Dolories N. Moreo
Jan. 12, 1942 - March 13, 2002
Dolories N. Moreo, 60, of Spencerville, died at 2:50 p.m. March 13 at her residence. She was born Jan. 12, 1942, in Van Wert, to John and Marjorie (Smith) Miller. On Nov. 3, 1961 she married John Moreo, who survives. Other survivors include four daughters, Wanda Gordon and Angela (Mark) Grothouse of Delphos, Beth Engstrand of Warsaw, Ind., and Carolyn (Dennis) Kraner of Ohio City; two brothers, Ronald Dean Miller of Idaho and Carl Miller of Middle Point; a sister, Donna (Daniel R.) Enoch of Middle Point; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sisters: Evelyn L. Burd and Virginia Miller; and three brothers: Billy F., John A. and Jerry L. Miller. Mrs. Moreo was a homemaker and a member of the Van Wert Veterans of Foreign Wars Post Auxiliary 5803 and of the Delphos Eagles Aerie 471. She enjoyed playing bingo. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Sunday at Harter & Son Memorial Chapel, Eric R. Schier officiating. Burial will be in Hartford Cemetery, Spencerville. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. Friday, and 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home, where the Ladies Auxiliary will hold a service at 7 p.m. Saturday.

Robert L. Coon
Aug. 28, 1920 - March 12, 2002
Funeral services for Robert L. Coon, 81, of Lima, who died 6 a.m. March 12 at his residence, will be 1 p.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Bonnie Oda officiating. Burial will be in Shawnee Cemetery, where military graveside services will be conducted by VFW Post 1275. He was born Aug. 28, 1920, in Allen County to Roy D. and Bessie F. (Fowler) Coon. On Jan. 4, 1944, he married Eva Jane Sevitz, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Gregory (Connie) Coon of Lima; a daughter, Debra (Ronald) Howard of Fort Myers, Fla.; four brothers, Jack (Joan) Coon, Roy (Sue) Coon and Richard (Marlene) Coon of Lima and Charles (Patsy) Coon of Elida; two sisters, Virginia Moler and Alice Hullinger of Chandler, Ariz.; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers-in-law, Carl Hullinger and Harold Moler. Mr. Coon retired from Tilton Co., as a sheet metal worker. He was a member of Unity Church of Lima, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 and Sheet Metal Workers LOC 98 and 24. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita's Hospice or World War II Memorial, Courthouse Plaza II, Suite 501, Clarendon Blvd., Arlington, Va., 22201.

Steven W. Baker
Dec. 14, 1952 - March 12,2002
Funeral services for Steven W. Baker, 49, of Van Wert, who died 1:43 a.m. March 12 at Van Wert County Hospital, will be 7 p.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be held at a later date. He was born Dec. 14, 1952, in Van Wert to Gaylord F. Baker and Sadie (Tinnel) Baker Gohl. Survivors include three sons, Kim Baker, Chris Bird and Elijah (Heather) Baker of Van Wert; three brothers, Gerald (Valerie) Baker of Ohio City, Terry Baker of Van Wert and Tim R. (Lisa) Baker of Paulding; and two grandchildren. Mr. Baker had been a salesman for various companies. He was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses in Van Wert. He was a U.S. Navy veteran. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Helen Tropek
Sept. 22, 1923 - Mar. 8, 2002
Helen Tropek, 78, of Lima, died 2:14 p.m. March 8 at St. Rita's Medical Center. She was born Sept. 22, 1923, in Brownsville, Pa., to Anthony and Mary (Spyrka) Fortuna. On June 16, 1946, she married Joseph R. Tropek, who died in 1983. Survivors include three daughters, Shirley (Donald) Sprague of Plano, Texas, Bette (Michael) Miller of Coral Springs, Fla., and Kathy Kunkleman of Dublin; two brothers, Anthony Fortuna of Brownsville and Joseph (Marlene) Fortuna of Mechanicsburg, Pa.; a sister, Anne Kosty of Brownsville; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Michael and John Fortuna. Mrs. Tropek was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church and volunteered to help count church collections. She was also a member of the Lioness Club and volunteered with the Lions Starlight Club for the Blind. She enjoyed ceramics and visiting with family. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Friday at St. Charles Catholic Church, the Rev. William J. Rose officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, where a Rosary service will be at 4 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society, 616 S. Collett, Lima, 45805 or St. Rita's Medical Center.

B. Ruth Golliver
May 6, 1922 - March 9, 2002
Funeral services for B. Ruth Golliver, 79, of Grover Hill, who died 2:56 p.m. March 9 at Northcrest Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Napoleon, will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Mandale Church of Christ in Christian Union, Mandale, the Rev. Don Rogers officiating. Burial will be in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill. She was born May 6, 1922, in Hoaglin Township, Van Wert County to Ferdinand and Vera (Lake) Adams. On Aug. 12, 1939, she married Alonzo T. Golliver, who preceded her in death in 1983. Survivors include a son, Gary (Kathryn) Golliver of Grover Hill; three daughters, Nancy (Anthony) Minnich of Lebanon, Tenn., Ruth Alice Whitman (Tom) Andrew of Florida and Diana (Banner) Meade of Napoleon; two sisters, Vera Belle Akom of Scott and Alta Hockenberry of Angola, Ind.; a brother, Jim Adams of Van Wert; 20 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a son, Larry D. Golliver; a daughter, Vicki Golliver; two sisters, Mabel DeLong and Leora Hoagland; two grandsons, Larry Golliver and David Combs; and four great-grandchildren. Mrs. Golliver was a homemaker and had been employed at U.S. Rubber Factory in Fort Wayne and McClure Meat Market in Grover Hill. She was a member of Mandale Church of Christ in Christian Union. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today and 8-11 a.m. Wednesday at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, and one hour prior to services Wednesday at the church. Preferred memorials are to donor's choice.

Hubert F. Leis
April 28, 1917 - March 9, 2002
Mass of Christian burial for Hubert F. Leis, 84, of Ottoville, who died at 6:50 a.m. March 9 at The Paradise Oaks Care Center, Cloverdale, will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery. Mr. Leis was born April 28, 1917, in Putnam County to Charles and Catherine (Looser) Leis. He married Alice A. Pohlman on June 28, 1947, and she survives in Ottoville. Other survivors include a son, Michael J. (Kim) Leis of Ottoville; a daughter, Karen (Donald) Wagner of Continental; two sisters, Louise (Romie) Lozano of Delphos, and Mary Catherine Koester of Ottoville; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by one brother, Carl Leis. Mr. Leis retired after 17 years from Fruehauf as a welder, and he was also a farmer. He served as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its Holy Name Society, and he was also a member of the VFW Post 3740 in Ottoville. Friends may call form 2-4 and 6-9 p.m. Monday at the Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be 3 p.m. and military rites will be conducted by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 at 7 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Ottoville EMS.

Margaret E. Askins
July 12, 1923 - March 8, 2002
Mass of Christian burial for Margaret E. Askins, 78, of Fort Jennings, who died 1:55 p.m. march 8 at Roselawn Manor, Spencerville, will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. She was born July 12, 1923, in Allen County to Albert and Genevieve (Mescher) Fisher. On April 27, 1940 she married Wendell "Bud" Askins who preceded her in death Sept. 15, 1992. Survivors include six sons, Wendell Daniel (Bonnie) Askins of Lima, David A. (Sally) Askins of Defiance, Ronald L. Askins, Steven F. Askins and William J. (Janice) Askins of Fort Jennings, and Frederick D. (Tina) Askins of Twinsburg; three daughters, Theresa E. (Michael) Vitantonio of Ocoee, Fla., Mary L. (Richard) Alger of Elida and Rebecca S. (Arnold) Osting of Fort Jennings; a brother, Paul (Theresa) Fisher of Fort Jennings; 23 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a son, Joseph Daniel Askins; a daughter, Margaret Ann Askins; and a grandson, Samuel Askins. Mrs. Askins was a homemaker, sold Avon for 30 years and worked as a cook at the Knotty Pine in Fort Jennings. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, and Catholic Ladies of Columbia, a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Auxiliary and a charter member of the American Legion Post 715. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a CL of C service will be 2:30 p.m., a parish wake service will be at 7 p.m. and a VFW Auxiliary service will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Putnam County Dialysis or Putnam County Visiting Nurses.

Mamie Kill-Hoersten
Oct. 23, 1911 - March 9, 2002
Mamie Elizabeth (Louth) Kill-Hoersten, 90, of Delphos, died 11:25 p.m. March 9 at her daughter's residence. She was born Oct. 23, 1911, in Spencerville to Lewis and Catherine (Romas) Louth. She married to Alphonse J. "Mike" Kill in May 1930. He preceded her in death March 13, 1961. She then married Othmer "Pete" Hoersten on Oct. 2, 1976. He also preceded her in death Sept. 4, 1989. Survivors include five sons, Gerald "Stoney" Kill and David (Etta) Kill of Spencerville, Glen (Maggie) Kill of Landeck, Roger (Pamm) Kill of Venedocia and Stanley Kill of Delphos; three daughters, Gloria "Sadie" (William) Bourk of Lima and Evelyn (Robert) Mills and Phyllis "Phud" (James) Calvelage of Delphos; 28 grandchildren and 46 great-grandchildren and two step-great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Eugene, Roland and Floyd Louth; and a sister, Myrtle Louth. Mrs. Kill-Hoersten was a homemaker who also enjoyed playing the piano, organ, harmonica and other musical instruments. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and a 46-year member of St. John the Baptist Church, Landeck, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Delphos Eagles Auxiliary and Delphos Mother of the Year in 1968. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in Spencerville Cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, where a parish wake service will be 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Animal Protection League, 730 Elson Ave., Van Wert, 45891.

Sandra K. McDonough
Nov. 8, 1947 - March 9, 2002
Sandra K. Davenport McDonough, 54, of Delphos, died 6:31 a.m. March 9 at St. Rita's Medical Center. She was born Nov. 8, 1947, in Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton to Homer and Ruth (Himes) Davenport. She married Charles McDonough, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include two daughters, Deana Gerdeman of Delphos and stepdaughter, Pamela McDonough of Spencerville; a stepson, Scott McDonough of Spencerville; a brother, Hank (Tina) Davenport of Toledo; a sister, Martha Shoemaker of Spencerville; two nephews, Matthew Davenport and Thomas Shoemaker; a niece, Barbara Grigsby; a great-niece, Jamie Grigsby; and a great-nephew, Jonathan Grigsby. Mrs. McDonough worked at Robert's Carryout, D&R Carryout and had been a pharmacy technician at Rite-Aid Pharmacy. She was also a homemaker. She was a 1966 graduate of Spencerville High School and had taken home studies in the medical field. She also wrote poetry. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery, Spencerville. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.

Alice M. Elliott
Mar. 11, 1923 - Mar. 9, 2002
Funeral services for Alice M. Elliott, 78, of Delphos, who died 4:10 p.m. March 9 at her residence, will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. William Schultz officiating. She was born March 11, 1923, in Harrisville to Jay and Alice (Dungan) Carothers. On Dec. 27, 1941, she married Lawrence F. Elliott, who preceded her in death. Survivors include three sons, Larry (Sherry) Elliott of Louisville, Ky., Master Chief Petty Officer Gerald (Diana) Elliott of Mystic, Conn., and Jeffrey (Mary Lou) Elliott of Cleveland; four daughters, Sherry (Jack) Adkins and Susan Elliott of Delphos, Sandra (Jim) Wagner of Brookpark and Lisa M. (Ron) Harter of League City, Texas; 12 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Mrs. Elliott retried from Bonnie Bell in Lakewood in 1984 and was a homemaker. She was a graduate of Adena High School and a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church. There is no visitation. Preferred memorials are to St. Peter Lutheran Church or Delphos Area Visiting Nurses.

Freda E. Smith
Feb. 4, 1915 - March 9, 2002
Funeral services for Freda E. Smith, 87, of Elida, who died 1a.m. March 9 at the home of her daughter, will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Sharon Mennonite Church, Elida, Pastors John Brunk and Gene Crisenbery officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. She was born Feb. 4, 1915, in Allen County to Jacob A. and Anna (Swartz) Brenneman. On June 17, 1934, she married Paul W. Smith, who preceded her in death Oct. 8, 1992. Survivors include two daughters, Elaine B. (Tillman) Bear of Elida and June B, (Edwin) Bontrager of Estacada, Ore.; three sons, Wendell P. (Marilynne) Smith, Carol R. (Marie) Smith and James B. (Ruth Ann) Smith of Elida; a sister, Elizabeth Ross of Orrville; 25 grandchildren and 60 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, a sister and a great-grandchild. Mrs. Smith was a homemaker. She was a member of Sharon Mennonite Church, Elida. She enjoyed singing and loved music, painting and playing the piano. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the church. Preferred memorials are to Elida Mennonite School.

Romaine Allen
Nov. 5, 1905 - March 8, 2002
Romaine Allen, 96, of Van Wert, died 10 p.m. March 8 at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. She was born Nov. 5, 1905, in Ridge Township, Van Wert County, to Joseph E. and Mabel (Wright) Knittle. On Sept. 10, 1927, she married Ralph L. Allen, who preceded her in death Jan. 5, 1989. Survivors include a daughter, Virginia (Harold) Shaw of Van Wert; two sons, Roger (Mary) Allen and David (Delores) Allen of Van Wert; a brother, Merl C. (Helen) Knittle of Van Wert; a sister, Florence Straley of Van Wert; seven grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by five brothers, Gale, Horace, Dean, Charles and George Knittle; a sister, Mary Etzler; and four grandchildren. Mrs. Allen retired from Van Wert County Hospital as a registered nurse and was a homemaker. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Van Wert, and its Missionary Society and United Methodist Women. She delivered Meals on Wheels and was a member of the Van Wert Nurses Association. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Gale Colvin officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may cal 4-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Trinity United Methodist Church, Van Wert.

Charlene Robertshaw
Jan. 1, 1950 - March 9, 2002
Charlene Robertshaw, 52, of Van Wert, died 6:50 a.m. March 9 at St. Rita's Hospital. She was born Jan. 1, 1950, in Van Wert to Charles Harvey and Doris LaMai (Yuhasz) German. Her mother survives in Celina. On May 1, 1986, she married Keith Robertshaw, who survives in Van Wert. Other survivors include four daughters, Lacy (Mark) Bruns of Rockford, Heather Lynn Whitaker of Van Wert and Ashley and Karri Robertshaw at home; a brother, Charles H. (LeAnn) German Jr., of Van Wert; five sisters, Sally (Rocky) Grant, Doris (Gordon) Finger, Tina (Mike) Pugsley and Sherry (Greg) Huston of Van Wert and Ricky German of Celina; and eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by an infant brother, Charles "Bub-Bubs" German. Mrs. Robertshaw was a homemaker. She was a member of Trinity Friends Church, Van Wert. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Neil Hammons officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Mary Mardelle Counts
Oct. 30, 1921 - Mar. 8, 2002
Funeral services for Mary Mardelle Counts, 80, formerly of Spencerville, who died 4:50 p.m. March 8 at Auglaize Acres Nursing Home, Wapakoneta, will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Ronald L. Shifley officiating. Burial will be in Spencerville Cemetery. She was born Oct. 30, 1921, in Spencerville to Ward Davis and Vesta (Doty) Bayman. On June 7, 1941, she married Floyd Clifford Counts, who preceded her in death on Aug. 7, 2001. Survivors include two sisters-in-law, Norma Mae DeLong and Grace Harruff of Lima; her caregivers niece Shirley Bayman and nephew Gerald (Jane) Siebert of Lima; and several other nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, George, Willard and Willis Bayman. Mrs. Counts was a homemaker. She was a member of Spencerville United Church of Christ and the Bowersock Brothers VFW Post 6992 Auxiliary. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today at the funeral home, where a VFW Auxiliary service will be 8:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer's Association or the Auglaize Acres Activity Fund in care of the funeral home.

W. Ray Glass
July 21, 1920 - March 8, 2002
Funeral services for W. Ray Glass, 81, of Van Wert, who died 1:10 p.m. March 8, at his residence, will be 1 p.m. Monday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Gerald Baker officiating. Burial will be in Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland. He was born July 21, 1920 in Tipton, to Denver Matthew and Vada (Robinson) Glass. On July 21, 1943, he married Betty Jane Hooker, who died Aug. 12, 1993. Survivors include a son, Dennis (Ruth) Glass of Scott; two daughters, Diana Glass of Van Wert and Rebecca Brotherwood of Haviland; a brother Harold "Buck" (Dorothy) Glass of Warsaw, Ind., a sister-in-law Rosanne Glass of Payne; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was a farmer and retired from Federal Mogul in 1985. He was a member of Trinity Friends Church, Van Wert and the Haviland Conservation Club. Friends may call 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to Community Health Professionals Hospice.

Faye Bechtel
May 29, 1919 - March 7, 2002
Funeral services for Faye Louise Bechtel, 82, of Lima, who died 12:40 a.m. March 7 at Lima Manor Nursing Home, will be 10 a.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, the Rev. Gary Hohman officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. She was born May 29, 1919 in Lima to Clarence and Opal (Rockwell) Johnson. On April 19, 1932 she married Harold G. Bechtel, who died Sept. 13, 1971. Survivors include three sons, Harold Dean (Sharon) Bechtel, James (Sondra) Bechtel and Gary (Sandra) Bechtel of Lima; a daughter, Karen (Harold) Van Horn of Elida; a sister, Betty Agler of Wapakoneta; 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Howard Johnson and Harold Eugene "Gene" Johnson; a sister, Cloe Johnson, and three grandchildren. Bechtel retired from Lima Memorial Hospital in 1978. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today and 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

David E. Ridinger
Dec. 15, 1917 - March 8, 2002
Funeral services for David E. Ridinger, 84, of Cairo, who died 8:40 a.m. March 8 at Lima Manor Nursing Home, will be 11 a.m. Monday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, the Rev. Gordon Kleiner officiating. Burial will be in Altstaetter Cemetery, Cairo. He was born Dec. 15, 1917, in Kalida to George and Elizabeth (Leatherman) Ridinger. On Aug. 24, 1958, he married Erma Brenneman, who survives in Cairo. Survivors also include a sister, Mary Brenneman; and six nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Leland Ridinger. Mr. Ridinger worked at Weather Seal in Ottawa and retired from Philips in Ottawa. He was a member of Cairo United Church of Christ and was a 32nd degree member of the Rufus Putnam Lodge 364 and past member of the former Kalida Lodge 280. He was also a member of Eastern Star. He was a graduate of Kalida High School. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home, where a Masonic Lodge service will be at 8 p.m. Sunday. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to Knights Templar Eye Foundation Inc., or Cairo United Church of Christ.

Elden K. Harner
Sept. 9 1926 - March 8, 2002
Funeral services for Elden K. Harner, 75, of Lima, who died 12:48 a.m. March 8, at St. Rita's Medical Center, will be 1 p.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Helen Gross officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery with graveside services conducted by VFW Post 1275. Harner was born Sept. 9, 1926 in Manoway to Elden R. and Vinnie A. (Roberts) Harner. On Dec. 31, 1985 he married Judy Harner, who survives. Other survivors include seven sons, Charles (Elaine) Harner of Talmadge, Mike Protsman of San Francisco, Marc Protsman of Columbus, Kenneth (Diana) Harner, Sonny (Alexandra) Harner, Raymond (Jennifer) Harner, and Tap Protsman of Lima; seven daughters, Roseanne Day and Vivian Lanza of California, Cindy (Dale) Morris of North Carolina, Kayla (Benito) Rosas of Fort Bliss, Texas, Maxine Harner, Sarah Harner and Jeanna Protsman of Lima; a sister, Mary Maxine Webb of Jeffersonville; 31 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, David Protsman; and a brother, Dale Harner. He worked maintenance at Clark Equipment. He was a member of the Abundant Life Temple, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6741, Elida, Blue Ghost of the Lady Lex, and was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving during World War II on the USS Lexington CV16 and was awarded nine Asiatic/Pacific Medals. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today and 2-8 Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer's Association of West Central Ohio, 892 S. Cable Road, Lima Ohio 45805.

Helen M. Rager
Jan. 28, 1921 - March 6, 2002
Funeral services for Helen M. Rager, 81, of Van Wert, who died 9:40 p.m. March 6 at Van Wert County Hospital, will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, John Rager officiating. Burial will be in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Van Wert. She was born Jan. 28, 1921, in Grover Hill to Ezra L. and Mamie L. (Fouts) Rager. She is survived by a sister, Irene (Rolland) Blockberger of Delphos; two brothers, Glen (Joan) Rager and Ralph E. (Joan) Rager of Van Wert; and 11 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Dorothy Cummins and Janet Ann Rager. Ms. Rager had been employed with the Dr. and Mrs. James Jarvis family for more than 40 years. She was a long-time member of Mount Pleasant Church in rural Van Wert and had recently been attending First Baptist Church, Van Wert. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Gideons International.

Agnes M. Nomina
July 22, 1917 - March 7, 2002
Agnes M. Nomina, 82, of Delphos, died 3:05 a.m. March 7 at Calvary Manor Nursing Home. She was born July 22, 1917, in Shepherd, Mich., to William and Elizabeth (Lemchule) Bendele. On Feb. 9, 1937, she married Francis C. Nomina, who died June 5, 1987. Survivors include six daughters, Diana Gordon of Bremerton, Wash., Sharon (Richard) Stepleton, Mary Jane (Jim) Schulte and Barbara (Richard) Recker of Delphos, Nanette (Andy) Kill of Troutdale, Ore., and Rose (Michael) Mox of Lima; two sons, Francis J. (Barbara) Nomina of Monticello, Ind., and William J. (Karen) Nomina of Delphos; 19 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Darlene Nomina; three brothers, Sylvarius, Sylvester and Jerome Bendele; three sisters, Celesta Dunn, Barbara Sroufe and Rita Stant; three grandchildren, Deb Nomina, Amy Schulte and Michael Mox; and great-grandchild, Paige McKinley. Mrs. Nomina was a homemaker and avid seamstress. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, and Catholic Ladies of Columbia 40. She also enjoyed farming. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Dan Borgelt officiating. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Saturday and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a CL of C service will be at 3 p.m. and a parish wake service will be at 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorials are to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church Building Fund.

Merle E. Reynolds
April 3, 1924 - March 6, 2002
Merle E. Reynolds, 77, of Lakeview, died 9:45 a.m. March 6 at his residence. He was born April 3, 1924, in Spencerville to Edward and Gladys (Savidge) Reynolds. On June 23, 1951, he married Betty R. Bryan, who died March 18, 2001. Survivors include two daughters, Brenda (Dan) Brueshaber of Bellefontaine and Sandra (Rennie) Putnam of Russells Point; a son, Edward A. Reynolds of Lakeview; two sisters, Violet (Paul) Ashton of Venedocia and Lela Barnes of Spencerville; a brother, Gail (Betty) Reynolds of Spencerville; six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two stepgrandchildren, and two step-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Ruby Jones and Doris Griffin; a brother, Roy Reynolds; and a great-grandson, Shawn. Mr. Reynolds was a mechanic at Anderson Ford in Bellefontaine for many years. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Van Horn Funeral Home, Lakeview. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Delphos, at 3 p.m. Saturday. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Mary Rutan Hospital Medical Assistance Program.

Richard G. Amstutz
Sept. 23, 1930 - March 5, 2002
Richard G. Amstutz, 71, of Van Wert, died 8:32 p.m. March 5 at his residence. He was born Sept. 23, 1930, in Lima to Noah E. and Carrie E. (Dunbar) Amstutz. On Aug. 17, 1950, he married Joan Gamble, who survives. Other survivors include three sons, Gregory A. (Michele) Amstutz and Terry L. Amstutz of Van Wert and Michael R. Amstutz of Fort Jennings; two sisters, Mary A. (William) Edwards of Toledo and Wilma J. (William) Jarrett of Locust Grove, Va.; a sister-in-law, Jane Gamble of Van Wert; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Wilfred Amstutz; and a nephew. Mr. Amstutz retired in 2001 from Federal Mogul, Van Wert, as a master mechanic, and also from Wells Motor Sales in Van Wert. He attended Northside High School in Fort Wayne and was a graduate of Shawnee High School, Lima. He served seven and one half years in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Missouri during the Korean War. He was a former leader of Boy Scout Troop 55 and a former member of the Advisory Committee of Explorer Post 55. He was a member of the U.S.S. Missouri Association. He was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Van Wert. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Wesley United Methodist Church, Van Wert, the Rev. Douglas Stockton officiating. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, where a military service will be conducted by the combined honors unit of the Van Wert American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts at 5:45 p.m. and a memorial service conducted by the Van Wert Navy Club Ship No. 726 will be at 7:45 p.m. Friends may call one hour prior to services Saturday at the church. Preferred memorials are to Wesley United Methodist Church, the Angel Foundation or Boy Scouts of America.

Archie W. Adams
Aug. 8, 1913 - March 5, 2002
Funeral services for Archie W. Adams, 88, of Lima, who died 3:45 p.m. March 5 at Lima Manor Nursing Home, will be 11 a.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Lee Walters officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Lima. He was born Aug. 8, 1913, in Adairsville, Ga., to U. James Scurry and Leila (Worsham) Adams. On Feb. 12, 1944, he married Cleo M. Price, who preceded him in death. Survivors include a stepdaughter, Betty (John) Schultheis of Lima; a stepgranddaughter, a step-great-granddaughter and a step-great-grandson. He was preceded in death by 15 brothers and sisters. Mr. Adams owned Barber College in Buffalo, N.Y. and taught at Barber College in Toledo. He also owned Adams Barbershop in Lima until he retired. He was a 50-year member of the Masonic Lodge, Fort Amanda 706. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home, where a Masonic memorial service will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Masonic Lodge 706, Free and Accepted Masons.

LaVerne F. Strayer
Jan. 23, 1914 - March 4, 2002
Funeral services for LaVerne F. "Dutch" Strayer, 88, of Lima, who died 2:55 p.m. March 4 at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos, will be 7 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Larry Snyder and Pastor Jim Kuhn officiating. Private burial will be at Greenlawn Cemetery, Elida. He was born Jan. 23, 1914, in Shawnee Township to Ross and Jesse (John) Strayer. On Feb. 25, 1933, he married Geraldine Detrick, who survives. Survivors also include two sons, Gerald (Wanda) Strayer and Ray (Nancy) Strayer of Lima; two brothers, Lyle and Arnold Strayer of Delphos; a sister, Dorothy Unland of Delphos; four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Griffith, Harold, Russell and Robert Strayer; and three sisters, Avonell Miller and Madella and Lucille Strayer. Mr. Strayer retired from Westinghouse, where he was a group leader and foreman. Friends may call 5-7 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Alzheimer's Association of West Central Ohio, 892 S. Cable Road, Lima, 45805.

Brett Spencer Begg
July 31, 1987 - Mar. 4, 2002
Mass of Christian burial for Brett Spencer Begg, 14, of Pandora, who died 6:30 p.m. March 4 at his home near Pandora, will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa, the Rev. Thomas Hemm officiating. Burial will be in Campbell Cemetery, near Columbus Grove. He was born July 31, 1987, in Bluffton to Kristina Begg Stevens. She and her fiancé, Steven Tomanicek survive near Pandora. Survivors also include a brother, Antonio Stevens of Pandora; a sister, Ari Stevens of Pandora; maternal grandparents, Dean and Nancy Begg of Columbus Grove; and maternal great-grandmother, Ruth Stover of Ottawa. Begg was an eighth-grader at Sts. Peter and Paul School, Ottawa. He played eighth grade football and also played soccer for many years. He recently received a superior rating at the Putnam County Science Fair. His project also received a special award from the Putnam County Dental Association. He enjoyed playing with electric trains and working on the computer. He also enjoyed building models of airplanes and trains. He had just been accepted and given a scholarship to attend St. Francis DeSales High School in Toledo. He aspired to be a computer programmer. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today with family present 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, where a scripture service will be at 3 p.m.

Velma F. Holmes
Nov. 20, 1915 - Mar. 4, 2002
Funeral services for Velma F. Holmes, 86, of Lima who died 12:05 a.m. March 4 at St. Rita's Medical Center, will be 11:30 a.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Mary Kay Brown officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. She was born Nov. 20, 1915, in Lima to Ivan and Ruth (Shockey) Wagner. On Nov. 20, 1948, she married Clyde Eugene "Gene" Holmes, who preceded her in death. Survivors include two daughters, Ruthella Sue Griffith and Kay Frances Neuman of Lima; a stepson, Jack Huff of Florida; two sons-in-law, Wayne Culp and Don Miner; a brother, Neil H. Wagner of Lima; two nieces, Jan (Ron) Weaver of Cairo and Ermel (Ron) Pulfer of Bluffton, S.C.; a nephew, Lantz (Deb) Wagner of Minnesota; and seven grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. Holmes had been a waitress at the Alpine Restaurant. She attended First Apostolic Church and was a member of the Senior Citizens, Eagles Aerie 370, Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 199 and VFW Post 1275 Auxiliary of Lima. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Darlene J. Brown
May 29, 1944 - Mar. 5, 2002
Darlene J. Brown, 57, of Van Wert, died 6:45 a.m. March 5 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. She was born May 29, 1944, in Washington, Pa., to Leroy and Gertrude (Brubaker) McCombs. On June 12, 1971, she married Philip R. Brown, who survives. Survivors also include a son, Shawn Brown of Van Wert; a daughter, Misty Shindeldecker of Van Wert; a sister, Violet (Dewey) Holesapple of McAllisterville, Pa.; and a grandchild. She was preceded in death by a brother, Edward McComb. Mrs. Brown was a homemaker. She was a member of Pentecostal Way Church, Van Wert. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Othmer A. Calvelage
Dec. 18, 1927 - Mar. 5, 2002
Othmer A. Calvelage, 73, of Ottoville, died March 5 at his residence. He was born Dec. 18, 1927, in Ottoville to Walter P. and Mary E. (Krieger) Calvelage. Survivors include a brother, Leander (Maneta) Calvelage of Delphos; and two sisters, Rita (Gumar) Weis of Ottawa and Loretta Hoffman of Delphos. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Eugene and Arthur Calvelage. Mr. Calvelage retired after 38 years from Philips D.C.G., Ottawa, where he was a member of the Quarter Century Club. He was also a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Holy Name Society. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Fort Jennings. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Friday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be at 7 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Repair Fund.

Richard J. Geiser
Dec. 17, 1922 - March 3, 2002
Richard J. "Dick" Geiser, 79, of Lima, died 8:24 a.m. March 3 at St. Rita's Medical Center. He was born Dec. 17, 1922, in Lima to John R. and Pauline E. (Krichbaum) Geiser. On July 26, 1947, he married Shirley J. (Keel) Geiser, who survives. He was preceded in death by a brother, Victor "Paul" Geiser; and a sister, Hildegarde Fehrmann. Mr. Geiser had worked at Westinghouse as an aerospace draftsman. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Immanual Lutheran Church, the Rev. Michael Phillips officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita's Hospice.

Leander H. Wittler
Nov. 11, 1924 - March 2, 2002
Leander H. Wittler, 77, of Fort Jennings, died 9:02 p.m. March 2 at Putnam County Ambulatory Care Center, Ottawa. He was born Nov. 11, 1924, in Fort Jennings, to John and Emma (Ellerbrock) Wittler. On June 29, 1946, he married Rosemary Becker, who survives. Other survivors include three sons, Allen "Doc" Wittler, Dean (Diane) Wittler and Neil (Ann) Wittler of Fort Jennings; three daughters, Kathleen (Ed) Kimmet of Fort Wayne, Patricia (Dan) Beckman of Troy and Rebecca (Randall) Murray of Delphos; seven brothers, Norman (Norma) Wittler, John (Mary Lou) Wittler and Robert (Joyce) Wittler of Delphos, Harold (Bea) Wittler of Melbourne, Fla., Eugene (Normie) Wittler of Defiance, Kenneth (Carol) Wittler of Ottoville and Leroy (Jane) Wittler of Fort Jennings; a sister, Eileen Calvelage of Delphos; and 15 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Elmer Wittler; and a sister, Rita Will. Mr. Wittler was owner and operator of Wittler Plumbing and Heating from 1959 until his retirement. He was a World War II Army veteran, a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, member and past commander of the Fort Jennings American Legion Post 715, a member of Delphos Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035, Ottoville VFW Post 3740 and Delphos Eagles Lodge 471. He had also been a former councilman for the village of Fort Jennings and drove a school bus for Fort Jennings Local Schools. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. today and 4-9 p.m. Wednesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will be 4 p.m. and an American Legion service will be 7:30 p.m. Wednesday. Preferred memorials are to St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund or donor's choice.

Donald J. Ulm
Feb. 15, 1914 - March 2, 2002
Donald J. Ulm, 88, formerly of Lima, died 9:20 a.m. March 2 at Fremont Memorial Hospital, Fremont. He was born Feb. 15, 1914, in Lima to John and Agnes (Lindeman) Ulm. Survivors include two brothers, Leonard Ulm and New Port Richey, Fla., and John Ulm of Loveland; and a sister, Ruth Ulm of South Palm Beach, Fla. He was preceded in death by a sister, Sr. Mary Grace Ulm; and two brothers, Eugene and Ed Ulm. Mr. Ulm retired after 33 years from the Lima Locomotive Works (Baldwin-Lima-Hamilton). He was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Lima. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Burial will be Gethsemani Cemetery Mausoleum. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Tuesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will be at 8 p.m.

William H. Ruskaup
Nov. 15, 1919-March 3, 2002
William H. "Rusty" Ruskaup, 82, of Van Wert, died 9:02 a.m. March 3 at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. He was born Nov. 15, 1919, in Cincinnati, to William H. and Rebecca (O'Connor) Ruskaup. On Oct. 2, 1939, he married Florine E. (Jenkins) Ruskaup, who survives. Other survivors include three sons, Donald G. Ruskaup and Michael W.H. (Linda Rose) Ruskaup of Naples, Fla., and Timothy (Sandra) Ruskaup of Antwerp; two daughters, Rebecca (Jack) Woodruff of Van Wert and Nannette (Steven) Ingle of Lehigh Acres, Fla.; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two grandchildren. Mr. Ruskaup was a crew leader at Continental Can Company, Van Wert, for 37 years until his retirement in 1974. He was a member of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, Van Wert. He served in Patton's Army in World War II and also served in the Civilian Conservation Corp. He was a member of Continental Can Company Retirees Club. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, with military graveside services conducted by the combined honors units of the Van Wert American Legion and Veterans of Foreign War posts. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Tuesday and one hour prior to services Wednesday at the funeral home.

Eileen F. Jarrell
Oct. 7, 1930 - March 1, 2002
Funeral services for Eileen F. Jarrell, 71, of Lima, who died 6:15 a.m. March 1 at St. Rita's Medical Center, will be 11 a.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Gary Hohman officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Hills Cemetery, New Hampshire. She was born Oct. 7, 1930, in Lima to Donald and Daisy (Cockrell) Hahn. In 1948, she married Raymond Reynolds, who preceded her in death. She then married Donald Gootee in 1950. He also preceded her in death. On Sept. 7, 1970, she married Roy E. Jarrell, who survives. Survivors also include four sons, Kenneth (Eva) Reynolds of Columbus Grove, Gary (Kim) Gootee of South Carolina, Rick (Marsha) Gootee of Delphos and John (Karen) Gootee of Delaware; a daughter, Sharon Gootee Hurst of Harrod; a stepdaughter, Anna Marie Jarrell of Waverly; four stepsons, James Jarrell and Gordon Jarrell of Galliopolis, Robert Jarrell, in the U.S. Navy, and Roy Jarrell of Daytona Beach, Fla.; two brothers, Donald Hahn of Clyde and John (Inze) Hyndman of Florida; three sisters, Nancy (Steve) Horvath, Esther Hooker and Anna Rosseler of Lima; 21 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Jerry T. Hurst; two sisters, Viola Hyndman and Maxine Kasier; and a great-grandson. Mrs. Jarrell was a homemaker. She was a member of Woodlawn Baptist Church and recently attended Lima Baptist Temple. She was a life member of Disables American Veterans Auxiliary, Allen County 19, and American Legion Post 96. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Joseph Bear
Aug. 23, 1918 - March 1, 2002
Funeral services for Joseph (Joe) G. Bear, 83, of Elida, who died 8:55 a.m. March 1 at his residence, will be 10:30 Monday at Sharon Mennonite Church, Elida, the Revs. John Brunk, William Bear and Lyndon Hartman officiating. Burial will be in Sharon Mennonite Cemetery, Elida. He was born Aug. 23, 1918 in Putnam County, to Frank and Margaret Matilda (Hicks) Bear. On June 20, 1942 he married Martha E. (Diller) Bear, who survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Luella (Eugene) Mullet of Newark, and Norma Brunk of Elida; four sons, Kenneth (Rita) Bear, Dwight (Arleen) Bear and David (Lily) Bear of Elida, and Ronald (Rhoda) Bear of Delphos; a brother, Harold Bear of Timberville, Va.; and two sisters, Mabel Breneman of Elida and Huldah Stemen of Delphos; a son-in-law, Lloyd Brunk Gallipolis; 26 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by six brothers, Paul, Clarence, Manford, David, Norman and Jacob Bear; and two sisters, Rowena Hammond and Margaret Bear. Mr. Bear was a farmer. He was a member of Sharon Mennonite Church, where he had served in the ministry for 21 years. He enjoyed farming, wood working and gardening. Friends may call 6-8 Saturday and 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, and one hour before services Monday at Sharon Mennonite Church, Elida. Memorial contributions can be made to Sharon Mission Fund.