roxanna (Todd) Snyder, all of Hicksville, Barbara (Gordon) Smith of Spencerville, Ind. and Patricia (Douglas) Wyse of Archbold; two sons, Michael Waldron and Merle (Barbara) Waldron Jr. of Hicksville; 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren: two stepgrandchildren; two sisters, Joyce Kimmel of Scott and Annette Huffine of Van Wert; a half-sister, Bonnie Harmon of Bryan; and three half-brothers, Arthur Yochum of Hicksville, Frank Yochum of Defiance and Ernest Yochum.
Also preceding her in death were a sister, Ida Yoh; two brothers, Henry George Stuttler and Raymond Joel Stuttler; and two great-grandchildren.
Services were held Saturday, Jan. 22, at Smith & Brown Funeral Home in Hicksville with Pastor Robert Knapp officiating. Burial was in the Bethel Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to the family.

VIRGINIA ZUMBERGE
1924-2005
CELINA — Virginia Loree Zumberge, 80, of Celina, died Thursday, Jan. 20. W.H. Dick and Sons of Celina was in charge of the arrangements.

JAMES CRAMPTON
1927-2005
HOLGATE — James Junior Crampton, 77, of Holgate, died Tuesday, Jan. 25. Snyder Funeral Home, Holgate, was in charge of the arrangements.

WALTER
MONROE
1946-2005
PAULDING — Walter Eugene Monroe, 58, died at 2:10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 31, at Paulding County Hospital.
He was born Sept. 11, 1946, in Paulding County, the son of James D. and Mary Lou (Bradford) Monroe. On Dec. 12, 1976, he married Cathleen Y. Hartwig, who survives. He was a member of the Ohio National Guard, and was employed by Uniroyal-Goodrich in Woodburn, retiring in 1998.
Also surviving are two brothers, James “Buck” Monroe and Albert (Mary) Monroe, both of Paulding; four sisters, Iva Mae “Ivy” Garver, Almalee (Danny) Riggenbach and Kathryn Pauline (Russell) Parrish, all of Paulding, and Wilma (James) Ashcraft, Fort Wayne; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and an infant brother, Jerry.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3, at Paulding Church of the Nazarene. Burial will be in Wiltsie Cemetery, Payne.
Visitation will be 2-9 p.m. today, Feb. 2, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

MITCHEL NELSON
1971-2005
BRYAN – Mitchel E. Nelson, 33 years, of Bryan, and a former lifelong resident of Paulding, died Saturday, Jan. 29, at Lima Memorial Hospital.
He was born on Nov. 29, 1971, in Paulding, the son of Hubert E. and Joyce M. (Fleming) Nelson. He was a painter, working for Steve Reiff Painting in Antwerp and also Kincaid Painting in Oakwood. He was a recent graduate of Michiana College, Fort Wayne, with a degree in computer programing.
Surviving are his mother, Joyce M. Nelson, of Cecil; his companion, Bill Beber of Bryan; a half-brother, Marty Speiser of Sherwood; a half-sister, Michelle Johnson of Springfield; and his four faithful dogs, Tinker, Patches, Abby and Missy.
He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.
Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. today, Feb. 2, in the Krill Funeral Home in Bryan with Father Charles Ritter officiating. Visitation will begin at 11 a.m. today, and continue until services begin.
Memorials in the name of Mitchel E. Nelson may be given to the charity of the donor’s choice.
You may sign Mitch’s guest book and send condolences to the family at www.krillfuneralservice.com.

NAOMI RAU
1932-2005
GREENVILLE, Tenn. — Naomi June Williamson Rau, 72, of Greenville, Tenn., died Tuesday, Jan. 25. Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Oakwood was in charge of the arrangements.

JANICE SALTER
1939-2005
FORT WAYNE — Janice A. Salter, 65, died at 3 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 30, at the St. Joseph Medical Center, Fort Wayne.
She was born May 1, 1939, in Paulding County, the daughter of Levi and Viola E. (Scott) Cain Jr. She was an attendant at the Fort Wayne State Hospital, retiring in 2002, after 30 years. She was a member of the Bethlehem Temple Pentecostal Church, Paulding.
She is survived by her father and stepmother, Levi and Elsie Cain Jr., Paulding; a companion, Jerry Chumney, Fort Wayne; four sons, John Bradley, Ronald Bradley, David Bradley and Thomas L. Bradley, all of Fort Wayne; two brothers, Wayne “Boogie” Cain of Fostoria and Douglas Cain, Fort Wayne; three sisters, Leona (Harvey) Brown of Van Wert, Pastor Phylliss Melvina Baxter of Paulding, and Debra (Oliver) Cain of Fort Wayne; 18 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her mother; a daughter, Tina Bradley; a brother, Johnnie Cain;, infant great-grandson, Geoffrey Wade; and two sisters, Karen Rowe and Patricia Wells.
Services will be 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 4, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding with Rev. Anthony Jordan and Pastor Phylliss Melvina Baxter officiating. Burial will be in Rochester Cemetery, Cecil.
Visitation will be 10:30 a.m. until time of service on Friday, Feb. 4, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

BOB
STAHL
FORT MYERS, Fla. — John Robert “Bob” Stahl, 77, of Ft. Myers, died Saturday, Jan. 29, 2005.
He was born in Paulding County, the son of John H. and Edythe Stahl. He was a U.S. Navy veteran during WWII, serving aboard the USS Iowa. He was a parts manager for many years and worked for Val Ward Cadillac for 28 years. He was a 50-year member of the American Legion, a member of the Cypress Lake United Methodist Church where he served on the ushering committee, and was an avid golfer.
He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Helen R.; a daughter, Tina (Larry) Buchanan of Columbus; a son, Jeff (Dawn) Stahl of Ft. Myers, Fla.; three sisters, Ruth (Harold) Williams of Oakwood, Margaret Craft of Grover Hill, and Linda (Loren) Sidle of Van Wert; and seven grandchildren, Matthew and Stephanie Buchanan, and Bobby, Laraine, Daniel, Samuel and Rebekah Stahl.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, William Stahl.
A memorial funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. today, Feb. 2, at the Cypress Lake United Methodist Church in Ft. Myers. Entombment will be in Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Cemetery. The Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Memorials may be sent to the Cypress Lake Methodist Church at 8570 Cypress Lake Drive, Ft. Myers, Fla., 33919, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

JAMES BAKER
1929-2005
SCOTT — James O. “Jim” Baker, 75, of Scott, died Tuesday, Feb. 1. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, was in charge of the arrangements.

RICHARD DUNHAM
1947-2005
ANTWERP — Richard C. “Packy” Dunham, 57, of Antwerp, died at 11:10 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1, at the Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
He was born June 10, 1947, in Paulding County, the son of Harold “Cotton” and Wilma-Belle (Jackson) Dunham. In 1984, he married Mary Alice (Watson) Boesch, who survives. He was employed by the former Zollner Piston Manufacturing, Fort Wayne. Also surviving are a daughter, Annetta Bond, Spencerville, Ind.; seven sons, Richard (Shelley) Dunham of New Haven, James Dunham of Scott, James (Laura) Boesch of Cecil, Thomas Boesch of Antwerp, Christopher Boesch of Fort Wayne, John Boesch of Tiffin and Spencer H. Boesch of South Bend, Ind.; a brother, David Dunham, Schaumburg, Ill.; and nine grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Services were held Monday, Feb. 7, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with Pastor Leland Miller officiating. Burial was in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

BLAKE JEWELL
2005
GROVER HILL – Blake Erwin James Jewell was stillborn at 2:25 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1 at Paulding County Hospital. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert was in charge of arrangements.

ROLLA STORES
AUBURN, Ind. – Rolla E. Stores, 79, died Monday, Jan. 31, 2005 at DeKalb Memorial Hospital in Auburn.
He was born in Paulding, the son of Rolla J. and Laura H. (Coleman) Stores. A 1949 graduate of Latty High School. He worked for Schamban W. Seals Division for 25 years, retiring in 1987. He was a U.S. Army veteran from 1951-53, serving in Korea and Japan. He was a member of American Legion Post 330 in New Haven, Local 304 WAW-CIO Allied Industries and Indian Village Church of God in Auburn.
Surviving are his wife, Wilma, of Auburn; two sons, Rex and Keith, both of Fort Wayne; a stepson, Steve (Royetta) Wilder of Auburn; three stepdaughters, Lola Fairchild of Auburn, Donna (Vic) Phares of Hudson, Ind., and Roberta (Jim) Willits of LaGrange, Ind.; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his first wife, Margaret, in 1985.
Burial was in Paulding. McComb, Dilgard & Cline Funeral Home in Auburn was in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to American Heart Association or League for the Blind.

VIRGIL TAYLOR
1923-2005
PAULDING — Virgil M. Taylor, 81, of Paulding, died at 10:32 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 1, in the Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
He was born May 28, 1923, in Van Wert County, the son of Rollo and Gracie (Miller) Taylor. On Dec. 24, 1943, he married Deloris E. Myers, who preceded him in death on July 9, 1972. On Oct. 14, 1972, he married June L. Sutton, who survives.
He was employed as a heavy equipment operator by Union Quarries in Scott, retiring in 1970, after 25 years. He was a former Union Township trustee, a member of the Scott Council, a Scott marshal, a member of the Scott Fire Department, the Scott Lions Club, Scott United Methodist Church and Van Wert County Republican Committee. He was a former Mason and a member of Flat Rock Masonic Lodge 580, Payne. He formerly was employed at the Scott License Branch, Borden Cheese in Van Wert, Paulding County Highway Department, and was the owner-operator of Taylor Quality Egg Store. He was a self-employed electrical contractor. He was a member of the First Christian Church, Paulding.
Also surviving are a daughter, Jeanne (Brent) Kinkle, Van Wert; seven sons, Randall (Patty) Taylor of Bolivar, Ohio, Richard (Sue) Moore of Payne, Mitchel Moore of Los Angeles, Dennis (Faith) Moore of Noblesville, Ind, Chet (Pam) Moore and Lynn (Karen) Moore, both of Paulding, and Glenn (Amber) Neal, Peoria, Ill; a brother, VonDale (Marjorie) Taylor, Van Wert; three sisters, Lillian (Carl) Saam of Van Wert, and Lois (Wilbur) Williamson, and Betty Routt, both of Cavett; 18 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by two sisters, Mabel Lee and Ethel Tyas; seven brothers, Bill, Clyde, Ben, Jim, Ray, Eugene and Welcome; and two great-grandchildren.
Services were held Saturday, Feb. 5, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. Paul Biery officiating. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City.
Preferred memorials are to the First Christian Church Building Fund.

ROGER WILLIAMS
1967-2005
ELIDA – Former Paulding resident Roger Harold Williams, 38, died Friday, Feb. 4, at his home.
He was born Jan. 24, 1967 in Lima, the son of Harold R. and Joyce (Henderson) Williams. He was employed by Ford Motor Company in Lima and was a high school basketball sports announcer for WKSD radio, Van Wert, and was a member of the UAW.
Surviving are his mother, of Lima; a brother, Trent Williams of Fort Wayne; a sister, Joy Williams, Lima; and two nieces, Alexandria Quinn of South Point, Ohio, and Anykia Williams, Lima.
He was preceded in death by his father in 1999.
Services will be held at noon Friday, Feb. 11 at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding. Burial will be in Paulding Memorial Cemetery, where VFW military services will be conducted.
Visitation will be from 2:30-9 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 10 at the funeral home.
Donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

SSgt. ZACHARY
WOBLER
1980-2005
OTTAWA – Staff Sergeant Zachary Ryan Wobler, 24, died Sunday, Feb. 6, as a result of wounds suffered during a firefight with insurgents in Mosul, Iraq.
He was born May 9, 1980, in Paulding County, the son of Anthony I. and Jeanette Sue (Stoller) Wobler. On April 20, 2000, he married Corissa Thomas, who survives in Parma. He was a staff sergeant with the 82nd Airborne 325th Regiment, 2nd Brigade Army Scout Leader. He was a 1998 graduate of Ottawa Glandorf High School. He was named 2002 82nd Airborne Trooper of the Year, and an Army Corps Trooper of the Year runner-up. He also had Ranger and Delta Force group training.
Also surviving are his father, Tony (Marilyn) Wobler, Leipsic; his mother, Jeanette (Tim) Poston, Gate City, Va.; a daughter, Trinity Wobler, Parma; a brother, Brandon (Elicia) Wobler, Payne; other family members, Chad and Rhonda Pester, Miller City, Ohio, Jason and Jami Pester, Ottawa, Jami Pester, Atlanta, and Jeremy Pester, Lima; grandparents, Roy and Helen (Rhoad) Stoller of Haviland, and Peg and Lawrence Magnuson, Payne; and great-grandmother, Mary Petrozziello, Boston, Mass.
He was preceded in death by his grandfather, William Wobler.
Funeral services were held Monday, Feb. 14, at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa, with Father Tom Hemm officiating. Burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, Va. at a later date.
Staff Sergeant Zachary Wobler and his family request in lieu of flowers that memorial donations be made to his daughter, Trinity Wobler’s Education Fund.
Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, and Love Funeral Home, Leipsic, are handling arrangements.

PAUL FEENEY
1915-2005
OAKWOOD — Paul J. Feeney, 90, of Oakwood, died at 3:15 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 13, at the Laurels of Defiance.
He was born Jan. 3, 1915, in Jewell, Ohio, the son of John and Lavilla (Hardy) Feeney. In 1938 he married Erma M. Fitzwater, who preceded him in death in 1989. He was the owner of the Du-Drop-Inn for 19 1/2 years, and was employed as a salesman for Brown’s Bakery for 22 years. He was a member of the Eagles.
Surviving are three daughters, Sharon (Charles) Ott of Melrose, Diana (Robert) Doster of Oakwood, and Judy (James) Kammeyer of Defiance; nine grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; one step great-grandchild; and five great-great-grandchildren.
Also preceding him in death were four brothers, Virgil, Lawrence, Raymond, and William Feeney; seven sisters, Ollie Kimble, Harriet Max, Nellie May Hoover, Estella Feeney, Ethel Little, Servina Wells, and Alta Seiple; and three great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at 1 p.m., today, Wednesday, Feb. 16, at the Mast -Mock -Hoffman Funeral Home in Defiance, with the Rev. Michael Brown officiating. Burial was in the Prairie Chapel Cemetery in Paulding County.
Preferred memorials are to the Oakwood EMS or to the donor’s choice.

KATHLEEN HELTON
1932-2005
FORT WAYNE — Kathleen A. Helton, 72, died Monday morning, Feb. 14, at Hospice Home of Northeast Indiana.
She was born Oct. 30, 1932, in Payne, the daughter of Leonard and Agnes (Wurm) Bowers, who both preceded her in death. On June 19, 1954, she married Bruce Helton, who survives in Fort Wayne. She was a graduate of Payne High School and was an executive secretary in the engineering department at International Harvester in Fort Wayne for many years. She was a member of St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Fort Wayne, and a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Post #409 of Leo, Ind.
Also surviving are two sons, Bruce (Diane) Helton II of Leo, Ind. and Brent (Cindy) Helton of Connorsville, Ind.; a daughter, Susan (Frederick) Helton-Groce of Indianapolis; and five grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were a brother, Richard Bowers; and a sister, Patty Bissell.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 18, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Payne, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial will be in the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Cemetery.
Hours of visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 17 at Slade-Den Herder Funeral Home in Payne, with a Rosary service at 7:30 p.m.
Preferred memorials are to Hospice of Northeast Indiana.

EDWARD D.
HUDSON
1932-2005
HAMILTON LAKE, Ind. – Eddie Hudson, 72, of Hamilton Lake, Ind., formerly of Antwerp, passed away at 8:10 p.m. Monday, Feb. 7, while in the company of his family, at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He was born Nov. 9, 1932 in Antwerp, the son of the late Jack “Bud” Hudson and Helen (Coomer) Keible. In 1952, he married Lois Ann Harp, who passed away in 1954. Eddie then married Shirley L. Mollet on June 2, 1956 at the Payne Nazarene Church. Eddie served his country as a corporal in the U.S. Army from 1952-1954 during the Korean Conflict. He worked at Lafarge in Paulding, attended Hamilton Wesleyan Church and was a member of Antwerp VFW Post 5087 and Antwerp American Legion Post 253.
Eddie will be sadly missed by his wife Shirley Hudson of Hamilton; two sons and daughters-in-law, Steven and Bonnie of Defiance and Scott and Angie of Antwerp; a son-in-law, Jeff Panico of Hicksville; a stepmother, Lois Hudson-Anderson of New Haven; a sister, Sue Baumle of Payne; brothers, Tom Kelble of Fort Wayne, Don and Pud Kelble of Payne; eight grandchildren, Sarah and Jack Hudson, Kori Strubing, Jake and Bobbi Jo Panico, Kristi Schooley and Harley and Jonathon Hudson; and three great-grandchildren, Isaac and Addie Strubing and Kolton Schooley.
He also was preceded in death by a daughter, Sandy Panico; and a sister, Linda Mansfield.
Services were held Friday, Feb. 11 at Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp, with the Rev. David Leitzel officiating. Burial was in Lehman Cemetery, Payne, with military honors.
Preferred memorials are to the Hamilton Fire Department or Hamilton Wesleyan Church.
Condolences may be left at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

NORMAN SCHAEFER
1924-2005
PAYNE — Norman A. Schaefer, 80, died at 10:55 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 10.
He was born Oct. 19, 1924, in Payne, the son of Anthony and Florence (Wetli) Schaefer. On June 15, 1947, he became the beloved husband of Lorraine, who survives. He was a member of the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Payne, and was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving in WW II. He attended St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, Ind. and returned to Payne, where he was engaged in farming for 57 years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Farm Bureau.
Also surviving are two sons, Vincent (Carol) and Scott (April) both of Payne; two daughters, Michele (Keith) Parr of Columbia City, Ind. and Antonette (Rex) Goeltzenleuchter of Defiance; two brothers, Charles (Christena) Schaefer of Payne and Jacob (Patricia) Schaefer of Texas; two sisters, Rose Ann Glass, of Payne and Geraldine Mullen of Toledo. He is the loving father of Bridget Brown of Payne and 20 exchange students from around the world, adored grandfather of nine grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
A funeral mass was held Tuesday, Feb. 15 at the St. John the Baptist CatholicChurch in Payne with Father G. Allan Fillman officiating. A Rosary service was held Monday night Feb. 14. Burial was in the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Cemetery.
Preferred memorials are to the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church Endowment Fund.

PAUL DINGER
1926-2005
PAYNE — Paul D. Dinger, 78, of Payne, died at 5 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, at St. Rita’s Medical Center Lima, where he was a patient.
He was born Nov. 4, 1926, in Paulding County, the son of Charles W. and Leona Mae (Lehman) Dinger. On March 27, 1949 he married Velma M. Zartman, who survives. He was a lifetime farmer, retiring in 1991. He was a 1944 graduate of Payne High School. He was a member of the Payne Church of Christ where he was a former church board member. He was a former member of the board of directors of the Payne Equity Exchange Company.
Also surviving are a daughter, Penny J. (Mark) Minick of Van Wert; two sons, Ted E. (Julie) Dinger of Payne, and William D. Dinger of Fort Wayne; eight grandchildren, Janell and Steve Dinger, Nathan, Lauren and Brandon Dinger, and Joseph, Elise and Noah Minick; and one sister, Nancy (Richard) Kreager of Martin, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Herman Dinger.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. today, Feb. 23, at the Payne Church of Christ in Payne with Pastor Joe Allen and Pastor Rich Phelan officiating. Burial will be in Wiltsie Cemetery, Payne. Slade-Den Herder Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Visitation will be today one hour prior to services at the church.
Preferred memorials are to the Payne Church of Christ or the Van Wert County Hospital.

MARY LOUISE
GRINDSTAFF
1929-2005
PAYNE — Mary Louise Grindstaff, 75, died at 7:05 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, at Dallas Lamb Foundation, Payne.
She was born May 18, 1929, in Paulding, the daughter of Arthur and Elsie (Hart) Harrow. On April 25, 1948, she married O. Fred Grindstaff, who survives in Paulding. She was a retired meat clerk at Oakwood IGA and was a member of the Eagles Auxiliary, Paulding, and Rose Hill Church of God, Charloe.
Also surviving are three sons, Paul (Cathy) Grindstaff of Redding, Calif., John Grindstaff of Oakwood and Alan Grindstaff, Paulding; three daughters, Susan (Dale) Law of Columbia City, Ind., Deborah (John) Kesler of Oakwood, and Barbara (Wayne) Lee of Paulding; 21 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; a brother, James Harrow, Paulding; four sisters, Viola Dobbelaere of Oakwood, Pauline Hale and Marjorie Howell of Paulding, and Joan Pease of Latty.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Richard Harrow; and a grandson, Dustin Grindstaff.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. today, Feb. 23, at Rose Hill Church of God with the Rev. Tim Havenstein officiating. Burial will be in Sherman Cemetery. Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, is in charge of the arrangements.
Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. today at the church.
Preferred memorials are to Dallas Lamb Foundation or Rose Hill Church of God.

VERNA BUCHANAN HUTTON
1908-2005 SEBRING, OHIO — Verna Buchanan Hutton, 96, of Sebring, Ohio, formerly of Wintersville, Ohio, died Monday, Feb. 21, at the Crandall Medical Center.
She was born July 6, 1908, in Continental, the daughter of Ira William and Iva Mae Spitsnaugle Gillespie. Verna and her late husband, O.W. Buchanan resided in Paulding from 1928-1951. He had served as superintendent of schools. She had retired as a nursing supervisor from the Paulding County Hospital and the former Ohio Valley Hospital. She was a member of the Wintersville United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Hope Circle, and former worthy matron of O.E.S. Corona Chapter, and was a Jefferson County Red Cross Bloodmobile volunteer. In 1950, she was named “Good Neighbor” in Paulding County and in 1981 was named the Wintersville United Methodist Woman of the Year.
Surviving are two sons, Rev. John I.E. (Kathryn) Buchanan of North Canton and David (Nancy Jean) Buchanan of Bloomingdale; a daughter, Nancy E. (Rev. Lawrence) Thomas of Findlay; a step son, David B. (Elaine) Hutton of Bloomingdale,; a step daughter, Rebecca D. (John) Hawkins of La.; eight grandchildren; six step grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; 11 step great grandchildren; and a sister, Lois Shumake of Conneaut, Ohio.
She was preceded in death by her husband, O.W. Buchanan in 1970; her second husband, G. Donald Hutton in 1995; three grandchildren, Cynthia Jean Buchanan, Jeffery William Buchanan, and David Neil Buchanan; two brothers, Forest and Ivan Gillespie; and two sisters, Faye Holmes and Louise Preston.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 25 at the Dunlope-Shorac Funeral Home in Wintersville, with the Rev. Clint Quillen officiating.
Hours of visitation will be from 7-9 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 24 and one hour prior to services at Dunlope-Shorac Funeral Home in Wintersville.
Burial will be in the Fort Steuben Burial Estates. Preferred memorials are to the O.W. Buchanan Junior High School Library or to the Wintersville U.M. Church Memorial Fund. Online condolences may be sent to www.shorac.com.

ERWIN KILPATRICK
1930-2005 DAYTON — W. Erwin Kilpatrick, 74, died Saturday, Feb. 12, at the Charlotte Regional Medical Center, Punta Gorda, Fla.
He was born March 13, 1930, in Payne, the son of Glen and Helen (Ruger) Kilpatrick. In 1955, he married Marie Hessler, who survives. He was a retired common pleas judge for Montgomery County, Ohio, and a former municipal judge for the city of Dayton. He was a U.S. Army veteran of the Korean Conflict.
He is survived by his wife, Marie Kilpatrick, Dayton; two sons, Charles Kilpatrick, Huntsville, Ala., and John (Julie) Kilpatrick, Columbus; two brothers, Howard (Shirley) Kilpatrick of Payne, and John (Barbara) Kilpatrick, Spencerville, Ind.; two sisters, Donna Kuhn of Payne and Lois (Richard) Northey, New Haven; and two grandchildren.
Services were held Thursday, Feb. 17, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Payne. Burial was in the church cemetery in Payne. Slade-Den Herder Funeral Home, Payne, was in charge of arrangements. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

ROBERT STRICKLIN JR.
1943-2005
PAULDING —Robert L. “Bob” Stricklin Jr., 61, of Paulding, died at 7:20 p.m., Monday, Feb. 14, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne.
He was born Aug. 24, 1943, in West Virginia, the son of Robert L. and Mary Alice (Powell) Stricklin Sr., who both preceded him in death. On Dec. 15, 1999, he married Shelly R. Cluts, who survives. He was a US Army veteran, serving in the Viet Nam Conflict. He was a member of the Paulding Eagles #2405.
Also surviving are a brother, Danny Stricklin of Largo, Fla.; and three sisters, Mary Palerom, Jo Ann Billienin, and Linda Scalet, all of Florida.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 24, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. Mary Beth Smith Webb officiating.
Preferred memorials may be made to Shelley Stricklin.

BETTY TINLIN
1915-2005
BROUGHTON — Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Tinlin, 89, died at 12:15 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14, at her home surrounded by her family.
She was born Aug. 8, 1915, the daughter of Homer and Rose Ellen Shultz. On Dec. 29, 1936, she married Edward Tinlin, who preceded her in death on April 1, 1975. She was a homemaker, attended the former Broughton Methodist Church, and was a member of the WSCS of Broughton.
Surviving are a daughter, Kay (Dennis) Doster; four grandchildren, Jean (George) Porter, Kim Armstron, Dawn (Joey) Meza, and Denny (Kim) Doster; and nine great grandchildren, Michelle (Shane) Sidle, Eric and Ashley Armstrong, Melissa Porter, Logan and Cameron Doster, and Sean, Brandon and Jared Meza.
She also was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Oscar and John; and one grandchild, Gary Allen Doster.
Services were held Friday, Feb. 18, at Den Herder Funeral Home, with Pastor Larry Hanson officiating. Burial was in Hedges Cemetery, Broughton.
Preferred memorials are to the Paulding County Hospice.

ROMA WYCKOFF
1925-2005
ANTWERP — Roma June Wyckoff, 79, of Antwerp, passed away at 1:22 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
She was born Nov. 22, 1925, in Van Wert, the daughter of Artie and Ola (Eller) Neiford. On June 20, 1944, she married Robert “Bob” Wyckoff, who survives. She retired as an inspector at Dana Weatherhead in Antwerp. She was a lifetime member of Antwerp VFW Auxiliary Post 5087 and Payne AMVETS Post 92 and a member of Antwerp American Legion Post 253.
She will be sadly missed by her husband; a daughter, Jackie Van Cleve, Antwerp; a son, John “Benny” Wyckoff, Antwerp; a sister, Marjorie Secaur of Van Wert; four grandchildren, Dan and Darin Rhoad and Kara and Tiffany Wyckoff; two great-grandchildren, Amanda and Darin Rhoad; and a great-great-granddaughter, Kayla.
She was preceded in death by a son, Robin; a sister, Virginia Mattinger; and three brothers, John and Kenneth Neiford and Conrad Matzen.
Services were held Saturday, Feb. 19, at the Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with the Rev. Jim Edwards officiating. She was laid to rest at Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp. Preferred memorials are to Antwerp VFW Auxiliary Post 5087. Condolences may be left at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

BRENT HELTON
CONNERSVILLE, Ind. – Brent Helton, 47, died Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2005 at Henry County Hospital in New Castle, Ind.
Born in Fort Wayne, he was a supervisor with American Keeper Corp. and previously worked for Ford Visteon for seven years in Connersville, and Seyferts Foods as the night operations manager, with 20 years service. He was a 1975 graduate of Bishop Dwenger High School and Indiana University in 1978 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He was a member of Delta Sigma Phi fraternity and St. Gaberial Catholic Church in Connersville.
Surviving are his wife, Cynthia D. Helton of Connersville; a daughter, Cheryl (Chad) Ryan of Fort Wayne; a son, Robert Helton of Muncie, Ind.; a grandson, Samuel Ryan; his father, Bruce E. Helton Sr. of Fort Wayne; a brother, Bruce E. Helton II of Leo, Ind.; a sister, Susan (Frederick) Helton-Groce of Indianapolis; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Kathleen Helton, on Feb. 14.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, Feb. 26 at St. Jude Catholic Church in Fort Wayne. Burial was in the Catholic Cemetery. D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association or Visiting Nurse & Hospice Home

JOHN SINN
1926-2005 OHIO CITY — John R. Sinn, 78, of Ohio City, died Sunday, Feb. 27. Gearhart-Mack and Jurczyk was in charge of the arrangements.

MICHAEL HOGAN
1957-2005 VAN WERT — Michael R. Hogan, 47, Van Wert, died Sunday, Feb. 20. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

SETH QUIGG
2005 TOLEDO – Seth Cameron Quigg, infant son of Joshua Cameron and Andrea (Fry) Quigg of Toledo, died Saturday, Feb. 5 in Toledo Children’s Hospital.
He was born Jan. 30, 2005. Also surviving are a twin brother, Jett Cameron of Toledo; grandparents, Kenneth and Tracy Quigg of Swanton, Robert and Terry Fry of Toledo, and Eugene “Beanie” and Gloria Grimes of Oakwood; great-grandparents, Betty Quigg of Maumee, Larry and Donna Smith of Toledo, Terry and Barb Pettit of Swanton, Gilbert and Colleen Schick of Oakwood, and Edward Sr. and Judy Fry of Continental; and aunts, uncles and cousins.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5, in Heritage Church of God in Maumee, with the Rev. James J. Fry officiating. Burial will be in Toledo Memorial Park. J. Jeffrey Fretti Funeral Home in Toledo is in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are in care of Joshua and Andrea Quigg at Heritage Church of God.

INEZ O’NEAL
1913-2005 PORT CLINTON — Inez M. O’Neal, 91, died at 8:28 p.m. Friday, Feb. 25, at the Riverview Healthcare Campus Oak Harbor, Ohio.
She was born Aug. 13, 1913, in Van Wert County, the daughter of Isaac S. and Mary C. (Bird) Leslie. On March 24, 1956, she married Harvey R. O’Neal, who preceded her in death in 1985. She was a waitress for the VFW in Port Clinton. She is survived by many nieces and nephews.
Also preceding her in death were a brother, James “Pete” Leslie; and five sisters, Bessie Hartwig Smith, Delma Harlock, Carrie Schaffer, Mable Austin and Esther Leslie. Services will be held at 1 p.m. today, March 2, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with Pastor Joseph Allen officiating. Burial will be in Cooper Cemetery in Paulding. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of funeral. Preferred memorials are to the donor’s choice.

DUANE KLINGLER
1928-2005 PAULDING – Local businessman Duane Klingler, age 76, died Sunday, Feb. 17, at the Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital in Dearborn, Mich.
He was born Aug. 20, 1928 in Paulding, the son of John and Madge Ilene (Morrow) Klingler. In 1955, he married Lulu Belle Sinn, who survives. He was self-employed as a local contractor and developer, including the Klingler Addition in Paulding. He was the owner of Klingler Building and Sales, which included development, sales and rentals of houses, apartments and buildings in the Paulding community. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during the Korean Conflict. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Briceton. Also surviving are a daughter, Julia (Randall) Hulsmeyer of Waynesfield; two sons, Thomas (Lisa) of Oakwood and Timothy (Jennifer) of Midland, Mich.; grandchildren Jaimee and Jeremy Hulsmeyer and Jason, Karamae, Malerie, Sarah and Joshua Klingler; two sisters, Darlene Slane of Dustin, Okla., and Ladene Osborn of Fort Wayne; one brother, Dwight Klingler of Deming, N.M.; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 3, at St. John Lutheran Church, Briceton, with Pastor Joseph Allen officiating. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding. Paulding VFW Post 587 will conduct graveside military rites. Visitation will be from 3:30-9 p.m. today, March 2, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, and one hour prior to services at the church. Preferred memorials are to the church or to the Lutheran World Relief, 700 Light Street, Baltimore MD, 21230-3850.

FERN BITLER
1920-2005
PAYNE – Fern Elizabeth Bitler, age 84, died Monday morning, Feb. 28, at her residence.
She was born April 25, 1920 in Harrison Township, Paulding County, the daughter of Karl and Ida (Pio) Copenhaver. On Dec. 24, 1941 she married George W. Bitler, who preceded her in death on June 27, 1970. She retired in 1983 from the former Parrot Meat Packing Co. of Fort Wayne, where she worked for 25-1/2 years. She attended St. James Lutheran Church in Payne.
Surviving are a son, Eugene Bitler of Delphos; two daughters, Marsha Kinder of Payne and Charlene Willett of Defiance; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by a grandson, Douglas Allen Bitler; and a granddaughter, Jo Lynne Saxton.
Services were held Friday, March 4 at Slade-Den Herder Funeral Home in Payne, with Pastor Joseph Allen officiating. Burial was in Wiltsie Cemetery, Payne.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

ROSALIE BRINKMAN
1952-2005
FT. JENNINGS – Rosalie Kay Brinkman, 52, Ft. Jennings, died at 8:05 p.m. Saturday, March 5, due to an auto accident. Harter & Schier Funeral Home in Delphos was in charge of arrangements.

RICHARD
BUTYOK
1932-2005
ANTWERP — Richard J. Butyok, 72, of Antwerp, passed away at 8 a.m. Thursday, March 3, at the Community Memorial Hospital in Hicksville.
He was born May 19, 1932, in Carolina, W.Va., the son of Joseph and Kathryn (Gazelli) Butyok. On May 20, 1957, he married Norma F. Cutlip, who survives. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. He received his bachelor’s degree from Fairmont State College in Fairmont, W.Va. and his master’s degree from the University of Toledo. He was a trade industrial supervisor at Vantage Career Center, Antwerp Schools and the Four County Vocational School. He was a member of the Antwerp United Methodist Church and Carpenters Union #232. He enjoyed woodworking and stamp and coin collecting.
He will be sadly missed by his wife; his daughter, Lisa Mortorff, Antwerp; a son, Thomas Butyok, Antwerp; three sisters, Kathleen Johnstone of Winston-Salem, N.C., Maryanne Sanders of Ft. Ashby, W.Va., and Vicky Tassan of Arlington, Va.; a brother, Robert Butyok of Ida May, W.Va.; a granddaughter, Jesse Phipps; and great-grandson, Clayton Phipps.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Geraldine DeVito.
Services were Monday, March 7, held at Dorsey Funeral Home in Shinnston, W.Va. Burial was in the Shinnston Masonic Cemetery. Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp was in charge of the local arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Antwerp United Methodist Church, the First Baptist Church in Antwerp or to the American Heart Association.
Online condolences may be sent to www.dooley funeral home.com.

BETTY
CARNAHAN
1933-2005
OAKWOOD — Betty E. Carnahan, 71, of Oakwood, died Saturday, March 5. Heitmeyer Funeral is handling the arrangements.

JOHN
GAISFORD
1945-2005
PAYNE — John A. Gaisford, 60, of Payne, passed away at 3:10 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at his residence, surrounded by his family.
He was born Feb. 13, 1945, in Antwerp, the son of Leroy and Ethel (Cromley) Gaisford. On Sept. 26, 1975, he married Becky Billmyer, who survives in Payne. He served in the United States Army for 20 years, retiring as a master sergeant. He was also employed by Trelleborg Sealing Solutions in Fort Wayne, for 10 years. He enjoyed computers, engineering and genealogy.
Also surviving are two sons, Troy of San Antonio and Michael of Indianapolis; a daughter, Sharon Cedillo of New Braunfels, Texas; two brothers, Thomas of Payne and Dean of Antwerp; three sisters, Rita Reising of Shertz, Texas, Etta Reece of Port Charlotte, Fla., and Janet Hood of Midwest City, Okla.; and three grandchildren, Kelsie, Chadwick and Maxwell Cedillo.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Services were held Tuesday, March 8, at the Payne Church of the Nazarene, with the Rev. Michael Harper officiating. Dooley Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Paulding County Hospice.
Online condolences are encouraged to be left at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

KENNETH HUMMEL
1954-2005
LEASBURG, Mo. – Kenneth R. Hummel, 50, died Thursday, March 3, at home in Leasburg, Mo.
He was born Sept. 9, 1954 in Fort Wayne, the son of Anton J. and Doris M. (Grodrian) Hummel. He was employed by Daimler Chrysler and was a member of Local 110 UAW, The German Shepherd Dog Club of St. Louis, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.
Surviving are two sisters, Veronica (John) Landfair and Marceille Hummel; a brother, James (Wilma) Hummel; sister Michelle (Todd) Atkins; five nieces, Lori, Deb, Jan, Kaitlyn and Abigail; six nephews, Gene, Denny, Tim, Jeff, Matt and Nate; a beloved friend, Julia Foster; and great-nieces and nephews, aunt and uncle and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and nieces Cathy and Casey.
Services will be at 1 p.m. today, March 9, at Kutis Funeral Home South County Chapel, St. Louis. Burial will be in Shepherd Hills Cemetery.

BYRON KNERR
1923-2005
VENTURA, Calif. – Payne native Byron “Barney” Knerr, 71, of Ventura, died Feb. 15.

JESSIE STAUFFER
1922-2005
FORT WAYNE — Jessie B. Stauffer, 82, of Fort Wayne, formerly of Woodburn, passed away Friday, March 4, at the Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home.
She was born June 15, 1922, in Paulding County near Oakwood. She retired as a librarian from the Woodburn branch of the Allen County Public Library in 1990. She was a member of the Woodburn United Methodist Church.
She is survived by a daughter, Judith (Jack) Evans of Battleground, Ind.; a son, Robert D. (Thea) Stauffer of Auburn, Ind; eight grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; five sisters, Sara English of New Haven, Dorothy Lothamer of Fort Wayne, and Ann Freshwater, Elizabeth Goodenough and Eleanor Fellers, all of Paulding; and one brother, Paul Carnahan of Paulding.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, in 1997; and three sisters, Evelyn, Alvilda and Laura.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, March 8, at the Woodburn United Methodist Church. Burial was in the Harlan Memorial Cemetery in Harlan, Ind.
Preferred memorials are to the Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home in Fort Wayne.

CONNIE SULFRIDGE
1956-2005
CONTINENTAL — Connie L. Sulfridge, 48, of Continental, died at 4:04 a.m. Sunday, March 6 at her residence.
She was born Sept. 26, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of James and Rowena (Moran) Dills. On Feb. 28, 1976, she married Johnny Sulfridge, who survives in Continental. She was an employee of the Consolidated Biscuit Company and a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Continental. She enjoyed camping and playing with her grandson.
She is also survived by her father, James Dills of Continental; a son, James R. Sulfridge of Continental; a daughter, Lanette (Marc) Wermund of Fort Wayne; one grandchild, Hunter Wermund; and a sister, Beverly (James) Decker of Oakwood.
Preceding her in death was her mother; and a sister, Barbara Dills.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. today, March 9, at Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Continental, with the Rev. Wayne Matthews officiating. Burial will be in the Monroe Cemetery.
Visitation is from 10-11 a.m. today prior to services.
Preferred memorials are to the Sulfridge family.

SHIRLEY HANSEN
1950-2005
TOLEDO – Shirley A. Hansen, 54, of Toledo, died at 12:38 p.m. Sunday, March 6. Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, is in charge of arrangements.

ETHEL KIRK
1917-2005
GROVER HILL – Ethel Kirk, 87, of Grover Hill, died at 11:38 a.m. Tuesday, March 8. Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, was in charge of arrangements.

MARY BRAND
1914-2005
DEFIANCE — Mary Kathryn Brand, 90, of Defiance, died at 9:50 a.m. Sunday, March 13, at Van Crest Nursing Home in Holgate.
She was born April 18, 1914, in Oakwood, the daughter of George H. and Ida (Shively) Kohn. In 1935, she married Richard Arlo Brand, who preceded her in death in 1986. She had formerly been employed by the Reynolds Spring Co. in Jackson, Mich., the co-owner of Brands Food Center in Oakwood and Brands Jewelers in Brooklyn, Mich., and was also a homemaker. She was a member of the Oakwood United Methodist Church, where she was a Sunday school teacher, a choir member, and a member of the Friendship Sunday school class. She also was a lifetime member of the Defiance County Humane Society.
She is survived by a daughter, Nancy Porter of Defiance; three stepgrandchildren; seven great-stepgrandchildren; five great-great-stepgrandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Also preceding her in death were three brothers, Earl Homer and Raymond Kohn; and three sisters, Cecil Kohn, Vera Mendel and Jenny Weible.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 17, at Mast-Mock Hoffman Funeral Home in Defiance, with Dr. Todd Anderson and the Rev. Christopher Hintz officiating. Burial will be in the Chapel Cemetery in Paulding County.
Visitation will be from 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. today, March 16.
Preferred memorials are to the Defiance County Humane Society.

LESLIE BRANHAM
1916-2005
CLOVERDALE — Leslie Branham, 88, of Cloverdale, died Saturday, March 12. Love Funeral Home in Continental is in charge of the arrangements.

RICHARD CARR
1935-2005
COWETA, Okla. — Richard Lee Carr, 69, of Coweta, Okla., died Monday, March 7, at the St. Francis Hospital in Tulsa.
He was born Oct. 8, 1935, in Hicksville, the son of John T. and Eileen (Kemerer) Carr. He graduated from Paulding High School in 1954. He was married to Virginia Cusack, and later was divorced. In 1969, in Las Vegas, he married Kathleen L. Brown. He came to Coweta in 1983 from Simi Valley, Calif. He worked as a meat cutter for 50 years. He was employed at Food For Less until his retirement in 2002, and was a member of the Food and Commercial Meat Cutters Union.
He is survived by two sons, Richard Lee Carr Jr. and Lynn Thomas Carr; seven daughters, Charlotte Neal, Judith Parrott, Beverly Reyes, Denise Smith, Kelly Peterson, Shelly Johnson and Shannyn Jewell; a brother, David Carr of Antwerp; two sisters, Charlotte Ley and Mary Reis; 28 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were a son, Ryan Carr of Coweta; and a brother, Tom Carr of Paulding.
Services were held Wednesday, March 9, at the Emmanuel Southern Baptist Church with Lynn Carr officiating. Wright Funeral Home in Coweta was in charge of the arrangements.

ROGER
CRISWELL
PAYNE – Roger Criswell, 55, of Payne, died Saturday, March 12, 2005. Berhalter Hutchins Funeral Home in Kendallville, Ind., was in charge of arrangements.

TOMMIE
HAWKEY
1932-2005
PAULDING — Tommie Joe Hawkey, 72, of Paulding, died at 6:18 a.m. Friday, March 11, at the Hawthorn Court Nursing Home in Paulding.
He was born Dec. 7, 1932, in Wapakoneta, the son of Francis and Marie (Burden) Hawkey. On May 13, 1953, he married Phyllis J. Elliott, who survives in Paulding. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving in the Korean Conflict, where he received the Purple Heart. He was a truck driver for the former Schwerman Trucking of Paulding, retiring after 25 years of service. He was a member of the Paulding Church of the Nazarene.
Also surviving are four sons, Gary (Rebecca) of Oakwood, Douglas (Debra) and Randy (Terria), all of Hicksville, and Kelvin (Lynne) Hawkey of Fort Wayne; three daughters, Mary (Charles) Wann of Hicksville, Jo (Steve) Daeger of Pierceton, Ind. and Brenda Tanner of Paulding; a sister, Nancy Staley of Wapakoneta; two brothers, Orville “Fat” Hawkey of St.. Marys and John Huelsmeyer of Celina; 13 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were his parents; a grandson, D.J. Hawkey; two sisters, Althea Goodwin and Dorothy Ritter; and three brothers, Cletus, Merle and Charles Hawkey.
Services were held Tuesday, March 15, at Den Herder Funeral Home with the Rev. Larry Hanson officiating. Burial was in the Rochester Cemetery in Cecil, where the Paulding V.F.W. Post #587 conducted military graveside rites.
Preferred memorials are to the choice of the donor.

BERTRAL HICKS
1917-2005
PAYNE — Bertral Hicks, 87, of Payne, passed away at 12:05 a.m. Friday, March 11, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.
He was born April 3, 1917, in Floyd County, Ky., the son of William and MaryAnne (Coburn) Hicks. In 1935, he married Julia Wireman, who preceded him in death in 1990. He retired from Uniroyal Goodrich in Woodburn, had also worked at Permaglass, and as a coal miner. He was a member of the Old Regular Baptist Church of Kendallville, Ind.
He will be sadly missed by two daughters, Donna R. DeVore of Payne and Terrie L. Baumgartner of Indianapolis; five sons, Lacy Dean, Clifton, Carles, and Jacky N. Hicks, all of Payne, and Billy Joe Hicks of Antwerp; a sister, Pearl Fulk of Antwerp; two brothers, Delmar of Portsmouth, Ohio and Garrett of Convoy; 20 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by a daughter, Bruxie Ann Smalley; a son, Adrain; four sisters, Sylvia Reigns, Trylbia Osborne, Viola Beverly, and Katherine; and a brother, Elmer.
Services were held Monday, March 14, at the First Baptist Church in Antwerp, with the Revs. Larry Dixon, Russell Hicks and Morris Wicker officiating. Burial was in the Lehman Cemetery, Payne. Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Old Regular Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Antwerp, or Paulding County Hospital Home Health Nurses.
Online condolences may be sent to www.dooleyfuneral home.com.

RITA McGRATH
1923-2005
PAULDING — Rita M. McGrath, 82, died Saturday, March 12, at Dallas Lamb Foundation Home in Payne.
She was born Jan. 29, 1923, in Paulding, the daughter of Frank R. and Antoinette R. (Daniel) Strabele. On April 9, 1947, she married Charles J. McGrath, who preceded her in death Feb. 14, 2001. She was a WWII Navy veteran, and in 1984 retired as a nurse in the obstetrical department at Paulding County Hospital. She was a member of the St. Joseph Church and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a life member of the W.I.B.C., a life member of the American Legion Post #341 of Oakwood, a life member of the Eagles Auxiliary #2405, a social member of VFW Post #537, a member of the Paulding County Farm Bureau and served nine years as a 4-H adviser.
Surviving are a son, John (Sharon) McGrath of Paulding; four daughters, Rose Ann (Michael) Bowers, Anita (Troy) Branch and Wendy (Rick) Clemens, all of Paulding, and Darlene (Michael) Herber of Antwerp; a sister, Wilma Fry of Fort Wayne; 17 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by five sisters, Eileen Trutt, Josephine Beck, Beatrice DeLaet, Rosella Price, and an infant sister, Pauline; and a granddaughter, Dawn Smith.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. today, March 16, at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Paulding, with the Rev. G. Allen Fillman officiating. VFW Post 587 will conduct military graveside rites. Burial will be in Live Oak Cemetery in Paulding. Den Derder Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Dallas Lamb Foundation Home Activity Fund or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

CAROLE SPITZER
1930-2005
FORT WAYNE – Former Haviland and Springfield resident Carole K. Spitzer, 75, died at 12:10 a.m. Saturday, March 19 at her home.
She was born Feb. 14, 1930 in Columbus, the daughter of Joseph E. and Thelma (Reed) Katona. She married William Henry Spitzer, who preceded her in death in 1983. She was a former teacher for the Wayne Trace school system, and a member of Country Chapel United Methodist Church, Haviland.
Surviving are a daughter, Sandra Spitzer of Fort Wayne; a brother, Joseph Katona of Dearborn Heights, Mich.; and two grandchildren, Casey Spitzer-Long and Tara Spitzer-Long, both of Fort Wayne.
She also was preceded in death by her parents.
Services will be at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. Jack Berry officiating. Burial will be in Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. today, March 23, and from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to the William Spitzer Scholarship Fund.

DAVID GEBHART
1939-2005
PAYNE – David H. Gebhart, 66, a native of Payne, passed to the loving arms of Jesus at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, March 15, at Paulding County Hospital.
He was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, Payne. He retired from B.F. Goodrich after 30 years of service. He loved the Lord and his family. He enjoyed NASCAR and loved the Bears and the Cubs, who he never lost hope in.
He is survived by his wife, Katie; three sons, Douglas Gebhart and Nicholas Soblinski of Arizona, and Kenneth (Tana) Williams of Fort Wayne; four daughters, Gina Avila of California, and Patricia Langston, Debra Breeden and Summer Hamilton of Fort Wayne; a sister, Sharon (Jack) Berryhill; two brothers, Bruce and Roger (Dottie) Gebhart, Payne; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and many friends who loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Russel Gebhart.
Services were held Saturday, March 19 at St. Paul United Methodist Church. Burial was in Wiltsie Cemetery, Payne. Slade-Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to Payne EMS.

KRISTINA KAUFMAN
1978-2005
ANTWERP – Kristina Marie “Krisy” Kaufman, 26, of Antwerp, passed away Monday, March 14 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.
She was born Dec. 10, 1978 at Lutheran Hospital, the daughter of Daniel and Ruth (Altic) Kaufman. She graduated from Antwerp High School, attended Defiance College and worked in human resources at Butler Mill Service in Butler, Ind.
Krisy will be sadly missed by her parents, of Antwerp; three sisters, Wendy Kaufman and April Garrett, both of Antwerp, and Tammy Rios of Paulding; and a brother, Scott Kaufman of Antwerp.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, William and Betty Altic and Gilbert and Eva Maxine Kaufman.
Services were held Saturday, March 19, at Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp with the Rev. Max Begley officiating. Burial was in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp.
Preferred memorials are to the Lupus Foundation of America.
Condolences may be left at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

LUELLA McVAY
1917-2005
OAKWOOD – Luella Dorthea McVay, 87, passed away from this life peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, March 20.
She was born May 30, 1917, in Putnam County, the daughter of John and Amy (Troyer) Holt. On Oct. 8, 1939, she married Willard R. McVay, who preceded her in death on Feb. 14, 1996. She was a homemaker and active member of the Auglaize Chapel Church of God, Oakwood. She was a wonderful wife, outstanding mother and devoted grandmother. Her life’s passions were raising her daughter and son. She loved life on earth with her family and friends.
Surviving are a daughter, Sharon (Richard) Foust, Oakwood; a son, Dennis (Mary) McVay, Oakwood; a sister, Glenna (Wayne) Cooper of Defiance; eight grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by two brothers, Willis and Clyde Holt; a sister, Mary Rhodes; and a great-grandchild, Deanna Ripke.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 24, at the Auglaize Chapel Church of God with the Rev. Stanley Harmon officiating. Burial will be in Monroe Township Cemetery, Continental.
Visitation is from 2-9 p.m. today, March 23, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, and one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday.
Preferred memorials are to the church.

ILO BARTELS
1914-2005
LEO, Ind. — Ilo L. Bartels, 90, of Leo, Ind., formerly of Haviland, died Wednesday, March 23, in Leo.
She was born Dec. 30, 1914, in Cloverdale, the daughter of Floyd Franklin and Augusta (Herbert) Offill. On Feb. 28, 1937, she married Floyd F. Bartels, who preceded her in death July 3, 1984. She was a homemaker and a member of the former Haviland Baptist Church.
Surviving are a daughter, Dawn (John) Howard of Leo; two sons, Darwin L. (Kathleen) Bartels of Fort Wayne and Duane F. (Sandra) Bartels of Syracuse, Ind.; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were three sisters, Treva Franklin, Mildred Temple and Twila Crossman; and a granddaughter, Rhonda Bartels.
Services were held Saturday, March 26, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. Darwin Bartels officiating. Burial was in the Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland.
Preferred memorials are to the Jacob Asbury Fund, c/o U.S. Bank, 203 S. Broadway, Spencerville, Ohio, 45887.

CELIA SPEELMAN
1916-2005
CONVOY — Celia V. Speelman, 88, of Convoy, died Wednesday, March 23. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert was in charge of the arrangements.

DONALD SEEKINGS SR.
1936-2005
GROVER HILL — Donald Seekings Sr., 66, of Grover Hill, died Tuesday, March 22. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert was in charge of the arrangements.

EVELYN FOSTER
1914-2005
VAN WERT — Evelyn E. Foster, 90, of Paulding, formerly of Van Wert, died at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, at the Hawthorn Court Nursing Home in Paulding.
She was born Sept. 29, 1914, in Ohio City, the daughter of William “Bill” and Golda (Davis) Priddy. She was adopted by Ira and Nellie Royer at age three. On March 24, 1933, she married Elmer Earl Foster, who preceded her in death on Sept. 20, 1992. She was a retired housekeeper from the Van Wert County Hospital, and attended the Wesley Methodist Church in Van Wert.
Surviving are a son, William “Bill” (Noemi) Foster of Grover Hill; a daughter, Eileen Kay (Max) Kochensparger of Paulding; a stepsister, Pearl (Don) Sollberger of Huntsville, Ala.; eight grandchildren, Kathy (Jay) Denny of Grover Hill, Kelly (Shawn) Kochensparger of Grand Rapids, Mich., Paula Kochensparger of Latty, Pearl Bland of Circleville, Earl Foster of Van Wert, Mary Foster of Grover Hill, Helen Foster of Scott, and Magie (Joe) Guyton of Melrose; and nine great- grandchildren, Jayme and Aryn Denny, Kaleb, Kanaan and Korban Kochensparger, Alex Roth and Kayla Bland, and Kelsey and Selena Guyton.
Also preceding her in death were a daughter, Helen Joan Foster; three brothers, Glenn Greenbarry Priddy, Norman Wellington “Pat” Priddy, and Nick Marcellous Priddy; a stepbrother, Robert Ickes; and a stepsister, Mary Ickes Reidenbach.
Services were held Tuesday, March 29, at Cowan and Son Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. William Sherry of Middle Creek Church in Grover Hill officiating. Burial was in the Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill.
Preferred memorials are to the Hawthorn Court Nursing Home Activity Fund.

VENICE GRUBAUGH
1915-2005
HAVILAND — Venice Grubaugh, 89, formerly of Haviland, died at 3:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 22, at the Golden Rule Nursing Center in Richmond, Ind.
She was born June 16, 1915, in Paulding County, the daughter of Edward and Evah (Proxmire) Finegan. On March 10, 1939, she married T. Lynn Grubaugh, who preceded her in death on April 19, 2004. She was a school teacher for Melrose, Grover Hill, Fort Wayne City, and Van Wert County school systems, retiring in 1976. She was a graduate of Bowling Green State University and St. Francis College.
She had served on the Paulding County Board of Education, was a life member of the National Education Association and the Ohio Retired Teacher’s Association, a member of the Van Wert County Women’s Club, Paulding County Retired Teachers Association, Van Wert County Retired Teachers Association, a Delta Kappa Gamma member (honorary teachers society), and the National Association for the Mentally Ill of East Central Indiana. She had locally attended Calvary Evangelical Church in Van Wert and later the Ravinia Park Baptist Church in Richmond, Ind.
Surviving are two sons, P. James (Maureen) Grubaugh of Haviland and Donald G. (Julia) Grubaugh of LaOtto, Ind.; a daughter, Sue Lynne (Ray) Raby of Richmond, Ind.; two sisters, Katherine Miller of Milledgeville, Ga. and Joe Ann Finegan of Rockford, Ohio; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-stepgrandchild. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Paul O. and Gordon G. Finegan.
Services were held Saturday, March 26, at Cowan and Sons Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Charles McMahan Jr. officiating. Burial was in the Blue Creek Cemetery, Paulding County. Preferred memorials are to the Ravinia Park Baptist Church in Richmond, Ind.

EDWARD NIX
1911-2005
PAULDING – Former Columbus resident Edward A. Nix, 93, died Friday morning, March 25, in Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, following a brief illness.
He was born July 26, 1911, in Barnwell, S.C., the son of Edward Lindsey and Virginia Nix, who both preceded him in death. He was a lifelong musician and a leader of many bands.
He is survived by two daughters, Jennifer (Juan) Nix Rodriguez of Paulding and Eileen (Horace) Nix Madison of White Plains, N.Y.; a sister, Joyce (Walter) Nix Pillow of Columbus; a grandson, Horace Madison of Miami; a great-granddaughter, Pemma Madison of Vermont; a stepdaughter, Charlotte Lewis of Columbus; two stepsons, Steven Nix of White Plains, N.Y. and Donald Timothy McGee of Florida; and three nieces, Pamela Spurgeon of Columbus, Diane Taylor of Reynoldsburg, and Brenda Murphy of Manassas, Va.
He also was preceded in death by his stepmother, Geraldine Nix; and a stepdaughter, Susan McGee Martin.
Services will be held at 1 p.m. today, March 30, at the Diehl-Whittaker Funeral Home in Columbus, with the Rev. Andrews officiating. Visiting hours will be from noon-1 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery.

DORA TRUTWIN
1909-2005
ANTWERP — Dora Mae Trutwin, 95, of Antwerp, passed away at 5:11 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at Hawthorn Court Nursing Home in Paulding.
She was born Nov. 24, 1909, in Antwerp, the daughter of Frank E. and Blanche E. (Miller) Knight. In 1930, she married James Trutwin, who preceded her in death in 1969. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Antwerp, the Antwerp VFW Auxiliary, Hicksville Eagles and the Royal Neighbors. She loved to fish and enjoyed working at the Ehrhart Museum in Antwerp.
She will be sadly missed by her daughter, Jane Ankney of Antwerp; 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and seven great-great-grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were a daughter, Phyllis Gill; a son, Jack Trutwin; a sister, one grandchild; one great-grandchild; and her long-time companion, Ernie Sabo. Services were held Tuesday, March 29, at Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp, with the Revs. Max and Craig Begley officiating. She was laid to rest in the Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp. Preferred memorials are to the Hawthorn Court Activity Fund or to the Antwerp VFW Auxiliary.

CLIFFORD JONES SR.
1927-2005
PAULDING – Clifford M. Jones Sr., 77, died at 3:34 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at the St. Joseph Select Care in Fort Wayne.
He was born April 13, 1927, in Denver, the son of Jay and Pansey (Adams) Jones. In 1946, he married Myrtle M. Worline, who preceded him in death Jan. 18, 1990. On Dec. 12, 1992, he married Ethel A. Bradford Keck, who survives. He was a maintenance supervisor for Jackson Township, Paulding County. He was a member of the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, Grover Hill and the Knights of Python.
Also surviving are three sons, Clifford Jr. and Marty (Jane) Jones, both of Paulding, and Paul (Carolyn) Jones of Latty; a stepson, Jeff Keck of Napoleon; a stepdaughter, Susan Keck, Paulding; a sister, Cleo Ziegler, Paulding; six grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by a great-grandchild, Derek Gebhart.
Services were held Tuesday, March 29, at the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church with Pastor David Prior and Pastor Don Baer officiating. Burial was in the Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Clifford M. Jones Sr. family.

SAM GRIMES
1916-2005
ANTWERP — Samuel M. Grimes, 88, Antwerp, died Friday, March 25. Dooley Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

PAUL WILHELM
1917-2005
PAULDING — Paul T. Wilhelm, 87, died Sunday, March 27, at the Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.
He was born Sept. 30, 1917, in Paulding County, the son of Albert and Mary Ann (Koenn) Wilhelm. On Sept. 15, 1937, he married Lela P. Wilhelm, who preceded him in death in 1993. He was a retired self-employed farmer. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Paulding, a member of the Farm Bureau of Paulding County, a member of the Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus, and a former president of the board of directors of the Paulding Landmark.
He is survived by a son, Fred (Judy) Wilhelm of Meridian, Idaho; four daughters, Jan (Tom) Zuber of Antwerp, Paulette (Jerry) Beckman of Paulding, Roz (Dan) Wendorf of Bryan, and Ellen (Jim) Gunderman of Whitehouse; two sisters, Coletta (Pat) Clark of Paulding and Madonna Wonderly of Sherwood; 17 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by a son and daughter-in-law, William and Martha Wilhelm; three brothers, Justus, Louis and Ted Wilhelm; two sisters, Margaret Vogel and Clara Guilford; and an infant granddaughter.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 31, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Paulding with the Rev. G. Allen Fillman officiating. Burial will be in the St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.
Visitation will be from 2-9 p.m., today, March 30, at Den Herder Funeral Home, with a rosary service at 8 p.m.
Preferred memorials may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church.

HAROLD TRZYNKA
1924-2005
ANTWERP — Harold A. Trzynka, 81, of Antwerp, passed away Tuesday, March 29, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne.
He was born Jan. 25, 1924, the son of Carl E. and Selma H. (Nimmer) Trzynka. On July 10, 1954, he married Gloria Slaymaker, who preceded him in death Aug. 22, 2000. He attended Ossian High School from 1939-1942. He enlisted in the Army Air Force where he served as a B-17 radio operator, T/Sgt. in WWII. He graduated from Valparaiso University Law School, Valparaiso, Ind. with a Juris Doctorate and then graduated from Capital University (Trinity Seminary) in Columbus with a Bachelor of Divinity degree. He served as a Lutheran school teacher and parish pastor in several Midwest locations including Bethel Christian Church in Arthur. He was also a teacher at the Antwerp Local Schools, retiring in the late 1980s.
He is survived by four daughters, Linda Brown, Martha Straley and Elizabeth Ratliff, all of Antwerp, and Mary Jewell of Hicksville; four sons, Paul of Marshfield, Mass., Philip of New York, Peter of Fort Wayne, and Joseph of Hicksville; three sisters, Evelyn Caston and Ardis Lunz, both of Fort Wayne, and Mary Kimmel of New Haven; three brothers, Norman of New Haven and Eugene and James of Ossian, Ind; 28 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Services were held Friday, April 1, at the Bethel United Methodist Church in Cecil with the Rev. Charles Schmunk officiating. He was laid to rest at Spindler Cemetery in Mark Center, with military honors from Antwerp VFW Post 5087. Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Paulding Area Visiting Nurses.
Online condolences may be made at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

CHARLES BRAUN
1918-2005
CENTRALIA, Wash. — Charles J. “Charlie” Braun, 86, died Monday, March 28, at his home in Centralia, Wash. where he had been a resident for the past four years.
He was born March 31, 1918, in LaCrosse, Wis., the son of Charles Phillip and Sarah (Fetzner) Braun. He was reared and attended schools in LaCrosse. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served during WWII in the Pacific Theatre. Following his discharge from the Navy, he returned to Rochester, Minn. The family lived in various places in the Midwest where he founded several companies. He was an industrial pattern maker by trade. In 1972, he founded Braun Industries and began manufacturing ambulances in Ohio. He retired in 2000 and moved to Arizona for a short time before moving to Centralia. He and his wife, Ione, enjoyed traveling in their motor home. Even in retirement, Charlie still enjoyed working.
He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Ione Braun, of Centralia; three sons, Phillip (Carma) Braun of Van Wert, Jack (Linda) Braun of Chebalis, and Chuck (Janet) Braun of Canby, Ore.; two daughters, Diane (Tom) Sohiefer of Delta, Colo. and Barbara (Peter) Bronson of Tiffin; one niece; one nephew; 16 grandchildren; and 28 great-grandchildren.
Private funeral services were held at Sticklin Funeral Chapel. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of local arrangements.

CLARENCE HOOK
1921-2005
TITUSVILLE, Fla. — Clarence James Hook, 84, of Titusville, Fla., died Monday, April 4. DeVare Memorial Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

CHARLES
HUNT
1931-2005
CONTINENTAL – Charles W. Hunt, 74, of Continental, died at 4 p.m. Monday, April 4 at his residence.
He was born March 13, 1931 in Spencerville, the son of Henry R. and Odessa M. (Kennedy) Hunt. In January 1952, he married Mildred Powell, who preceded him in death in January 1997. In 1999, he married Betty Ripke, who survives. A veteran of the Air Force, he was employed at GM Powertrain, retiring after 36 years. He was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Defiance, a life member of Continental American Legion, and a former member of the Continental Game Club. He bowled for many years at Continental and Defiance.
Also surviving are three sons, Martin Hunt of Cloverdale and Alan and Melvin Hunt, both of Continental; a daughter, Denise (David) Newell of Continental; four stepsons, Kenneth Rohlf of Oakwood, John and Thomas Rohlf of Defiance, and Jeff Rohlf of Elida; two stepdaughters, Peggy Wright of Norfolk, Va. and Shelly Decker of Defiance; three brothers, George Hunt of Oakwood, Howard Hunt of Lima, and Kenny Hunt of Cecil; three sisters, Mae (Ray) Eckhoff of Fostoria, Barbara (Robert) Laukhuf of Haviland, and Donna (Frances) Grant of Continental; eight grandchildren; 11 stepgrandchildren; and eight great-stepgrandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Perry; one sister; and two infant brothers.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 7 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Continental, with the Rev. David Luhring officiating. Burial will be in Monroe Cemetery, Continental, with military graveside rites.
Visitation is from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. today, April 6, and from 9-11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to St. John’s Lutheran Church or Putnam County Hospice.

LOUISE LAUKHUF
1916-2005
PAULDING – Louise S. Laukhuf, 89, died at 11:50 p.m. Thursday, March 31 at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert.
She was born Jan. 24, 1916 in Akron, the daughter of Charles and Mary (Brown) Wormald. On March 14, 1940, she married Carl Laukhuf, who preceded her in death on Oct. 17, 1978. She was a homemaker and a member of the Latty Apostolic Christian Church.
Surviving are two sons, David L. (Nancy) Laukhuf of Paulding and Carl E. (Donna) Laukhuf of Centerville; a daughter, Janet (Robert) Williamson, Paulding; a sister, Mary (Lawrence) Stoller, Smithville; eight grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by three brothers, Willis, Robert and Charles Wormald; three sisters, Bessie Graf, Martha Stoller and Grace Schuckert; and a grandson, Neal B. Laukhuf.
Services were held Tuesday, April 5 at the Latty Apostolic Church Fellowship Hall in Latty. Burial was in the church cemetery. Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, was in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the church’s Alms Fund.

JAMES McCLURE
1923-2005
FORT WAYNE – James F. McClure, 82, of Fort Wayne, died at 7:50 a.m. Sunday, April 3. Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, is in charge of arrangements.

DEBBIE BAYS
ST. ALBANS – Debbie Jean Bays, 42, of St. Albans, died Tuesday, March 29, 2005, due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident.
A 1981 graduate of Paulding High School, she was an employee of Dollar General in St. Albans.
Surviving are her mother, Linda Lytle; her father and stepmother, Estil and Lee Bays; two sons, Paul and Nicholas; a sister, Regina Newsome; and two brothers, Paul and Charles Bays.
In accordance with her wishes, she was cremated.
In memory of Debbie Bays, a service will be held for family and friends at 7 p.m. Friday, April 15, at Bethel Christian Church in Arthur with the Rev. Chris Baker officiating.
Casdorph and Curry Funeral Home in St. Albans was in charge of arrangements

JOSEPHINE GUTIERREZ MULLEN
1927-2005
VAN WERT – Josephine Gutierrez Mullen, 77, of Van Wert, died at 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 4, at her residence. She was born Sept. 27, 1927 in Lansing, Mich., the daughter of Longino and Conception (Castenda) Marez. In 1997, she married Frederick S. Mullen Jr., who survives. She retired from Aeroquip after 15 years of employment. Most of her life was spent raising her family. She also worked at the Van Wert Manufacturing Co., and did house cleaning and ironing for many families in Van Wert. She was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Van Wert, the Rosary Altar Society, Catholic Ladies of Columbia, Wapakoneta Eagles Auxiliary, Van Wert American Legion Auxiliary, Wapakoneta American Legion Auxiliary and was a Van Wert County Hospital Twig volunteer.
Also surviving are six sons, John (Paula) Gutierrez of Paulding, Gil (Denise), Dan and David (Marsha) Gutierrez, all of of Van Wert, Ron (Pat) Gutierrez of Alpharetta, Ga., and Randy (Jeanene) Gutierrez of Rockford; five daughters, Diann (Jeff) Ebel of Grover Hill, Sue Szuch of Elida, Lou (Steve) Biberstine of Ohio City, Bernadine (Klayton) Hooper of Cloverdale, and Mariea (Dan) Moreland) of Van Wert; a sister, Mary Torres of Grand Rapids, Mich.; two brothers, Salvadore Marez of Grand Rapids, Mich., and Genero Marez of Atlanta; 23 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her first husband, John Gutierrez; a daughter, Theresa; a sister, Connie Trevino; and a son-in-law, Dave Szuch. Services were held Friday, April 8, at St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church with the Rev. Charles Obinwa officiating. Internment was in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Brickner Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are to St. Mary’s Church and School or Van Wert Hospital Twigs.

RALPH MILLER - 1916-2005
PAULDING – Ralph Todd Miller, 89, died at 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 5, at Hawthorn Court Nursing Home, Paulding.
He was born Jan. 17, 1916 in Putnam County, the son of Vernal Todd and Sarah E. (Ridenour) Evans. He was adopted at age 3 by John and Edna Miller. On Aug. 14, 1934, he married Avis Mae Horner, who survives. He was a farmer and was employed by Johns Manville in Defiance, retiring in 1980. He attended Junction Bible Christian Church and was a member of the Broughton Fox Club, the Farm Bureau and G.B.B.A. Also surviving are a son, Everett (Donna) Miller, Paulding; a sister, Betty Burson, Bellevue, Ohio; three grandchildren, Roger (Shelly) Miller of Convoy, David (Janice) Miller of Bryan and Karen (Denny) McVay of Paulding; six great-grandchildren, Jason (Kristi) Miller, Jennifer, Jordan and Courtney Miller, and Joseph and Marcus McVay; and a great-great-granddaughter, Mckenna Miller.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his adoptive parents. Services were Friday, April 8, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with Pastor Pat Shepard officiating. Burial was in Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Paulding. Preferred memorials are to Junction Bible Christian Church or to Paulding County Hospital Home Health Care.

KATHRYN HART-WILLIAMS - 1957-2005
SPRINGFIELD – Kathryn Hart-Williams, 48, died Wednesday, March 16. Jackson Lytle Williams Funeral Home in Springfield was in charge of arrangements.

WILBUR FLINT - 1942-2005
CLEARWATER, Fla. – Wilbur E. Flint, 62, died at 10:15 p.m. Sunday, April 3, at Morton Plant Hospital, Clearwater.
He was born July 27, 1942 in Paulding County, the son of Leo J. and Martha A. (McDougall) Flint. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and was employed by Lane Realty Construction Corp., Atlanta.
Surviving are a son, Ryan (Karen) Flint of Cecil; two brothers, Dale and Daniel Flint, both of Fort Wayne; three sisters, Leah (John) Boundy of St. Charles, Mo., Betty (Don) Vogel of Angola, Ind., and Joyce Jewel of Hollywood, Calif.; and a grandson.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Ted. Graveside services were held Saturday, April 9, at Hedges Cemetery, with Pastor Jack Berry officiating. VFW Post 587 conducted military graveside services. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are to the Wilbur Flint Family.

BONNIE SCHLIESSER - 1931-2005
NEW HAVEN – Bonnie J. Schliesser, 73, died at 8 a.m. Thursday, March 31, in the Lutheran Hospital of Indiana, Fort Wayne.
She was born May 18, 1931 in Paulding County, the daughter of Elmer and Marie L. (Doctor) Kernes. On July 12, 1964 she married Delmar Schliesser, who preceded her in death July 2, 2001. She was a graduate of Lutheran School of Nursing, worked in several hospitals in St. Louis, Mo., and was the occupational nurse for the former Grizzly Manufacturing in Paulding. She also had worked at several nursing homes in northwest Ohio. She was a volunteer staff member of the American Red Cross, First Call for Help in Napoleon, and a hospice volunteer private duty nurse. She was a member of the Auxiliary of Fraternal Order of Eagles in Hicksville.
Surviving are a son, Douglas Schliesser, New Haven; an aunt, Esther Cleland of Safety Harbor, Fla.; and two grandchildren. She also was preceded in death by her parents. Services were held Saturday, April 9, at St. James Lutheran Church in Payne with Pastor Joseph Allen officiating. Burial was in Wiltsie Cemetery, Payne. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made in memory of Bonnie Schliesser in care of Den Herder Funeral Home, PO Box 27, Paulding.

MARGARET BRUICK - 1943-2005
ANTWERP – Margaret A. Bruick, age 61, of Antwerp, passed away at 12:50 a.m. Sunday, April 10 at James Cancer Hospital at the OSU Medical Center, Columbus. She was born May 11, 1943, in Van Wert, the daughter of the late Kenneth and Rhea Mae (Agler) Campbell. On Aug. 6, 1966, she married Larry Bruick. She previously worked at Uniroyal Goodrich, but owned the A&W Drive-In, Antwerp, for the last 35 years with her husband. She was a member of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church of Antwerp.
She will be sadly missed by her husband, Larry; two daughters, Christy Williamson of Antwerp and Nicole Zuber of Van Wert; a sister, Evelyn Searfoss of Continental; a brother, Donald Campbell of Fort Wayne; and six grandchildren, Morgan, Sam and Rachel Williamson and Madison, Brooke and Taylor Zuber. She also was preceded in death by a brother, Larry Campbell.
Services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, April 14, at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Antwerp with the Rev. William E.D. Barlow officiating. Burial will be in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp. Visitation is from 2-9 p.m. today, April 13 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, and at 10 a.m. Thursday at the church. Preferred memorials are to James Cancer Hospital or to the church. Online condolences are encouraged at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com.

ROBERT HECK - 1917-2005
PAULDING — Robert “Steve” E. Heck, 87, died at 1:50 a.m. Sunday, April 17, at the Laurels of Defiance.
He was born Sept. 24, 1917, in Paulding County, the son of William and Clara (Wurm) Heck. On Sept. 24, 1938, he married Della O. Coil, who preceded him in death Nov. 12, 1990. He retired as a foreman at Magnavox of Fort Wayne in 1980, following 40 years of service. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Paulding and a member of the Paulding VFW Post 587.
Surviving are a daughter, Sue (Jerry) Shook of Defiance; a brother, Norman Heck of Paulding; a granddaughter; and four great-grandsons.
Also preceding him in death were two brothers, Paul and Harold Heck; and two sisters, Marie Adams and Marguerite Mattingly.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. today, April 20, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Paulding, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial will be in the Little Auglaize Cemetery in Melrose. Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding are in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Caring Way of Defiance.

BURTON HOY - 1915-2005
GROVER HILL — Burton L. Hoy, 89, of Grover Hill, died Thursday, April 14. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert was in charge of the arrangements.

LEONA HUNT - 1916-2005
WATERFORD, Mich. — Leona Moser Hunt, 88, died Wednesday, April 13. Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert was in charge of the arrangements.

LEO RODMAN - 1909-2005
HAVILAND — Leo W. “Bill” Rodman, 95, died at 2:35 p.m. Thursday, April 14, at the Convoy Care Center.
He was born May 8, 1909, in Paulding County, the son of Frank and Nellie (Speakman) Rodman. On Dec. 4, 1931, he married Augusta M. Humbarger, who survives. He was a farmer and a member of the Haviland Country Chapel United Methodist Church.
Also surviving are two sons, Charles (Bonnie) Rodman of Haviland and Robert (Jerri) Rodman of Woodburn; two sisters, Ruth Kelly of Fort Wayne and Lela Mae Bowersox of Haviland; five grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were two brothers, Harry and Howard Rodman; five sisters, Bernice Taner, Thelma Baker, Elouise Albright, Madelene Palte and Alice Evans; and twin great-grandchildren, Curt and Karri Rees.
Services were held Monday, April 18, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding, with the Rev. James Howell officiating. Burial was in the Blue Creek Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to the Scott EMS or the Haviland Country Chapel United Methodist Church.

A’DELPHINE STRATTON - 1914-2005
CULLOWHEE, N.C. — A’Delphine Stratton, 91, died at 8:10 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, at her daughter’s residence in Cullowhee, N.C.
She was born Jan. 24, 1914, in Grover Hill, the daughter of Cleveland E. and Ida B. (Curtis) Eaton. On Jan. 24, 1934, she married Floyd Andrew “Bud” Stratton, who preceded her in death on Jan. 8, 1999. She had previously owned the Dairy Dip and the Shell Service Station in Grover Hill. She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Van Wert, and a member of the Ladies Aid at Trinity United Methodist.
Surviving are a son, Kent E. Stratton of Clarksville, Tenn.; a daughter, Karen (Bill) Perry of Cullowhee, N.C.; four grandchildren; Jon (Julie Ann) Stratton of Churubusco, Ind, Jay (Trudy) Stemen of Naples, Fla., Jule Ann (Carl) Calloway of Fort Wayne, Ind, and Michael (Fedra) Perry of Nashville, Tenn; and six great-grandchildren, Christopher and Seth Stratton, Amanda and Michelle Calloway, and Carissa and Mitchell Stemen.
Also preceding her in death was a brother, Darwin Eaton. Services were held Sunday, April 17, at Cowan and Son Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Timothy A. Burden officiating. Burial was in the Middle Creek Cemetery in Grover Hill. Preferred memorials are to Hospice (Sylva or Van Wert, Ohio) or to the Trinity United Methodist Church.

ERRY WALLEY
ANTWERP — Jerry Walley, 64, of Antwerp, died Thursday, April 14, 2005. Dooley Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

FRANCES LAIDIG
TOLEDO — Frances E. Laidig, 92, of West Toledo, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 21, 2005, in the Hospice of Northwest Ohio.
She was a very special lady, loved by everyone, and the heart and soul of her family. She had so much to give her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We have wonderful memories and loved her very much. She will be sorely missed. Frances was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church, Marvin Ave., where she had served as a Sunday school teacher and on various other committees. She was also a volunteer for Mobile Meals for many years. Frances is survived by her daughters, Connie (Dave) Sancraint and Sharon Harris; a son, David Laidig; grandchildren, Kelly (Richard) Chamberlain, Chad Sancraint, Ryan (Kristie) Sancraint, Kevin (Jennifer) Sancraint, Nickolas (Andrea) Sancraint, Paul, Vernon, Robert, Samantha, Jacob, Lance and Jeff Harris; eight beloved great-grandchildren; a sister, Aldean Price of Van Wert; and three brothers, Raymond, Alvin and Marvin Klopfenstein, all of Paulding. She was preceded in death by her husband, George E. Laidig in April, 1978; infants, Gene and Mabel; and two brothers, Harold and Floren Klopfenstein. The family wishes to thank the Medical and Support staff at Medical College Hospice and Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Toledo Center for making her last days peaceful. Services were held Monday, April 25, at the Apostolic Christian Church in Toledo, with interment in Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. Walter Funeral Home, Toledo, was in charge of the arrangements. Preferred memorials are to go to the Apostolic Christian Church or Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

DELORIS MUNDT - 1933-2005
FORT WAYNE — Deloris E. Mundt, 71, of Van Wert, formerly of Paulding and Fort Wayne, died Saturday, April 23, in Van Wert.
She was born Aug. 28, 1933, in Bryan. She was retired from GTE in Fort Wayne, following 37 years of service. She was a volunteer at the John Paulding Historical Society and a member of St. John Lutheran Church in Briceton.
Surviving are two daughters, Ann Marie (Jeff) Potts of Gaylordsville, Conn. and Linda (Terry) Edgar of Angola, Ind.; a son, Donald Mundt of Fort Wayne; two sisters, Marceil and Sandra Norden, both of Fort Wayne; four brothers, James Norden of Fort Wayne, Henry of Florida, Walter of Albion, Ind. and David Norden of Kendallville, Ind.; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin Mundt in 1988.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 28 at D.O. McComb and Sons’ Maplewood Park Funeral Home at 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne. Burial will be at Lindenwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. (Indiana time) today, April 27, at D.O. McComb Maplewood Park Funeral Home. Preferred memorials are to the Cancer Services of Allen County or St. John’s Lutheran Church.

DWIGHT KLINGLER - 1926-2005
DEMING, N.M. – Dwight C. Klingler, 78, of Deming, N.M., died at 2 a.m. Tuesday, April 12, at the Membres Nursing Home in Deming.
He was born Nov. 13, 1926, in Paulding, the son of John and Ilene (Morrow) Klingler. On Jan. 17, 1947, he married Josephine Puschel, who preceded him in death Aug. 9, 1990. He was retired from the Deming Meat Packing Plant. He enjoyed being with his family and friends, hunting and fishing with his grandson, Shawn, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and cooking outdoors. He was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene in Deming. He is survived by two sons, James L. (Linda) Klingler of St. Marys and John W. (Kathy) Klingler of Deming, N.M.; a daughter, Cheryl Brabson of Deming, N.M.; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Ladene (Bill) Osborne of Fort Wayne and Darlene (Floyd) Slane of Antwerp. Also preceding him in death were a daughter, Angela; and a brother, Duane Klingler of Paulding.
Memorial services were held April 16 at the First Church of the Nazarene with the Rev. Al Bunting officiating.

KATHERINE MUSSELMAN - 1904-2005
CECIL — Katherine Musselman, 100, died at 3:45 p.m. Thursday, April 28, at the Paulding County Hospital, where she had been a patient one day.
She was born Sept. 28, 1904, in Crane Township, the daughter of Samuel J. and Ada E. (Cunningham) Jump. In 1921, she married Emanuel “Dan” Musselman, who preceded her in death in 1967. She was a homemaker and the oldest member of the Cecil First Presbyterian Church, where she played the piano. She was a member of the Cecil Grange and the O.E.S. of Sherwood.
Surviving are a son, Kenneth (Mary) Musselman of Cecil; a sister, Ruth Zuber of Antwerp; six grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. Also preceding her in death were a daughter, Doris Woodring; three brothers, Jim, Paul and Wayne Jump; and a sister, Dora Hartman. Services were held Tuesday, May 3, at the First Presbyterian Church in Cecil, with the Rev. David Meriwether officiating. Burial was in Rochester Cemetery, Cecil. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials may be made to the Cecil First Presbyterian Church or Dallas Lamb Foundation Home Activity Fund.

AIDEN BLAND CUTLIP - 2005
MELROSE — Aiden Matthew (Bland) Cutlip , six days old, died Thursday, May 5, at the Toledo Children’s Hospital in Toledo. Heitmeyer Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

ARNOLD DETMON - 1923-2005
PAULDING — Arnold F. “Art” Detmon, 82, died at 4:06 a.m. Saturday, May 7, at the Van Wert County Hospital in Van Wert.
He was born May 6, 1923, in Lucas County, the son of LeRoy and Eillian (Matzen) Detmon. On Oct. 2, 1943, he married Esther Louise Morrow, who preceded him in death on July 6, 1994. He was a 1941 graduate of Antwerp High School, and a U.S. Army veteran, serving during WWII. He was employed by Lafarge Corporation in Paulding, as a heavy equipment operator, retiring in 1984, following 28 years of service. He was a member of the Paulding VFW Post 587 and the Paulding F.O.E. 2405. He was an avid NASCAR fan.
He is survived by two sons, Dan (Donna) Detmon of Syracuse, Ind. and Roger (Cheri) Detmon of Paulding; a daughter, Pam (Jerry) Riggenbach of Paulding; a brother, Glen (Gladys) Detmon of Antwerp; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Services were held Tuesday, May 10, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding with Timothy Dooley and Jerry Riggenbach officiating. Burial was in the Cooper Cemetery, Paulding, where Paulding VFW Post 587 conducted military graveside services.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Van Crest Health Care Center Activity Fund.

MERWIN GRAHAM - 1926-2005
PIQUA – Merwin D. Graham, 78, of Piqua, formerly of Payne, went to be with his heavenly father at 5:30 a.m. Monday, May 9 at the Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He was born July 24, 1926, in Pisgah, W.Va., the son of Clinton and Virginia Maude (Christopher) Graham. On Dec. 24, 1952, he married Alverta Durst, who survives in Piqua. He served in the U.S. Marines from 1943-1946 and was a Purple Heart recipient. He had formerly worked for International Harvester Company and Harter Corporation in Van Wert. He was a past master and a member of Flat Rock #580 Masonic Lodge in Payne, a Shriner, an avid coin collector and a gardener who loved to tend to his flowers and orchids.
Also surviving are two daughters, Diane (John) Hearne of Piqua and Maudie (Tom) Wingo of Van Wert; five grandchildren, Michelle Barlow, Chad Fisher, Natalie Fisher, Brittany Fisher and Olivia Wingo; and two great-grandchildren, Brant Barlow and Madison Fisher.
He was preceded in death by five brothers, Paul, Cecil, Dallas, Harlan and Warren Graham; and three sisters, Zelda Keener, Isabel Bayles and Beatrice Cundiff. Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 14, at the Oak Grove Mennonite Church in Grantsville, Md., with the Rev. Tim Fetterly officiating. Burial will be at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Grantsville, Md., where military graveside rites will be conducted.
Hours of visitation will be from 5-8 p.m. today, May 11, at Alspach Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert, where a Masonic memorial service will be held at 7:45. Preferred memorials are to the Shriners.

IOLA SHISLER - 1914-2005
BRYAN — Iola Mae Shisler, 91, of Bryan, passed away on Saturday, May 7, at Community Hospitals and Wellness Centers in Bryan.
She was born Feb. 7, 1914, the daughter of Cecil E. and Lilly A. (Hesrick) Gray. On March 17, 1964, she married Harley R. Shisler, who preceded her in death. She had been a secretary at Bryan Metals and was a homemaker.
She is survived by a daughter, Vicki (Marv) Nafziger of Archbold; two stepsons, Nolan (Donna) Shisler and Jack (Jackie) Shisler, both of Oakwood; three grandchildren; four stepgrandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. A memorial service was held Tuesday, May 10, at Faith United Methodist Church, with Rev. Susan Roads officiating. Burial was private at Prairie Chapel Cemetery in Oakwood. Oberlin-Ford Funeral Home in Bryan was in charge of the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith United Methodist Church or to the choice of the donor.
Condolences may be sent to the family or the online guestbook may be signed at www.oberlin-ford.com.

BETTY SHUHERK
FINDLAY — H. Betty Griswold Shuherk, 82, of Findlay, died Thursday, May 5, 2005. Coldren-Crates Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

SKIP DANGLER - 1927 - 2005
LONGWOOD, Fla. – Former Paulding resident, Donnell L. “Skip” Dangler, age 77, died Monday, May 9 in Florida Hospital, Orlando, after a brief illness. He was born Aug. 12, 1927, in Paulding County, the son of the late Sylvester and Kathryn Faye (Kadesch) Dangler. He graduated from Paulding High School in 1945 and was a life-long farmer in Paulding County until his retirement in 2000. He will be remembered not as the last of the old-time farmers but as the first of the modern day, progressive farmers. He later worked at King Truck Center, Orlando, in the transportation department. He was an avid NASCAR fan, often traveling to races in Daytona, Indianapolis, North Carolina and California.
He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Marjorie (Mullen) Dangler of Longwood; three sons, Dennis Dangler of Sarasota, Fla., Kevin (Sue) Dangler and Scott Dangler, both of Paulding; a daughter, Heidi Kirk, Longwood; a sister, Lelabel Dangler, Cecil; stepsons, Charley Bauman of Vero Beach, Fla., and Kevin Bauman of Dublin, Ohio; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and six stepgrandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by a grandson, Bradley Bennett Dangler; a stepson, Brad Bauman; and two infant sisters.
The family will receive friends from 1-3 p.m. Friday, May 20, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. A memorial service will be celebrated at 3 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Internment will be at a later date at Live Oak Cemetery, Paulding.
The family suggests memorials be made in his memory to: The Bradley Bennett Dangler Memorial Scholarship Fund (c/o Kevin Dangler, 12324 Buckeye Drive, Paulding, Ohio 45879) or the Florida Orlando Hospital Foundation benefiting the CVICU (c/o Heidi Dangler, 120 Stag R