2012 - Ottoville Obits

1-7-2012

Richard Grothouse

Richard “Dick” Grothouse, 84, of Delphos, died Saturday at Vancrest Healthcare Center.

He was born Sept. 11, 1927, in Ottoville to Albert F. and Hilda (Martin) Grothouse, who preceded him in death.

Survivors include two sisters, Dolores (Richard) Honigford of Landeck and Agnes (Thomas) Miller of Delphos; a brother, Rudy (Judy) Grothouse of Delphos; sister-in-law, Carol Grothouse of Delphos; and special friend, Ellie Link; and many nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by a brother, Ronald Grothouse.

Mr. Grothouse retired from Ford Motor Co. after 14 years. He was in the U.S. Army from 1952-54, serving during the Korean War. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos VFW Post 3035, the Lima American Legion Post and Lima Eagles.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Jacob Gordon officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Friends may call from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Harter & Schier furneral home, where a parish wake begins at 7:30 p.m.

Preferred memorials are to the church.

1-11-2012

Robert Bendele

Robert Bendele, 95, died at 3:20 p.m. Jan. 11, 2012, at Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center. He was born Dec. 18, 1916, in Ottoville to Leo   and Frances Schimmoller Bendele, who preceded him in death. He married Jeanne E. Landwehr, in Altus, Okla, on May 1, 1943. She died July 23, 2009.

            Mr. Bendele   was co-founder of Delphos Woodworking Co. and co-owner of Delphos Builders Supply and Spencerville Lumber Co. He was also a co-founder of the Delphos Airport. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1941 to 1946 as a flight instructor, including a special assignment to the U.S. Navy. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos, and the American Legion.

            Survivors include two sons, Richard Bendele, of Cape Coral, Fla., and Michael (Diane) Bendele, of Delphos; a daughter, Bonnie Utrup, of Toledo; a sister, Dorothy Schmitz, of Florida; six grandchildren, Craig (Dina) Bendele, Lori Bendele Runnels, Isaac Bendele, Karyn Bendele, Angie Utrup and Emily Utrup, and three great-grandchildren, Ashtyn Bermudez, Makailey Bermudez and Tim Runnels.

            He was preceded in death by three brothers, Ralph, Rudolph and Thomas Bendele; and a daughter-in-law, Lynda Bendele.

            Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. The Rev. Jacob Gordon will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, with military rites by the Delphos Veterans Council.

            Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where a parish wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

            Memorial contributions may be made by taking someone you love to dinner.  

1-14-2012

John Fortener

John Fortener, 81, of Southgate, Mich., died Saturday at his residence.

He born on July 4, 1930, in Ottoville to Robert and Regina Fortener, who preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife, Jenny; 7 children, 14 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Survivors also include sister-in-law, Winnie Schmitt, brother, Elmer (Rosie) Fortener of Delphos; sisters, Helen Bottorff, Karen (Norm) Osting and Frani (Roger) Wurst of Delphos.

Preceding him in death was brother, Gene Schmitt, Robert Fortener (killed in World War II); and brother-in-law, Joe Bottorff.

Funeral services were today at R.J. Nixon Funeral Home, Wyandotte, Mich.

1-17-2012

August Trenkamp

August “Augie” Trenkamp, 83, died at 3:50 p.m. Jan. 17, 2012, at The Ohio State   University Medical Center, Columbus.

            He was born April 8, 1928, in Ottoville to August and Anna Ruen Trenkamp, who preceded   him in death. On Feb. 3, 1951, he married Jacqueline Calvelage, who survives in Fort Jennings.

            Mr. Trenkamp was a farmer and retired from Ford Motor Co. Lima Engine Plant after 33 years. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings. He was a 1946 graduate of Ottoville High School, where he was named as a First Team All-State Basketball player. He was a social member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740, Ottoville, and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, Delphos. He enjoyed farming and playing cards. He was an avid fan of the Cincinnati Reds and loved talking about sports. He loved watching his grandchildren play sports.  

            Survivors also include four children, Deborah (Jeff) Rostorfer, of Elida, Carl (Chris) Trenkamp, of Fort Jennings, Linda (Randy) Brinkman, of Delphos, and Lisa (Chip) Buss, of Kalida; 10 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and a sister, Margie (Vern) Hermiller, of Bluffton.

            He was preceded in death by seven brothers, Ambrose, Walter, Henry, Arnold, Joseph, John and James Trenkamp; and five sisters, Frances Landwehr, Sister Alma Trenkamp, Edna Droesche, Irene Dugan and Sally Fisher.  

            Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings. Father Joseph Przybysz will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

            Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, and one hour prior to services Saturday at the church.

            Memorial contributions may be made to West Central Ohio Paralysis Foundation, P.O. Box 157, Fort Jennings, OH 45844-0157; or to the Memorial Hall Restoration Fund.

            Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

1-22-2012

E. Agnes Ulrich

E. Agnes Ulrich, 99, died Jan. 22, 2012, at VanCrest Healthcare Center, Delphos.

            She was born March 24, 1912, in Ottoville to John C. and Matilda Miller Eickholt, who preceded her in death. She married William J. Ulrich, who died in August 2001.

            Mrs. Ulrich was a homemaker and had worked at IGA for several years. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, Delphos, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary, Ottoville. She enjoyed sewing and was an amazing seamstress. She was a bowler and enjoyed playing cards with the Del-Otto card club.

            Survivors include three sons, Paul L. Ulrich, of Lacy, Wash., John “Jack” (Sharon) Ulrich, of Kansas City, Kan., and Arthur “Butch” (Tracy) Ulrich, of Naples, Fla.; two daughters, Antoinette “Toni” Osting and Diane (Roger) Horstman, both of Delphos; a sister, Calista (Arnie) Miller; two brothers, Roman (Margaret) Eickholt and Orval (Olivia) Eickholt; a daughter-in-law, Jeany Ulrich; and two sisters-in-law, Virginia Eickholt and Dolores Eickholt; and 16 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

            She was preceded in death by a son, Rollie Ulrich; two brothers, Ralph and Vince Eickholt; a sister, Katherine Altenburger; a half sister, Alvertice “Dolly” Friemoth; a great-granddaughter, Samantha Horstman; and a sister-in-law, Agnes Eickholt.

            Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Catholic Church Cemetery, Ottoville.

            Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a Catholic Ladies of Columbia service will be held at 3 p.m. and at a parish wake service at 7 p.m.

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

1-25-2012

Julius F. Wurst

Julius F. Wurst, 85, died at 4 a.m. Jan. 25, 2012, at Van Crest Healthcare Center, Delphos. He was born July 13, 1926 in Ottoville to Andrew and Clara Krietmeyer Wurst, who preceded him in death. On April 25, 1965, he married Evelyn Breckler, who died March 7, 2009.

            Mr. Wurst was a carpenter at Grubenhoff Construction and then at Tuttle Construction. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. He loved working with wood and he loved his dog very much. He was an avid fan of NASCAR. He was an Army veteran.

            Survivors include several nieces and nephews.

            He was preceded in death by a brother, Roman Wurst; two sisters, Bernadette “Bernie” Pohlman and Mary Wannemacher; and an infant son, Michael Andrew Wurst.  

            Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Delphos, with military rites by the Delphos Veterans Council.

            Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

            Memorial contributions may be made to Guide Dogs for the Blind.

2-23-2012

Anna C. Allersmeyer

            Anna Clara “Annie” Allersmeyer, born October 4, 1928, to Julian and Regina Hilvers Schweller in Ottoville, Ohio. Passed away on February 23, 2012, in Mojave, California. Anna is survived by two daughters; numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. Anna was predeceased by husband Harold, one son, her parents, and two brothers. Services will be held March 10, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 15382 Myer Rd., Mojave. Interment will follow at East Kern Cemetery District. Memorial gifts in memory of Anna Allersmeyer may be made to: St. Francis of Assisi Church, Religious Education Program, P.O. Box 1359 Rosamond California, 93560

3-2-2012

Angela B. Kimmet

Angela B. Kimmet, 90, died at 5:45 a.m. March 2, 2012, at Vancrest Healthcare of Delphos.

She was born Oct. 2, 1921, in Ottoville to Theodore and Bernadine Hellman Beining, who preceded her in death. On June 20, 1946, she married Richard Kimmet, who died in 1992.

Mrs. Kimmet was a homemaker. She was a member of Delphos St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and its Altar Rosary Society. She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family.

Survivors include three sons, Edward (Kathleen) Kimmet, of Fort Wayne, Ind., Chuck (Chris) Kimmet, of Brentwood, Tenn., and Steve (Amy) Kimmet, of Speedwell, Tenn.; a daughter, Marge (Tom) Sliemers, of Beavercreek; four sisters, Alice Arnzen, of Delphos, Irene Schroeder and Gertrude Schmitz, both of Ottawa, and Mary Hempfling, of Delphos; a brother, Raymond Beining, of Delphos; nine grandchildren, Matthew and Michael Kimmet, Beth Vincent, Barbi Sliemers, Kristin Sliemers, Jessica Foust, Chelsea Fox and Danielle and Katrina Kimmet; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Mildred Beckman, and a brother, Rudy Beining.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's church missions or St. Rita's Hospice.

3-4-2012

Loretta M. Hoffman

Loretta Marie Hoffman, 85, of Del­phos passed away Sunday evening March 4, 2012 at Windsor of Cape Coral Florida Nursing Home.

She was born in Ottoville, the daughter of Walter and Mary (Krieger) Calvelage. Loretta owned and operated the Modern Beauty Salon in Delphos, raised a fam­ily, owned and operated the Village Salon in Ottoville and worked for Van Crest of Delphos Nursing Home un­til her retirement at the age of 77.

A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Loretta would light up any room with her warm smile. She was pre­ceded in death by her hus­band Louis; and her broth­ers Eugene, Othmar and Leander Calvelage.

Loretta is survived by her three children, Carl J. Hoff­man of Lima, Donald L. (Dawn) Hoffman of Mont­gomery, Ala., and Theresa M. Hoffman of Cape Coral, Fla.; her four grandchildren, Luke and Cole Hempfling of Cape Coral, Fla., Rachell (Matt) Moodie of Wesley Chapel, Fla. and Benja­min Dean of Montgomery, Ala.; her sister, Rita Weis of Ottawa; her sister-in-law, Maneta Calvelage of Del­phos; and numerous nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 12, at St. John the Evangelist Catho­lic Church, 201 N. Pierce St., Delphos. Interment to follow in St. Joseph Cem­etery, Ft. Jennings.

A family visitation at the church will begin at 10 a.m. until the time of services.

If desired, donations may be made to Hope Hospice, www.hopehospice,org.

3-5-2012

Evelyn Wannemacher

Evelyn Wannemacher, 90, of Ottoville, died at 10:30 a.m. Monday at The Meadows of Kalida.

She was born Aug. 18, 1921, in Kalida to Ben and Philomena (Feltman) Maag.On Feb. 14, 1946, she married Harold “Spotty” Wannemacher, who died Sept. 24, 1974.

Survivors include seven children, Jerry (Donna) Wannemacher of Ottoville, Joyce (Tim) Drewyore of Delphos, Ken “Ed” (Chris) Wannemacher of Ottoville, Judy (Tony) Horstman of Cloverdale, Pam (Jim) Wallick of Ottoville, Gene (Janice) Wannemacher of Ottoville and Bill (Chris) Wannemacher of Ottoville; 15 grandchildren, Bryan Wannemacher, Jayme Wannemacher, Shelly Grothouse, Nikki Horstman, Jennifer Gerhardstein, Matthew Wannemacher, Kimberly Horstman, Karrie Langhals, Scott Horstman, Amanda Woods, Kylee Cramer, Tricia Hemker, Marla Wannemacher, Josh Roddins and Taylor Roddins; 20 great-grandchildren with 2 expected in the summer; two sisters, Mildred (Wilbert) Roof of Columbus Grove and Marcia (Jim) Kuhlman of Ottawa; five brothers, Carl (Rita) Maag of Columbus Grove, Urban (Rosemary) Maag and Eugene (Shirley) Maag of Columbus Grove, Dennis (Rita) Maag of Kalida and Leroy (Karen) Maag of Columbus Grove; two sisters-in-law, Viola Maag and Jennie Maag.

She is also preceded in death by a great-granddaughter, Samantha Horstman; two great-grandsons, Jayce and Aiden Wannemacher; three brothers, Omar, Daniel and Harold Maag; and a sister and brother-in-law, Catherine and Harold Deters.

Mrs. Wannemacher was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Ottoville, its Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia. She is a life member of Ottoville VFW Auxiliary Post 3740.

Mass of Christian Burial will bgin at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Ottoville Immaculate Conception Church, the Rev. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.

Friends may call from 4-9 p.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, corner of St. Rts. 224 and 634, with a scripture service at 4 p.m.

Memorials may be given to St. Mary’s Cemetery Board or the charity of donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed to: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

3-6-2012

Dorothy E. Flores

            Dorothy E. Flores, 66, of Ottoville died at 1:20 a.m. Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.

She was born Sept. 6, 1945 in Ottoville to the late Leon and Rita (Miller) Turnwald. On June 10, 1967, she mar­ried Jose “Joe” Flores, who survives in Ottoville.

Also surviving are her children, Abraham (Jocell) Flores of Clayton, N.C., John (Jeanine) Flores of Cincinnati, Carmen (Neil) Flores-Mills of Princeton, N.J., and Anita (David) Spires of Lancaster; eight grandchildren, Alicia Mills, Abraham J. Flores, Ma­tias and Cecelia Flores, Victoria and Adam Spres, and Benjamin and Sylvia Flores; a brother, Steve (Ann) Turnwald of Fort Wayne, Ind.; three sisters, Jeanette (Kenneth) Hazel­ton of Ada, Irene Helms of Fort Jennings, and Nancy (Larry) Suer of Cincinnati; and a brother-in-law, James Ellerbrock of Ottawa.

She was preceded in death by a sister: Agnes “Aggie” Ellerbrock.

Dorothy was a retired fourth grade elementary teacher from Ottoville Local Schools. She was a member of Immacu­late Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and its Altar Rosary Society. She received the Open Arms Award from the Toledo Di­ocese in 2006.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Satur­day, March 10, at Immacu­late Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites and Fr. Mark Walter officiating. Burial will be at a later date in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottovi­lle.

Visitation will be from 1 to 9 p.m. Friday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township where a Scripture Service will be held at 1 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Na­tional Multiple Sclerosis Society of Northwest Ohio.

Condolences may be ex­pressed at www.lovefuner­alhome.com.

3-16-2012

Margaret B. Metzger

Margaret B. Otte Metzger, 91, of Dayton, formerly of Ottoville, died March 16, 2012.  

            She was born Dec. 7, 1920, in Ottoville Gerhard and Barbara Thithoff Otte, who preceded her in death.

            Mrs.   Metzger loved traveling with her family. She collected salt and pepper shakers, was a wonderful cook and totally loved spoiling her grandchildren.

            Survivors include three children, Brother Robert J. Metzger, of Washington, D.C., Barbara A. Metzger, of Moraine, and Gerard L. Metzger, of West Carrollton; a son-in-law, Tom McDonald; five grandchildren, Kathy (Mike) Moddeman, Christopher (Nicole) McDonald, Becky (Timmy) Myers, Tommy (Amber) McDonald and Sean (Sarah) McDonald; 13 great-grandchildren, Abby, Will and Jacob Moddeman, Noah, Jackson and Andrew McDonald, Marly Hargis, Hannah, Kevin and Zach Myers, Aidan and Trevor McDonald, and Braeden McDonald; a sister, Mary   Ann Otte, of Washington Township; her beloved granddog, Rocky; and several other relatives and friends.

            She was preceded in death by a daughter, Marilyn McDonald; and eight siblings, Marcille Boerger, Euletta Weber, Elvira Bodkins, and Henry, Gerhard, Elmer, Leo, and Elizabeth “Betty” Otte.

            Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Henry Catholic Church, Dayton. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

            Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at Newcomer Funeral Home South Chapel, Kettering.  

            Memorial contributions may be made to Marianist Mission, 4435 E. Patterson Road, Dayton, OH 45430.

            Condolences may be expressed at Newcomer  Dayton.com  .

            The family would like to thank the staff at Miami Valley Hospital, Liberty Retirement Community of Washington Township and Hospice of Dayton for their loving care.  

3-19-2012

Leroy R. Pohlman

            Leroy R. Pohlman, 53, died at 11:06 p.m. March 19, 2012, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

            He was born May 31, 1958, in Lima to Irvin and Adeline Ricker Pohlman. His father preceded him in death. His mother survives in Delphos.  

            Mr. Pohlman was a farmer and was in maintenance and repair for Ottoville Hardware. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Men’s Auxiliary, Ottoville, and the Sons of the American Legion Post 715, Fort Jennings. He had been a member of the Ottoville Area Community Club.

            Survivors also include two stepchildren, Brittany Kleman, of Spencerville, Ind., and Keith Kleman, of Fort Jennings; a sister, Esther (Gerald) Ellerbrock, of Fort Jennings; a brother, William (Janis) Pohlman, of Miamisburg; and 11 nieces and nephews.  

            He was preceded in death by a sister, Irene (Monroe) Wireman; a brother, Randy Pohlman; and sister-in-law, Christine Pohlman.

            Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Delphos.

            Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a Scripture service will be held at 6 p.m.

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

            Condolences may be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.

4-19-2012

Kenneth Schnipke

Kenneth Schnipke, 75, died at 11:05 a.m. April 19, 2012, at his residence, following an extended battle with cancer.

He was born Dec. 31, 1936, to George and Emma Ricker Schnipke, who preceded him in death. On Aug. 24, 1957, he married Mary Beth Hanf, who survives in Delphos.

Mr. Schnipke retired as an inspector from Ford Motor Co. Lima Engine Plant after 43 years. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. He was a 1955 graduate of Ottoville High School, Ottoville. He volunteered at the St. Marys State Park and Campground for the last 12 years and enjoyed the company of his many friends and people he met there.

Survivors also include a son, Scott (Lisa) Schnipke, of Delphos; three daughters, Sherry (Michael) Rossfeld, of Elida, Shelly Obermeyer, of Columbus, and Shirley (Jeffery) Burke, of Continental; a sister, Patty (Jim) Martin, of Ottoville; 11 grandchildren, Ryan (Kacie) Kill, Eric Kill, Lyndsie Kill, Jesse (Andrea) Kill, Zachary Rossfeld, David (Julie) Burke, Stephanie Burke, Clarissa (Luke) Case, Alexander Schnipke, Cassandra Schnipke and Aaron Schnipke; four great-grandchildren, Kaylie, Cora, Chloe and Leena; and two brothers-in-law, Jack (Iona) Hanf, of Fort Jennings, and James (Nancy) Hanf, of Elida.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Leonard Schnipke; a sister, Sylvia Schnipke; and a sister-in-law, Pauline Schnipke.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Delphos.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the charity of the donor’s choice.

4-21-2012

Joanne M. Nichols

            Joanne M. Nichols, 87, died at 6:41 p.m. April 21, 2012, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima.

She was born Dec. 15, 1924, in Ottoville, to Stephen and Adeline Miehls Looser, who preceded her in death. On April 19, 1947, she married Milton Nichols, who died Jan. 8, 1996.

Mrs. Nichols was a homemaker. She worked at the Lima Tank Depot during World War II. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and Fort Jennings American Legion Post 0715. She devoted her life to her family and loved spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include two sons, Michael (Doris) Nichols and Robert (Jennifer) Nichols, both of Fort Jennings; four daughters, Judy (Dave) Will, Becky (Lou) Pothast, Gin (Terry) Snyder and Barb (Denny) Metzger, all of Fort Jennings; a sister, Virginia Hoffman, of Columbus Grove; 27 grandchildren, Joseph Nichols, Stephen Nichols, Lynette Bornman, Matthew Nichols, Andrew Nichols, Christopher Nichols, Curt Will, Stacy Warnecke, Amy Will, Robert Will, Kevin Good, Michael Good, Sarah Good, Gary Snyder, Jodie Walker, Katie Garcia, Jessica Fields, Greg Metzger, Nick Metzger, Jonathan Metzger, Alex Nichols, Elizabeth Nichols, Isaac Nichols, Andrew Nichols, Chelsey Ryane, Jack Nichols and Cole Nichols; and 22 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two sisters; two brothers; and two great-grandchildren, Ava and William Bornman.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church. The Rev. Joseph Przybysz will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home and from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the church. The Fort Jennings American Legion Post 0715 Auxiliary will conduct a memorial service at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. There will be a parish wake at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Fort Jennings Fire Department and the Jennings Memorial Association.

The family would like to thank Dr. Jonah Ukiwe and the staff on 4K at St. Rita's.

4-22-2012

Julie V. Hemker

            Julie Veronica Hemker, 89, died at 9:40 p.m. April 22, 2012, at St. Rita's Medical Center.

She was born Nov. 1, 1922, in Ottoville to Joseph and Anna Beining Hoersten, who preceded her in death. On Aug. 19, 1944, she married Hubert “Bud” Hemker, who died Aug. 10, 1993.

Mrs. Hemker was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. She loved spending time with her family, baking cookies, praying the rosary and working in her flower gardens.

Survivors include a daughter, Ginni (Larry) Sroufe, of Cloverdale; four sons, Ronald (Anne) Hemker and Richard (Janet) Hemker, both of Ottoville, Gary (Cathy) Hemker, of Delphos, and Randy (Carol) Hemker, of Louisville, Ky.; a sister, Clarann (Herb) Gerdeman, of Delphos; two sisters-in-law, Rita Hoersten, of Ottoville, and Mary Ellen (Tom) Deffenbaugh, of Delphos; a brother-in-law, Bill Hemker, of Delphos; 18 grandchildren, Darren (Janet) Sroufe, of Boonville, Ind., Craig (Katrina) Sroufe, of Delphos, Nichole (Judd) Spencer and Gwenn Spencer, both of Cloverdale, Brian (Cheryl) Hemker, of Marysville, Michelle (Ron) Jaross, of Bedminster, N.J., Sarah Hemker, of Columbus, Joshua Hemker, of Ashland, Terri (Keith) VonLehmden, of Liberty Township, Dawn (Eric) Schnipke, Kimberley (Matt) Wannemacher and Christina Hemker, all of Ottoville, Matt (Sarah) Hemker, of Landeck, Doug (Tricia) Hemker, of Columbus, Julie (Scott) Horstman, of Columbus, Ryan (Katie Grove) Hemker, of Chicago, Lauren Hemker, of Bloomington, Ind., and Lexi Hemker, of Louisville, Ky.; and 23 great-grandchildren, with another one on the way.

She was preceded in death by six brothers, Felix, Lawrence, Vincent, Anthony, Hugo and Clarence Hoersten; four sisters, Mathilda Herman, Elizabeth Wegesin, Barbara Schneider and Victoria Luersman; and two great-grandchildren, Aiden and Jayce Wannemacher.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a Scripture service will be held at 2 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Mary Cemetery Fund, to the Masses or to the charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.         

4-30-2012

Dorothy L. Altenburger

Dorothy L. Altenburger, 94, died at 8:34 a.m. April 30, 2012, at VanCrest Healthcare Center, Delphos. She was born Jan. 26, 1918, in Ottoville to Joseph and Theresia Becker Schlagbaum, who preceded her in death. On Feb. 16, 1946, she married Hubert S. “Hups” Altenburger, who died March 25, 2006.

Mrs. Altenburger retired as a waitress from Jim’s Restaurant, Delphos. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary, Ottoville. She was an avid golfer and was a member of the Delphos Country Club. She enjoyed playing cards. She loved her family dearly and enjoyed watching it grow to include grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include three sons, Jack (Barb) Altenburger, of Toledo, Randy (Judy) Altenburger, of Ottoville, and Dennis (Debra) Altenburger, of Delphos; eight grandchildren, Brian (Wendy) Altenburger, Julie (Ben) Kolly, Jill (Brian) Wenzlick, Renee (Aaron) Burgei, Beth (Greg) Morscher, Jason Altenburger, Jena (Adam) Rostorfer and Jonathon Altenburger; nine great-grandchildren, Emma and Hannah Wenzlick, Andrew, Marissa and Tyler Kolly, Kara and Courtney Burgei, Evan Altenburger and Joshua Morscher; and two sisters, Phyllis Krouse and Jo Ann Schlagbaum, both of Lima.

She was preceded in death by four sisters, Bernie (Charles) Heathman, Loretta (Kenneth) Roth, Tillie (Ralph) Spieles and Marie (Virgil) Kohlrieser; three brothers, Vince (Coletta), Tony (Gertie) and Ott (Norma) Schlagbaum; and a brother-in-law, Bob Krouse.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a Scripture service will be held at 2 p.m. and a VFW Auxiliary service at 6 p.m.

Condolences may be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.

4-30-2012

Louise F. Keber

Louise F. Keber, 83, of Defiance, passed away on Monday, April 30, 2012, at the Laurels of Defiance.

She was born on August 14, 1928, to Sigmund and Ottilia (Pittner) Martin in Ottoville, Ohio. She married James H. Keber on December 29, 1949, and he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Michael (Lorraine) Keber of Defiance, Ohio, Thomas (Beverly) Keber of Defiance, Ohio, Gerald (Renee) Keber of Defiance, Ohio, Catherine (Destry) Jones of Carey, N.C., Jane (Edward) Trocha of Defiance, Ohio, Nancy (Terry) Joy of Dacula, Ga.; 11 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and another great-grandchild on the way.

Preceding her in death were her parents, a brother in infancy and a daughter-in-law, Jodie Keber.

Louise was a member of St. John Catholic Church and the Defiance Society of Artists where she was a past officer. She enjoyed painting, movies, reading and spending time at the beach. She was a loving mother and wife.

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 3, 2012, from 2-8 p.m. at Hanenkrath-Clevenger-Schaffer Funeral Home, Defiance, Ohio. A vigil service will be held Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, May 4, 2012, at 11 a.m. at St. John Catholic Church with Father Todd Dominique officiating.

Entombment will take place in the Riverview Memory Gardens mausoleum.

Memorials are suggested to Hospice the Caring Way of Defiance County or a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.HCSFuneralHome.com.

5-2-2012

Roger A. Miller

Roger A. Miller, 83, of Wauseon, formerly of Ottoville, died May 2, 2012, at Fulton Manor.

He was born Dec. 24, 1928, in Ottoville to Joseph and Estella Miller, who preceded him in death. On April 26, 1958, he married Esther Ostendorf, of Fort Jennings, who died Feb. 13, 2007. They were married 48 years.

Mr. Miller quit school at the age of 16, which was not unusual for those times. He went to work with the food industry. One of the first places of employment was the Bursley Foods, Lima, and then in Fort Wayne, Ind. He was an Army veteran, spending two years in the Medical Service Corps. After his discharge, he ventured to Wauseon with his knowledge of the retail food industry where he opened a Super Dollar grocery store with his brother, Joe. Several years later, he purchased the Ford dealership in Wauseon. He managed Roger Miller Ford for approximately 20 years, during which time he garnered several awards and traveled on many Ford-sponsored trips as well as serving on the Ford advertising board. In later years, despite semi-retirement, he still worked as a real estate agent in Wauseon.

One of the greatest joys for him, his loving wife, and their entire family was to be at their cottage at Clear Lake, Ind. There, they enjoyed time with family and friends, fishing, playing cards, enjoying water sports, making memories and spending quality time together. Sadly, this could not continue with the untimely death of his wife and changes in his health status.

He was a member of St. Caspar parish since moving to Wauseon. There, he was a councilman, finance chairman, daily Mass attendee, a minister of the Eucharist, a lector, an usher, an annual leader in the parish festival and served on the building committee who planned the current church. He also was active in the Knights of Columbus/4th Degree, drove for Meals on Wheels, worked for the Bloodmobile, was a Clinton Township clerk for 13 years, was a life member of the Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club, American Legion and Elks Club. Additionally, he was a member of the Wauseon Homecoming Committee, Wauseon Chamber of Commerce, and served on the Board of Directors for People's State Bank. In retirement, he and his wife enjoyed mentoring students in reading at the Leggett Primary School. It has been said and verified by many that he was kind and caring. There is no doubt he would give you the last dime he had and if he thought you needed it, more. This legacy is a tremendous tribute.

Survivors include three children, Bruce (Tammy) Miller, of St. Marys, Cindy (Marc) Thompson, of Wauseon, and Linda (fiancé Gary Rhoads) Kersey, of Bryan; a sister, Margie Brenner, of Montpelier; five grandchildren, Jacob, Katie and Amy Kersey and Brandon and Torie Miller; three stepgrandchildren, Adam and Michael Thompson and Sarah Snyder; three stepgreat-grandchildren, Anias and Addyson Thompson and Aubrey Snyder; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; two sisters-in-law; and two brothers-in-law.

He was preceded in death by two brothers, Orville and Joseph; and a sister, Dorothy Bergfeld.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Caspar Catholic Church, Wauseon.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday and one hour prior to services Monday at the church, where a Scripture service will be held at 2:30 on Sunday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, St. Caspar Catholic Church, Fulton Manor Activity Department or the charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.GrisierFH.com.

Arrangements are by Edgar-Grisier Funeral Home in Wauseon. 

5-3-2012

Erik J. Warnimont

Erik James Warnimont, 45 of Cloverdale, died at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 3, 2012 at Putnam County Ambulatory Care Center, Glandorf.

He was born February 3, 1967 in Toledo the son of Donald and Donna Jean (Lehman) Warnimont. His father is deceased His mother survives in Ottoville. He had been married to Michelle Kahle.

Also surviving are two sons: Jacob Warnimont and Blaine Warnimont both of Kalida; a sister: Amy (Doug) Cross of Delphos; nephews and nieces: Dustin Cox, Brittany Lynn Cross, Cody Warnimont and Tiffany (Zane) Slusher. He was proceeded in death also by his grandparents: Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Warnimont of Leipsic and Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lehman of Ottoville.

Erik worked for Vorst Paving Inc. of Cloverdale. He enjoyed fishing and hunting.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m., Monday, May 7, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township (on the corner of St. Rts. 224 and 634)

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

Condolences may be expressed to: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

5-13-2012

Marilyn Berres

            Marilyn Berres, 83, died at 4:48 a.m. May 13, 2012, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

            She was born May 15, 1928, to Gilbert and Regina Grothouse Eickholt, who preceded her in death. On Aug. 12, 1950, she married F. George Berres, who survives in Delphos.

Mrs. Berres was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Changing Times Mothers Club and Catholic Daughters of the Americas. She loved tending her flowers, traveling, dancing and shopping with her daughters. She enjoyed eating out and playing cards with her friends. She treasured the time she spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, but the greatest love of her life was George, her husband of 62 years.

Survivors also include two sons, Robert (Margie) Berres, of Cincinnati, and Gary (Brenda) Berres, of Delphos; four daughters, Marcia (Daniel) German and Carol (Tom) Schulte, both of Delphos, Gloria (Nel) Schroeder, of Ottawa, and Darlene (Larry) Geise, of Hilliard; 14 grandchildren, Jackie Harvey, Kristen Berres, Dana Babani, Dave German, Julie DuCheney, Angie Boaz, Amy Hyitt, Alissa Swenar, Nick Schulte, Troy Schroeder, Todd Schroeder, Tyler Geise, Luke Geise and Drew Geise; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Mark German and Wesley Schroeder; a sister, Ruth Horst-man; and a brother, Leonard Eickholt.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. The Rev. Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where a parish wake will begin at 7:30 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Delphos St. John’s School or Putnam County Council on Aging.

5-14-2012

Norman A. Buettner

Norman A. Buettner, 73, of Ottoville died at 7:09 p.m. Monday, May 14, 2012 at Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center. He was born March 12, 1939 in Mt. Blanchard to the late Neil (C.T.) and Esther (Gengler) Buettner. On October 8, 1960, he married Stella Hilvers and she survives in Ottoville.

Also surviving are 3 sons: Kevin (Karen) Buettner of Ottoville, Jeff (Kathy) Buettner of Delphos, and Brian (Debbie) Buettner of Sandusky; 5 grandchildren: Neil, Eric, Nadine, Collin and Monica Buettner. He was also preceded in death by a daughter: Diane Buettner and a sister: Janet Landwehr.

Norman was retired from Ford Motor Company, Lima. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and it’s Holy Name Society. He was also a member of Delphos Eagles.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 18, 2012, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township, corner of St. Rts. 224 and 634, where there will be scripture service at 2 p.m. Memorials may be made to Van Wert Inpatient Hospice or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Condolences can be expressed to: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

5-25-2012

Tim L. Schneeg         

           Tim L. Schneeg, 48, of Ottawa, formerly of Ottoville, died at 2:50 p.m. May 25, 2012, at Bridge Hospice Care Center, Findlay.

He was born Dec. 3, 1963, in Lima to Oscar and Helen Brenner Schneeg, who preceded him in death.

Mr. Schneeg worked at Brookhill Center Industries, Ottawa. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ottoville. He participated in Special Olympics and enjoyed music.

Survivors include two brothers, John (Sandy) Schneeg, of Buckeye, Ariz., and Mike (Mary Beth) Schneeg, of Glandorf; four nieces, Katelyn, Lauren, Lindsey and Kristy Schneeg; and a nephew, Matthew Schneeg.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.

Friends may call from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, corner of state Routes 224 and 634.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bridge Hospice or Special Olympics.

Condolences may be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.

His family would like to thank everyone at ResCare who has been involved in his care during the last 25 years. It has been truly appreciated.

6-1-2012

Geraldine T. Grubenhoff

            Geraldine T. Grubenhoff, 91, died at 9:08 a.m. June 1, 2012, at St. Rita's Medical Center.

She was born Jan. 21, 1921, in Delphos to Frank and Veronica Elwer Osting, who preceded her in death. She was married Sept. 1, 1943, to Edwin Grubenhoff, who preceded her in death.

Mrs. Grubenhoff was a homemaker while working for Bob's Grocery and the Kalida IGA. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Ladies Auxiliary, Altar Rosary and she also enjoyed swimming at the Van Wert “Y.” She enjoyed sewing, quilting (more than 60 quilts), gardening, canning. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

Survivors include two daughters, Janet (Al) Mescher, of Troy, and Mary Jean (Ron) Schweller, of Fort Jennings; three sisters, LaDonna (Leo) Schmelzer, of Delphos, Earlene (John) Williams, of Delphos, and Vera (Jim) Koester, of Delphos; four brothers, Moletus Osting, of Delphos, Alvin (Marilyn) Osting, of Troy, Norm (Karen) Osting, of Troy, and Roger Osting, of Cridersville; four grandchildren, Kevin Mescher, Diana (Scott) Myers, Jennifer (Bryan) Harris, and Julie (Doug) Kimmet; seven great-grandchildren, Jason and Megan Myers, Beckett and Isabella Harris, and Kaitlyn, Lauren and Madison Kimmet.

She was preceded in death by five brothers, Wilfred, Eugene, Urban, Ed and Earl; and a sister, Marie.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today and 9 to 10 a.m. Monday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of donor's choice.

6-5-2012

William L. Eickholt

William L. (Bill) Eickholt, 52, of rural Geary County, Kan., and formerly of Ottoville, was lifted into heaven from his home on Tuesday surrounded by many members of his family following his brave, 14-month battle with Glioblastoma brain cancer.

He was born on May 4, 1960, in Lima to Jerome and Anna Marie (Turnwald) Eickholt, who preceded him in death.

On Nov. 5, 1994, he married Lisa Jean Teetzen at the First Presbyterian Church in Junction City, Kan. She survives.

Survivors also include nine brothers and sisters, Tom (Mary) Eickholt of Columbus Grove, Jane (Bill) Thomas of Lima, Jerry (Jann) Eickholt, Dan (Marcia) Eickholt, Frank (Judy) Eickholt of Ottoville, Mary Ann (Dale) Good of Fort Jennings, Ray (Carol) Eickholt of Van Wert, Kathy (Ed) Wehri of Delphos and Don (Marie-Anne) Eickholt of Junction City, Kan; 23 nieces and nephews and 19 great-nieces and nephews; and his goddaughter, Allison Metzger of Edmond, Okla.

He was also preceded in death by brothers Robert Eickholt and Joseph Eickholt; and great-nephew, Jack Eickholt.

Mr. Eickholt grew up on a farm near Ottoville, where he graduated from high school in 1978. He was a talented carpenter and spent many years in the construction of new homes, remodeling and maintenance fields. Most recently he was employed for 16 years with the US Army Corps of Engineers, Milford Lake Project as a carpenter where he recently earned the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service. To Bill, anything that was worth doing was worth giving 100 percent and doing it right. He had mental and physical endurance which, coupled with an exceptionally strong work ethic, served him especially well both in his life work and his battle against brain cancer.

Eickholt had great pride in our country, his family and his work. He was dedicated to his wife, Lisa. He attended St. Xavier’s Catholic Church, Junction City, and was a former board member of the Geary County Farm Bureau and a former volunteer firefighter. In addition to his full-time job, he enjoyed helping his brother on his farm, working various carpentry side-jobs, working in his woodworking shop at home, and weekend trips with his wife.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at the First Presbyterian Church, Junction City, Pastor Matthew Glasgow and Fr. Al Brungardt officiating. Inurnment will be in the Lyona Cemetery, rural Junction City.

A vigil will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at Penwell-Gabel Johnson Chapel, 203 N. Washington St., with the family receiving visitors from 6-8 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church, 113 W. 5th St., Junction City, Kansas 66441, St. Xavier Catholic Church, P.O. Box 399, Junction City, KS 66441 or the National Brain Tumor Society For Research, 124 Watertown Street, Suite 2D, Watertown, MA 02472.

Online message can be left for the family at PenwellGabelJunctionCity.com

6-6-2012

Dr. John J. Ockuly

           OCKULY John J. "Jack" M.D. Dr. John J. "Jack" Ockuly, age 92, passed away June 6, 2012, at Ebeid Hospice in Sylvania. Jack was born March 27, 1920, in Ottoville, OH and was the youngest son of Dr. John F. and Mary Ockuly.

He graduated from St. Johns High School in Delphos, OH in 1938. Jack did his undergraduate work at St. Louis University and received his DDS degree in 1946. Upon graduating, he completed an oral surgery residency at what was then Cincinnati General Hospital where he met his wife of 64 years, Jane Walbright. They were married in August, 1947. He then pursued a medical degree, graduating with his M.D. from the University of Louisville in 1951. After completing a rotating internship at the University of Iowa, he entered the U.S. Air Force and served 2 years at Elmendorf AFB in Alaska. Jack returned to University of Iowa and completed his residency in Urology. In 1957 he joined the urology practice of his brothers, Eugene and Edward, and retired in 1985. Jack was on the staff at St. Vincent Medical Center and The Toledo Hospital. He belonged to the Toledo Academy of Medicine, Phi Chi Medical Fraternity, Ohio State Medical Association, and Northwest Ohio Urology Association. He was a member of Gesu Church, the Toledo Zoo, the Toledo Art Museum, a lifetime member of Sylvania Country Club, and an honorary member of the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels. Jack will be greatly missed by his wife, Jane; daughters, Sharon Ockuly-Friedrich (John) of Powell, OH, and Dr. Joan Ockuly (Jill Sass) of Toledo; son, James Ockuly of Toledo; special nephew, David Ockuly of Defiance, and "special daughters", Kathy Williams and Julie Hegeler of New York, NY. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers, Drs. Eugene, Orville, and Edward Ockuly. Visitation will be Friday, June 8, 2012, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 Sylvania Ave. (west of Corey Rd.). A Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Saturday at Gesu Catholic Church, 2049 Parkside Blvd. Toledo, OH. Interment will follow at Toledo Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Toledo Area Humane Society, 1920 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee, OH 43537 or the University of Louisville Medical School Foundation (Office of University Advancement 215 Central Ave. Suite 300 Louisville, KY 40208). Online condolences may be shared at walkerfuneralhomes.com

6-8-2012

Lucille Ann Gremaux

            Lucille Ann Gremaux, 82, of New Haven, Ind., formerly of Ottoville, died June 8, 2012, at her residence with her family at her side. She was born in Ottoville to Frank and Rose Allemeier, who preceded her in death. Her husband of almost 62 years, Manford Gremaux, survives.

Mrs. Gremaux was a loving mother and wife. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, New Haven, Ind. She was a member of Fraternal Order of Moose Lodge 1480.

Survivors also include two sons, Terry (Gayla) Gremaux and Todd (Beth) Gremaux, both of New Haven, Ind.; a sister, Alice Kahle, of Kalida; a sister-in-law, Judy Allemeier, of Delphos; four grandchildren, Terri Lee, Joshua, Brandon and Brian Gremaux; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by three brothers, Bob, Fred and Leroy Allemeier.

Services will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at E. Harper & Son Funeral Home, New Haven, Ind. The Rev. James Seculoff will officiate. Burial will be in Highland Park Cemetery, Fort Wayne, Ind.

Friends may call from 9 a.m. until time of services Monday at the funeral home, where a rosary service will be held at 10:30 a.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Masses.

Condolences may be expressed at www.harperfuneralhome.com.

Special thanks to Parkview Home & Hospice and her wonderful caring friends and neighbors.

6-15-2012

Ruth P. Menke

Ruth P. Menke, 80, of Fort Jennings, died at 11:05 a.m. Friday, June 15, 2012 at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.

She was born July 21, 1931 in Ottoville to the late Charles D. and Clara (Pittner) Sawmiller. On December 1, 1951, she married Ralph P. Menke and he died August 4, 2011.

Surviving are 5 children: Shirley Odenweller of Seward, Alaska, Ronald (Peggy) Menke of Delphos, David (Lisa) Menke of Van Wert, Sharma (John) Bidlack of Fort Jennings and Dennis “Zeke” (Tina) Menke of Fort Jennings; 17 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and 3 sisters: Theresa Heiing of Ottawa, Dorothy Metcalf of Coldwater, MI and Clara (Ralph) Honigfort of Kalida. She was preceded in death also by 5 sisters: Mary Sawmiller, Alice Beckman, Rose Mary Seiment, Helen Murphy, Gertrude Michael and 3 brothers: Cyril Sawmiller, Charles P. Sawmiller, Harold Sawmiller.

Ruth owned Ruth’s Shoe service in Fort Jennings with her husband. She retired from Putnam Acres Care Center in Ottawa and had worked at Paradise Oaks Nursing Home in Cloverdale. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings. She enjoyed crocheting, puzzles and bird watching but most of all Ruth loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and friends.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, June 18, 2012 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings with Fr. Mark Hoying officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 17, 2012 at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township (on the corner of Rts. 224 and 634) and one hour prior to Mass Monday at the church. There will be a scripture service Sunday evening at 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Putnam County Hospice or St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com

6-19-2012

JoAnn Carder

JoAnn Carder, 74, died at 11:22 p.m. June 19, 2012, at St. Rita's Medical Center.

She was born Feb. 7, 1938, in Monterey Township, Putnam County, to Bruno and Genevieve Ricker Miller, who preceded her in death. On Aug. 25, 1956, she married Richard H. Carder, who survives in Ottoville.

Mrs. Carder retired as a housekeeper and cook from Immaculate Conception Parish and as a meat cutter from The Village Market, both in Ottoville. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. She enjoyed reading, swimming, cooking, baking, gardening and playing cards. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors also include four children, Ricky (Deb) Carder, of Ottawa, Debra (Jim) Verhoff, of Columbus Grove, Kathy McKee, of Kent, and John Carder, of Ottoville; 11 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Roger (Marianne) Miller, of Ottoville, and Stanley (Darlene) Miller, of Ottawa.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.

6-27-2012

Gregory A. Horstman

Gregory A. Horstman, 31, of Ottoville died at 3:10 p.m. Wednesday, June 27, 2012 at Van Wert Inpatient Hospice surrounded by his wife, kids, family and friends. Despite a courageous 3-year battle with cancer, he leaves us with memories of his heartwarming smile, determination and willingness to always “Make it Enough.”

Greg was born January 7, 1981 in Lima to Lawrence and Judy (Knippen) Horstman and they survive in Cloverdale. On September 17, 2004 he married Sarah Kunkleman who survives in Ottoville.

Also surviving are his 5 children: Carter, Landon, Brynn, Ty, and Mya, all at home; 2 brothers: Kevin (Beth) Horstman of Ottoville and Ryan (Karen) Horstman of Cloverdale; a sister: Marla (Rick) Dienstberger of Delphos; father-in-law: Gregg (Sandi) Kunkleman of Lima; mother-in-law: Nancy Kunkleman of Lima; and several nieces, nephews, in-laws, and god-children.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Ben and Donelda Horstman and William and Anna Knippen.

Greg was a construction worker for Krietemeyer Concrete, Fort Jennings. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and the Ottoville Knights of Columbus. He was a 1999 graduate of Ottoville High School where he played basketball, ran track, cross-country and was a member of school record holding 4 x 800 relay team. He was a graduate of Northwestern Business College where he received his accounting degree. Greg enjoyed being out in the fields farming, coaching T-Ball, Upwards Basketball, and YMCA Youth Soccer. He was a runner and completed the Detroit and Columbus Marathons. He was a fan of the Reds, Bengals and Ohio State Buckeyes. Greg was a family man who always had fun with his children and was a very loving husband, dad, son, brother and uncle.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 2, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 8 p.m. on Sunday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township (at the corner of St. Rts. 224 & 634). There will be a Knights of Columbus service 1:30 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Greg’s Children’s Education Fund c/o Ottoville Bank or to the Ottoville Athletic Boosters.

Condolences can be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

6-28-2012

Lucinda A. Horstman

Lucinda A. Horstman, 96, of Cloverdale, died at 8:12 p.m. Thursday, June 28, 2012 at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima.

She was born October 29, 1915 in Ottoville to the late Joseph and Gertrude (Unverferth) Dickman. On August 12, 1939, she married Aloysius A. Horstman and he died January 20, 1997.

She is survived by a daughter: Kathryn Copeland of Lima, 2 grandchildren: William Hale and Teresa (Eric) Homier; 3 sisters-in-law: Eulalia Gerschutz of Ottawa, Marietta Dickman and Ercel Dickman both of Alma, MI and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son: Charles Horstman; 4 sisters: Donelda Horstman, Ladonna Bendele, Juliann Dickman, Louella Maenle and 2 brothers: Edwin Cickman and Urban Dickman.

Lucinda was a cook at Paradise Oaks Nursing Home in Cloverdale and had worked at the Ford Plant in Detroit. She was a member of St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale and its Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia. She was also a former choir member and an altar sacristan.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 3, 2012 at St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale with Fr. Roger Bonifas officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at LOVE-FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township (at the corner of St. Rts. 224 & 634).

Memorials may be made to St. Barbara Cemetery or to a charity of the donor's choice.

Condolences can be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

6-28-2012

Richard L. Ricker

            Richard Louis Ricker, 83, of Clyde, died in his home on Thursday, June 28, 2012.

Mr. Ricker was born in Ottoville, Ohio on February 24, 1929, to the now deceased Louis B. and Anna (Kemper) Ricker. He graduated from Ottoville High School in 1947. He served our country in the Army following WW II.

Rich retired from Whirlpool Corp. in 1984 after 34 years of service. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Clyde, Clyde Eagles, a charter member of the former Clyde JC’s where he served as treasurer and secretary, formerly served on the board of directors at Clyde-Findlay Credit Union and Whirlpool Management Club.

His survivors include his wife, Jeanette (Wott) Liebold Ricker, whom he married on November 29, 2000; four children; Carolyn (Larry) Miller, Susan (Tom) McClanahan all of Columbus, Steve (Amy) Ricker, Toledo, Kenneth (Patricia) Ricker, Perrysburg, Ohio; stepchildren, Dwayne (Renae’) Corbin, Fairborn, Ohio, Deb (Ken) Hossler, Bellevue, Robert (Tricia) Liebold, Clyde, Eric (Michelle) Liebold, Green Springs, and Trent Liebold, Clyde. Also surviving is the mother of his children, the former Patricia Rogers, whom he married on July 16, 1949; a sister, Mary Grothouse, Delphos, Ohio, and brother, Harold Ricker, Tallahassee, Fla.; 18 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his second wife, Marjorie Corbin Ricker, whom he married on October 23, 1987, and she preceded him on July 20, 1997; siblings, Emma Fostor, Isadore Ricker, Alfred Ricker, Gilbert Ricker, Rita Steinbrenner, Marcus Ricker and Rose Mary Ricker.

Visitation will be 3-7 p.m. Sunday, July 1, at the Mitchell-Auxter Funeral Home, 218 S. Main St., Clyde.

His funeral mass will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 2, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Clyde. Military graveside services will be provided by the Clyde VFW and American Legion.

Memorials may be given to St. Mary's Catholic Church or Hospice of Memorial Hospital.

Online condolences may be sent at auxterfuneralhomes.com.

6-29-2012

Rosemary C. Wannemacher

Rosemary C. "Babe" Wannemacher, 84, of Otoville died at 11:50 a.m. Friday, June 29, 2012 at The Meadows of Kalida.

She was born October 13, 1927 in Ottoville to the late Ben and Anna (Grote) Horstman. On July 15, 1950, she married Jack Wannemacher and he died November 5, 1996.

She is survived by 5 children: Steve Wannemacher of Ottoville, Jerry Wannemacher of Ottoville, Patti (William) Horstman of Kalida, Carol Siefker of Ottoville and Dave Wannemacher of Wilshire; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter: Betty Kehres; a grandson; Brandon Horstman; a sister: Mary Ann Bullinger and 5 brothers: Cletus, Cyril, Lee, Ralph and Richard Horstman.

Babe retired as a Nurses Assistant at Roselawn Nursing Home in Spencerville after 32 years. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville; Ottoville VFW Auxilary #3740 and Delphos F.O.E. Auxilary #471. She was an avid bingo and card player and enjoyed sending time with her grandchildren.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 3, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.

Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township (on the corner of Rts. 224 & 634).

Memorials may be made to Immaculate Conception Building fund.
Condolences may be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

7-1-2012
Rita C. Kruskamp
            KRUSKAMP, Rita C. age 96 of Dayton, passed away Sunday, July 1, 2012 at her residence with her family by her side.
            Rita was born on June 24, 1916 in Ottoville, Ohio to the late Paul J. and Louise T. Mittlekamp Lehmkuhl. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 55 years in 1994, William J. Kruskamp and her sisters, Henrietta Lehmkuhl, Elvira Rentz, and Marie Grothaus.
            She is survived by her loving daughters, Judy (Pat) Ross of Miami, Florida, Linda Blake of Miami Township, Tina Kruskamp of Salt Lake City, Utah, and Nina (Nick) Huart of Kettering; ten grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren.
            Rita was a graduate of St. Rita's School of Nursing, a member of St. Henry Parish, former member of Dayton Catholic Women's Club. Rita also volunteered with St. Vincent DePaul and the American Red Cross.
            Family will receive relatives and friends on Friday July 6, 2012 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at TOBIAS FUNERAL HOME - FAR HILLS CHAPEL, 5471 Far Hills Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45429.
            Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 am Saturday, July 7, 2012 at St. Henry Catholic Church, 6666 Springboro Pike, Dayton, Ohio 45449. Interment Calvary Cemetery. The family wishes to thank Maida McCoy and Hospice of Dayton for their friendship and service.
            Memorial contributions may be made to The Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton, Ohio 45420 or St. Vincent DePaul, St. Henry Parish Chapter.

7-14-2012
Danika M. Dietering

Danika M. Dietering, 7 months, of Ottoville, died 3:04 a.m. Saturday, July 14, 2012 at her residence. She was born November 16, 2011 in Lima to Scott and Danielle (Brandt) Dietering of Ottoville.

She is also survived by a brother: Michael Dietering at home; paternal grandparents: Larry A. and Diane Dietering of Delphos; maternal grandparents: Debra and Gary Gottschalk of Wilshire and David and Marti Cosaboom of Cincinnati.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 18, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, with Fr. John Stites officiating.

Visitation will be Monday and Tuesday from 2 to 8 p.m. both days at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township, corner of St. Rt. 224 and 634.

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

Condolences may be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

7-31-2012

Orville W. Carder

Orville W. “Bud” Carder, 89, died at 8:20 p.m. July 31, 2012, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

He was born June 6, 1923, in Ottoville to Frank and Elsie Blockburger Carder, who preceded him in death. His wife of 67 years, Clara H. Topp Carder, died Jan. 28, 2012.

Mr. Carder retired from Central Soya after 37 years, then worked at Ace Hardware, Delphos. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. He was a 1941 graduate of Ottoville High School, Ottoville. He was an Army veteran. He was a loving and dedicated husband, father and grandfather, who was known to his great-grandchildren as “Grandpa-Great.” He was a very devoted father to his three sons. He coached their Little League and pony league baseball teams and was instrumental in initiating and constructing the Little League baseball facility at the Delphos Stadium Park. He was a longtime season-ticket holder for the Delphos St. John’s basketball program and, in his later years, enjoyed listening to the local area basketball teams on the radio. He was also a fan of the Cincinnati Reds. Throughout his life he had several hobbies including woodworking, stained glass, painting and crocheting. He gave most of his creations way to family and friends, with great pleasure and a generous heart. One of his proudest moments was last year when he gave crocheted hats to the Delphos St. John’s, Jefferson and Ottoville girls basketball teams and cheerleaders in the school colors. He also enjoyed bingo at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and VanCrest Healthcare Center.

Survivors include three sons, Jim (Lois) Carder, of Lima, and Jerry (Diana) Carder and Kenny (Lisa Stinson) Carder, both of North Carolina; four sisters, Lois Osting, of Delphos, Jeanette (Donnie) Mesker and Mary Lou (Rollin) Bullinger, of Oakwood, and Millie Bullinger, of Fort Jennings; a brother, Rich Carder, of Ottoville; five grandchildren, Kara (Tom) Bussard, Matt (Ann) Carder, Ali (Jeremy) Fritz, Ryan Carder and Emma Carder; seven great-grandchildren, Joshua Carder, Carter and Caden Fritz, Tommy and Tyler Bussard and Jason and Jesse Carder; a granddaughter-in-law, Jodi Carder; and two sisters-in-law, Lucy Carder and Viola Topp.

He was preceded in death by a grandson, Todd Carder; two brothers, Don and Delbert Carder; two sisters, Myrtle Brotherwood and Colleen Carder.

A memorial Mass will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Charles Obinwa will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery with military rites by the Delphos Veterans Council.

Friends may call from 3 to 8 p.m. Friday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m., and one hour prior to services Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Rita’s Hospice, the Delphos Senior Citizens Center or the Delphos St. John’s Athletic Association.

The family would like to offer a special thanks to St. Rita’s Hospice and the staff of 5K for their compassionate care. They would also like to express their gratitude and thanks to the staff at VanCrest Healthcare Center for the love and care given to him for the last two years after making VanCrest his home.

7-17-2012

Arnold B. Liebrecht

Arnold B. Liebrecht, 78, died at 5:45 a.m. July 17, 2012, at VanCrest Healthcare Center, Delphos.

He was born Dec. 17, 1933, in Ottoville to Arnold and Mary Miller Liebrecht, who preceded her in death. He married Agnes Falke, who died Jan. 3, 2003. On Nov. 26, 2004, he married Ruth Hemker Baldauf, who survives in Delphos.

Mr. Liebrecht retired as a high-low driver from Ford Motor Co. Lima Engine Plant, after 30 years. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. He was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, Delphos. He enjoyed golfing and woodworking.

Survivors also include three sons, David (Elaine) Liebrecht, of Springboro, Don (Barb) Liebrecht, of West Dundee, Ill., and John (Sharon) Liebrecht, of Pataskala; five stepchildren, Michael (Lori) Baldauf, of Delphos, Ronald Baldauf, of Kalida, David Baldauf and Virginia (Larry) Cress, both of Lima, and Lisa (Don) Finn, of Toledo; five grandchildren, Drew Liebrecht, Alex Liebrecht, Brian Liebrecht, Jessica (Justin) McClintock and Ryan (Lara) Verbecken; and four great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 1:30 p.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will be held at 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Foundation. 

8-3-2012         

Mary Agnes Miller

            Mary Agnes Miller, age 95, of Kenton, Ohio passed away Friday August 3, 2012 at 2:30 p.m. at the Kenton Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

She was born January 21, 1917 in Ottoville, OH the daughter of Joseph H. and Dora (Vincke) Van Oss. She married Merrick L. Benson on August 7, 1938 and he passed away on December 10, 1944. She then married C. Wilbur Miller on August 31, 1963 and he survives in Kenton.

She is survived by three sons, Joseph W. (Paula) Benson of Las Vegas, NV, James (Carol) Benson of Maumee, OH, and Joseph L. (Kathy) Benson of Marion, OH; nine grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren; a sister, Dorothy Hovest of Glandorf, OH; two sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

She is preceded in death by a son, Gerald "Jerry" Benson; brothers, Virgil J., Edmund G., Joseph F., and John J. Van Oss; sisters, Alberta M. French, Mary Elizabeth Leist, and Carmalita Van Oss.

During her lifetime she had worked at B.F. Goodrich and was a Homemaker. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Kenton. She went to Convent School for the first year of high school and worked a hospital in Mishawaka during the summer. She kept house for her dad and younger brothers and sisters and took care of her mother after she became ill. She had foster children, was a CCD teacher, Lector and Eucharistic Minister, a liaison between teacher and Council President of St. Joseph 's Womens Guild, D.C.C.W. President of Vicariate and a D.C.C.W. board member. She was St. Joseph 's Parish representative to Vicariate meetings. She was a member of the Daughters of Isabella. She was a past President and Treasurer of the Hardin County Right to Life. She had a religious shop in her home at Marion, Ohio. She and her husband Wilbur hosted several Foreign Exchange Students from Germany, Brazil , Columbia, and Norway. She was a volunteer at Hardin Memorial Hospital for 32 years. She and her husband are members of the Hardin County Armory Restoration.

The family wants to thank Kenton Nursing and Rehabilitation for all their love and caring and comfort for Agnes.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Thursday, August 9, 2012 at the Immaculate Conception Church in Kenton with Father Anthony Dinovo officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 8, 2012 at the Schindewolf Stevens Stout Funeral Home in Kenton from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. A Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the St. Mary's Cemetery, Marion, Ohio at 2:00 p.m. Thursday August 8, 2012. Condolences can be sent to the family at schindewolfstoutfuneralhome.com.

Memorials may be made to the Donors Choice.

8-13-2012

Ruth Mary Ratterman

            RATTERMAN, RUTH MARY (MILLER), 91, born to Jennie (Gast) and Alex E. Miller in Ottoville, Ohio, went to be with her Lord on August 13, 2012 from Nazareth Home, where she loved living.

She was a fulfilled and beautiful woman whose deep and everlasting love for God, her husband and family was the strength behind her beautiful smile. She always said, "There is nothing better than family." Ruth loved to learn. She was a graduate of College of Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati, and an involved member of Queens Daughters, Bellarmine Women's Auxiliary, the Cursillo movement in Louisville, Greentree Homemakers Club, bible study groups, Jewish Catholic Dialogue, and St. Leonard Catholic Church, where she was a founding member of the St. Leonard Book Club.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 68 years, Emmett A. Ratterman in May of 2011; her sister, Jane Koty and brothers, John and Alex "Bud" Miller.

Those left to cherish her memory, and life, are her five children, Emmett A. "Tony" Ratterman, Jr., Jennifer A. D'Arenzio (Denny), James A. "Jim" Ratterman (Pam), Margaret M. "Peggy" Lemberg (Steve) and Mark B. Ratterman (ReAnn); 17 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren with one on the way; her sister and soul mate, Irene Miller; sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Miller and Rose Marie Ratterman; brothers-in-law, Cletus and Clarence Ratterman; and many nieces and nephews.

Her funeral Mass will be celebrated 10 a.m., Saturday, August 18, 2012 at St. Leonard Catholic Church, 440 Zorn Ave., with burial to follow in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be 2 -8 p.m. Friday at Ratterman & Sons Funeral Home; 3800 Bardstown Road. Vigil service: 5 p.m. Friday.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to either Nazareth Home or Hosparus of Louisville, each who gave her exceptional care.

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

9-4-2012

Rita M. Adams

            Rita M. Adams, 93, died at 11:05 a.m. Sept. 4, 2012, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

She was born Dec. 29, 1918, in Putnam County to Lewis and Katherine Fischbach Hoersten, who preceded her in death. On Dec. 29, 1938, she married Floyd Adams, who died Feb. 10, 1968.

Mrs. Adams was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, knitting, cooking and watching her grandchildren’s activities. She loved traveling.

Survivors include two daughters, Ruth Adams and Rhonda (Kevin) Longstreth, both of Wetzel; two sisters, Jeanette (Fred) Black and Elizabeth “Betty” Daeger; three brothers, John Hoersten, Roger (Julie) Hoersten and Harold Hoersten; and nine grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two daughters, Shirley A. Beard and Ruth Adams; a sister, Mary Theresa “Punkin” Bollinger; and three brothers, Isadore, Richard and Edwin Hoersten.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Chris Bohnsack will officiate. Burial will be in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill.

           Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. today at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, Delphos.

9-15-2012
Thomas J. Deitering
           Thomas Joseph “Tom” Deitering, 76, died at 12:23 p.m. Sept. 15, 2012, at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.
            He was born Feb. 8, 1936, in Ottoville to Leo Joseph and Rose Murray Deitering, who preceded him in death. On July 11, 1959, he married Mary Ann Kaple, who survives in Leipsic.
            Mr. Deitering had worked at Sylvania Electric; following in 1960, he started Deitering Landscaping. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving during peacetime. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, New Cleveland. He was on the Rural Life Board. He was a member of the Holy Aid Society, a 4th Degree Knights of Columbus, Father Ronald R. Warnimont Assembly #3268, Ottawa Knight of Columbus, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Leipsic and the Amvets. His years of dreaming and hard work came to fruition in 2010 when he helped form WJTA, Holy Family Catholic Radio, 88.9 FM.
             Survivors also include six children, Cynthia Deitering and Kenneth (Julie) Deitering, both of Ottawa, Mark (Sabine), of Elida, Kathleen (Kevin) Miller, of Bowling Green, Ronald (Lynn) Deitering, of McComb, and Kevin (Rebekah) Deitering, of Archidona, Ecuador; 16 granddaughters, Nicole Marie Clark, Evelyn Marie Deitering, Leah Jessica Miller, Lillian Mae Deitering, Elizabeth Deitering, Emma Margaret Deitering, Chloe Kathleen Clark, Alyssa Rae Deitering, Anna Elizabeth Deitering, Tessa Rose Deitering, Eva Ann Deitering, Grace Catherine Deitering, Olivia Ann Deitering, Faith Ann Clark, Josephine Ann Deitering, and Haley Marie Deitering; 10 grandsons, William George Deitering, Joseph Henry Deitering, Ezra James Deitering, Luke Thomas Miller, Seth Thomas Deitering, Samuel Joseph Deitering, Thomas Otmar Deitering, Alexander Loren Deitering, Jakie Thomas Deitering and Kevin Stensgaard; a stepgrandson, Kenny Miller; a great-granddaughter, Seraphin Stensgaard; three brothers, Elmer (Sandi) Deitering, of Piqua, John (Sherry) Deitering, of Sidney, and Daniel Deitering, of Maumee; a sister, Mary Lee Laudick, of Upper Sandusky; three sisters-in-law, Jean Deitering and Margie Deitering, both of Dayton, and Shirley Deitering, of Baltimore.
              He was preceded in death by four brothers, Roger, Herman, William and Leo Deitering Jr.; a brother-in-law, Jerry Laudick; and a sister-in-law, Janice Deitering.
              A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Wednesday at Holy Family Catholic Church, New Cleveland. The Rev. Stephen Schroeder will officiate. Burial will follow in Holy Family Cemetery, with military rites by the American Legion, Ottawa.
               Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday and 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where there will be a Scripture service at 2 p.m. and a Knights of Columbus Rosary Service at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.
               Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Family Catholic Radio.
               Condolences may be expressed at http://lovefuneralhome.com.

9-23-2012

Ann A. Bonifas

Ann A. Bonifas, 92, of Ottoville, died at 8:44 a.m. Sunday, September 23, 2012 at Putnam County Ambulatory Care Center, Glandorf.

She was born November 14, 1919 in Monterey Township, Putnam County to the late Andrew and Rosa (Weber) Hoehn. On August 30, 1950, she married Jerome Bonifas and he died September 15, 1980.

Surviving are 9 children: Jane (David) Kahle of Kalida, Paul (Joyce) Bonifas of Kalida, Martha (James) Miller of Landeck, Thomas (Judith) Bonifas of Kalida, Patricia (Virgil) Schroeder of Glandorf, Robert Bonifas of Ottoville, Doris (Joseph) Bockey of Delphos, Sharon (Carl) Mesker of Spring Lake, MI, and Donald (Kathleen) Bonifas of Fort Jennings; 27 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; 1 brother: Walter (Toni) Hoehn of Lima; 4 brothers-in-law: Arthur (Alice) Bonifas of Delphos and Richard (Jane) Bonifas of Landeck, Albert (Eileen) Bonifas, Jr. of Landeck, John (Lori) Bonifas of Alpena MI; a sister-in-law: Dorothy (Elmer) Hoffman of Delphos.

She was preceded in death also by a great-granddaughter: Alexis Mack; 2 brothers: John (Alberta) Hoehn, Lawrence Hoehn; a sister: Hilda (Wilbert) Menker; 3 sisters-in-law: Agnes Hoehn, Rosie Hoehn, Betty Hoehn and her father-in-law and mother-in-law: Albert Sr. and Mary Catherine Bonifas.

Ann retired from Schnipke Engraving in Ottoville and was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a 1937 graduate of Ottoville High School and volunteered at Paradise Oaks and Meadows of Kalida Nursing Homes. Ann was strong in her faith, devoted to God and taught her family to love one another. She was a wonderful role model and proud of her large family. She enjoyed working on the family farm, having her family together and playing cards and bingo. Her sharp memory was with her to the end. She was truly loved and will be missed by all those she touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm Monday and 2 to 8 pm Tuesday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township (on the corner of St. Rt. 224 & 634).

Memorials may be made to Immaculate Conception Church Repair or St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com

10-8-2012

Helen L. Koester

Helen L. Koester, 80, died at 2:24 a.m. Oct. 08, 2012, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

She was born March 5, 1932, in Cloverdale to the late Michael and Pauline Pittner Burgei. On June 14, 1952, she married Gerald B. “Dick” Koester. He died May 20, 1975.

Surviving are two children, Larry (Belinda) Koester, of Sylvania, and Kay (Dave) Beattie, of Hilliard; five grandchildren, Abigail, Nikolaus and William Koester, and Christine and Allison Beattie; four sisters, Agnes (Frank) King, of Napoleon, Mildred (Bill) Pollick, of Dublin, Miriam (Norm) Kamann, of Oregon, and Dorothy (Paul) Kahle, of Kalida; and four sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Burgei, of Cloverdale, Dorothy Koester, of Lima, Marita Koester, of Burnsville, Minn., and Irene (Don) Friemoth, of Van Wert.

She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Grace Katherine Koester; three sisters, Annette (Lee) Kromer, Margaret (Pat) Maas, Louise Burgei; three brothers, Hilary (Marie) Burgei, Paul (Rita) Burgei and Lawrence Burgei; and in-laws, Victor (Mary Ann) Koester, Virgil Koester, Mildred Wannemacher, Al (Mary Jane) Koester, Jerome Koester, Eileen (Joe) Sanders, Clarence Koester and Roman Koester.

Helen retired after 34 years as clerk/treasurer of Ottoville schools. She also worked at Jack Howell Chevrolet, Ottawa. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Ladies Auxiliary, an American Red Cross Blood Drive volunteer for more than 45 years, Putnam County election volunteer and parade organizer for the Ottoville Park Carnival for many years.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, on the corner of Routes 224 and 634. There will be a Scripture service at 2 p.m. and VFW Auxiliary service at 7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorials may be made to Immaculate Conception Church or VFW Auxiliary Post 3740.

Condolences may be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.

10-13-2012

Alberta M. Cramer

Alberta M. Cramer, 86 of Findlay passed away at 9:05 PM Saturday, October 13, 2012 at Blanchard Valley Hospital.

She was born on June 23, 1926 in Putnam County to the late Leo Aloysius and Francis (Boecker) Miller. On February 15, 1947, she married Roger A. Schimmoeller,

He passed away February 11, 1966. Alberta later married Lorn W. Cramer on August

1, 1967, he passed away December 30, 2000.

Alberta is survived by her children: Virginia A. (Christopher) Hauser, Bradford, PA; Debra K. (Richard) Feller, Findlay, Jeffrey D. (Pamela) Schimmoeller, Findlay, John

L. (Bonnie) Schimmoeller, Rawson; Amy F. (Rodney) Barnhisel, Van Buren.  Stepchildren: Karl (Sandra) Cramer, Findlay; Linda K. (Dale) Schimmoeller, McComb.

            Alberta’s surviving siblings are: Donald Miller, Ottoville; Richard Miller, Ottoville; Erma Morman, Kalida; Betty Hermiller, Columbus Grove. Preceding her in death were siblings: Eugene Miller, Wilma Miller, and Magdalene Schimmoeller. Also surviving are 11 grandchildren and 11 step-grandchildren along with 2 great-grandchildren.

Alberta was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, volunteered

at the parish office and was a former member of the Bereavement Team. She also volunteered with the Twigs at Blanchard Valley Hospital. Alberta was a homemaker, partner in the family farming operation, and enjoyed gardening.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 from 2:00-8:00 PM at COLDREN-CRATES FUNERAL HOME. The Rosary will be recited at 3:00 PM. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 AM Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, Downtown with Monsignor Michael

Hohenbrink celebrant. Interment will follow at 12:00 PM (noon) Wednesday at St, Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Ft. Jennings.

Memorials may be given to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. Online

condolences can be sent via www.coldrencrates.com.

10-15-2012

Donald W. Kimmet

Donald W. Kimmet, 74, died at 7:10 a.m. Oct. 15, 2012, at his residence.

He was born April 22, 1938, in Landeck to William and Agnes Hickey Kimmet,

who preceded him in death. On May 13, 1961, he married Virginia Spicer, who survives in Ottoville.

Mr. Kimmet retired from General Motors Powertrain.  He was a Navy veteran. He was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740, Ottoville. He retired as a volunteer firefighter from the Ottoville Fire Department after more than 30 years. He

was active with the church.

Survivors also include two sons, Michael Kimmet, of Oakwood, and David (Audrey) Kimmet, of Ottoville; two daughters, Marsha (Phil) Epstein, of Ottoville, and Cheryl (Ed Walker) Kimmet, of Longmont, Colo.; two brothers, George (Jan) Kimmet, of Ottoville, and Dan (Barb) Kimmet, of Spencerville; and five grandchildren, Anthony Clementz and Brandon, Ryan, Laura and Adam Kimmet. He was preceded in death by a sister, Virginia Meyer.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 3 p.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception

Catholic Church, Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate.

Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville, with military rites by VFW

Post 3740.

Friends may call from 2 to 5 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a wake service will be held at 2 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

10-17-2012

George L. Ricker

George L. Ricker, 90, of Ottoville, died at 2:25 p.m. Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.

He was born February 20, 1922 in Ottoville to the late Joseph and Elnora (Miller) Ricker. On June 21, 1975, he married Patricia Hickey and she survives in Ottoville.

Also surviving are 2 sons: Shaun Ricker of Wapakoneta and Jeremy (Kelly) Ricker of Ottoville; 3 grandchildren: Jacob, Cody and Courtney Ricker; 3 sisters: Adeline Pohlman of Delphos, Margaret (James) Schimmoeller of Fort Jennings, Jeanette (Robert) Brickner of Delphos and 1 brother: Omer (Alice) Ricker of Fort Jennings. He was preceded in death also by 2 brothers: Arnold and Ambrose Ricker and a sister: Marceil Bellman.

George was a lifelong farmer who loved his work. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville; a social member of the Ottoville VFW and a member of the Putnam County Farm Bureau.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, October 20, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating.

Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.

Visitation will be from 2 to 8 Friday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township (on the corner of Rts. 224 & 634).

Memorials may be made to the Sisters of Notre Dame, Immaculate Conception Parish or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com

10-25-2012

Alice M. Maag

Alice M. Maag, 92, died at 9:20 a.m. Oct. 25, 2012, at VanCrest of Delphos.

She was born Oct. 30, 1919, in Ottoville to the late Sylvester and Regina Wurst Wannemacher. On Aug. 10, 1939, she married Cletus Maag, who died June 24, 1985.

             She is survived by 10 children, Ronald (Joyce) Maag, of Fort Jennings, Gary (Diane) Maag, of Kalida, Bill (Norma) Maag, of Fort Jennings, Judy (Karl) Fortman, of Kalida, Janice (Alan) Schroeder, of Fort Jennings, John Maag, of Lima, Randy (Rita) Maag, of Cloverdale, Rick (Laurie) Maag, of Fort Jennings, Tim (Janet) Maag, of Monroe, Mich., and Terry (Mary) Maag, of Fort Jennings; 33 grandchildren; 50 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-granddaughter.

She was preceded in death by four grandchildren, Steve Maag, Kelly Maag, Robert Maag and Rob Kortokrax; four brothers, Earl, Richard, Norval and Robert Wannemacher; and three sisters, Jean Leonard, Priscilla Wannemacher and Rita Eickholt.

Alice retired from GTE Sylvania, Ottawa. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings, and its Rosary Altar and Catholic Ladies of Columbia societies.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings. Father Joseph Weigman and Father Charles Obinwa will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, corner of state Routes 224 and 634, and one hour prior to the Mass on Saturday at the church. There will be a Scripture service at 2 p.m. and a rosary at 8 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

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

Condolences can be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.

11-8-2012

Gertrude R. Schmitz

Gertrude R. Schmitz, 82, died November 8, 2012, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.

She was born Jan. 8, 1930, in Ottoville to the late Theodore and Bernadine Hellman Beining. On May 5, 1951, she married Alvin Schmitz, who died June 1, 1989.

Gertrude is survived by a son, Thomas (Gretchen) Schmitz, of Glandorf; four daughters, Marilyn (Roger) Ellerbrock, of Glandorf, Eileen (Dennis) Vennekotter, of Continental, Diane (Douglas) Deitering, of Glandorf, and Nancy (Gary) Erhart, of Kalida; 16 grandchildren, Michelle (Joel) Rampe, Dana Ellerbrock, Jenna Ellerbrock, Rachel (Jeremy Marx) Schmitz, Josh Schmitz, Andrew Schmitz, Evan Barrett, Kyle (Jessica Brown) Vennekotter, Ryan (Cobin) Vennekotter, Cody Vennekotter, Heather Deitering, Ross Deitering, Benjamin Deitering, Emily Erhart, Matt Erhart and Lindsey Erhart; a brother, Ray Beining, of Delphos; and three sisters, Mary (Herb) Hempfling, of Delphos, Alice Arnzen, of Delphos, and Irene (Joe) Schroeder, of Ottawa.

Preceding her in death are a grandchild, Joseph Schmitz; two sisters, Mildred Beckman and Angela Kimmett; and a brother, Rudy Beining.

Gertrude was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Glandorf, were she was a Eucharistic minister, religion teacher for over 30 years and a member of the Altar Rosary Society, Ladies CHIRP and nurtured the flowers in church. She was a volunteer at The Meadows of Ottawa-Glandorf. She was a companion of the Ministries of the Precious Blood. She was very active in Right-to-life, loved spending time with her grandchildren and attending their activities. She was a wonderful caregiver and enjoyed making food for the sick.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Glandorf. Father Tony Fortman will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where there will be a parish rosary at 7:30 p.m. Memorials may be given to the charity of donor’s choice.

Condolences may be sent to www.lovefuneralhome.com.

11-16-2012

Irene E. Schnipke

Irene E. Schnipke, 88, died at 10:25 a.m. Nov. 16, 2012, at The Meadows of Kalida.

She was born Feb. 1, 1924, in Ottoville to the late Leo and Mary Smith Eickholt. On Aug. 2, 1947, she married Leo William Schnipke, who died May 7, 2005.

Irene is survived by her nine children, Judy (Bill) Trenkamp, of Kalida, James (Margaret) Schnipke, of Ottoville, Linda (Dave) Recker, of Glandorf, Marilyn (Dennis) Wenzlick, of Otttoville, Michael (Dolly) Schnipke, of Kalida, Dave (Donna) Schnipke, of Kalida, Dennis (Pat) Schnipke, of Kalida, Kenneth Schnipke, of Rockford, Ill., and Charlie (Nadine) Schnipke, of Kalida; 23 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Rita Ricker, of Delphos, and Martha (Louis) Kaverman, of Delphos.

She was preceded in death by two brothers, Lawrence and Jerome Eickholt.

Irene was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida, and its Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida. Father Mark Hoying will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, corner of state Routes 224 and 634.

Memorials may be made to St. Michael Catholic Church or to The Meadows of Kalida.

Condolences can be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

12-14-2012

Lorene E. Fuerst

            Lorene Elizabeth Fuerst, 96, died at 11:05 p.m. Dec. 14, 2012, at The Meadows of Kalida.

            She was born May 26, 1916, in Ottoville, to Bernard and Lucy Martin Schulte. On. April 23, 1940, she married Norbert Fuerst, who died May 28, 1994.

            Mrs. Fuerst attended the Jackson Township one-room school in Putnam County as a child. She was a homemaker, worked on the family farm with her husband gathering eggs, sometimes as many as 4,000 to 5,000 a day. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus Grove and its Altar Rosary Society. She loved working outdoors and was an avid flower gardener. Her other interest included crocheting, baking, making homemade noodles, but nothing was foremost than her faith and family.

             Survivors include five children, Patricia (Karl) Schnipke, of Toledo, James (Bonnie) Fuerst, of Columbus Grove, Richard (Phyllis) Fuerst, of Columbus Grove, Jane (Henry) Kaufman, of Ottawa, and Magdalen (Donald) Wehri, of Kalida; a sister, Dolores VanOss, of Ottoville; two sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Schulte, of Delphos, and Martha Fuerst, of Columbus Grove; 22 grandchildren, Denise Schnipke Stark, Krista Schnipke, Arlene Louth Cress, Dean Louth, Sonya Fuerst Selhorst, James Fuerst, Steven Fuerst, Laura Fuerst Schumacher, Renae Fuerst Olivo, Nora Fuerst Altenburg, Teresa Fuerst Briggs, Julie Fuerst Schroeder, Mary Fuerst Cartwright, Melissa Fuerst Hughes, Michelle Kaufman Giesswein, Regina Kaufman Taylor, Bryan Kaufman, Sarah Kaufman Stechschulte, Kathryn Wehri Karhoff, Jennifer Wehri Salvina, Andrew Wehri and Jillian Wehri; 48 great-grandchildren, Tyler and Tiffany Fligor, Andrew and Alyssa Stark, Andrew, Victoria and Alex Cress, Abigail, Elizabeth and Emily Louth, Will, Anna and Grace Selhorst, Owen, Zach, Lauren and Wyatt Fuerst, Brady, Breann and Ben Fuerst, Lydia and Jackson Schumacher, Anthony, Abigail and Elizabeth Stringfield, Sophia Olivo, Madison and Natalie Altenburg, Morgan Auchmuty, Miranda and Cayden Briggs, Landen, Levi, Zaine and Wynn Schroeder, Nathan, Hannah and Emma Cartwright, Karlie Hughes, Chandler and Dylan Giesswein, Ava and Parker Taylor, Grant Kaufman, Lillian and Easton Stechschulte, Grayson Karhoff, and Lucas Salvina; three stepgreat-grandchildren, Marcos Olivo, and Victoria and Breanna Briggs.

             She was preceded in death by a sister, Loretta Smith; a brother, Henry Schulte; and a grandson, Bernard Fuerst.

             Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus Grove. The Rev. Tom Extejt will officiate. Burial will be at St. Anthony Cemetery in Columbus Grove.

             Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home in Columbus Grove, where a special rosary service will begin at 8 p.m. Monday.

            Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony School Endowment Fund or St. Anthony Church.

12-23-2012

Catherine Brickner

Sister Catherine Brickner, CPPS (formerly known as Sister M. Lucina), died Sunday at Emma Hall in the Maria Joseph Living Care Center in Dayton. She had been a Sister of the Precious Blood for 63 years.

She was born in Ottoville in 1932, one of 10 children born to John J. and Philomena (Warnecke) Brickner, who preceded her death.

Sister Catherine is survived by her sisters, Lauretta Schaffer; Rose (Otto J.) Wenzlick and Carolyn (Gerald P.) Schimmoeller; brothers, Walter J.(Rose Ann) Brickner; Ralph W. (Sharon) Brickner; Steven V. (Sandy) Brickner; and John N. (Joan) Brickner.

Preceding her in death were her brother, Clifford A.(Mary) Brickner; and her sister, Doris Ann (Arnold) Ricker.

Sister Brickner formally entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Precious Blood on Aug. 28, 1949, at the age of 17. For 23 years, Sr. Catherine taught grades 1-12 in Ohio, Indiana, Missouri and Colorado. In 1976, Sister began a new ministry as activity director for the elderly in California and Ohio. In 2001, Sr. Catherine retired at Salem Heights Convent in Dayton. Due to failing health she moved in 2004 to Emma Hall.

Resurrection liturgy for Precious Blood Sister Catherine Brickner will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Salem Heights Chapel, 4960 Salem Ave., Dayton. Visitation will be held from 6:30-8 p.m. today and from 9:30-10:15 a.m. Thursday at the chapel.