Thursday, June 20, 2013

2013 - Ottoville Obits


1-6-2013
Robert E. Hilvers
Robert E. Hilvers, 72, of Ottoville died 5:39 a.m. Sunday, January 6, 2013 at The James Cancer Center, Columbus.
He was born June 30, 1940 in Ottoville to the late Stephen and Veronica “Fronie” (Beining) Hilvers. On May 18, 1968 he married Alice M. Trentman, who survives.
Bob is survived by his children: Steve (Rhonda) Hilvers, Mike (Jodi) Hilvers, and Lori (Jeff) Mills, all of Ottoville; 5 grandchildren: Abigail and Dru Hilvers and Aiden, Kiley, and Treyton Hilvers; 3 brothers: John (Annette) Hilvers, Dick (Jan) Hilvers and Tom (Karen) Hilvers, all of Ottoville; sister: Ruth (Richard A.) Schroeder of Leipsic; and sister-in-law: Jean Hilvers of Ottoville.
Two brothers precede him in death: Donald Hilvers and Jim Hilvers.
Bob retired from Unverferth Manufacturing after 40 years, where he had been a sales representative. He served in the National Guard for six years. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and a member of the Ottoville Knights of Columbus. Bob was a 35-year board member of the Ottoville Mutual Telephone Company; social member of the Ottoville VFW and Delphos Eagles; and member of the Delphos Country Club. He had been a charter member of the Ottoville Jaycees/OACCS. Bob enjoyed farming, woodworking, and his morning coffee gang. He was especially fond of golfing, fishing and looked forward to spending time with his grandkids. Bob was a proud supporter of the Ottoville Big Green and the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 9, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Visitation will be Tuesday from 2 to 8 p.m. at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Twp. where a scripture service will be held at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the Hilvers Family requests donations be made to Putnam County Home Care and Hospice or to the Putnam County Cancer Assistance Program.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

1-19-2013
Lucille L. Mangas
Lucille L. “Lucy” Mangas, 90, of Lima, passed away at 8:05 a.m., Saturday, January 19, 2013, surrounded by her family.
She was born Nov. 4, 1922, in Ottoville, to the late Edward and Matilda (Weber) Eickholt. On Nov. 22, 1949, in Ottoville, she married George H. Mangas who preceded her in death on Feb. 25, 1997. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, and never met a stranger.
Mrs. Mangas graduated from Ottoville High School in 1941. She worked at St. Rita’s Hospital, Westinghouse and retired from Air Foil Textron after 18 years and also served a term as chairman of retirees. She served as secretary of the Altar Rosary Society and was an active member of St. Gerard’s Church, serving on numerous committees. Lucy was a devout Catholic and faithful believer of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and a former member of Ohio Polka Boosters, auxiliary member of Eagles, V.F.W. and American Legion. She was an active euchre player and had volunteered over 9,500 hours at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was extremely thrilled to receive a corsage of red roses for Mother’s Day when she served as Cub Scout Den Mother of Pack 47.
Surviving are six children: John (Wendy) Mangas, Ginny (Tom) Ralston, Barb (John) Byrne and Kevin (Geri) Mangas all of Lima, Shirley (Dave) Fromm of Bellefontaine and Joe (Dana Schultz) Mangas of Lima; thirteen grandchildren: Jennifer (Kevin) Talley, John II (Elizabeth) Mangas, James (Carolyn) Mangas, Kory Ralston, Matthew Ralston, John (Amanda) Byrne, Megan Byrne, Taft Mangas, Christine (Brett) Smith, Kyle Fromm, Brent Fromm, Audrey Fromm, George J. Mangas and five great-grandchildren: Carson Talley, Colton Talley, Jack Mangas, William Mangas and Lucy P. Mangas; four sisters: Norma Smith, Jeannette Ruhe, Doris German and Lillian Kohlrieser.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Evelyn Brinkman, and her brother Kenneth Eickholt.
Her Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, January 22, 2013, in St. Gerard Catholic Church, with Fr. Jim McDonald officiating. Burial will follow in Gethsemani Cemetery.
Visitation will be on Monday, from 2-8 p.m., at Siferd-Orians Funeral Home
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Gerard’s Church air conditioning fund.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.siferd-oriansfuneralhome.com

1-24-2013
Genevieve M. Alt
Genevieve M. "Gen" Alt, 94, of Tiffin, died at 4:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013, at St. Francis Home, Tiffin.
She was born Nov. 3, 1918, in Ottoville, to Henry and Matilda (Kehres) Grubenhoff. She married Joseph A. Alt June 22, 1940, in Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. He died June 13, 1989.
Survivors include three sons, James (Karin) Alt of Rockford, Ill., Robert (Karen) Alt of Sun Prairie, Wis., Timothy (Laura) Alt of Carey; a daughter, Debra (Mark) Coad of Cincinnati; eight grandchildren, Andy, Greg, Angie, Chris, Brandon, Sarah, Sammy Jo, and Jamie; six great-grandchildren, Megan, Marti, Aiden, Justin, Kayla, and Katie.
She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Patricia Meyers, six brothers and a sister.
Gen was an Ottoville High School graduate. She was a retired seamstress, she worked for Singer Sewing Machine Company for 18 years. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, its Rosary Altar Society, Daughters of Isabella, St. Francis Auxiliary and she volunteered at Calvert High School, St. Francis Home and St. Mary Catholic Church. She was a hardworking loving wife and mother.
Visitation with family and friends will be 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 1, 2013, at Traunero Funeral Home, 214 S. Monroe St. Tiffin, OH 44883 (419) 447-3113. A wake service will be at 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home.
Prayers will be said at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013, at the funeral home followed by the Mass at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church. The Rev. Gary Walters will officiate. The rosary will be recited 20 minutes prior to the Mass at the church.
Burial will take place immediately following in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary Catholic Church and St. Francis Home in care of the funeral home.
The family would like to thank the 2 West Nurses and staff at St. Francis for all of their wonderful care.
To send condolences, or for directions to the funeral home, go to www.traunerofuneralhome.com.

1-28-2013
Ronald R. Grote
Ronald R. Grote, 73, died at 3:25 p.m. Jan. 28, 2013, at Van Wert County Hospital, Van Wert, following a two-year battle with leukemia.
He was born April 20, 1939, in Cloverdale to Melvin and Thelma Bracker Grote. His father is deceased; his mother survives in Cloverdale. On March 3, 1962, he married Marilyn Grubenhoff, who survives in Cloverdale.
Also surviving is a daughter, Linda (Stewart Mills) Grote, of Van Wert; a brother, Jim Grote, of Cloverdale; a sister, Judy (Robert) Brinkman, of Cloverdale; and his special little buddies, Sassy and Boo.
Ron worked 14 years in maintenance for the Village of Ottoville, drove truck for J.P. Trucking for 10 years, worked as a mechanic for Mack Garage, drove truck for River Valley Distributing in Defiance for 25 years and a was a farmer in partnership with BB&G. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Ron loved flowers, working in the yard, riding 4-wheelers and NASCAR.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Ottoville.
Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where there will be a Scripture service at 2 p.m.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Condolences can be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.

2-6-2013
Albert J. Warnement
Albert John “Bones” Warnement Jr., 81, died at 4:15 p.m. Feb. 6, 2013, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born May 21, 1931, in Ottoville to the late Albert A. and Alma Bendele Warnement.
Albert is survived by four children, Mark (Gail) Warnement, of Fremont, Mich., Carl Warnement, of Grand Haven, Mich., Patricia (David) Daleiden, of Palm Desert, Calif., and Ruthann (Woody) Key, of Flower Mound, Texas; four grandchildren, Heather Mosier, of Columbus, Mo., Steven Warnement, of Rolla, Mo., Jentry Craighead, of Chicago, and Samuel Key, of Flower Mound, Texas; six great-grandchildren; two brothers, Tom (LaDonna) Warnement, of Fort Jennings, and Paul Warnement, of Toledo; and two sisters, Janet (Dave) Recker, of Ottawa, and Shirley (Joe) Rosselit, of Kalida.
Preceding him in death a brother, Lee Warnement; a grandson, James Jordan Jr.; and a niece, Leanne Pardo.
Albert was a restaurant owner. He was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida. He was veteran of the Army serving during the Korean War. He was a member of American Legion Post 63, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9142 and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 2234, all in Ottawa. Fishing and cooking were his greatest passions and he enjoyed watching football and baseball. Albert was an avid euchre player and a former owner of Club 65, Columbus Grove. He was a lifetime member of the Putnam County Rat Pack, along with his friends Lee Kuhlman, Ray Halker, Stu Campbell, Paul Maag, Tom Reynolds Sr. and Bert Altstaetter.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida. Father Mark Hoying will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military rites by American Legion Post 63 and VFW Post 9142.
Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where an American Legion service will be held at 7 p.m. and a Rosary service at 7:15 p.m.
Memorials may be given to the American Diabetes Association or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences can be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.


2-25-2013
Lillian I. Carey
Lillian Isabel Carey, formerly of Piqua and North Lauderdale, Fla., passed away at 9:45 p.m. Feb. 25, 2013, at Traditions of Chillicothe.
She was born July 11, 1937, in Ottoville, the first of five children born to the late Anthony A. and Vida Isabel Bowersock Miller.
On July 13, 1956, she was united in marriage to James L. Carey, who preceded her in death April 8, 2002.
Survivors include their six children, Kimberly (Terrence) Taylor of Chillicothe, Renee (Vincent) DeCarolis of Coral Springs Fla., Michael Carey of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., Jeffery Carey and Stephen (Nancy) Carey of Rockledge, Fla., and Matthew Carey of Coral Springs, Fla.; six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, Amy L. Taylor-Twining of Chillicothe, Nicholas DeCarolis, Joseph (Michelle) DeCarolis, Anthony DeCarolis of Coral Springs, Fla., Stephanie and Victoria Carey of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and Nathaniel J. Twining of Chillicothe; one sister, Antoinette (Robert) Magnus of Coral Springs, Fla.; one brother, Thomas Miller, (Jane Kretschmann); sister-in-law, Judy (Paul) Miller, all of Piqua; sister-in-law, Jean Carey-Strome of Riverside, Calif. She was preceded in death by her brother, Paul Miller; her sister and brother-in-law, Madonna (Miller) and David Via; and brother-in-law, Paul Strome.
Lillian loved being with family, working in her gardens, reading, and watching TV.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Saturday, April 13, 2013, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Piqua, with the Rev. Thomas Bolte as Celebrant. A mass will be celebrated in Florida at a later date.

3-1-2013
Roman A. Eickholt
Roman A. Eickholt Sr. 89 of Ottoville died 10:06 p.m. Friday, March 1, 2013 at his residence. He was born June 5, 1923 in Ottoville to the late John C. and Matilda (Miller) Eickholt. On July 10, 1943 he married Agnes J. Schwaiger, who preceded him in death on February 26, 2000. He then married Margaret Wehri Dickman, who preceded him in death on February 12, 2012.
He is survived by his children: Roman (Pat) Eickholt, Jr. of Continental, Bob (Donna) Eickholt, Terry (Stacy) Eickholt, and Alan (Ann Rayle) Eickholt, all of Cloverdale; Mary (Ken) Doseck of Upper Sandusky, Bonnie (Bill) Beining, Leah (Dan) Ditto, and Lisa (Albert) Bilimek, all of Cloverdale; 10 step children: James (Karen) Clementz and George (Melinda) Clementz, both of Cridersville, Frank (Cathy) Clementz of Spencerville, Ronald (Elizabeth) Clementz of Lima, Robert Clementz of Rochester, MI, Vernon Clementz of Monroe, MI, Alan (Terri) Clementz of New Boston, MI, Margene (Ronald) Craft of St. Marys, Mary (Robert) McBeth of Cridersville, Julie Clementz of Wapakoneta and Carol (Clyde) Verhoff of Fort Loramie; step-daughter-in-law: Patricia Clementz; brother: Orval (Olivia) Eickholt of Cloverdale; sister: Calista Miller of Landeck; 2 sisters-in-law: Virgina Eickholt of Lima and Dolores Eickholt of Ottawa; 22 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
Roman is preceded in death by a daughter: Joyce Eickholt; son: John Eickholt; grandson: Adam Eickholt; great-granddaughter: Camryn Mansfield; step-son: Lawrence Clementz; step-daughter and step son-in-law: Sharon (Phillip) Fry; 2 brothers: Ralph Eickholt and Vince Eickholt; 2 sisters: Katherine Altenburger and Agnes Ulrich; a half-sister: Alvertice “Dolly” Friemoth; and 3 brothers-in-law: Arnie Miller, Bill Ulrich and Ralph Alternburger.
Roman was a lifelong farmer and retired in 1985 from Fruehauf Trailers, Delphos. He was a WWII Navy veteran. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and was a life member of both the Ottoville VFW and Defiance AmVets. He retired from the Putnam County Fair Board, in 2003, after serving for 41 years. He loved polka dancing and was a member of the Ohio Polka Boosters.
Roman was above all, a loving husband, father and grandfather. He loved spending time with them and would always put their needs before his own. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and working all kinds of puzzles.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, March 5, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville with military rites by the Ottoville VFW. Visitation will be Monday from 2 to 8 p.m. at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a scripture service will be held 2 p.m. and an AmVets and VFW service will be held 7 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or the charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

3-9-2013
Donald A. Schweller
Donald A. Schweller, 75, Paulding, died March 9, 2013, at the Gardens of Paulding, Paulding, Ohio.
He was born January 12, 1938, in Ottoville, Ohio, the son of Julian and Regina (Hilvers) Schweller. On September 30, 1961, he married Norma Jean "Jeannie" Haunhorst, who survives. He was owner/operator of Schweller Electric, a member of Divine Mercy Catholic Parish in Paulding, Paulding Eagles Aerie 2405 and VFW Post 587.
He is survived by his wife, Jean Schweller, Paulding; a son, Todd Schweller, Paulding; two daughters, Lisa Clinton, Paulding, and Amy (David) Bleke, Fort Wayne; two brothers, John of Delphos, and Henry (Jeanette) Ottoville; two sisters, Marie Ernst of Ridgecrest, Calif., and Francis Grothouse, Delphos; and six grandchildren, Lyndi and Julia Clinton, Claire and Jack Schweller, Grace Wirts, and Seth Bleke.
He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Walter and Charles; and a sister, Anna Allersmeyer.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11 a.m. today, March 12, at Divine Mercy Catholic Church, Paulding. Burial will follow in Paulding Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to masses, Paulding High School Music or Community Health Professionals of Paulding/Hospice. Online condolences may be sent to www.denherderfh.com. Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, is handling arrangements.

3-24-2013
Celestine A. Koester
Celestine A. "Dick" Koester, age 89, passed away at his home with family at his side on March 24, 2013.
Dick was born January 3, 1924 in Ottoville, Ohio to William and Rosa (Beining) Koester. he married Loretta Moeggenborg on February 11, 1950 at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church in Shepherd, Michigan.
He is survived by his wife, Loretta; and his children, Gary (Sandy) Koester of Cadillac, Carol (Andy) Abid of Interlochen, Patrick (Maggie) Koester of Shepherd, Rosemary (Dan) Klodt of Grand Ledge, Betty Lou (Gary) Moyer of Meeker, Colorado and Jack (Luann) Koester of East Lansing. He is also survived by 15 grandchildren, Ben (Keren) Koester, Tara (Greg) Kopasz, Erin (Matt) Schneider, Mark (Ginger) Koester, Kevin (Megan) Koester Joseph (Emily) Abid, Eric Koester, Kelly Moyer, Jessica Moyer, Jamie Moyer, Nathan Klodt, Jamie (Julie) Johnston, Jared Johnston, Justin (Erica) Johnston, and Emily (D.J.) Tisdale; and 12 great grandchildren, Adrian, Adam, Gabe, Ella, Mina, Spencer, Nick, Caleb, Brian, and Daniel; and sister, Rosemary Markward.
He was preceded in death by infant daughter, Annette Koester; and brothers, Richard, Ambrose, and Hilarious Koester; and sisters, Lucinda Langhals and Albertha Weber.
Dick graduated from Ottoville High School in 1942 and moved to Michigan in 1950. He farmed from 1950 until retiring in 1988. He raised his family on the Shepherd Farm. During the 1960's, he managed one of the largest beef feedlots in the state. In addition to feeding cattle, he raised corn, soybeans, wheat and alfalfa. He was a member of St. Vincent DePaul Parish, Parish Council and the 4th Degree in the Knights of Columbus. He was a member of the Michigan Cattle Feeders Association, and Past President of the Isabella County Livestock Producers, involved in the inception of the Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival, and served on the Gratiot-Isabella Intermediate School Board for 20 years. He served on the First Bank Board of Directors, the Board of Isabella County Medical Care Facility, and was appointed to the Isabella County Family Independence Agency Board.
He enjoyed his grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He was an avid golfer, and enjoyed working in his woodshop, playing cards and helping family and friends. Koester continued...
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church in Shepherd at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2013. Visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at St. Vincent DePaul Church on Tuesday, March 26, 2012. There will be a Scripture Service on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. at St. Vincent DePaul Church.
Interment will be in St. Vincent De Paul Church Cemetery. Memorials may be given to St. Vincent De Paul Church or the Isabella County Commission on Aging.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Berry Funeral Home in Shepherd.

3-27-2013
Katherine E. Caprilla
Katherine E. “Kay” Caprilla, 95, of Ottawa died at 7:38 a.m. Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born November 21, 1917 in Baltimore, Md., to the late Thomas and Carrie (Miller) Mayo.
She was married to Robert Wannemacher who died Oct. 20, 1975, she then married Carman Caprilla, who is also deceased.
She is survived by two children, Charles (Nancy) Wannemacher and Gail (Jerry) Osting of Ottawa; six grandchildren, Robin (Jerry) Levine of Rockford, Mich., Scott (Bobbie) Osting of Ottawa, Anita (Rich) Ross of Ottawa, Jason (Cindy) Osting of Leipsic, Lindsey Wannemacher of North Carolina and Brent Brickner of Delphos; eight great-grandchildren, Austin Levine, Madison Levine, Avery Ross, Walter Ross, Kennedy Osting, Easton Osting, Claire Osting, and Blake Brickner. She was preceded in death by a great-grandson: Robert Wannemacher; 2 brothers: Charles and Clifton Mayo; and a sister: Hilda Hatter.
Mrs. Caprilla owned and operated Wannemacher Jewelers in Ottoville and Delphos from 1945 to 1981 and she later was a cook at the Ottawa Eagles. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Ottawa; Ottawa Eagles, Ottawa VFW and Ottawa American Legion auxiliaries; and had been on the Ottoville Village Council.
A Funeral Service will be held 10 a.m. Saturday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, the Rev. Matt Jozefiak officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home, where there will be a scripture service at 2:30 p.m., Ottawa Eagles Auxiliary service at 7 p.m., Ottawa American Legion Auxiliary service at 7:15 p.m. and Ottawa VFW Auxiliary service at 7:30 p.m.
Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences can be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

4-9-2013
Frederick A. Ruen
            Frederick A. Ruen, 78, died at 10:55 a.m. April 09, 2013, at Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center, Van Wert.
            He was born Feb. 24, 1935, in Ottoville to Aloysius and Loretta Hilvers Ruen. He married Anna R. Youngpeter on Oct. 6, 1962, who survives.
             Also surviving are their children, Douglas Ruen, of Venedocia, Lenore (Frederick) Colhoun, of Johnson City, Tenn., Monica (Howard) Waidley, of Dexter, Mich., and Kathleen Haines and Elizabeth (Scott) Wurst, both of Delphos; grandchildren, Rachel (Bryan) Sipe, Laura (Josh) Lyle, Logan, Raegan and Morgan Haines, Victoria, Danielle and Johnathon Waidley, Emma, Eli and August Wurst, and Erin and Alyssa Colhoun; great-grandchildren, Payten and Jaymee Lyle and Baby Sipe, who is on the way; siblings, Paul (Joan) Ruen, Joe (Dorothy) Ruen and Roger (Diane) Ruen, all of Ottoville, Mary (Paul) Honigford, of Coldwater, Catherine (Mel) Heitz, of Landeck, Irene Bullard, of St. Louis, and Millie Ruen and Marilyn (Dale) Calvelage, both of Ottoville.
              He was preceded in death by his parents and a daughter-in-law, Janet Plikerd Ruen.
Mr. Ruen retired from Aeroquip. He was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, Delphos, a member and past grand knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 1362, Delphos, AMVETS Post 698, Middle Point, the board of the Delphos Canal Commission, the Citizens For Delphos Committee, and the founder of Delphos Project Recycle. In 1997, he was honored as the first Tri-County Man of the Year. He was also a member of the Putnam County Historical Society, the Farm Bureau and St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos, where he served as a greeter and Eucharist minister. He was a 17-gallon blood donor for the American Red Cross and a 1953 graduate of Ottoville High School. He was a veteran of the Army, serving in Germany from 1958 to 1959.
                Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Father Mel Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Delphos, with military rites by the Delphos Veterans Council.
                Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Strayer Funeral Home, 1840 E. Fifth St., Delphos, where a K. of C. rosary service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Thursday and a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m. Friday.
                Memorial contributions may be made to the Delphos Canal Commission, St. John Parish Foundation, Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center or the charity of the donor’s choice.
                Condolences may be expressed at siferd-oriansfuneralhome.com
               Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Siferd-Orians Funeral Home.


5-24-2013
Gertrude M. Hempfling
Gertrude M. Hempfling, 97, died at 3:43 p.m. May 24, 2013, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born Feb. 29, 1916, in Ottoville to John and Mary Kieffer Klima. In 1939, she married Albert Freund, who died in 1946. In 1954, she married Oscar Hempfling, who died in 1992.
Mrs. Hempfling was an avid card player, especially pinochle and euchre. She enjoyed reading and was an excellent cook. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Church in Landeck, Catholic Ladies of Columbia Chapter 84 of Landeck, she was a very active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, where she was past president and a very active member of the drill team. She was one of the first cooks at Landeck School, where she retired as head cook
Survivors include three sons, James (Mary) Freund, of Elida, Robert (Pat) Freund, of Sidney, and Steve (Cathy) Hempfling, of Mariposa, Calif.; a stepson, Robert Hempfling, of Coldwater; a daughter, Jane Freund, of South Euclid; three stepdaughters, Alice (Water) Schroeder, of Columbus Grove, Angela Schroeder, of Bluffton, and Velma Kill, of Wapakoneta; two daughters-in-law, Lynda Seaman and Rosie Hempfling; and eight grandchildren, 23 stepgrandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Freund; a stepson, Ralph Hempfling; five brothers; five sisters; and a stepson-in-law, Melvin Schroeder.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Landeck. The Rev. Chris Bohnsack will officiate. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery.
Friends may call from 3 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where there will be a parish wake at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s School or St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.
Condolences may be made at www.harterandschier.com.

6-6-2013
Samuel K. Cardwell
Samuel Kent “Sam” Cardwell, 60, of Ottoville, died at his home June 6, 2013.
He was born Dec. 9, 1952, in Findlay, OH, the son of Ellis Floyd and Ruth M. (Carney) Cardwell, and his mother survives in Lima. He was previously married to Shari Maag McMillen, the mother of Makensey; and was previously married to Cynthia Sparks Cardwell, mother of Andrew.
Other survivors include daughter, Makensey L. Cardwell, Lima, OH; a son, SPC Andrew G. Cardwell, Ottoville, OH; a granddaughter, Gracie Jayne Cardwell, Lima, OH; four siblings, Daniel (Suzie) Cardwell, Lima, OH, Naomi Cardwell, Lima, OH, Phillip Cardwell, Columbus, OH, and Esther (Lee) Searcy, Elida, OH.
He was preceded in death by a brother Doug Cardwell.
He enjoyed spending time with his family fishing, camping, and teaching his children how to build and launch model rockets. He was very proud of his daughter when she received her college degree and his son when he graduated from Army Military Police Corps. His granddaughter Gracie was the apple of his eye and he treasured to time he was able to spend with her reading stories and she was always engrossed in the stories he read to her. He was a graduate of Elida High School and of the Lima Technical College with a degree in engineering. He liked to target shoot and even competed in a few tournaments. He also enjoyed movies and documentaries of WWII.
A memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 17, 2013, in the Shawnee Alliance Church with Dr. Daniel Messner officiating.
The family will receive friends from 6 p.m., until time of service at the church.
Memorials may be made to the family.
Arrangements are being conducted by the Bayliff & Eley Funeral Home, Wapakoneta.
Condolences may be expressed at www.bayliffandeleyfh.com.

6-18-2013
Virginia A. Sroufe
Virginia A. “Ginni” Sroufe, 67, passed away at 12:25 p.m. June 18, 2013, at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.
She was born April 3, 1946, in Lima to Hubert “Bud” and Julie Hoersten Hemker, who preceded her in death. On Nov. 18, 1967, she married Larry E. Sroufe, and he survives in Cloverdale.
Also surviving are two sons, Darren (Jan) Sroufe, of Boonville, Ind., and Craig (Katrina) Sroufe, of Cloverdale; two daughters, Nichole (Judd) Spencer, of Cloverdale, and Gwenn Spencer, of Ottoville; 10 grandchildren, Austin (Tazz) Eickholt, Kelsi Dickman, Shane Wilson, Andrew Brickner, Conner Brickner, Katy Robey, Veronica Sroufe, Coltin Sroufe, Marisa Brickner and Nathan Geise; two great-grandchildren, Jenna Wayne and Eric Eickholt; four brothers, Ron (Anne) Hemker and Richard (Janet) Hemker, both of Ottoville, Gary (Cathy) Hemker, of Delphos, and Randy (Carol) Hemker, of Louisville, Ky.; and several nieces and nephews.
Virginia worked for VanCrest Health Care Center, Van Wert, and retired in 2009. She was a member of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 73 Auxiliary, Evansville, Ind., Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3360 Auxiliary, Defiance, and American Legion Post 541 Auxiliary, Continental. She was a member of St. Barbara Parish, Cloverdale, where she was a member of its Rosary Altar Society and served as a Eucharistic minister.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:30 a.m. Friday at St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Visitation will be 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. and an Altar Rosary service at 2:30 p.m.
Memorials may be made to St. Barbara Parish, Cloverdale, or to the Putnam County CAP Program.
Condolences can be expressed at lovefuneralhome.com.


6-21-2013
Orville H. Burgei
Orville H. Burgei, 88, died at 8:40 p.m. June 21, 2013, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born Oct. 5, 1924, in Putnam County to Jacob and Veronica Ricker Burgei, who preceded him in death. He married Ethel B. Miller, who survives in Delphos.
Mr. Burgei enjoyed gardening, ice cream, fishing on Lake Erie, and music, especially playing the guitar. He also had a love for dogs. He especially enjoyed his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed attending all their sporting events. His passion was his lifelong companion, his wife, Ethel. He was a lifelong farmer. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035. He was a Navy veteran (fireman 1st class).
Survivors also include three sons, Kenneth (Connie) Burgei, of Wauseon, Donald (Judy) Burgei, of Columbus, and Larry (Donna) Burgei, of Delphos; four sisters, Alma Minning and Ruth Pohlman, both of Delphos, Irene Miller, of Ottoville, and Norma Vonderembse, of Delphos; three daughters, Mary Jane (John) Morman, of Glandorf, Judy (Kevin) Clark, of Delphos, and Anne (Dan) Wurst, of Ottoville; a daughter-in-law, Judy Burgei; two sisters-in-law, Avonelle Burgei and Norma Burgei; a brother-in-law, Kenny Rode; and 24 grandchildren and 41 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Mike Burgei; two sisters, Gertrude Rode and Rosemary Pohlman; and two brothers, John and Thomas Burgei.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. The Rev. Chris Bohnsack will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery with military rites by the Delphos Veterans Council.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where there will be a parish wake at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association, Alzheimer’s Association, or St. John’s Parish Foundation.
Condolences may be expressed at www.harterandschier.com.

7-14-2013
Mary Agnes Hempfling
Mary Agnes Hempfling, 87, of Delphos, died at 3:20 a.m. Sunday July 14, 2013 at Vancrest Health Care Center.
She was born July 3, 1926, in Ottoville to Theodore and Bernadine (Hellman) Beining, who preceded her in death.
On July 2, 1949, she was united in marriage to Herbert Hempfling, who survives in Delphos.
Other survivors include a son, Jack (Sandy) Hempfling of Le Roy, N.Y.; two daughters, Judy Hempfling of Yellow Springs and Mary Lou (Keith) Pohlman of Delphos; two sisters, Alice Arnzen of Delphos and Irene (Joe) Schroeder of Ottawa; a brother, Ray Beining of Delphos; a daughter-in-law, Agnes Hempfling; 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by a son, Terry Hempfling; three sisters, Mildred Beckman, Angela Kimmet and Gertrude Schmitz; and a brother, Rudy Beining.
Mrs. Hempfling worked at Meyers Cleaners and then at Drapery Stitch.
She was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church and the CD of A. and also volunteered at the nursing home, St. Rita’s and the Thrift Shop. She enjoyed sewing, playing cards and gardening. She loved spending time with her family.
Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. John’s Catholic Church, Father Dave Reinhart officiating. Burial will follow at St. John’s Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where a CD of A service begins at 7 p.m. followed by a parish wake at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Parish Foundation.
To leave online condolences for the family, visit www.harterandschier.com.

7-18-2013
Dolores Mae Remlinger
Dolores Mae Remlinger, 81, of Kalida died at 9:02 a.m. Thursday, July 18, 2013 at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima. She was born September 21, 1931 in Ottoville to the late Harold and Velva (Schaeffer) Peters. On May 31, 1954 she married Carl H. Remlinger who died September 25, 1990.
She is survived by 7 children: Mark Remlinger, Bruce (Debra) Remlinger, Keith (Linda) Remlinger, and Debra Miller all of Kalida, Jeffrey (Margaret) Remlinger of Plainfield, IL., Diane (Kurt) Utrup of Glandorf, and Dan (Samantha) Remlinger of Concord, NC.; 19 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by her sister: Stella (Donald) Briggs.
Dolores was a homemaker. She had worked for Loving Care in Ottawa, Kids Count in Kalida, McDonalds in Ottawa, the Tap Room in Kalida, and GTE Sylvania in Ottawa. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a charter member of the Ohio Polka Boosters, she taught CCD for 26 years until the age of 78, and was a Cub Scout Den Leader. She was a graduate of Ottoville High School. Dolores loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, especially playing cards and games and attending their sporting events. She enjoyed volunteering at The Meadows of Kalida, traveling with her lady friends and their “pinky swears”
A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 23, 2013 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida with Fr. Mark Hoying officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday and 2 to 8 p.m. on Monday at LOVE FUNERAL HOME, Ottawa. There will an Altar Rosary service at 7 p.m. on Sunday and a scripture service at 6 p.m. on Monday. Memorials may be made to St. Michael’s Catholic Church or it’s Religious Education Department.
Condolences can be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

8-2-2013
Arthur J. Utrup
Arthur J. Utrup, 79, died at 8:30 p.m. Aug. 2, 2013, at Vancrest Healthcare Center, Delphos.
He was born March 15, 1934, in Putnam County to August H. and Caroline Pohl Utrup, who preceded him in death. On June 18, 1955, he married Berdenia Shipe, who survives in Delphos.
Mr. Utrup retired from Ford Motor Co., working in the Personal Benefits Administration, after more than 35 years of service. He was an avid bowler, loved NASCAR, numbers, puzzles and the Cincinnati Reds. He loved to give blood to the American Red Cross, giving 19 gallons. He loved his children and grandchildren. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Dad’s Club of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035, Sons of the American Legion and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He was a 1952 graduate of Delphos St. John’s.
Survivors also include two sons, Gary (Raylene) Utrup, of Lewisville, Texas, and Kenneth (Elizabeth) Utrup, of Delphos; two daughters, Susan (Charles) Odenweller, of Lima, and Sandra (Jeffrey) Marion, of Fort Wayne, Ind.; four sisters, Lauretta Hollar, of Delphos, Wilma Springer, of Wapakoneta, Ruth (William) Martin, of Lima, and Irene Utrup, of Delphos; two brothers, Roman (AnKara) Utrup and Edwin Utrup, both of Delphos; 16 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and six great-grandchildren on the way.
He was preceded in death by a son, Gregory A. Utrup; and granddaughter, Lauren Marion.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. The Rev. Chris Bohnsack will officiate. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where a parish wake will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Red Cross or St. John’s Parish Foundation.
Condolences may be expressed at www.harterandschier.com.


8-9-2013
Alma M. Minnig
Alma Marie Minnig, 90 died at 1:47 p.m. Aug. 9, 2013 at Vancrest Healthcare Center, Delphos.
She was born Feb. 1, 1923 to Jacob and Veronica Ricker Burgei, who preceded her in death.
She was united in marriage to Camillus J. Minnig on June 4, 1946. He preceded her in death on July 22, 1986.
Mrs. Minnig was a homemaker.
She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Ladies Aux. V.F.W. #3035, and a Life Member of the Alter Rosary Society.
Survivors include four sons, Frank (Mary) Minnig of Van Wert, Robert (Jean) Minnig of Van Wert, Jeff Minnig of Delphos, and Joe Minnig of Delphos; three daughters, Diane Feathers of Monroeville, Ind., Karen (Robert) Adkins of Delphos, Sharron Minnig of Ft. Wayne; three sisters, Ruth Pohlman, of Delphos, Irene Miller, of Ottoville, Norma Vonderembse, of Delphos; three sisters-in-Laws, Avonelle Burgei, Norma Burgei, and Ethel Burgei; a brother-in-law, Kenny Rode; a daughter-in-Law, Kim Ralston; and 17 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a son, Jim Minnig; twin sons, John and Joseph and twin daughters, Marilyn and Carolyn; two sisters, Gertrude Rode and Rosemary Pohlman; three brothers, John Burgei, Thomas Burgei, and Orville Burgei; 4 brothers-in-law, Arthur Pohlman, Jerome Pohlman, Ralph Miller, and Gus Vonderembse; and a daughter-in-law, Rebecca Minnig; and a grandchild.
Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday August 21, 2013 at 10:30 A.M. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church
Father Dave Reinhart will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.
Friends may call Tuesday August 20, 2013 from 2-8 P.M. at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where there will be a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Breast Cancer Awareness.
To leave condolences for the family please go to www.harterandschier.com.

8-11-2013
Dennis J. Thines
Dennis J. Thines, 79 of Delphos and formerly of Ottoville, passed away on Sunday morning, August 11, 2013 at the St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima.
He was born on October 10, 1933 in Ottoville, Ohio to the late George “John” and Josephine (Schimmoller) Thines. He was formerly married to Roz Kill and she survives in Naples, Florida.
He is also survived by their three children, Shawn (Pam Wilson) Thines of Delphos, Michelle (Greg) Ryan of Charleston, South Carolina, and Timothy Thines of Delphos; six grandchildren, Mishaun, Charmiane, and Michael Thines, Shaleeni, Karuna, and Akira Ryan; a sister, Janette (Robert) Fischer of North Carolina; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sisters, Armella Martz, Deloris Hempfling, and Valeta Stallkamp.
Dennis graduated from Ottoville High School. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1956-1958. He retired after 27 years of service from Kill Brothers Company of Delphos. He also worked at Orick Tool & Die of Elida for many years. He was a member of the V.F.W Post 3035 and Eagles Aerie 471, both of Delphos, as well as a lifetime member of the Lima Elks Lodge 54.
Visitation will be from 2-7 p.m. on Thursday, August 15, 2013 at Strayer Funeral Home, 1840 E. Fifth St., Delphos with military honors accorded by the Delphos Veterans Council at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Friends and family are invited to the Delphos V.F.W for a toast to Dennis’s life after the military honors.
Memorial contributions may be made in Dennis’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project through the Delphos V.F.W.
Condolences may be shared at www.strayerfuneralhome.com

8-11-2013
Clyde C. Rekart
Clyde C. Rekart, age 92, formerly of Norwalk, died Sunday, Aug. 11, 2013, in Parkvue Place, Sandusky.
Clyde was born Nov. 1, 1920, in Ottoville, Ohio, to Edward and Mary (Langhals) Rekart. He was a graduate of St. Paul High School and was a life member of St. Paul Catholic Church.
During his teenage years he worked for the Norwalk Reflector Herald Newspaper. He then served during World War II from 1942-1945 in the Army Air Corps. He married his wife, Mary Ruffing Sept. 3, 1947, at St. Paul.
He owned and operated the first bus line in Norwalk and later P and R Electric/Value Center. He owned and managed Norwalk Home Rentals for many years, and in the 1970’s was the St. Paul Catholic Church business manager. He then worked for Century 21 and Stadtmiller Reality. He served on the Huron County Veteran Service Commission and coordinated the Disabled Veterans’ housing and transportation needs.
He enjoyed dancing, clam bakes, building, fishing, building homes and spending time at his home on the lake. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, traveling with his wife to visit friends and family, and was known for his jokes.
Clyde is survived by his children, Maryann (Jon) Jefferis of Huron, Thomas (Vickie) Rekart of Huron, Kathryn Linton and David Scott of Aiken, S.C., Patti (Jim) Creamer of Indianapolis, and Marc (Stella) Rekart of Port St. Lucie, Fla.; 16 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy Anderson of Sebring, Fla.; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Cecelia (Ruffing) Rekart on March 5, 2013; siblings, Rudy, Jerry and Paul Rekart, and LaDonna Gies, Edna Hohler and Leta Fritz; and a brother in childhood.
Friends may call 5-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 17, at Evans Funeral Home, 314 E. Main St., Norwalk. A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 18, at St. Paul Catholic Church, 91 E. Main St., Norwalk. The Rev. Nathan Bockrath, associate pastor of St. Paul Catholic Church, will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Paul Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Paul Catholic Church, 91 E. Main St., Norwalk, OH 44857.
Condolences may be shared at norwalkfuneral.com.


8-16-2013
Delores V. Sheeter
Delores “Dolly” V. Sheeter, 85, passed away on Friday afternoon, August 16, 2013 at her residence surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on March 16, 1928 in Ottoville to the late Alphons and Rose (Klima) Markward. She married Donald L. Sheeter on October 2, 1948 and he preceded her in death on October 12, 1981. She is survived by three daughters; Ginger (Tony) Martin, Carol Calvelage, and Diana (Robert) Pavel, all of Delphos; two sons, Gary (Becky) Sheeter of Spencerville and Paul Sheeter of Delphos; 16 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren and a great-great-granddaughter; brother, Art (Barb) Markward of Lima and a sister, Bea Dray of Fremont, Ohio; a sister-in-law, Lois Markward of Delphos.
She was preceded in death by a grandson, Jessie J. Pavel; three brothers, Richard, Urban, and Wilbur Markward; three sisters, Alice Wolfinger, Genevieve Rupert, and Valeta Grewe.
Dolly was a devoted homemaker. She worked at several places throughout her life. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and the Delphos V.F.W. Post 3035 Auxiliary. She loved to spend time with her family and travel with friends and family.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2013 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church with Rev. Chris Bohnsack, officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21, 2013 at Strayer Funeral Home, 1840 E. Fifth St., Delphos, where a Parish Wake Service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be shared at www.strayerfuneralhome.com.


9-9-2013
Phyllis M. Krouse
Phyllis M. Krouse, 88, died on Monday, September 09, 2013, at her residence in Lima, Ohio.
Phyllis was born on Sunday, April 05, 1925, in Ottoville, Ohio to the late Joseph Schlagbaum and Theresa [Becker] Schlagbaum.
She married Robert C. “Bob” Krouse on July 1, 1946 and he preceded her in death on December 7, 2004. Phyllis worked as a bookkeeper at Five Acre Auto Wrecking for 10 years and also held a similar position at Powell Janitor Supply Co. She was a member of St. Gerard’s Catholic Church and the Altar Rosary Society and also was the past president of the Mother’s Club. She enjoyed bowling and was the 2002 inductee to the Lima Bowling Hall of Fame. She was a member Emeritus of the Lima District of Inner City and served on The American Heart Association Board and ran its bowling tournament for numerous years. She enjoyed sewing and embroidery.
She is survived by: her son Tom (Sherry) Krouse of Lima, OH; one sister Jo Ann Schlagbaum of Lima, OH; a sister-in-law Helen Hollman of Fort Wayne, IN; two grandchildren Thomas (Wendy Farran) Krouse of Charles Town, WV and Kimberly (Kevin) Warnecke of Elida, OH; numerous Nieces & Nephews.
She was preceded in death by: five sisters Loretta Roth, Marie Kohlreiser, Bernadette Heathman, Tillie Spieles and Dorothy Altenburger; three brothers Vincent Schlagbaum, Anthony “Tony” Schlagbaum and Othmer Schlagbaum.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, September 12, 2013 and a wake service will be conducted at 8:00 PM at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home in Lima, Ohio.
A Mass of Christian Burial will start at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, September 13, 2013 at St. Gerard’s Catholic Church.
Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Association/Ohio Valley P.O. Box 634445, Cincinnati, Ohio 45263 or St. Gerards Catholic Church, 240 W. Robb, Lima, Ohio 45801.
Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.

10-6-2013
Norbert Heitmeyer
Norbert Heitmeyer, 91, of Ottoville died 10:55 p.m. Sunday, October 6, 2013 at The Meadows of Kalida.
He was born April 7, 1922 in Ottoville to the late Fred and Catherine (Dickman) Heitmeyer. On June 7, 1947, he married Alicia Unterbrink, who survives in Ottoville.
Survivors include his children: Keith (Kathy) Heitmeyer of Ottoville, Jane (Jesse) Swartz of Medina, Janet (Richard) Hemker of Ottoville, Jeff (Ron Buck) Heitmeyer of Denver, CO, Mike (Judy) Heitmeyer of Ottoville, and Judy (Chuck) Braden of New Knoxville; 16 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by three great-grandsons; and eight brothers and sisters: John Heitmeyer, Barbara Brinkman, Alphonse Heitmeyer, Frances Schimmoeller, Jean Smith, Marie Heitmeyer, Lee Heitmeyer, and Arnie Heitmeyer.
Norbert was a life long farmer. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and its Holy Name Society, Catholic Knights of Ohio, National Farmers Organization, and Delphos Country Club. He was an avid golfer, played a lot of cards, and enjoyed hunting and trapping. His family will always remember his quick wit and one liners.
Funeral Mass will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 10, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. Jerome Schetter officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township with a Scripture Service at 2 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.

11-11-2013
Father Roger D. Bonifas
Father Roger D. Bonifas, 93, died at 2:12 a.m. Nov. 11, 2013, at VanCrest Healthcare Center, Delphos.
He was born on July 1, 1920, in Van Wert County to Linus J. and Henrietta E. Pohlman Bonifas, who preceded him in death.
Father Bonifas graduated from Pontifical College Josephinum, Worthington. He was ordained March 10, 1945, and served his first Mass the next day at St. John the Baptist Church, Landeck. He had been an associate pastor at St. Mary Catholic Church, Sandusky, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Crestline, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Bellevue, and St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Toledo. He served as pastor at St. Mary Catholic Church, Millersville, St. James Catholic Church, Kansas, Ohio, St. Mary of the Snows Catholic Church, Mansfield, Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Landeck, and St. Patrick Catholic Church, Spencerville. He retired to residence at St. John Catholic Church, Lima, and then to St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale. During his retirement, he assisted parishes in the Diocese of Toledo, the Diocese of Venice, Fla., and several other dioceses throughout the country.
In July 2000, he was appointed the spiritual director of the Catholic Knights of Ohio, now the Catholic Order of Foresters. He was a 3rd degree member of Knights of Columbus Council 1362, Delphos, and was a 4th degree member of Assembly 829, Lima. He was a world traveler, visiting many of the holy cities. Two highlights of his travels that greatly impacted his life were attending a private Mass along with fellow traveling priests with Pope John Paul II and witnessing the beatification of St. Faustina. He was active in the World Wide Marriage Encounter and Crucillo
Survivors include four sisters, Rita Kilbarger, of Lancaster, Sister Lucy Bonifas, of Paducah, Ky., Agnes (Eugene) Krietemeyer, of Fort Jennings, and Velma (James Beckman) Frei, of West Milton; two brothers, Ralph Bonifas and George (Dorothy) Bonifas, both of Landeck; and 27 nieces and nephews and several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Rufus Bonifas; two sisters-in-law, Elizabeth "Betty" Bonifas and Melba Bonifas; and two brothers-in-law, Jerome Kilbarger and Arthur Frei.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Landeck. Bishop Leonard P. Blair will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday and noon to 3 p.m. Friday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a K. of C. service will be held at 7:45 p.m. and a COF service at 8 p.m., both on Thursday at the funeral home, and 9 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the church. A reception of the body and vespers service will be held at 4 p.m. Friday at the church, with Father David Reinhart. The 4th degree will stand honor guard from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home and during the vespers service on Friday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to any of the churches he had served or to the Victor Huss Vocational Fund provided by the COF.
Condolences may be expressed at harterandschier.com.

11-22-2013
Irvin A. Brandehoff
Irvin Albert Brandehoff, 93, of Wilmington, Ohio died 6:13 PM, Friday, November 22, 2013 at Cape May Retirement Village. His wife, Hilda Brandehoff, preceded him in death January 12, 2008. They were married August 6, 1949. Mr. Brandehoff was born May 24, 1920 in Ottoville, Ohio, son of the late William and Josephine Plescher Brandehoff. He grew up in Delphos, Ohio and graduated from Delphos St. John High School in 1938. He served as a flight engineer in the Navy Air Corp in World War II.
Mr. Brandehoff worked for 33 years at the Irwin Auger Bit Co., where he was executive vice-president of sales at the time of his retirement in 1982. He was a member of the Wilmington Elks Lodge 797 and St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Mr. Brandehoff was an exceptional bridge player. He and his wife had played bridge consistently from the time the met. Mr. Brandehoff still played Bridge regularly until his death.
Mr. Brandehoff is survived by a son, James (Robbie) Brandehoff of Wilmington, Ohio; a sister, Velma (Joseph) Martin of Dayton, Ohio; three grandchildren, Craig (Kristin) George of Temple, Texas, Eric (Emily) George of Columbus, Ohio, and Crystal (Jason) Mahan of Odessa, Texas; two great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, two sisters and two brothers-in-law, Alice and Don Kuhn and Mary and Fred Haas are preceded in death.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 AM, Wednesday, November 27, 2013 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 73 N. Mulberry Street, Wilmington, Ohio with Rev. Michael J. Holloran officiating. Burial will be in New Antioch Cemetery. There will not be any public calling hours.
If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Community Care Hospice, P.O. Box 123, Wilmington, Ohio 45177, Cape May Retirement Village, 175 Cape May Drive, Wilmington, Ohio 45177 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

11-30-2013
Mary Jane Koester
Mary Jane Koester, 82, of Ottoville, died 1:50 a.m., Saturday, November 30, 2013 at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.  She was born July 26, 1931 in Glandorf to the late Lawrence and Luella (Duling) Schroeder.  On July 30, 1955 she married Alphonse W. Koester.  He died April 7, 1977.
              Survivors include three children: Mark (Lisa) Koester of Elida, Anne Koester of Alexandria, VA and Sue Koester of Ottoville; three grandchildren: Amanda Ott, Jonathon Koester and Amy Koester; two great-grandchildren: Ethan Ott and Lincoln Ott; a sister, Pat (Don) Jostpille of Glandorf; and two sisters-in-law: Helen Schroeder of Delphos and Margie Schroeder of Kalida.
            She was preceded in death by three brothers and a sister-in-law: Carl Schroeder, Tom (Janet) Schroeder and Dan Schroeder.
            Mary Jane retired as a seamstress with Drapery Stitch of Delphos.  She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville and had been a 4-H advisor for the Ottoville Up-To-Date.
            A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, December 7, 2013 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings with Fr. Charles Obinwa.  Burial will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Ottoville.  Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday, December 6, 2013 at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township where a scripture service will begin at 7:30 p.m. and one hour prior to the service Saturday at the church.
              Memorial donations may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.
              Condolences may be expressed at:  www.lovefuneralhome.com

12-4-2013
Ruth Kleman
Ruth "Tula" Kleman, 99, died at 5:35 a.m. Dec. 4, 2013, at Vancrest of Delphos.
She was born Sept. 2, 1914, in Putnam County to Alexander and Katie Hetrick Dunlap, who preceded her in death. She married Gilbert John Schulte, who died Dec. 13, 1935. She then married Charles Louis Kleman, who died Jan. 31, 1970.
Mrs. Kleman was a housewife. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Eagles Auxiliary 471, a life member of the VFW Auxiliary 3035 and the American Legion Auxiliary 268.
She is survived by three sons, Jerome (Wilma) Kleman, of Newark, Keith (Julia) Kleman, of Venedocia, and George (Joyce) Kleman, of Wadsworth; two daughters: Raylene (Elmer) Fischer, of Delphos, and Charlotte Smith, of Burleson, Texas; one brother, Paul (Bea) Dunlap, of Cridersville, a daughter-in-law, Joan Schulte, of Fort Jennings; a sister-in-law, Joyce Dunlap, of Springfield; 25 grandchildren, 48 great-grandchildren and 34 great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two brothers, Herbert "Bud" Dunlap and Kenneth Dunlap; seven sisters, Iona Hole, Gert Fetzer, Lill Dunlap, Dodie Fetzer, Nell Vogt-Dickman, Pat Dickman and Leah Fetzer; a son, Gilbert Schulte; a daughter, Alvina H. Stallkamp; two sons-in-law, Carl Smith and Bill Stallkamp; a granddaughter and a great-granddaughter.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Father Chris Bohnsack will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where an Eagles Auxiliary service will begin at 5 p.m., a VFW Auxiliary service at 7 p.m. and a parish wake at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Delphos Senior Citizens Transportation Fund, Vancrest Activities Department or State of the Heart Hospice.

12-5-2013
John E. Schweller
John E. Schweller, 88 of Ottoville, died 7:19 p.m. Thursday, December 5, 2013 at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima. He was born July 24, 1925 in Ottoville to the late Julian and Regina (Hilvers) Schweller.
John was a lifetime farmer and a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ottoville.
He is survived by a brother: Henry (Jeanette) Schweller of Ottoville; 2 sisters: Marie Ernst of Inyokern, California and Frances Grothouse of Delphos; 2 sisters-in-law: Jane Schweller of Ottoville and Jeannie Schweller of Paulding and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by 3 brothers: Charles, Walter and Donald Schweller; a sister: Anna Allersmeyer; sister-in-law: Leona Schweller; and 3 brothers-in-law: Tom Ernst, Don Grothouse and Al Allersmeyer.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin 11:00 a.m. Monday, December 9, 2013 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville with Fr. Jerome Schetter 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, where there will be a scripture service at 7:00 p.m.
Memorials may be given to the charity of donor's choice.
Condolences may be expressed to: www.lovefuneralhome.com.

12-9-2013 
Gerald J. Turnwald
Gerald J. "Jerry" Turnwald, 93, died Dec. 9, 2013, at his residence, with his family by his side.
He was born May 22, 1920, in Hudson, Mich., to Edward and Tharsilla Fredrick Turnwald, who preceded him in death. On July 10, 1948, at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church, Shepherd, Mich., he married Frances Moeggenborg Maas.
Mr. Turnwald was a member of St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church, Shepherd, Mich., and the Knights of Columbus. He moved to Shepherd, Mich, from Ohio in the early 1940s. He worked at Motor-Wheel, Lansing, Mich., before farming near Shepherd, Mich, where he and his wife lived for the last 65 years. His family was the most important thing in his life.
Survivors include six children, Rich (Mary Kay) Maas, of Shepherd, Mich.; Mary Beth (Terry Hall) Buckley, of Traverse City, Mich., and Terry (Kathie) Turnwald, Debra (Rex) Struble, Mike (Deb) Turnwald and Ann Ramon, all of Shepherd, Mich.; 18 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; a sister, Theresa Becker, of Ohio; two brothers, Art (Joan) Turnwald and Don (Martha) Turnwald, both of Ohio; and a sister-in-law, Mart Turnwald, of Ohio.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Gilbert and Paul Turnwald; and two sisters, Mary Moeggenborg and infant Ruth Ann.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Friday at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church, Shepherd, Mich. Father Fred Kawka and Deacon Mike Smith will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the church, where a Scripture service will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday.
Arrangements are by Berry Funeral Home, Shepherd, Mich.

12-18-2013
Alice M. Kahle
Alice M. Kahle "Town Alice", 81, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family at 9:10 p.m. Wednesday, December 18, 2013.
She was born May 25, 1932 in Ottoville to the late Frank and Rose (Hilvers) Allemeier. On October 11, 1958 she married William A. Kahle who is deceased.
Alice was homemaker and a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida and its Altar Rosary Society. She also enjoyed volunteering at The Meadows of Kalida.
Survivors include three sons: Dennis Kahle, Tim (Lori) Kahle both of Kalida and Darren Kahle of Findlay; one daughter: Sandra (Dennis) Ostendorf of Rockford, IL; five grandchildren: Brant and Deanna Kahle and Danielle, Megan, and Rachel Ostendorf; two sisters-in-law: Mary Lou Allemeier of Hunker, PA., and Judy Allemeier of Delphos; and one brother-in-law: Manford Gremaux of New Haven, IN. She was also preceded in death by three brothers: Leroy Allemeier, Robert Allemeier, and Fredrick (Jean) Allemeier; and one sister: Lucille Gremaux.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 21, 2013 at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida with Fr. Mark Hoying and Fr. Elmer Wurth officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 2 to 8 p.m. on Friday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME, Jackson Township, 16085 St. Rt. 634, Fort Jennings.
Memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Hospice or to a charity of the donor's choice .
Condolences can be expressed at: www.lovefuneralhome.com.