GENE GOODENOUGH
1929-2008
PAULDING – Gene S. Goodenough, age 79, died Monday, Aug. 11 at Dallas Lamb Foundation Home, Payne.
He was born June 1, 1929 in Paulding, the son of Tom S. and Katie L. (Hasch) Goodenough. On Aug. 27, 1946 in Covington, Ky., he married Elizabeth E. Carnahan, who survives. He was employed by Dana Corporation, Fort Wayne, for 42 years and 8 months, retiring in 1991. He was a member of St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Paulding.
Also surviving are a son, Tom (Deb), of California; three daughters, Beth (Eric) Stoller and Sandi (Tim Wolfle) Smith, both of Paulding, and Cindi (Mike) Williams, Fort Wayne; 12 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Jack; and two sisters, Alta Sanders and Mildred Swires.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor Mary Beth Smith Webb officiating. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.
Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 15 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, and one hour prior to services on Saturday at the church.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Paulding; or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

NICK MARTINEZ SR.
1917-2008
PAULDING – Nick Cano Martinez Sr., age 91, died Friday, Aug. 8 at Hawthorn Court Nursing Home, Paulding.
He was born Jan. 10, 1917 in Rock Springs, Texas, the son of Rafael and Flora (Cano) Martinez. On Dec. 2, 1939, he married Lupe Hernandez, who survives. He was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Antwerp. He was a retired Construction Worker in Indiana for Local Labor Union #213.
Also surviving are four sons, Rosalio (Genevieve), Nick Jr. and Juan, all of Paulding, and Martin (Gloria) of Racine, Wis.; five daughters, Lupe (Ray) Contreraz, Esther (Joe) Rangel and Lisa (Tim) Bermejo, all of Paulding, and Phyllis Martens and Valentina (Art) Ybarra, both of Fort Wayne; 29 grandchildren; 48 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Mayo, Jacinto and Mike; two sisters, Rafaela and one unknown; a granddaughter, Martina Contreraz; a grandson, Brandon Bermejo; and two great-grandchildren, Joshua Martinez and Talan Fett.
Funeral services were conducted Tuesday, Aug. 12, at the Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with Gary Bear officiating. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to Paulding County Area Visiting Nurses/Hospice or Hawthorn Court Nursing Home Activity Fund.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

RHEBA MILLER
1919-2008
VAN WERT – Rheba L. Miller, age 89, died at 12:05 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 10 at Van Wert Manor.
She was born Feb. 19, 1919 in Van Wert County, the daughter of William and Leona (McClure) Thomas. On Jan. 5, 1938 she married Samuel E. Miller, who preceded her in death on Feb. 26, 1991. She was a nursing assistant for 33 years at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. She attended the Zion United Methodist Church, Grover Hill.
Surviving are three sons, Garry D. (Cleona) of Van Wert, and Ricky L. (Pat) and Randy G. (Julie), both of Grover Hill; one brother, William Thomas of Lima; three sisters, Olive Scherer and Donna Adams, both of Grover Hill, and Betty Koenig of Van Wert; six grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by an infant daughter.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. today, Aug. 13, at Zion United Methodist Church, Grover Hill with the Rev. Paul Miller officiating. Burial will be in Middle Creek Cemetery Grover Hill.
Visitation is one hour prior to services at the church.
Preferred memorials are to Grover Hill Fire Department or the Zion United Methodist Church, Grover Hill.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

DOROTHY
RIGGENBACH
1924-2008
PAULDING – Dorothy Dean Riggenbach, age 83, died Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2008 at Country Inn Enhanced Living Center, Paulding.
She was born Oct. 18, 1924 in Paulding County, the daughter of Charley and Hazel M. (Patton) Smith. On Oct. 5, 1942 she married Ray Henry Riggenbach, who preceded her in death on Oct. 13, 1996. She worked for attorneys Paul Spriggs, Harvey Hyman and Norman Cook. She was a member of Paulding United Methodist Church and helped on several committees. She was also a volunteer at the Paulding County Hospital.
Surviving are four sons, Gerald (Mary) of Defiance, and David (CarieLynn), Duane (Brenda) and Ron (Deborah), all of Paulding; a daughter, Sue (Richard) Wannemacher, Payne; three grandchildren, Kevin (Sally) Wannemacher, Troy (Amy) Riggenbach and Ivy Riggenbach; a stepgrandchild, Kyle Mohr; and two great-grandchildren, Kristin and Konnor Wannemacher.
She also was preceded in death by three sisters, Glendine Jeffery, Averial Baughman and Edith DeMuth.
Funeral services were conducted Friday, Aug. 8 at Paulding United Methodist Church, with Pastor Ben Lowell officiating. Burial was in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, was in charge of arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to Paulding United Methodist Church; Paulding County Hospital Foundation; or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

LUCILE COE
1917-2008
PAULDING – Lucile Anna Coe, age 91, died at 5:31 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 17 at Hawthorn Court Nursing Home, Paulding.
She was born Aug. 10, 1917 in Fort Wayne, the daughter of William P. and Minta (Newton) Smitley. On Aug. 21, 1945, she married Hilen J. Coe, who preceded her in death Oct. 10, 2007. She was a homemaker and worked for General Electric in Fort Wayne Indiana during World War II. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Paulding, where she served as a former deacon and was member of the Women’s Church Circle.
Surviving are two daughters, Mary (Randy) Bussing of Paulding and Marjorie (Craig) Rupp of Bryan; two sons, Charles (Paula) Coe of Paulding and Michael (Nancy) Coe of Defiance; a brother, Kenneth (Geraldine) Smitley of Hicksville; one sister, Juanita (Jack) Carr of Antwerp; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death a brother, Ivan Smitley; and an infant sister, Irma.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. today, Aug. 20, at the Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with the Rev. David Meriwether officiating. Burial will follow in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding. Visitation is one hour before services.
Preferred memorials are to the First Presbyterian Church of Paulding, or Foundation for Fighting Blindness.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

CAROLE DUNDERMAN
1939-2008
ANTWERP – Carole S. Dunderman, 68, of Antwerp, died Saturday, Aug. 16 at the Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center after an extended illness.
She was born Oct. 28, 1939 near Antwerp, the daughter of Wendell R. and Nellie M. (Reed) Savage. She was a graduate of Antwerp High School and Indiana University-Purdue University at Fort Wayne. She retired in 2000 from the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities after 26 years of service. She was an avid traveler and reader, and belonged to the local book club in Antwerp.
She is survived by three daughters, Elaine (Phil) Kuhn of Edgewood, Ky., Rebecca (Jack) Benna of Glendale, Ariz. and Vanessa (Paul) Sciortino of Jeffersonville, Vt.; two sons, Bradley (Judy) of Clarendon Hills, Ill. and Douglas (Laura), Cincinnati; a sister, Barbara (Richard) Brown of Hicksville; a brother, Lynn (Ruth) Savage of Coral, Mich.; a sister-in-law, Peggy Savage of Antwerp; eight grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding her in death were her parents; a stepfather, Melvin (Dugan) Billman; a stepmother, Mildred Savage; and a brother, Rex (Pete) Savage.
A private burial service will be held. Dooley Funeral Homes of Antwerp & Payne is in charge of arrangements.
Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating Carole’s life from 4-7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 22 at Grant’s Reception Hall, 501 East Canal St. in Antwerp.
Preferred memorials are to the Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center, 06817 SR 66 N, Defiance OH 43512.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

DUANE GEER
1940-2008
PAULDING – Duane W. Geer, 68, of Paulding, passed away at 3:55 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 17, surrounded by his family at his residence.
He was born May 9, 1940 in Lincolnville, Pa., the son of the late Clifford and Pauline (Stover) Geer. He served in the U.S. Army as a military policeman. He worked at Sims Manufacturing, Payne, and also as a truck driver for M&D Transport and Bryan Trucking. On Feb. 24, 1968, he married Barbara Masone, who survives.
Also surviving are a daughter, Dina (Matthew) Shinabery of Waldron, Mich.; a son, Michael (Ruth) of Bandon, Fla.; a sister, Luella Chippiga of Union City, Pa.; and five grandchildren, Alex and Corey Geer and Emily, Jordan and Bailey Shinabery.
Also preceding him in death was a sister, Marjorie Hand.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today, Aug. 20 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with calling one hour prior. The Rev. Dwight Bowers will officiate.
The family requests donations to Paulding Area Visiting Nurses, or the Cancer Research Institute, One Exchange Plaza, 55 Broadway, Suite 1802, New York NY 10006.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

WILLIAM HANENKRATT
1925-2008
CECIL – William Henry Hanenkratt, age 83, died Monday, Aug. 18 at Paulding County Hospital.
He was born Feb. 1, 1925, in Paulding County, the son of Charles and Florence (White) Hanenkratt. He was a lifelong farmer.
He is survived by a nephew, Daniel H. (Jean) Stouffer Jr., Bosque Farms, N.M.; and two nieces, Bonnie (William) Borsa of Frederick, Md. and Susan Stouffer, Paulding.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Margery A. Smith and Alverda C. Stouffer.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 21 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in Live Oak Cemetery, Paulding.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. today, Aug. 20 at the funeral home.
Memorial donations may be made to Paulding County Hospital.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

HOMER HOWARD
1931-2008
MONROE, N.C. — Homer Gene Howard, 77, died at his home on Sunday, July 27.
He was born Feb. 8, 1931, in Union County, N.C., the son of Jesse Earl and Mary Crisco Howard, who both preceded him in death. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and a member of the Masonic Lodge Monroe #244.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Betty Hill Howard; a daughter, Susan Easley of Monroe, N.C.; four brothers, Melvin (Katherine) of Marshville, N.C., Gary (Helen) of Wingate, N.C., Keith (Pam) of New Salem, and Charles (Patricia) Howard of Monroe, N.C.; two sisters, Polly Robinson of Paulding and Viola (Jay) Smith of Oakboro, N.C.; three grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Also preceding him in death were a daughter, Cynthia L. Howard; a sister, Patricia Griffin; and two brothers, Wade and Leonard Howard.
Funeral services were held July 30, at Gordon Funeral Chapel. Burial was in the Lakeland Memorial Park.
Preferred memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, S.C.

EARL STEWART
1935-2008
ANTWERP – Earl E.  Stewart, 73, of Antwerp, passed away at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14 at Select Specialty Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He was born May 24, 1935 in Isaban, W.Va., the son of the late Charles E. and Ida Belle (Jones) Stewart. On April 2, 1955, he married Betty Horsley, who preceded him in death on April 20, 1993. He worked at International Harvester, Fort Wayne, and enjoyed his family and spending time at the cardroom.
Surviving are a daughter, Kimberly (Rod) Schaefer of Antwerp; two sons, Michael (Sandra) of Antwerp and Patrick (Jill) of Hicksville; two sisters, Martha Young of Columbus and Dorothy Sparks of Manchester; a brother, Art of South Webster; nine grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
He also was preceded in death by a sister, Virginia.
Services were held Monday, Aug. 18 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with the Rev. Jim Edwards officiating. Burial was in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp.
The family requests donations to Northeast Indiana Burn Council.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

GLENN BAUER
1944-2008
PAULDING – Glenn H. Bauer, age 64 died Sunday, Aug. 24, at the Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center, Defiance.
He was born Aug. 2, 1944 in Paulding County, the son of Clark G. and June (Condon) Bauer. On June 8, 1992, he married Brenda M. Bremer, who survives. He was employed by GM Powertrain, Defiance, retiring in 2006 after 44 years. He was a member of UAW #211, VFW Post #587 of Paulding, and Fraternal Order of Eagles #372, Defiance. He was a graduate of the former Blue Creek High School, where he was active in baseball and basketball. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.
Also surviving are a son, Brian (Dorothy) Bauer, Paulding; two stepsons, John A. Hasch Jr., Sherwood, and James A. Hasch Sr., Cecil; two stepdaughters, Tracey (David) Schroeder of Oakwood, and Tammy (Steve) Hawkins, Defiance; and two brothers, David C. (Jill) of Grover Hill, and Kevin R. (Pam), Briceton; 15 stepgrandchildren; and four great-stepgrandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 28 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with the Rev. Ben Lowell officiating. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.
Visitation will be from 3-8 p.m. today, Aug. 27, and one hour prior to services on Thursday at the funeral home.
Donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be left at www.denherderfh.com

JAMES BURKE
1936-2008
ANGOLA, Ind. – Paulding native and former Defiance resident James R. Burke, 72, Crooked Lake, died Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2008, at his home.
He was born Feb. 15, 1936, in Paulding, the son of Rex and Vera (Wunder) Burke. He married Margo McGrath, who died in 2000. He graduated from Defiance High School in 1954 and was a commercial carpenter. He was a member of Defiance Elks Lodge 147 and the NRA. He also had a winter home in Tucson, Ariz.
Surviving are a son, James Jr. (Tami), Tucson; two daughters, Jamie (James) Provencio and Jana Burke, Tucson; a friend, Barbara McCarthy, Defiance; two grandsons; and a great-grandson.
Also preceding him in death were his parents.
No services are planned. Weicht Funeral Home, Angola, Ind., is in charge of arrangements.

RICHARD DYER
1947-2008
 DEFIANCE — Richard W. Dyer, 61, of Defiance, formerly of Oakwood, died at 3 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22 at the Defiance Regional Medical Center.
He was born April 28, 1947, in Lima, the son of Richard J. and Thelma J. (Lovely) Dyer, who both preceded him in death. In 1965, he married Jean Holbrook Dyer. who survives in Payne.
He was employed as a quality control manager at several area manufacturing facilities for over 40 years. He attended Abiding By Faith Assembly Church in Findlay.
Also surviving are a daughter, Kara Combs of Peralta, N.M.; and his grandchildren.
He was also preceded in death by three daughters, Kimberly Weible, Kalin Dyer and Laura Dyer.
There are no public services or visitation. Lawson-Roessner Funeral Home, Defiance, was in charge of arrangements.
Suggested memorials are to the funeral home.
Condolences may be left at lawsonroessner.com

ROGER HALL
1941-2008
OAKWOOD – Roger Hall, 67, Oakwood, died at 12:05 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 17 in his home.
He was born June 29, 1941, in Portsmouth, the son of Lilbryn “Lib” and Ollie (Gee) Hall. In 1985, he married Wilma Stidham, who survives. He was retired from GM Powertrain, Defiance, and was a member of Big Run United Baptist Church, Lucasville, and Continental Masonic Lodge.
Also surviving are two sons, Charles (Michelle) Crabtree of Xenia and Chuck Hall, Tiffin; a brother, Robert (Linda), Lucasville; two sisters, Nancy Rosier and Phyllis (Bob) Ehrler, Lucasville; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Preceding him in death were his parents; a daughter, Nichole Hall; and a brother, Stanley.
Services were held Wednesday, Aug. 20 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, with Pastor Ray Newsome officiating. Another service was held Thursday, Aug. 21 at Big Run United Baptist Church, Lucasville, with pastor Corbert Jenkins officiating. Burial was in Big Run Community Cemetery, Lucasville.
Preferred memorials are to the family.
Condolences may be left at www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com.

DANNY LETUTOUR
1953-2008
MELROSE — Danny “Dan” Ray Letutour, 55, of Melrose, formerly of Philadelphia, Miss., died Saturday, Aug. 16, in a hospital in Meridian, Miss.
He was born Aug. 4, 1953, the son of Arthur Letutour and Ruby McClain Letutour, who preceded him in death.
He was a retired truck driver of 30 years. He loved birds, gardening, wood working and his family and friends very much.
He is survived by his loving companion and mother of his daughter, Betty Letutour; his daughter, Kelly (Christopher) Fuerst; stepsons, Randy Sr. (Jean) Michaelson and Bobby Michaelson; a sister, Sherrie Willis of Philadelphia, MISS; Justin and Justina Letutour, who are his grandchildren, but since he has raised them from babies, he considered them his children and loved them very much; grandchildren, Ashley Michaelson and Randy Michaelson Jr.; and four great-grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday. Aug. 30, at the Melrose Church. He will then be laid to rest at Cedar Lawn Cemetery in Philadelphia, MISS.
Memorials are to Justin and Justina Letutour.

JOYCE RUSSELL
1940-2008
DEFIANCE – Joyce Anne Russell, age 67, died Thursday, Aug. 21 at her home.
She was born Aug. 22, 1940 in Payne, the daughter of Harry H. and Marjorie K. (Wells) Chester. On June 28, 1958, she married Rex Russell, who survives. She was a 1958 graduate of Payne High School and a member of the Paulding County Rabbit Breeders Association. She was employed by Allied Molded Products, Bryan, for 24 years. She was previously employed by Vagabond Village Restaurant as a hostess and cashier and the former Holiday Inn, Defiance, as a waitress.
Also surviving are five sons, Rex A. (Lisa) of Harrison, Charles (Alex) of Holgate, Scott (Cheryl) and Darren, both of Defiance, and Bruce (Penny), Paulding; a daughter, Kathy J. Russell Hogan, Sherwood; a sister, Jean (Kenneth) Shininger, Defiance; and 10 grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Aug. 26 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with Jim Stinehelfer Jr. officiating. Burial was in Hedges Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society or Paulding County Hospital Home Health Care.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

“WHITEY” GERENCSER
1958-2008
ANTWERP – Larry “Whitey” Gerencser, 50, of Antwerp, passed away Saturday, Aug. 30 at his residence.
He was born Feb. 17, 1958, in Hicksville, the son of Paul and Dorothy (Strubing) Gerencser. He worked at Kwik Lok, New Haven, and also at Solarcrete in Antwerp and Payne. He enjoyed farming, model airplanes and was a Cleveland Browns fan.
Surviving are his father, Paul; two sisters, Marsha (Don) Oberlin and Christine (Rick) Steffens of Antwerp; and a brother, James (Nadene) of Antwerp.
His mother, Dorothy, preceded him in death.
Services will be at 11 a.m. today, Sept. 3, at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with calling one hour prior to the service. He will be laid to rest at Bethel Cemetery, Cecil.
The family requests donations to Hicksville Community Service Center for Dr. Wiley’s Free Clinic, P.O. Box 43 Hicksville OH 43526.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

JUDY “FAUN” JACKSON
1943-2008
GROVER HILL — Judy “Faun” Jackson, 65, of Grover Hill, died Saturday, Aug. 30, at Community Health Professionals Inpatient Hospice in Defiance.
She was born on May 11, 1943, in Saginaw, Mich., the daughter of James Oliver and Dorothy A. (Bershing) Jackson. She worked as a barmaid for several establishments in Ohio, California and Florida.
Surviving are two sons, John and Jim Bozak; a sister, Pat Ross of Grover Hill; three nieces whom she raised as her own, Nikki, Kelsey, and Lakin Clemons, all of Grover Hill; and four grandchildren.
There will be no visitation and services will be private for her family. Arrangements were made by Burr Funeral Home and Crematory in Bryan.

DANNY LETUTOUR
1953-2008
MELROSE — Danny “Dan” Ray Letutour, 55, of Melrose, formerly of Philadelphia, Miss., died Saturday, Aug. 16, in a hospital in Meridian, Miss.
He was born Aug. 4, 1953, the son of Arthur Letutour and Ruby McClain Letutour, who preceded him in death.
He was a retired truck driver of 30 years. He loved birds, gardening, wood working and his family and friends very much.
He is survived by his loving companion and mother of his daughter, Betty Letutour; his daughter, Kelly (Christopher) Fuerst; stepsons, Randy Sr. (Jean) Michaelson and Bobby Michaelson; Justin and Justina Letutour, who are his grandchildren, but since he has raised them from babies, he considered them his children and loved them very much; grandchildren, Ashley Michaelson and Randy Michaelson Jr.; four great-grandchildren; and a sister, Sherrie Willis of Philadelphia, Miss.
Memorial services were held Saturday, Aug. 30 at the Melrose Church. He was laid to rest at Cedar Lawn Cemetery, Philadelphia, Miss.
Memorials are to Justin and Justina Letutour.

PAUL
MANSFIELD
1933-2008
DEFIANCE – Paul O. Mansfield, 75, Defiance, died at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, in Brookview Healthcare Center, Defiance.
He was born April 20, 1933, in Defiance County, the son of Zoma and Edna (Wellman) Mansfield. On Sept. 22, 1953, he married Betty Jean Wellman, who survives. He was a U.S. Army veteran and owner of Paul’s IGA and associate stores in Van Wert, Continental and Oakwood for 37 years. He was a member of First Baptist Church and served as state chaplain of Gideons International for three years.
Also surviving are two sons, David (Lesa) Mansfield and Randy (Jan) Mansfield of Oakwood; a daughter, Tammy (Greg) Carpenter, Bakersfield, Calif.; four grandchildren, Kylee Shirey and Michael, Levi and Lindsey Mansfield; a great-grandchild, Kenyah Shirey; two brothers, Roma (Barbara) Mansfield of Oregon and Jerry (Janice) Mansfield, Defiance; three sisters, Beverly Rettig of Colorado and Janet (Charles) Koch and Carole (Roger) Engel of Defiance.
Preceding him in death were his parents; two brothers, Verden and William Mansfield; and two sisters, Marcella Ketner and Roberta Zachrich.
Services were held Saturday, Aug. 30 in First Baptist Church, Defiance, with the Rev. Tim Yazel officiating. Burial was in Mansfield Cemetery, Defiance County, with military rites by VFW Post 3360. Mast-Mock-Hoffman-Hanenkrath-Clevenger-Schaffer Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to Gideons International or First Baptist Church.
Condolences may be left at www.mastmockhoffman.com.

MAVIS MERRITTE
1925-2008
CONTINENTAL — Mavis Louise Merritte died at 2:25 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, at Defiance Mercy Hospital, Defiance.
She was born July 23, 1925, in Clarksville, Tenn., the daughter of Onus T. and Ruby F. (Adkins) Johnson. On Oct. 20, 1945, she married Edward “Glen” Merritte, who preceded her in death in March 1997.
She was employed by General Motors in Defiance from 1955-1981 and had 25 years of service. She worked for the Civil Service at Fort Campbell, Ky. during WWII, where she met Glen, and moved to Ohio.
She was an active member of the Continental United Methodist Church and the UMW. She helped organize the Circle of Friends Food Pantry, which is supported by several area churches and businesses.
She is an active member of the Continental Chapter #129 Order of Eastern Star since 1965, serving as worthy matron twice, and grand page at the Grand Chapter of Ohio in 1983, for the associate grand conductress, Gloria Veltz. She was a member of the Retirees U.A.W. Local #211.
Surviving are two sons, Bill (Alberta) and Frank (Margaret) Merritte, both of Oakwood; three sisters, Ora Mae (Rocky) Smalley of Harrisburg, Pa., Helen (Ronald) Dostater of Clarksville, Tenn., and Peggy Johnson of Martinez, Ga.; seven grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by a brother, Homer Johnson; a sister, Mildred Booth; and a great-grandson.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Aug. 30, at Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Continental with Pastor Rick Snyder officiating. Burial will be held at a later date at Little Auglaize Cemetery in Melrose.
Preferred memorials may be made to the Continental United Methodist Church or the food pantry.

RONALD BEAMER
1925-2008
PAULDING — Clifford Ronald Beamer, 83, died at 9:10 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 6, at Lutheran Hospital of Indiana in Fort Wayne, shortly after admission.
He was born in Paulding, May 3, 1925, the son of Edward N. and Ethel C. (Brown) Beamer. On Nov. 28, 1948, he married Bonita R. (Lake) Beamer, who survives in Paulding.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World War II, both in Japan and Germany. He was a 50-year member of the First Christian Church in Paulding. He retired from General Portland/Lafarge Corporation in 1990, where he worked as a kiln operator. He was also formerly employed by the Paul Bakle Plumbing Company, and the Ralph Hanenkratt Plumbing Company. He also was was a meter reader for the Paulding Light Plant. He was a fireman for the Paulding Fire Department for 23 years and a charter member of Paulding VFW #587. He was a former owner and operator of the Star Lite Café, Paulding.
Also surviving are a son, R. Allen (Lois) Beamer, Paulding; a daughter, Rhonda (Dietrich Schmidt) Beamer Schmidt, of Yonker, N.Y.; a twin brother, Donald (Phyllis) Beamer of Defiance; a sister, Marilyn R. Edwards of Paulding; and a granddaughter, Lexie Beamer, of Bowling Green, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Edward Beamer; and three sisters, Norma Rae Beamer, Florice Wilhelm and Marjorie Bordner.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at the Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding. Burial will be in the Live Oak Cemetery, with military graveside services conducted by VFW #587.
Visitation will be from 2-9 p.m. today, Sept. 10 and from 9-11 a.m. on Thursday at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding.
Donations may be made to Paulding Fire Department, or Paulding EMS, or First Christian Church, Paulding.

SHEILA CRATES
1952-2008
PAULDING — Sheila K. Crates, 56, died Thursday, Sept. 4, at Parkview Memorial Hospital in Fort Wayne.
She was born Aug. 8, 1952 in Bowling Green, Ohio, the daughter of David F. and Alberta E. (Nichols) Cotterman, who both preceded her in death. In 1974, she married Steven Crates, who also preceded her in death in 2000.
She is survived by three sons, Mark (Sherry) Cotterman, Marion, Ohio, Steven M. Crates, and David Crates, both of Payne; two daughters, Michelle (Barry) Watson, Paulding, and Maria (Bob) Rivera, Payne; a brother, Ron Cotterman, Continental; two sisters, Sharon Crampton, Paulding, and Donna Stahl of Grover Hill; and fourteen grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by a brother, Denny Cotterman.
Burial will be at a later date. Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding is in charge of the arrangements.
Donations may be sent in memory of Sheila Crates made to Den Herder Funeral Home.

HOLLIS CRAWFORD
1931-2008
VAN WERT — Hollis R. Crawford, 77, of Van Wert, went to be with the Lord at 4:37 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Van Wert County Hospital.
He was born April 9, 1931, in Middlesboro, Ky., the son of Caleb and Effie (Lee) Crawford, who both preceded him in death. On June 27, 1964, he married Nancy (Zinsmeister) Crawford, who survives in Van Wert.
He served in the U.S. Army from 1955-57. He retired in 1994 from the National Seal Corporation in Van Wert, following 44 years of service. He also served with the Van Wert Sheriff’s Auxiliary for 16 years. He was a life member of the Van Wert VFW, where he served as commander in 1975-1976, and received the VFW National Aide-de-Camp; member of the Van Wert American Legion, a member of the Silver Seals Retirees, and a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church in Van Wert.
He is also survived by a daughter, Holly (Terry) Childs of Van Wert; three brothers, John, Fitzhugh and Jerry Crawford, all of Van Wert; three sisters, Maxine (Dan) Sutton of Lima, Dot (Bob) Ziegler of Ottawa, and Karen (Edgar) Money of Van Wert; and two grandchildren, Jordan and Joel Crawford.
Also preceding him in death was a sister, Mary Gloris Crawford.
Services were held Monday, Sept. 8, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Van Wert, with the Rev. Tim Burden officiating. Burial was in the Ridge Cemetery in Middle Point, with military rites conducted jointly by the Van Wert VFW and the American Legion. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home handled the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer’s Association, American Cancer Society, or the American Heart Association.

MARGARET HOLMES
1918-2008
MONROE, Mich. — Margaret E. Holmes, 90, of Monroe, Mich. died Friday, Aug. 29, at the Medilodge of Monroe, Mich.
She was born Feb. 18, 1918, in Flanagan, Ill., the daughter of William and Emma (Doden) Durre. On March 17, 1951, she married Thomas C. Holmes, who preceded her in death on Nov. 6, 1991. She was employed by the Monroe Intermediate School District for several years.
Surviving are her loving children, Gary (Kris) Kipker of Payne, Pamela (Tom) Brannen of Tampa, Fla., Mary K. Faryniarz of Monroe, Thomas (Millie) Holmes of Payne, and Phil (Linda) Holmes of Temperance, Mich.; a sister, Eileen Wiederanders of Illinois; 17 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and great-great-grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were a daughter, Elaine Holmes; and three brothers.
Services were held Wednesday, Sept. 3, at the Michael W. Pawlak Funeral Home in Temperance, Mich., with Pastor Andrew Edwards III officiating. Interment was in Whiteford Union Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to ARC of Monroe.

URSULA HOSTE
1920-2008
PAULDING – Ursula C. Hoste, 87, of Paulding, died Monday, Sept. 8 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
She was born on Sept. 30, 1920, in Forest, Ohio, the daughter of John and Mary “Molly” (Tuohy) Clark. On Dec. 7, 1946, she married William Tope, who died May 30, 1971. On Feb. 12, 1977, she married George Hoste, who died March 1, 2002. She was a homemaker and a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding VFW Auxiliary, and Fraternal Order of Eagles.
Surviving are two daughters, Beverly Bercaw and Leann Moser, both of Paulding; a son, William (Karen) Tope of Greenfield, Ind.; two stepdaughters, Linda (Fran) Rhoad of Cecil and Nancy (Tom) Patterson of Butler, Ind.; a sister, Eleanor Justinger of Paulding; six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; five stepgrandchildren; and four great-stepgrandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were two sisters and four brothers.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11 at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Calling will be held one hour prior to Mass. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. today, Sept. 10, at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with a vigil service at 8 p.m.
The family requests donations for Masses or Paulding County Hospital Home Health.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

ELMA LEE
1921-2008
CONTINENTAL — Elma G. Lee, 87, of Continental, died at 8:35 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, at the Hospice of Defiance.
She was born April 12, 1921, in Oakwood, the daughter of Lawrence and Jennie (Kretzinger) McCullough. On March 13, 1941, she married Joseph Lee, who preceded her in death March 2, 1999. She retired from the Campbell Soup Company in Napoleon. She was a lifetime member of Prairie Chapel Bible Church in Oakwood.
Surviving are two sons, Roger Lee of Continental and Stephen (Mary) Lee of Defiance; two daughters, Sharon (Fred) Fitzenrider of Defiance and Judy (Robert) Rodenbach of Scottsdale, Ariz.; a brother, Lawrence B. (Lodema) McCullough; 10 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were two sisters, Norma McCullough and Catherine Lee.
Services were held Saturday, Sept. 6, at the Prairie Chapel Church in Oakwood with Pastor Earl Chapman officiating. Burial was in the Prairie Chapel Cemetery in Oakwood. Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Oakwood was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials may be made to Defiance County Hospice.

HELEN MUMMA
1914-2008
HAVILAND – Helen L. Mumma, age 94, died at 5:20 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2 at Paulding County Hospital, Paulding.
She was born March 18, 1914 in Paulding County, the daughter of John and Susie (Gunderman) Jenkins. On June 24, 1937 she married Gerald B. Mumma, who preceded her in death on Aug. 19, 2001. She was a member of Country Chapel United Methodist Church, Haviland, a member of United Methodist Women, served as organist for 81 years, and was the oldest member of the church. She was a 1932 graduate of Haviland High School and played on the girls’ basketball team. She was an avid golfer.
She is survived by a son, John (Judy) Mumma, Paulding; two daughters, Brenda (Paul) Ladd, Grover Hill and Marsha (Michael) Miller, Defiance; 10 grandchildren: Kathleen, Jeff, Stephanie, Suzanne and Kevin Mumma, Kyle Ladd, Janine (Ladd) Roeder, Scott and Tracy Hahn, and Kelly (Hahn) Erford; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.
She also was preceded in death by two sisters, Lucy Egger Partee and Edith Towe; and two brothers, Forest and Roy Jenkins.
Funeral services were conducted Saturday, Sept. 6 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with Pastor Ron Johnson officiating. Burial was in Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland.
Memorial donations may be made to Scott EMS or Country Chapel United Methodist Church, Haviland.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

AUDREY SHAW
1913-2008
PAYNE – Audrey M. (Bute) Shaw, age 95, died Monday, Sept. 1, 2008 at the Heartland Health Care Center, Three Rivers, Mich.
She was born on Aug. 25, 1913 in Payne, the daughter of Walter and Marilda (Bouley) Bute. In 1951, she married Robert W. Shaw, who preceded her in death in 1951. She was a legal secretary for Fuel Distributors of Jackson, Mich., retiring in 1981. She was a member of Queen of Miraculous Medal Church, Jackson, Mich. She was treasurer of National Council of Catholic Women, a member of King’s Daughters Guild, Queen of Miraculous Medal Church Holy Family Circle, Queen of Miraculous Medal Church Prayer Line, Queen of Miraculous Medal Church Perpetual Adoration Chapel adorer, and a RSVP volunteer.
Surviving are a daughter, Janice (David) Broker, Three Rivers, Mich.; a son, Douglas (Mary Jane) Simon, Seal Rock, Ore.; 10 grandchildren; and 24 great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by two brothers, Glen and Roy Bute; a sister, Anna Fay Bute; and a grandson, Robbie Williams.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, Sept. 5, at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish (the former St. Joseph Catholic Church), Paulding, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman and Deacon David Barrett officiating. Burial was in Live Oak Cemetery, Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, Memphis, Tenn.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

DOROTHY
WANNEMACHER
1930-2008
PAYNE —Dorothy A. Wannemacher, 78, of Payne, passed away Friday, Sept. 5, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.
She was born June 8, 1930, in Payne, the daughter of John and Sarah (King) Cluts, who both preceded her in death.
On Oct. 21, 1950, she married Robert Wannemacher, who survives. She was a nurses aid in the O.B. department at Paulding County Hospital. She was a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Payne American Legion Post Auxiliary and the Town and Country Club. She liked to crochet, sew and bake.
Also surviving are three sons, Lynn (Joanne) of Naples, Fla., Dana (Kim) of Roanoke, Ind., and Rob (Deb) of Payne; a brother, Harry (Helen) Cluts of Payne; and three granddaughters,  Sarah (Toby) Sennebogen and Amber and Amelia Wannemacher.
Also preceding her in death were a sister, Elizabeth Cluts; and two brothers, Robert and Roy Cluts.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at the Divine Mercy Catholic Parish (formerly St. John the Baptist), in Payne, on Monday, Sept. 8, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating.
Burial was in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, Payne. Dooley Funeral Home in Payne was in charge of the arrangements.
The family requests donations to Divine Mercy School Endowment Fund or Paulding County Hospital Home Health Care.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

SHEILA CRATES
1952-2008
PAULDING — Sheila K. Crates, 56, died Thursday, Sept. 4, at Parkview Memorial Hospital in Fort Wayne.
She was born Aug. 9, 1952 in Bowling Green, Ohio, the daughter of David F. and Alberta E. (Nichols) Cotterman, who both preceded her in death. In 1974, she married Steven Crates, who also preceded her in death in 2000.
She is survived by three sons, Mark (Sherry) Cotterman, Marion, Ohio, Steven M. Crates, and David Crates, both of Payne; two daughters, Michelle (Barry) Watson, Paulding, and Maria (Bob) Rivera, Payne; a brother, Ron Cotterman, Continental; two sisters, Sharon Crampton, Paulding, and Donna Stahl of Grover Hill; fourteen grandchildren; and a companion, Craig Sharp, Paulding.
She was also preceded in death by a brother, Denny Cotterman.
Graveside services will be conducted 11AM Wednesday, September 17 at Hedges Cemetery, Paulding County, OH. Family and friends are invited to share memories of Sheila Crates at the Youth Leadership Building of the Paulding County Fairgrounds from 2 – 8 PM Wednesday, September 17.
Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding is in charge of the arrangements.
Donations may be sent in memory of Sheila Crates made to Den Herder Funeral Home.

LOUISE MILLER
1927-2008
ANTWERP — D. Louise  Miller, 81, of Antwerp, passed away at 8:45 am, Thursday, Sept. 11, at The Gardens of Paulding.
She was born in Fort Wayne, Ind., Aug. 4, 1927, the daughter of George and Dorothy (Stellar) Allison. On March 26, 1945, she married Leon Miller who preceded her in death on Jan. 16, 1996.  
She worked many years in food service and was a regular panelist on the WANE-TV Anne Cologne Show. She was the mayor of Antwerp from 1988-2000, and was the first female and first consecutive three term mayor of Antwerp. She was an intricate part of the Fort to Port U.S. 24 project, a member of the Antwerp United Methodist Church, Antwerp VFW and American Legion Auxiliaries and the Royal Neighbors.  
Louise will be sadly missed by three daughters, Susan (Terry) Warner of Defiance, Barbara (Tim)  Kelley of Grand View, Ind. and Patricia (Fain) Lowe of Antwerp; three sons, Steven (Viv) of Holland, Mich.; David of New Haven, and Daniel of Antwerp; 11 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
Also preceding her in death were two sisters, Sharon and Joann Allison.
Services were held Monday at the Antwerp United Methodist Church with Rev. Michael Schneider officiating.
Burial was in the Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp. The family requests donations to PCH Home Health.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

GERALDINE MULLEN
1931-2008
Geraldine M. “Gerry” Mullen, 77, of Sylvania Township, passed away Sunday, Sept. 7, in Flower Hospital.
She was born in Payne, Aug. 3, 1931, the daughter of Anthony and Florence Schaefer. In 1953 Gerry graduated from Mary Manse College. In that same year she married John J. Mullen, who preceded her in death. As a devout Catholic, she was a long time member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. A member of Sylvania Country Club and Innisbrook Country Club, she enjoyed golfing and luncheons with her many friends. Her other hobbies included gardening, painting and reading.
During the winter months Gerry resided in Florida. She was a very loving, caring and generous mother and cherished the time spent with her children and grandchildren. Surviving are her children, Barbara (Lloyd) Stager, Maureen (Dan) Keller, Diann (Donald) Hack and Kim Mullen; 9 grandchildren; two brothers, Charles and Jake Schaefer; and a sister, Roseanne Glass Schaefer.
A son, Patrick, also preceded her in death.
A funeral mass was held at the St. Joseph Catholic Church. Entombment Resurrection Cemetery. Foth-Dorfmeyer Mortuary was in charge of the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family prefers memorial contributions to the church or the charity of the donor’s choice.

MARY BULLINGER
1922-2008
DEFIANCE — Mary Ann “Toots” Bullinger, 86, died at 6:43 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17, at her residence.
She was born Jan. 11, 1922, in Ottoville, the daughter of Bernard and Anna (Grote) Horstman. On Feb. 4, 1950, she married Raymond A. Bullinger, who preceded her in death June 2, 2000. She was a waitress for many years at Riverview Carryout (now Cabbage Patch) in Defiance and Uncle Fudds in Melrose. She was a member of the former St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Junction and she enjoyed crocheting, the Ohio State Buckeyes, playing bingo and cards and watching softball and basketball.
She is survived by a son, Jerry (Joy) Bullinger of Napoleon; and two daughters, Sharon, and Diana (Larry) Brown of Defiance; six grandchildren, Sheila “Sis” Korte, Ben Schilt, Jason Bullinger, Carrie Deatrick, Drew Brown and Chelsi Brown; eight great-grandchildren, Logan, Audrey, Gavin, Kolin, Kristen, Allison, Jadyn and Ava; and a sister, Rosemary “Babe” Wannemacher of Ottoville.
She was also preceded in death by five brothers, Cletus “Click,” Cyril “Shrimp,” Leo “Lee,” Richard, and Ralph Horstman.
Services were held Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ottoville, with Father Dave Tscherne officiating. Burial was in Sherman Cemetery, Oakwood. Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Oakwood was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Paulding Area Visiting Nurses and Hospice, or the Oakwood EMS.

WENDY CARLISLE
1962-2008
CECIL – Wendy A. Carlisle, 46, of Cecil, passed away at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 18 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.
She was born June 19, 1962, in Toledo, the daughter of Donald and Nelda (Franks) Evers. On Oct. 28, 2006 she married Steve Carlisle, who survives. She was the office manager at Strable Paving, Cecil and was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Paulding.
Also surviving are her mother, Nelda Evers of Paulding; a daughter, Lindsay (Nathan) Metzger of Van Wert; two sons, Kyle Mawer of Paulding and Ryan Mawer of Cecil; a stepson, Steven Carlisle of Van Wert; two sisters, Chris (Steve) Talley of Arlington, Texas and Stacey (Terry) Riley of Paulding; two brothers, Bradley (Cindy) and Toby (Deb) Evers of Oregon, Ohio; and a grandson, Gavin Metzger.
She was preceded in death by her father.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Sept. 23 at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with the Rev. Joseph Allan officiating. Burial will be in Bethel Cemetery, Cecil.
The family requests memorial donations to American Cancer Society.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

ESTHER CARR
1917-2008
ANTWERP — Esther F. Carr, 91, of Lathrup Village, Mich., went to be with the Lord on Aug. 10, at Briar Hill Health Care Center in Middlefield, Ohio.
She was born Feb. 18, 1917, in Antwerp, the daughter of Emelia Boylan (Schade).
She was a graduate of Bowling Green University. On Aug. 19, 1950, in Antwerp, she married Robert F. Carr, who died on Sept. 8, 2008.
She was a member and past president of the Birmingham Republican Women’s Club and Lathrup Village Women’s Club. She was a member of Northbrook Presbyterian Church, in Beverly Hills, Mich.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, David and Nancy Carr of Middlefield, Ohio.
She also was preceded in death by a sister and two brothers.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp, with the Rev. Ralph Klinker officiating. Burial will be at Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp.
 A memorial service was held on Sept. 20 at Northbrook Presbyterian Church.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

ROBERT CARR
1918-2008
ANTWERP — Robert F. Carr, 89, of Lathrup Village, Mich., went to be with the Lord on Sept. 8, at Briar Hill Health Care Center in Middlefield, Ohio.
He was born Oct. 19, 1918, in Antwerp, the son of Mabel and Edward Carr. He was a graduate of Bowling Green University. On Aug. 19, 1950, in Antwerp, he married Esther F. Boylan, who preceded him in death on Aug. 10, 2008.
He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. After his discharge, he was employed by Colt Industries as a sales manager, retiring in 1990. He was a member or Northbrook Presbyterian Church, Beverly Hills, Mich. and Lathrup Village Lion’s Club.
He is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, David and Nancy Carr of Middlefield.
He also was preceded in death by a brother and a sister.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Dooley Funeral Home in Antwerp, with the Rev. Ralph Klinker officiating.  Burial will be at Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp.
A memorial service was held on Sept. 20 at Northbrook Presbyterian Church.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

MICHAEL ELICK
EAST PALESTINE, Ohio – Michael D. Elick, 41, of East Palestine, passed away Thursday, Sept. 4, 2008 at his residence.
He was a U.S. Army veteran.
He is survived by his father and stepmother, Myron and Stephanie Elick, East Palestine; his mother, Barbara Grunick; a son and daughter, Ryan Michael Elick and McKenna Alysse Elick; a sister, Geri Noel of East Palestine; his grandmother, Maribeth Elick; and several cousins in the Payne area.
He was preceded in death by a grandfather, George Elick; and his stepfather, Michael Grunick.
Funeral services were held Sept. 9, with military rites.

DEAN GAISFORD
1955-2008
ANTWERP – Dean A. Gaisford, 53, of Antwerp, passed away at 4:17 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 18, surrounded by his family at his residence.
He was born Aug. 28, 1955, in Hicksille, the son of the late Leroy “Abe” and Ethel (Cromley) Gaisford. He worked  in route sales at ARAMARK, Fort Wayne, and was a former Scout Master for Pack 143. He enjoyed building and remodeling, the Red Sox, and always enjoyed his family and friends, especially around his campfires. On Sept 20, 1975, he married Coni Elders, who survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Brian (Jessie) of Antwerp and Shane (Jessica) of Cromwell, Ind.; three sisters, Rita (Lawrence) Reising of Schertz, Texas, Etta (David) Reece of Port Charlotte, Fla., and Janet (Dean) Hood of Del City, Okla.; a brother, Tom (Jan) of Payne; a sister-in-law, Becky of Dayton; two grandchildren, Clayton Phipps and Julian Gaisford; and mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mary and Charles Elders of Defiance.
He also was preceded in death by a brother, John.
Funeral services were held Monday, Sept. 22 at Antwerp United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Mike Schneider officiating. Burial was in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp. Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, was in charge of arrangements.
The family requests memorial donations to The Gaisford Family Fund, PO Box 727, Antwerp OH 45813, or to Paulding Area Visiting Nurses.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

ALEX GONZALES
1943-2008
PAULDING — Alex S. Gonzales, age 64, died Sunday, Sept. 14, at the Paulding County Hospital, Paulding.
He was born Oct. 9, 1943, in San Antonio, Texas the son of Jesus and Trinadad (Tapia) Gonzales Sr., who both preceded him in death. He married Delores C. Rios, who preceded him in death on June 25, 2000.
He is survived by four sons, Mark Gonzales and James Gonzales, both of Paulding, Robert Gonzales of Tampa, Fla., and Joe Gonzales of San Antonio, Texas; four daughters, Jessica Acosta and Melinda Gonzales, both of Paulding, and Cynthia Gonzales and Caroline Gonzales, both of San Antonio; four brothers, Antonio, Edward, Charles and Jesus Gonzales, all of Paulding; two sisters, Olga Rocha and Lupe Genero, both of Paulding; 13 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
He was also preceded in death by a son, Alex “Bubba” Gonzales; a brother, Alfonso “Toto” Gonzales Sr.; and a grandson, Angel Gonzales.
Funeral services were conducted Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Divine Mercy Catholic Church, Paulding. Burial was in Paulding Memorial Cemetery, Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Donations in memory of Alex Gonzales may be made to Den Herder Funeral Home.

JANE ANN SCHAEFER
1946-2008
URBANA – Former Paulding County resident Jane Ann Schaefer, age 62, died Thursday, Sept. 18 at the Heartland of Urbana Care Center, Urbana.
She was born Aug. 16, 1946 in Paulding County, the daughter of Leo P. and Mary E. (Letso) Schaefer. She was formerly employed by General Electric in Fort Wayne, and was a former Fritz House resident for several years.
She is survived by two brothers, Richard (Bertha) Schaefer of Urbana, and Joseph (JoAnn) Schaefer, Lakeland, Fla.; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services will be conducted at noon today, Sept. 24 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Church Cemetery, Payne. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. until time of services today.
Memorial donations may be made to Masses or Fritz House Activity Fund.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

RODGER WILSON
1925-2008
VAN WERT — Rodger O. Wilson, 83, died at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at his residence in Van Wert.
He was born March 26, 1925, in Broughton, the son of Omer and Jennie (Rodgers) Wilson. He was married to Winifred (Campbell) Wilson, who survives. He graduated from Union High School in 1943, and attended Indiana University. He was employed as a tool and dye maker for the Eisenhauer Company in Van Wert, retiring in 1987, following 47 years of service.
He loved to play the guitar and played with the Singing Strings for many years. He also played bluegrass music at Melrose. He was a gunsmith and built beautiful muzzle loaders. He was an avid hunter and collector of Indian artifacts, but his first love was to be out fishing with his friend, Frank Ross.
He is also survived by a daughter, Lynne (Tom) Dunifon of Whitehouse, Ohio; two sons, Steven (Barbara) Wilson and Barry (Connie) Wilson, both of Van Wert; a brother, Gene (Jeannie) Wilson of Van Wert; five grandchildren, Jeremy (Sara) Wilson of New Haven, Ind., Josh (Dina) Wilson of Mendon, Cody Wilson of Convoy, Amanda (Cory) Lichtensteiger of Denver, Colo., and Aaron Dunifon of Columbus; six great-grandchildren, Kali, Tyler, Madison, Megan and Kaylin Wilson, Ayden Lichtensteiger; and his dog, Buddy.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Jack Wilson; and three sisters, Maxine Tarlton, Ethelyn Freisner and MaDonna Wilson.
A private family service will be held. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the Van Wert County Historical Museum.
Online condolences may be sent to agfhc@embarqmail.com

ROBERT SCHAEFER
1935-2008
COLDWATER, Mich. — Robert W. Schaefer, 73, of Coldwater, Mich., died Wednesday, Sept. 24, at his residence.
He was born April 22, 1935, in Payne, the son of Carl and Velta (Commer) Schaefer. On June 12, 1977, he married Janet Caulley who survives. He graduated from Bowling Green University in 1953 and also served in the U.S. Army.
He was a former newscaster for Channel 21 in Fort Wayne and also a radio host at a local Fort Wayne station. He had also worked for the Fort Wayne Sheriff’s Department and also sold real estate for many years. He enjoyed buying, fixing and selling properties.
He also loved photography and operated a side photo business during his career. He was a member of the Coldwater Eagles for over 50 years, and he always loved to dance to any type of music.
Also surviving are his sons, Gary, Rick (Michelle) and Mark (Diana), all of Fort Wayne, and Carl (Brandy) of Reading, Mich.; his daughters, Sherri (Jeff) Grier of New Haven, Laura (Mike) Kurtz of Fort Wayne, Londa (Mike) Pompilio of Tennessee, Deborah Schaefer of Chicago, and Martha (Denver) Nutt of Quincy, Mich.; sisters, Marge (John) Eldon, Susan (Dick) Waring and Linda (Rick) Stoller, all of Perrysburg, and Joan (Clyde) Schroeder of Ottawa; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many friends including his friends from the Dialysis Center.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and a granddaughter, Felicia LaShea Banker.
The family received friends Sunday, Sept. 28, at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater.
Preferred memorials may go to the Cerebral Palsy Association.
You may leave a message at www.dutcherfh.com.

WARREN DeCAMP - 1922-2008
VAN WERT – Warren A. “Pappy” DeCamp, age 86, of Van Wert, died at 5:37 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1 at Van Wert County Hospital.
He was born Jan. 6, 1922 in Paulding County, the son of Joseph Frank and Susan (Gattshall) DeCamp. On Aug. 23, 1941, he married Lucille Porter, who preceded him in death in 1994. He retired from Continental Can in Van Wert after 44 years of service. He was one of the founding members of the Van Wert Outdoorsman Club, and enjoyed fishing and trap shooting. He also enjoyed playing pool and riding his motorcycle.
Surviving are a son, Dana (Sandy) DeCamp of Van Wert; two brothers, Ernest and Andrew (Joyce), both of Grover Hill; grandchildren, Kellie (Ken) Miller, Tiffany (Jeremy) Cox, Jay (Tammy) Herrick and Callie (Jason) Miller; great-grandchildren, Owen Miller, Andrew Miller, Chandler Cox, Brayden Cox, Garret Cox, Allyson Evans and Marissa Miller; and special friends, Ralph and Gloria Woods, and Harold and Helen Murphy.
He also was prececed in death by a daughter, Shirley Jean; a brother, William; and nine sisters, Sarah Grunden, Esther Miller, Dellie Pucket, Ethel Long, Bessie Price, Grace Mosier, Lucy Adams, Velma DeCamp and Florence Daniel.
Funeral services were Saturday, Oct. 4 at Alspach-Gearhard Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with the Rev. Terry Porter officiating. Burial was in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill. Preferred memorials are to Community Health Professionals Visiting Nurses.
Condolences may be sent to afghc@embarqmail.com

LEVI SCHNEIDER - 2008
PAULDING – Levi John Schneider died shortly after birth on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2008 at Dupont Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He is survived by his parents, Michael D. and Jodi D. (Ifft) Schneider, Paulding; three brothers, Joel, Lathan and Thad, and a sister, Lynelle, all of Paulding; his grandparents, Jim and Sandra Schneider and Larry and Shirley Ifft, all of Fairbury, Ill.; great-grandparents, Earl and Esther Gerber, Forrest, Ill., Elmer and Emma Ifft, Fairbury, and Emma Gerber, West Bend, Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, Al and Gladys Schneider, and Noah Gerber.
Graveside services were conducted Wednesday, Oct. 1 at Dotterer Cemetery, Junction. Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, was in charge of arrangements. Donations may be made to the Apostolic Christian Church Endowment Fund.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

TIMOTHY SHULL - 1958-2008
HICKSVILLE — Timothy L. Shull, 50, died Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Paulding County Hospital.
He was born July 23, 1958, in Defiance, the son of Leland and Betty (Carpenter) Shull. He was a 1976 graduate of Hicksville High School and Four County Vocational School. In February 1998, he married Lou Ann Williamson who survives. He was employed at Continental General Tire (Titan Tire) in Bryan. He was a member of the United Steel Workers Union; past member of U.S. Trotting Association and the Ohio Horseman’s Association.
Also surviving are two daughters, Tasha at home, and Amanda (Brent) Miller of Montpelier; two sons, Eric (Kristina) of Cecil and Steve (Nicole Smith) of Antwerp; his mother, Betty of Hicksville; a sister, Pam (Lee) Peters of Hicksville; three brothers, Gary (Val) and Brad, both of Hicksville, and Jim (Suzane) of Defiance; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, Leland; and a brother, Lyle. Services will be held at 1 p.m. today, Oct. 8, at Smith and Brown Funeral Home in Hicksville, with visiting hours one hour prior to services. Burial will be in the Maumee Cemetery in Antwerp.

KENNETH STEED - 1969-2008
SPEEDWELL, Tenn. — Kenneth William Steed, 39, of Speedwell, Tenn. passed away Oct. 4. He had been enjoying a Florida vacation with his parents and fiancé when he passed away peacefully in his sleep to be with his Lord and Savior.
He was born Jan. 12, 1969, in Lima. He was a 1988 graduate of Paulding High School. He was an avid outdoors man and loved to hunt, fish and 4-wheel.
He is survived by his mother and father, Wanda and Bob Steed of Speedwell, Tenn.; a brother, Dan (Crystal) Steed, also of Speedwell; three children, Micaiah, Michelle and Ashly, all of Lima; his beloved fiancé, Cindy Coons of Speedwell; a nephew, Hunter; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by a stepson, Dustin Putt.
Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at Reece Valley Chapel in Harrogate, Tenn. Hours of visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday.

CRAIG COPSEY
1980-2008
VAN WERT – Craig Michael Copsey, age 28, died Wednesday, Oct. 8 at his residence.
He was born June 2, 1980 in Van Wert, the son of Charles L. and Cheryl (Burgoon) Copsey. He was employed by Fleetwood of Decatur, Ind. He was an avid fisherman, and NASCAR and Ohio State University fan.
He is survived by his mother, Cheryl (Marshall) Davis, Paulding; father, Charles L. Copsey, Enfield, Conn.; his companion, Vicki Ellerbrock and her son, Aiden Ellerbrock; a brother, Jeremy Copsey, Enfield; a sister, JoLynne (Mark) Begley, Orlando, Fla.; maternal grandparents Betty and Earl Burgoon, Haviland; and paternal grandfather, Charles (Betty) Copsey, Payne.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Esther Copsey.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Oct. 14 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with Pastor Jim C. Burns officiating. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
Donations may be made in memory of Craig Copsey to Den Herder Funeral Home.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

DOROTHY
MONROE DEPEW
1938-2008
DEFIANCE – Dorothy Mae Rhoden Monroe Depew, age 70, died at 9:25 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6 at Mercy Hospital of Defiance.
She was born April 30, 1938 in Jackson County, Ohio, the daughter of Calvin and Opal (Hall) Rhoden. She managed Rosie’s Bar from 1979-91 and owned R&S Sanitation from 1982-2001. She was a member of Paulding Eagles.
Surviving are two sons, James “Jimmy” Monroe and Joe Monroe, both of Defiance; four daughters, Sandie Monroe, Kathy (Rudy) Monroe LeChuga and Kellie Depew, all of Defiance, and Robin (Dave Schroeder) Begley of Oakwood; stepchildren, Harvey Jr., Clyde, Robin, Steve and Chrissy Depew, all of Indiana; seven grandsons; one great-granddaughter; and her first husband, James “Buck” Monroe.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her second husband, Harvey Depew, in 1996; a daughter, Deborah Monroe; two grandsons and one granddaughter; and three brothers, Paul, Calvin Jr. and William Rhoden.
Funeral services were held Friday, Oct. 10 at Mast-Mock-Hoffman-Hanenkrath-Clevenger-Shaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, with the Rev. Max Begley officiating. Burial was in Blue Creek Cemetery, Paulding County.
Preferred memorials are to the Kellie Depew College Fund.

ELLA MAY EBLIN
1917-2008
MELROSE – Ella May Eblin, age 91, died at 1:38 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8 at Mercy Hospital, Defiance.
She was born March 17, 1917 in Melrose, the daughter of Everet and Gavatta (Halsey) Linnabary. On July 13, 1940, she married Floyd Eblin, who preceded her in death on April 19, 1991. She was a homemaker and attended Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, Grover Hill.
Surviving are a daughter, Loretta (Steve) Peters of Melrose; a sister, Nellie (Henry) Scherer of Grover Hill; a half-brother, Fred (Joy) Linnabary of Dustin, Okla.; four grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; five great-stepgrandchildren; and three great-great-stepgrandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by an infant daughter; and a half-sister, Clara Adams.
Funeral services were held Saturday, Oct. 11 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, with Pastors Dave Prior and Terry Porter officiating. Burial was in Little Auglaize Cemetery, Melrose.
Preferred memorials are to the Mt. Zion Building Fund.
Condolences may be sent to www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com

DENNIS EIBLING
1953-2008
PAULDING – Dennis R. Eibling, 54, of Paulding passed away Saturday, Oct. 11 at his residence.
He was born on Dec. 2, 1953, in Fort Wayne, the son of the late Ralph and Margaret (Boyd) Eibling. He was a truck driver at Hornish Brothers, Defiance, and a member of Christ’s Hope Church, Fort Wayne.
Surviving are his son, Neil (Kendra) of Fowler, Ind.; a daughter, Stephanie of Paulding; a sister, Beverly (Bill) Rose of Antwerp; and five grandchildren.
Also preceding him in death was his daughter, Laurie.
Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. today, Oct. 15 at Wiltsie Cemetery, Payne, with the Rev. John Demongeot officiating. Dooley Funeral Home of Antwerp and Payne is in charge of arrangements.
His family requests memorial donations to Christ’s Hope Church, 2818 Carroll Road, Fort Wayne IN 46818.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

JESSE MORENO SR.
1925-2008
PAULDING – Jesus “Jesse” R. Moreno Sr., age 82, died at 10:20 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at his residence.
He was born Dec. 26, 1925 in Little Rock, Ark., the son of Amondo and Elouise (Rangel) Moreno. On May 31, 1950, he married Ernestine Sanchez, who survives. He was a member of the Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding. He was a foreman for Hagerman Construction Corp. in Fort Wayne for 46 years, retiring in 1987. He also was a member of Local #213 Labor Union, Fort Wayne.
Also surviving are a daughter, Patricia (Mike) Wood, Payne; six sons, Jesse (Lucy) Moreno Jr. of Cecil, Robert (Clara) Moreno of Pendleton, Ind., Tomas (Michelle) Moreno and Tim (Lisa) Bermejo, both of Paulding, J.J. Moreno of Michigan, and Tom Bermejo, Toledo; five brothers, Sidd (Chela) and Amado (Mary), both of Arizona, Richard (Connie) and Monico “Nick” (Helen), both of Fort Wayne, and Macedonio (Sylvia) of California; 21 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by one son, Larry S. Moreno in 1972; one grandson, Brandon Bermejo in 2006; one brother, Rudolfo “Rudy” Moreno; and two sisters, Pauline Gaza and Carmen Sanchez.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, Oct. 10 at the Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial was in Live Oak Cemetery, Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, was in charge of arrangements.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Masses or to Ernestine Moreno.
Condolences may be left at www.denherderfh.com

OPAL VANCE
1937-2008
GROVER HILL — Opal A. Vance, 71, of Grover Hill, died at 12:45 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the Van Crest Health Care Center in Van Wert.
She was born Sept. 28, 1937, in Haviland, the daughter of Gus and Blanche (McClain) Vance, who both preceded her in death.
She was employed by Lakeview Farms in Delphos and Uncle Fudd’s Restaurant in Melrose.
She is survived by three sisters, Mary Vance of Grover Hill, Elva Lenhart of Melrose, and Janet Vance of Coldwater, Mich.; a brother, Herbert Vance also of Coldwater; and a niece, Barbara Sweitzer.
She also was preceded in death by a brother, Lester McClain.
Services were held Friday, Oct. 10, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Alan Newsome officiating. Interment was in the Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland.
Donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

WILLIAM COBURN
1963-2008
ALBION, Ind. — William H. Coburn, 45, of Albion, Ind. passed away at 6:26 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He was born in Defiance Sept. 20, 1963, the son of  Floyd Coburn and Wanda (Osborne) Sanchez, who survive. He was a construction worker.
He is survived by his mother, Wanda Sanchez of Okeechobee, Fla.; father and stepmother, Floyd and Dozzy of Butler, Ind.; a daughter, Misty Swiger of Richmond, Ind.; two sons, Brian and Devin of Fort Wayne; two sisters, Sheila of Palm Springs, Calif. and Penny Harrison of Leo, Ind.; six brothers, Dennis (Melissa) of Defiance, Noah Thacker of Fort Wayne, Scott of Michigan City, Ind., Bruce of Shelby, Ohio, Mark (Laurie) of Butler, Ind., and Butch (Lisa) Coburn of Grover Hill; and a grandson, Bryton Woods.
He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Joseph Sanchez; and one brother, Gregory Thacker. 
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, with the Rev. Tim Dooley officiating. He will be laid to rest at Brunnersburg Cemetery, Defiance.
You may call from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Dooley Funeral Home.
His family requests donations to the Devin Coburn Fund.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

JOHN RHOAD
FORT WAYNE — John E. Rhoad, 88, of Fort Wayne, died Monday, Oct. 6.
He was born in Latty, but had been a resident of Fort Wayne since 1945. He was a member of the St. Michael Lutheran Church. He served in the Army during WWII and retired from Magnavox.
Surviving are a daughter, Kaylene (John) Stallsmith of Fort Wayne; a son, Richard (Marlaine) Rhoad of Fort Wayne; a brother, Eugene (Mary) Rhoad of Haviland; five grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Florice in 2000; three sisters, Donna Wilson, Arlene Tyas and Enid Learned; and four brothers, Floyd, Kenneth, Doyle and Arlo Rhoad.
Services were held at the Klaehn, Fahl, and Melton Funeral Home in Fort Wayne. Burial was in the Covington Memorial Gardens.
Preferred memorials are to go to the St. Michael Lutheran Church.

HELEN SEGUR PRIEST
1910-2008
PAULDING – Helen B. Segur Priest, age 98, died Sunday, Oct. 19 at Country Inn Enhanced Living Center, Paulding.
She was born July 6, 1910 in Toledo, the daughter of Ernest E. and Gertrude Louise (Martens) Pelton. She married William Henry George Segur, who preceded her in death in 1964. She then married George Washington Priest, who preceded her in death in 1979. She was employed by Paulding County Hospital as a registered nurse for 15 years. She was also employed by Defiance Hospital, Defiance County Home, and Paulding County Senior Center. She was a member of Nurses Association of Ohio Division #26.
She is survived by a son, William George (Vivian) Segur of Ft. Myers, Fla.; two sisters, Dorothy Franks of Toledo and Betty Isaac, Minneola, Fla.; two grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by infant twins, Helen Gertrude and Richard Segur; and five sisters.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 23 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in Rochester Cemetery, Cecil.
Visitation will be from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Donations may be made Paulding County Senior Center or Paulding Area Visiting Nurses & Hospice.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

HARRY
COIL JR.
1948-2008
DEFIANCE — Harry H. Coil Jr., age 60, died on Sunday, Oct. 26, at his son’s residence in New Haven.
He was born Aug. 4, 1948, in Paulding, the son of Harry H. and Leanna (Hildebrand) Coil Sr. He was a Navy veteran, serving in Vietnam. He was also a foreman for General Motors for 37 years, retiring in 2004. He was a life member of the VFW Post #3360.
Surviving are a son, Alec Coil of New Haven; two daughters, Leanna Coil of Defiance and Sannita Coil of Paulding; his mother, Leanna Coil of Hicksville; two brothers, Jim of Convoy and Russell of Paulding; four sisters, Margaret “Peg” (David) Vaughn of Sherwood, Carolyn (William) Wieland of Cecil, and Jane Ballow and Sue Coil both of Hicksville; and five grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, Harry H. Coil Sr.; a son, Gustave Resendez Coil; his first wife, Laurentina Resendez; a brother, Mark Coil; and a granddaughter.
Services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1 at Mast-Mock-Hoffman-Hanenkrath-Clevenger-Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance with Father Todd Dominique officiating. Hours of visitation will be from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Graveside services will be conducted by VFW Post #3360.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

BARBARA DIETTRICH
1918-2008
PAULDING – Barbara Diettrich, age 90, died Monday, Oct. 27, 2008 at the Gardens of Paulding.
She was born April 22, 1918 in Vertesbogler, Hungary, the daughter of Johan and Barbara (Kreidl) Leitgib. On May 16, 1936, she married Stefan Diettrich, who preceded her in death on March 1, 1985. She was a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding. She was employed for many years by the former Geha’s Restaurant, Paulding.
She is survived by a son, Stefan Diettrich, South Milwaukee, Wis.; two daughters, Elizabeth (Lee) Bates of Oakwood, and Mary (Allen) Green, Bowling Green; a sister, Rosa Nagl, Rednitzheimbach, Germany; 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-granddaughter.
She also was preceded in death by a brother, Johan Leitgib.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 31 at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial will be in Paulding Memorial Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. with a rosary service at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Visitation also will be held from 9 a.m. until time of services on Friday at the church.
Memorial donations may be made to American Cancer Society or Divine Mercy Catholic Parish.
Condolences may be left at www.denherderfh.com

JOANNE GOULD
1923-2008
CHESTER, Va. — Joanne Sewall Gould, 85, formerly of Falls Church, Va., died on Monday, Oct. 13, at the John Randolph Medical Center.
She was born in Paulding, the daughter of John Henry and Clara Maude (Sewall) Wiegel. A graduate of Paulding High School, she served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and was an administrative assistant for the Mitre Corporation.
Surviving are two daughters, Barbara Jo Gould of Chester, Va. and Judith Elizabeth Pennell of Fredericksburg, Va.; a son, John “Jack” C. Gould of Hopewell, Va.; five grandsons, Charles and Daniel Pennell, J. Anderson Gould, James Gould, and Nicholas Solberg; and a great-granddaughter, Abigail Pennell.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Raymond Gould.
Graveside services will be held Tuesday, Dec. 2, in Arlington National Cemetery.
Hopewell Chapel of J.T. Morriss and Son Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.

JAMES HODGE
NAPLES, Fla. – James “Jim” E. Hodge, 64, died Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2008 after losing a long, difficult battle with pancreatic cancer. He was surrounded by his devoted family, wife Marlene, daughters Margo Kyser and Mindy Wilt, and son-in-law Bob Kyser as he passed on to his heavenly home.
Jim was born in Somerset Ky., son of the late Rev. William and Ada Hodge.
His “second home and family” was The Club Pelican Bay, where he was the maintenance supervisor for 15 years. Their love and support was unending.
He was a graduate of Paulding High School and the New York Institute of Photography. In Paulding, he owned a photography studio, a restaurant, and was a volunteer fireman. Jim never lost his love of photography. His favorite pastime was taking photos at The Club and at Moorings Presbyterian Church. He loved computer technology, which he learned totally on his own. When he wasn’t taking pictures, he was computerizing anything that could be computerized.
He is survived by his wife, Marlene; three daughters, Margo (Bob) Kyser, Mindy (Rich) Wilt and Melissa (Denny) Coburn; a son, Matthew (Robin) Hodge; nine grandchildren; one great-grandson; a brother, Dr. William (Sharon) Hodge; and a sister, Edna (Elmer) Maxwell.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, at Moorings Presbyterian Church. A reception will follow at The Club Pelican Bay.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the James Hodge Memorial Fund at Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbor Drive, Naples FL 34102, or Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 2141 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 7000, El Segundo CA 90245. PanCan donations can also be made on-line at www.PanCan.org. An acknowledgment will be sent to the family by PanCan if requested when the donation is made.

NORVEL
BANKS
1927-2008
HICKSVILLE – Norvel E. Banks, 81, of Hicksville, died Saturday, Nov. 1 at his residence.
He was born April 18, 1927, in Cecil, the son of Stanley and Jennie Mae (Taylor) Banks. He served in the U.S. Army as a private in WWII and worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad for 20 years and Harlan Cabinet for 15 years. On Nov. 15, 1947, he married Irmgard Schmidt, who survives.
Also surviving are a daughter, Maurine Holle of Fort Wayne; a son, Aaron of Denver; and grandsons, Allen and Nathan.
He was preceded in death by a son, Allen E. Banks; and two sisters, Roma Banks and Juanita Shreve.
He was laid to rest at Bethel Cemetery, Cecil. Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, was in charge of arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to Crane Township Trustees for the Forder-Bethel Cemetery Fund, or to Defiance County Hospice.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

CLEO BIDLACK
1905-2008
OAKWOOD — Cleo Bidlack, 103, died at 9:25 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, at The Laurels in Defiance.
She was born Sept. 2, 1905, in Henry County, the daughter of Guy Eugene and Iva (Frederick) Durham. On March 6, 1926, she married Guy Bidlack, who preceded her in death in October 1977.
She graduated from Oakwood High School in 1924. She was a member of the Twin Oaks United Methodist Church in Oakwood, and had served as a Sunday School teacher. She was a current member of the Farm Bureau, a former member of the Oakleaf Grange, Pamona Grange, the Everwilling Homemakers Club and the Rebecca Lodge. She and her husband were selected as Mr. and Mrs. Oakwood in 1976.
She is survived by two sons, Dr. Donald Bidlack of Coursegold, Calif. and Dr. Duane Bidlack of Chambersburg, Pa.; a daughter, Marjorie Roughton of Paulding; 10 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandchild.
Also preceding her in death were two brothers, LaVerne and Burdette Durham; and a great-grandchild.
Services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at the Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Oakwood, with the Rev. Mike Brown officiating. Burial will be in the Prairie Chapel Cemetery in Oakwood.
Hours of visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. today, Nov. 5, and from 10-11 a.m. prior to services on Thursday.
Preferred memorials may be given to the Twin Oaks United Methodist Church, The Laurels of Defiance, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

FLOELLA
BODENBENDER
1919-2008
DEFIANCE – Former Oakwood resident Floella G. Grimes Bodenbender, age 89, died at 4:20 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28 at Brookview Healthcare Center, Defiance.
She was born March 10, 1919 in Oakwood, the daughter of Albert and Pearl (Heilshorn) Adams. On June 1, 1936 she married Kenneth Ward Grimes, who died Oct. 31, 1974. On Sept. 4, 1987, she married Melford Bodenbender, who died Jan. 10, 1995. She farmed, had worked at Roberts Manufacturing, Dresser Industries and Pauline’s Restaurant of Oakwood, and was a bus driver for Quadco. She was a member of Twin Oaks United Methodist Church in Oakwood, taught Sunday School for many years at Centenary United Methodist Church of Oakwood, and volunteered at the Oakwood Library.
Surviving are a son, Kenneth A. (Alison) Grimes of Tigard, Ore.; four daughters, Grace L. Mangas and Kathryn J. (Ken) Ludwig, both of Defiance, Alberta (Bill) Merritt of Oakwood, and Karen Y. (Ed) Sanders of Antelope, Calif.; a brother Larry Adams of Oakwood; three sisters, Evelyn Johnston of Continental, and Norma Erford and Margaret Elliott, both of Oakwood; 14 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and several stepchildren, stepgrandchildren, great-stepgrandchildren and great-great-stepgrandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by two brothers, Gerald and Earl Adams; a sister, Gayle Foss; twin brother and sister in infancy, Richard and Rachel Adams; and a granddaughter, Faith Grimes.
Services were held Friday, Oct. 31 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Oakwood with the Rev. Dr. James Ernst officiating. Burial was in Sherman Cemetery, Oakwood.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com

EDMUND SCHARF
1924-2008
CLOVERDALE — Edmund E. Scharf, 83, of Cloverdale, died at 6:30 a.m. Monday, Nov. 3, at the Meadows of Kalida.
He was born Nov. 7, 1924, in Cloverdale, the son of Aloysisus and Margaret (Geyer) Scharf. On Oct. 29, 1960, he married Florence Beair, who preceded him in death on Sept. 14, 1990. He was a retired farmer. He was a member of St. Barbara’s Catholic Church and its Holy Name Society.
He is survived by three sons, Joe (Dawn) of Delphos, and John (Cora) and Jerry (Charlene), all of Cloverdale; two grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; and six great-stepgrandchildren.
Services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at the St. Barbara’s Catholic Church in Cloverdale, with Father Robert Kill officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Hours of visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. today, Nov. 5, at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, corner of Ohio 634 and 224.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

ROSEMARY WETLI
1917-2008
PAYNE – Former Payne resident Rosemary  Wetli, age 91, of Fort Wayne, passed away at 3:37 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29 at Coventry Meadows, Fort Wayne.
She was born Jan. 28, 1917 in Chenoa, Ill., the daughter of James and Kathryn (Kennedy) Brady. On Nov. 4, 1939 she married Eugene C. Wetli, who preceded her in death on Aug. 13, 1971. She was a homemaker and a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish (formerly St. John the Baptist), Payne, where she was active in St. Catherine’s Circle and the Joan of Arc Study Club.
Surviving are three daughters, Theresa (Jack) Ditton of Glendale, Ariz., Ann (Robert) Moore of Clarksville, Tenn. and Mary Jane (Terry) King of Toledo; two sons, Thomas (Mary) of Defiance and L. Joseph (Nancy) of Fort Wayne; eight grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by her sisters, Genevieve Miller and Kathleen Brady; and brothers, Vincent and Frank Brady.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held Saturday, Nov. 1 at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Payne,  with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial was in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, Payne. Dooley Funeral Home, Payne, was in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to Parkview Hospice or for masses in her memory.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

MARTHA ROBY
1920-2008
PAULDING – Martha K. Roby, age 88, died Thursday, Nov. 6 at The Gardens of Paulding.
She was born Feb. 29, 1920 in Newark, Ohio, the daughter of Ernest and Mary (Hammock) Gutridge. In 1939, she married Ralph W. Roby, who preceded her in death in 1985. She previously was employed by the National Bank of Newark and was a former member of the Methodist Church of Bethesda of Bethesda, Ohio.
Surviving are a daughter, Sandra Gawronski, Paulding; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by two sisters, Eva Callan and Gladys Gill.
There will be no visitation or funeral services. Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, is in charge of arrangements. Burial will be at Ebenezer Cemetery, Bethesda, at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

MARGARET BIRKHOLD
1925-2008
DEFIANCE — Margaret E. Birkhold, 83, died Tuesday, Nov. 4, at her daughter’s residence in Grabill, Ind.
She was born July 18, 1925, the daughter of Frank and Georgia (Miller) Papenbrock. On March 25, 1944, she married Gerald Birkhold, who preceded her in death on Jan. 23, 2007. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Defiance and a former member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Payne. She was previously employed by Dana Corporation, Antwerp.
She is survived by two daughters, Linda (Gene) Richhart of Grabill, and Cindy (Leroy) Tyas of Atlanta; a brother, Joseph (Laura) Papenbrock, Elyria; a sister, Evelyn Kee of Fort Wayne; three grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial was conducted Friday, Nov. 7, at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Payne with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial was in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, Payne. Den Herder Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

CHARLES MILLER
1942-2008
ANTWERP – Charles L. Miller, 66, of Antwerp, passed away at 3:36 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 6 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He was born April 22, 1942 in Bryan, the son of the late Maurice and Dorothy (Johns) Miller. He worked at Dana Weatherhead, Antwerp, for 37 years, and owned C&E Trucking for six years. On June 25, 1971, he married Eleanor Steele, who survives. He was a member of Antwerp United Methodist Church, Antwerp Conservation Club, was a former Antwerp Fireman and EMT, and assisted Antwerp Rotary with its recycling program.
Also surviving are three daughters, Sue (John) LaFountain of Paulding, Kay (Barry) Stoller of Antwerp, and Lisa (Tony) Keegan of Cecil; two sons, Gary (Sarah) Huss of Defiance and Brent (Misty) Miller of Bryan; two sisters, Margaret Wiler of Diamondhead, Miss. and Helen Ingram of New Haven; a brother, Gene, of Coldwater, Mich.; 13 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Services were held Monday, Nov. 10,  at Antwerp United Methodist Church with the Rev. Michael Schneider officiating. Burial was in St. Paul Cemetery, Paulding. Dooley Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
His family requests memorial donations to the church.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

BONNIE BERNARD
1937-2008
PAULDING – Bonnie L. Bernard, age 71 died Saturday, Nov. 15 at The Gardens of Paulding.
She was born Aug. 19, 1937 in Fort Wayne, the daughter of William D. and Wanda M. (White) Walters. She married William H. Gaskill, who preceded her in death in 2003. She married Charles L. Bernard, who preceded her in death in 2008.
She is survived by five sons, Charles Bernard of Cecil, Randy Bernard of Arthur, Scott Bernard of Montpelier, Robert Bernard of Massachusetts, and Shawn Bernard, Antwerp; three daughters, Toni Bernard of Antwerp, Tina (Tim) Neer, Paulding, and Cheryl (Tim) Kelly, Fort Wayne; a sister, Sandra (Ronald) Parisot, Avilla, Ind.; 12 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.
She also was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, William D. Gaskill and Anthony Q. Bernard; a daughter, Kathy Gravant; and a sister, Ruth Ann Walters.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. today, Nov. 19 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Burial will be in Paulding Memorial Cemetery at a later date. Visitation will be one hour prior to services.
Donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

WAYNE CARR
1934-2008
ANTWERP – Wayne R. Carr, 74, of Antwerp, passed away at 1:57 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne.
He was born July 2, 1934 in Antwerp, the son of the late Harry and Florence (West) Carr. On June 30, 1956, he married Carolyn Rowan, who survives. He was the supervisor of employee relations at Dana Weatherhead, Antwerp, where he retired in 1995, a member of the Antwerp United Methodist Church, and a 60-year member of Hicksville Masonic Lodge 478. Having participated in many community activities, such as Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, little league  baseball, athletic and music boosters, he was named 1986 Antwerp Citizen of the Year.
Also surviving are a daughter, Elaine (Dean)  Phillips of Hicksville; two sons, Steven (Lisa) of Indianapolis and Kevin of Antwerp; 10 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. 
He also was preceded in death by his brother, Lee; and a sister, Mary Ann.
Services were held Friday, Nov. 14 at Antwerp United Methodist Church with the Rev. Michael Schneider officiating. Burial was in Maumee Cemetery, Antwerp. Dooley Funeral Home, Antwerp, was in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to the church.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

ERMA CONNIN
1917-2008
BRYAN — Erma L. (Musser) Connin, 91, of Bryan, died Monday evening, Nov. 17, at Hillside Country Living near Bryan.
She was born Aug. 11, 1917, in Bryan, the daughter of William and Anna Belle (Dailey) Musser. She married Stephen Omasta and Wilson “Beefy” Connin, who both preceded her in death.
She was a lifetime resident of the Bryan area, a homemaker and had previously worked as a telephone operator. She attended Trinity Lutheran Church in Bryan and loved to crochet and read.
Surviving are two sons, Steven “Sonny” Omasta and John Omasta, both of Bryan; three daughters, Nancy (Paul) Elick of Payne, Shelly (Allen) Dean of Bryan and Lori Connin of Montpelier; seven grandchildren, David (Lisa) Elick, Jenny (Allan) Martin and Christopher Connin, all of Payne, Scott (Gina) Elick, Kimberly Semer, Heather Semer and Wesley Connin, all of Bryan; and eight great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by four brothers; six sisters; and a grandson, Chris Elick.
Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, in the Burr Funeral Home and Crematory in Bryan with Pastor Mary Beth Smith-Webb officiating. Burial will follow in Fountain Grove Cemetery, Bryan.
Visitation will be from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. today, Nov. 19, at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Anna’s House at Hillside Country Living.

MARY LOU CRAMER
1927-2008
PAULDING – Mary Lou Cramer, age 81 died Sunday, Nov. 16 at The Gardens of Paulding.
She was born Sept. 13, 1927 in Paulding County, the daughter of Paul G. and Esther M. (Ream) Cramer. In 1987, she retired from Paulding Putnam Electrical Cooperative, where she was a bookkeeper for 35 years. She was a member of the First Christian Church, Paulding.
She is survived by one brother, Paul E. (Shirley) Cramer, Paulding; two nephews and one niece.
She was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 21 at the First Christian Church, Paulding, with the Rev. Gregory Bibler officiating. Burial will be in Live Oak Cemetery, Paulding.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. Also, calling will be held one hour prior to services at the church on Friday.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the First Christian Church Building Fund, or to the PC Workshop, Paulding.
Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

DONNA DENSMORE
1927-2008
JUNCTION – Donna M. Densmore, 81, of Junction, died at 2:36 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12 at Paulding County Hospital.
She was born June 23, 1927 in Paulding County, the daughter of Charles L. and Mary E. (Edwards) Brown. On April 7, 1945, she married Delbert M. Densmore, who preceded her in death on Sept. 8, 1980. She was a homemaker.
Surviving are a son, Delbert C. (Barbara) Densmore, Defiance; four grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by three brothers, Alvin and Bob Brown and George Weimer; and two sisters, Madaline Ankney and Nettie Alice Brown.
Services were held Saturday, Nov. 15 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, with Pastor Bobby Branham officiating. Burial was in Sherman Cemetery, Oakwood.
Preferred memorials are to the American Red Cross.
Condolences may be sent to www.lovefuneralhome.com

KENNETH DUNMIRE
1933-2008
VAN WERT – Kenneth L. Dunmire, 75, of Van Wert, died at 4:47 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12 at Van Wert County Hospital.
He was born June 19, 1933 in Hicksville, the son of Florence (McCavett) Semer and Curtis L. Dunmire. On Dec. 23, 1967, he married Carolyn (Chivington) Wills, who survives.
He retired from Federal Mogul Corporation, Van Wert, after 42 years of service. He was a member of Van Wert Moose Lodge, Van Wert County Outdoorsman Club and was a life member of NRA.
Also surviving are his children, Kenneth Lee (Jan) Dunmire Jr. of Magnolia, Texas, Tamara (Tom) Tomlinson and Candace Wills, both of Van Wert, Cheryl Swartz of Florida, Kimberly (Tom) Wyman of Columbus, Sherri (Brian) Schaadt, Kerri (Collin) Thomas and Jacqueline (David) Dixon, all of Van Wert, and Steven (Janie) Dunmire of Paulding; a sister, Madonna Coquillard of Fort Wayne; 23 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Robert; a sister, Ernestine Potter; and one grandchild.
Services were held Saturday, Nov. 15 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with the Rev. Tim Burden officiating. Burial was in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to agfhc@embarqmail.com

BETTY ENSLOW
1930-2008
OCALA, Fla. – Betty Rose Spires Griffiths Enslow, age 78, died Nov. 9 in Ocala, Fla.
She was born Sept. 20, 1930 in Wellston, Ohio, the daughter of George and Rose Ellen (Martin) Spires. She was a member of the Belleview (Fla.) United Methodist Church. She was involved in Bible study, the thrift store and the Stevens Ministry. She also was a member of the Belleview Garden Club. On Jan. 19, 2001, she married Ernest Enslow.
Surviving are her sons, Gregory (Elizabeth) and Alan (Cheri) Griffiths, both of Paulding; two stepchildren, Sam Enslow of Egypt and Pam Barrett of Maryland; six grandsons; three great-grandchildren; and siblings Pat Ruger of Haviland, Mary Ellen Duda of Chillicothe, and Joyce Exline, Cheryl Norton, Romey Spires and Marion Spires, all of Wellston, Ohio. One grandson is deceased.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. today, Nov. 19 at the Belleview United Methodist Church, Belleview, Fla.
Preferred memorials are to the church, P.O. Box 567, Belleview FL 34421.

CECILIA HERZIG
1936-2008
PAULDING – Cecilia Herzig, age 72, died Thursday, Nov. 13 at The Gardens of Paulding in Paulding.
She was born March 3, 1936, the daughter of Joseph and Maria (Radich) Ottmayer. On Nov. 9, 1956, she married John Herzig, who survives. She was a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding.
Also surviving are two sons, Richard (Dawn) Herzig of Pittsburgh and John Herzig, Chicago; a brother, Stefan Ottmayer, and three sisters, Maria Brill, Annaliesa Klinger and Erika Bauer, all of Germany; and seven grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Mary Elizabeth Stallkamp; and a brother, Frank Ottmayer.
A Mass of Christian Burial was conducted Monday, Nov. 17 at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish, Paulding, with the Rev. G. Allan Fillman officiating. Burial was in Paulding Memorial Cemetery, Paulding. Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, was in charge of arrangements.
Donations may be made to masses or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com

EUGENE
NELMS
1924-2008
PAULDING – Eugene J. Nelms, 84, Paulding, died Saturday, Nov. 15 at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.
He was born Feb. 21, 1924, in Omar, W.Va., the son of David and Bessie (Carroll) Nelms. On Nov. 21, 1990, he married Frances (Stump) McGuire, who preceded him in death in 1998. A U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, he was employed by Donely Painting Co., Defiance, retiring in 1979. He was a life member of VFW Post 587.
Surviving are three sons, Ted (Elaine) of Raleigh, N.C., Charles (Kay) of Stephens City, Va., and Larry, Rock Hill, S.C.; a daughter, Debbie (Robert) Barr, Rock Hill, S.C.; a stepson, Charlie McGuire, Paulding; three stepdaughters, Fredia (William) Coleman of Sandusky, Barbara (Michael) Betts of Defiance and Sheila (Hacker Jr.) Combs, Paulding; 19 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.
Also preceding him in death were a son, Ned; a stepdaughter, Mary Yates; three brothers, Rocky, Earl and Sandy; three sisters, Lucille Spitzer, Jimmie Mae Cooper and Doris Taylor; and a stepgrandson, Joshua Miller.
Services will be at 11 a.m. today, Nov. 19 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with the Rev. Arnold Saylor officiating. Burial will be in Rochester Cemetery, Cecil, with military graveside services by VFW Post 587. Visitation is one hour prior to services today.
Preferred memorials are to VFW Post 587 or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be left at www.denherderfh.com

KENNETH
STANTON
1939-2008
GROVER HILL – Kenneth Eugene Stanton, 69, of Grover Hill, died at 8:45 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14 at Van Crest Nursing Home, Van Wert.
He was born March 1, 1939, in Melrose, the son of the late Harold Stanton and Mary (Lontz) Stanton Spangler. On April 15, 1961, he married Mary Busch, who survives in Grover Hill.
He retired from Chrysler Corp. in 1997 after 30 years of service. He was a member of Rose Hill Church of God, Paulding; served in the U.S. Army Reserves; and loved to watch Western movies, eat ice cream and collect Panda bears.
Also surviving are two sons, James (Trisha) Stanton of Paulding and Kent (Nikki) Stanton of Van Wert; one daughter, Joyce Stanton, Van Wert, and a sister, Mildred Combs, Ottawa.
He also was preceded in death by a brother and a sister.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, Nov. 18 at Rose Hill Church of God, Paulding, with the Rev. Ron Hofacker officiating. Burial was in Prairie Chapel Cemetery, Oakwood. Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Oakwood, was in charge of arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to Rose Hill Church of God.