Robert W. Cassaro
Nov. 7, 1916-Aug. 28, 2002
Robert W. Cassaro, 85, of Lima, died at 1:43 a.m. Aug. 28 at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Nov. 7, 1916, in Lima to Joseph and Esther (Cole) Cassaro. On June 6, 1936, he married Margaret Hollar, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include two daughters, Barb Shively of Lima and Cheryl (Dennis) Peters of Elida; two sons, Robert J. (Evelyn) Cassaro of Granada Hills, Calif., and Richard C. (Susan) Cassaro of Burnsville, Minn.; a sister, Helen Sarakaitis of Lima; and 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a great-great-grandchild. Mr. Cassaro worked at Ohio Steel-Teledyne in Lima for 45 years, retiring as a machinist. He attended Meadowbrook Baptist Church and was a member of Eagles Aerie 370, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 and DAV of Lima. He was a World War II Army veteran, serving from March 3, 1945 to June 12, 1946. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Pastor James Jamison officiating. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Elida, with military graveside services conducted by VFW Post 1275. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society, 616 S. Collett, Lima, 45805 or the American Heart Association.

Ralph J. Smith
Oct. 1, 1925-Aug. 27, 2002
Ralph J. Smith, 76, of Van Wert, died 11:35 p.m. Tuesday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. He was born Oct. 1, 1925, in Van Wert to Gayl R. and Florence Agnes (Pollock) Smith Hoffman. On Nov. 16, 1946, he married Ormal Shaw, who survives in Van Wert. Other survivors include a son, Kevin (Tina) Smith of Van Wert; two daughters, Karla (David) Boyce and Sandra (Dana) DeCamp of Van Wert; a half brother, Carl Hoffman of Tiffin; and eight grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Louise Thomas; and his stepfather, Adolph Hoffman. Mr. Smith retired in 1990 from Eisenhauer Manufacturing Company, Van Wert, after 45 years. He was past president of United Steel Workers Union 13029 and a member of Van Wert American Legion Post 178. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. James Howell officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Renal Care Group of Van Wert.

Helen Stallkamp
Oct. 9, 1908 - Aug. 27, 2002
Helen Wrocklage Stallkamp, 93, of Devon, Pa., formerly of Delphos and Akron, died 7:45 p.m. Tuesday at Paoli Memorial Hospital in Paoli, Pa. She was born Oct. 9, 1908, in Delphos to Theodore and Rose (Fetzer) Wrocklage. On June 24, 1933, she married Hubert G. Stallkamp, who preceded her in death. Survivors include three sons, James H. Stallkamp of Greenville, Del., William J. Stallkamp of Haverford, Pa., and Thomas T. Stallkamp of Bloomfield Hills, Mich.; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Theodore J. Wrocklage. Mrs. Stallkamp had been a teacher at St. John’s Schools. She was a graduate of St. John’s High School and Ohio State University. The Wrocklage family was one of the founding families of Delphos in the 1800s. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to services Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Helen’s name may be made to St. John’s Catholic School, 515 E. Second St., Delphos, 45833.

Robert D. Carder
March 6, 1942-Aug. 26, 2002
Robert D. Carder, 60, of Lima, died 10:25 p.m. Monday at his residence. He was born March 6, 1942, in Kenton to Herbert and Ruby (Howard) Carder. On June 18, 1970, he married Gail Reeves, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include two sons, Robert (Kelly) Carder of Dola and Greg Carder of San Diego, Calif.; a daughter, Debora (Michael) Nielson-Bright of Lima; and five grandchildren. Mr. Carder retired from Ford Motor Company in 1992 after 32 years. He served in the U.S. Army from Jan. 14, 1964 to Dec. 17, 1965 in the military police. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, the Rev. Joe F. Pumphrey officiating. 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.

Jimmie L. Ruffner
May 21, 1936-Aug. 26, 2002
Jimmie L. Ruffner, 66, of Lima, died 9:50 a.m. Monday at Veterans Administrative Center Hospital, Dayton. He was born May 21, 1936, in Casey, Ill., to Ernest and Susan (Hock) Ruffner. On March 11, 1961, he married Joyce Felver, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include two sons, Timothy (Nancy) Felver of Pandora and Jimmie A. (Venus) Ruffner of Lima; four daughters, Brenda (Matthew Gossman) Felver, Diana Lyle and Rhonda Zumbroegel of Lima and Cheryl (Randall) Busboom of Wapakoneta; a brother, Ernest Ruffner of California; a half brother, Paul Hock of Florida; 18 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three sons, Steven, Lewis and Richard Ruffner; three brothers, Bobbie, Donnie and Bill Ruffner; two sisters, Phyllis Wilcoxen and Donna Jean Ruffner; and a great-grandchild, Hayley Garland. Mr. Ruffner retired from Holland Hitch as a welder after 30 years. He was a U.S. Army veteran. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Robert Mabry officiating. Burial will be in Mendon Cemetery, with military graveside services conducted by the Spencerville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Veterans Administrative Center Hospital, 4100 W. Third St., Dayton, 45248 or Hospitality House.

Nolon J. Mosier
April 16, 1916-Aug. 26, 2002
Nolon J. "Red" Mosier, 86, of Middle Point, died 10:45 a.m. Monday at Van Wert County Hospital. He was born April 16, 1916, in Van Wert County to Joseph C. and Nan (Wells) Mosier. On Feb. 19, 1941, he married Edith Evelyn Walser, who died Sept. 3, 2001. Survivors include a daughter, Treva June Thatcher of Middle Point; and two grandchildren, Darrell (Misti) Allen and Carmel Chrisman. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Kenneth W., and Cecil Mosier; and two sisters, Edith Thatcher and Evelyn Starkey. Mr. Mosier had worked as a farmer, mechanic and welder and from 1959 to 1973, he was manager of the Middle Point Farmers Service Association and in 1980 he retired from working in farm drainage. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Middle Point, the National Coon Hunters Association, and was commander club of the Disabled American Veterans. He served in World War II as a command car driver in the 65th Medical Regiment. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Paul Miller officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point, with military graveside services conducted by the combined units of the Van Wert American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Trinity Lutheran Church or donor’s choice.

Beverly Powers Allen
July 13, 1929 - Aug. 26, 2002
Beverly Powers Allen, 73, of Elida, died 2:20 p.m. Monday at her residence. She was born July 13, 1929, in Gerard to John and Carrie (Hood) Notman. She had been married to George W. Powers, who preceded her in death. On Aug. 23, 1994, she married James Allen, who survives in Elida. Survivors also include three daughters, Jane Whitney (Tom) Clark of Elida, Karen (Robbe) Bluestein of Pleasant Plain and Ginny (Marc) Clemente of Pataskala; a stepdaughter, Amy (Alan) Chafin of Lima; a son, Jeff (Diane Hall) Powers of Pescadero, Calif.; two stepsons, Chris Allen of Lima and Mark Allen of San Francisco; a sister, Phyllis Barth of Sarasota, Fla.; a brother, Russell Notman of Syracuse, N.Y.; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Doris Notman and Shirley Wood. Mrs. Allen was a homemaker. For 14 years she also worked as the switchboard operator at Allen County Human Services. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Lima, the Rev. David M. Ross officiating. Burial will be n Gethsemani Cemetery. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where a parish wake will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801 or St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church.

Lucille G. Kuhlman
July 26, 1911 - Aug. 26, 2002
Lucille G. Kuhlman, 91, of New Cleveland, died 10:50 a.m. Aug. 26 at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Glandorf. She was born July 26, 1911, in Leipsic to Ferdinand and Euphemia (Otto) Ellerbrock. On Nov. 12, 1930 she married Cyril J. Kuhlman, who died March 14, 1987. Survivors include three sons, Joseph (Helen) Kuhlman of Leipsic, Earl (Nancy) Kuhlman of Kalida and Bill (Jane) Kuhlman of Ottawa; six daughters, Norma (Ray) Meyer, Virginia Landwehr and Janet (John) Repko of Ottawa, Betty (Jim) Richardson of Fort Jennings, Angie (Bob) Ricker of Delphos and Debra (Denny) Lammers of Glandorf; a daughter-in-law, Mary Lou Kuhlman of Ottawa; 35 grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren, 60 great-grandchildren, nine step-great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a son, Leroy Kuhlman; two sons-in-law, Don Landwehr and Alvin Maag; five brothers, Lawrence, Sylvester, Andrew, Alex and Vic Ellerbrock; three sisters, Catherine Kaufman, Esther Schroeder and Cecelia Ellerbrock; and three grandchildren. Mrs. Kuhlman was a homemaker and had worked at Oak Restaurant in Ottawa and Libby’s in Leipsic. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, New Cleveland, and its Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Friday at Holy Family Catholic Church, the Rev. Robert DeSloover officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Thursday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a scripture service will be 3:30 p.m. and an Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia rosary will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Edward Smith
May 6, 1914-Aug. 24, 2002
Edward Smith, 88, of Glandorf, died at 7:20 a.m. Saturday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born May 6, 1914, in Kalida to Anthony and Magdelena (Schroeder) Smith. On Aug. 4, 1945, he married Martha Hoffman, who died Dec. 24, 1986. Survivors include three sons, Donald Smith of Ottawa, Richard (Nancy) Smith of Kalida and Thomas (Joyce) Smith of Glandorf; a daughter, Jo Ann Smith of Glandorf; three brothers, Leonard Smith of Delphos and Thomas (Dorothy) Smith and Cy (Dorothy) Smith of Kalida; four sisters, Martha Fuerst and Esther (Ray) Halker of Columbus Grove, Norma Kurley of Shelby and Florence (Thomas) Freeman of Kalida; and nine grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Gilbert and Robert Smith; and a sister, Mary Brown. Mr. Smith was a farmer and had been employed at Manufacturers Plumbing Supply, Glandorf. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Glandorf, and its Holy Name Society, the Ottawa Knights of Columbus, a life member of the Ottawa American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars and Disabled American Veterans. He was in the 3rd Division, 7th Infantry of the U.S. Army during World War II, landing at Anzio Beach, Italy. He received the Purple Heart with two oak leaf clusters, three battle stars for the European, African and Middle Eastern campaigns, a Bronze star and the Good Conduct Medal and had been a prisoner of war. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Baptist Church, the Rev. Harry Brown officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military rites conducted by the Ottawa VFW and American Legion Posts. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a VFW service will be 7 p.m. and a Holy Name and Knights of Columbus Rosary will be 8:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Sr. Mary Virgie Say
Sr. Mary Virgie Say, 90, died Thursday at Notre Dame Health Care Center. She was born in 1911. She is survives by a brother, Dick Say. Sr. Mary Virgie entered the Notre Dame order at age 18 after studying with the Delphos order. She received her bachelor of arts degree from the former DeSales College in Toledo and a master of arts degree from St. Louis University. She taught in more than 12 elementary and high schools in Delphos, Toledo, Bellevue, Sandusky, Fremont, Norwalk and Fostoria from 1932 to 1983. She enjoyed typing letters to family and friends and listening to current events tapes and Cleveland Indians ball games. Services were held Saturday in the chapel at the Notre Dame Provincial Center. Preferred memorials are to the Sisters of Notre Dame.

Lowell W. Rase
April 28, 1947-Aug. 23, 2002
Lowell W. Rase, 55, of Spencerville, died 7:46 a.m. Friday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born April 28, 1947, in Texas to Lowell and Elsie Jean (Fox) O’Connell. He was later adopted by Ralph and Ruth Rase. On Jan. 4, 1992, he married Rebecca L. "Becky" Ringwald, who survives. Other survivors include two daughter, Tammy Sergeant and Suzanne (Jody) McClure of Van Wert; three sons, Craig, Brian and Tracy Race, also of Van Wert; three stepdaughters, Laura (Joe) Daily of Lima and Chris (Michael) Kingery and Carrie Wapplehorst of Spencerville; two brothers, Ron Diddle of Winterhaven, Fla., and Stephen Schaffner; and 17 grandchildren. Mr. Rase had been a self-employed residential contractor. He attended Crestview High School and served in the Army during the Vietnam Conflict. He enjoyed chatting on his computer. Funeral services will be 7 p.m. Sunday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Randy Boratka officiating. Burial will be in New Salem Cemetery, south of Monticello at a later date. Military rites will be conducted after funeral services Sunday at the funeral home. Friends may call 2-7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Donna J. McCoy
Jan. 22, 1918 - Aug. 22, 2002
Donna J. McCoy, 84, of Van Wert, died 2:55 Thursday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. She was born Jan. 22, 1918 to Samuel Lee and Inez Marie (Hidy) Rice. On April 27, 1940, she married Carl C. McCoy, who died in 1978. Survivors include a daughter, Carolyn "Care" (Stephen) Placke of Van Wert; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Barb McCoy; a son, Joe McCoy; two brothers, George and Delbert Rice; and two sisters, Neva Harris and Ferne Chilcote. Mrs. McCoy owned and operated McCoy’s Flowers in Van Wert for many years. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Van Wert, where she was active in activities, the American Business Women’s Association and the Van Wert YWCA. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at First Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Dr. Edward Jillson officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Sunday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and one hour prior to services Monday at the church.

Loretta M. Miller
Sept. 13, 1947 - Aug. 22, 2002
Loretta M. Miller, 54, of Kalida, died 6:24 p.m. Thursday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Sept. 13, 1947, in Lima to Arthur and Mary (Morman) Recker. On April 26, 1969, she married Karl Miller, who survives in Kalida. Other survivors include a son, Kurt (Joann) Miller of Kalida; a daughter, Sarah (Cody Carroll) Miller at home; two brothers, Bill (Charlene) Recker of Lima and Joe (Tammy) Recker of Cridersville; four sisters, Therese (Frank) Wallen, Ann (Robert) Frieson and Judy (Bill) Kelly of Lima and Alice (Randy) Wanner of Del Rae Beach, Fla.; and a granddaughter. Mrs. Miller was co-owner of Dick’s Restaurant in Kalida and had worked at the Putnam County Clerk of Courts. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida, and its Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia. She was a 1965 graduate of Lima Central Catholic High School and was on the board of directors of the Putnam County District Library and a CCD volunteer teacher. Mass of Christian burial will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at St. Michael Catholic Church, the Rev. Scott Kramer officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Sunday and Monday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where an Altar Rosary Society and CL of C service will be 8:30 p.m. Sunday and a scripture service will be 3:30 p.m. Monday. Preferred memorials are to St. Michael CCD Program or the Putnam County Library.

Victoria Mesker
Aug. 23, 1947 - Aug. 22, 2002
Victoria "Vicky" Mesker, 54, of Delphos, died 11:28 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Aug. 23, 1947, in Delphos to Frank H. and Dorothy F. (Ruen) Mesker. Survivors include three sisters, Bernice "Nootsie" Porter and Bev (John) Jameson of Delphos and Irene (Ernie) Barnes of Coco, Fla.; and four brothers, Done (Jeanette) Mesker of Arthur, Larry "Buck" Mesker and Tony (Margee) Mesker of Delphos and Ken (Donna) Mesker of Marshal, N.C. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Richard, Frank and Dale Mesker; and two sister, Linda Mesker and Mary Winhover. Ms. Mesker worked at Van Dyne Crotty of Delphos and formerly worked at Howard Johnsons in Lima. She was a member of the Ottoville Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary, Delphos Eagles 471 Auxiliary and St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. She enjoyed country music. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home, where a VFW Auxiliary service will be 3 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the local humane society.

Louise M. Niswander
Oct. 16, 1913 - Aug. 22, 2002
Louise M. (Cook) Niswander, 88, of Columbus Grove, died 3:50 a.m. Aug. 22 at Hilty Memorial Home, Pandora. She was born Oct. 16, 1913, in Pandora to Roy M. and Lydia (Sutter) Cook. On May 19, 1939, she married Karl M. Niswander, who died Dec. 23, 1980. Survivors include two sons, Larry (Karen) Niswander of Onsted, Mich., and Ronald (Elaine) Niswander of Oracle, Ariz.; a daughter, Rachel Schaadt of Decatur, Ind.; two brothers, Robert Cook of Rawson and Paul (Margaret) Cook of Findlay; a sister, Sally (Charles) Bright of Findlay; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Roy and Daniel Cook; and a sister, Justine Thorp. Mrs. Niswander taught home economics and music in Waterville, Cairo and Vaughnsville school systems, retiring in the mid 1960s. She was a graduate of Pandora High School and Manchester College, Manchester, Ind. She was a member of Pandora Methodist Church, where she also served as church organist, and a had been choir director at Columbus Grove United Methodist Church. She enjoyed crocheting and music. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Pandora United Methodist Church, Pastor Mark Hollinger officiating. Burial will be in Truro Cemetery, Columbus Grove. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Sunday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, and one hour prior to services Monday at the church. Preferred memorials are to Pandora United Methodist Church.

Eva Jane Coon
Dec. 7, 1921 - Aug. 22, 2002
Eva Jane Coon, 80, of Lima, died 10:12 a.m. Aug. 22 at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Dec. 7, 1921 in Allen County, to Walter C. and Rose Mae (Billings) Sevitz. On Jan. 4, 1944, she married Robert L. Coon, who died March 12. Survivors include a daughter, Debra (Ronald) Howard of Fort Meyers, Fla.; a son, Gregory (Connie) Coon of Lima; three sisters, her twin Reva Myers, and Gertrude Truesdale of Lima and Betty Simpson of Kenton; and eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Harry, Walter and Robert Sevitz; and two sisters, Edna Thompson and Mildred Sevitz. Mrs. Coon was a self-employed beautician for 20 years and also worked at the Tank Depot during the war. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Bonnie Oda officiating. Burial will be in Shawnee Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 3-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801.

Melvin F. Westrich
Dec. 4, 1911 - Aug. 21, 2002
Melvin F. Westrich, 90, of Delphos, died 2:15 a.m. Wednesday at the Sarah Jane Living Center, Delphos. He was born Dec. 4, 1911, in Delphos, to Milton and Rose (Grothouse) Westrich. On Oct. 31, 1940, he married Adelia "Dee" Wehinger, who survives in Delphos. Also surviving are three daughters, Linda Gerdenich of Aspen, Col., Dee Ann (Dennis) Lause of Riverside, Calif., and Kay (Mark) Rasmus of Maumee; one son, Jack (Jane) Westrich of Delphos; one sister, Maneta Heck of Germfask, Mich.; a sister-in-law, Eunice Westrich of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Mat Gerdenich, Wendy Gerdenich Schepferman, Julie Lause, Brian Lause, Alison Rasmus, Markus Rasmus, Colin Westrich, Corey Westrich Grothaus; Great-grandchildren Claire Gerdenich, Annie Gerdenich, Will Schepferman and Brady Grothaus. He was preceded in death by a sister, Katherine Weaver; and one brother, Ralph Westrich. Mr. Westrich graduated from Jefferson High School in May of 1930, and started Westrich’s in October 1937. He joined the Delphos Fire Department in 1942 and retired from there in 1984 with 42 years of service. He was a member of the Peri-Ohio Employee Retirement, Inc., the Ohio Library Council, the Delphos Public Library Board as trustee for 39 years, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, a life member of the Knights of Columbus Council 1362, a charter member of the Delphos Club, Delphos Country Club and Delphos Rotary Club, where he was a Paul Harris Fellow and had perfect attendance for 45 years; a member of the Delphos Chamber of Commerce for 45 years, the Delphos Bowling Association, and was inducted in the Bowlers Hall of Fame. He was active in all local charities, along with the Delphos Canal Commission and was instrumental in establishing the Canal Parking Lot. He was also active in organizing parades for the Old Fashioned Canal Days, the Delphos Centennial and the State Fireman’s convention. He was Delphos Herald’s Tri-County Man of the Year in 2001. He also played semi- professional baseball for the Delphos City Team from 1930-1940 and was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Thursday and 2-8 p.m. Friday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, where the Knights of Columbus will hold a rosary at 7:45 p.m. Friday and a parish wake service will be at 8 p.m. Friday. Memorial Contributions may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, St. John Catholic Schools or donor’s choice. The family would like to recognize all of Westrich’s caregivers at Sarah Jane Living Center, especially Alene Grothouse.

Mary A. Hoersten
April 21, 1915 - Aug. 21, 2002
Mary A. Hoersten, 87, of Ottoville, died 11:50 a.m. Wednesday at Lima Convalescent Home. She was born April 21, 1915, in Fort Jennings to Anton and Elizabeth (Wieging) Berelsman. On May 4, 1938, she married Felix "Sandy" Hoersten, who died May 7, 1967. Survivors include two sons, Harold (Connie) Hoersten of Ottoville and Clete (Carol) Hoersten of Delphos; two daughters, Patricia Hoersten of Ottoville and Marilyn (Wayne Girod) Hoersten of Delphos; a daughter-in-law, Mary Ann Hoersten of Kalida; three brothers, Linus Berelsman of Delphos, Albert Berelsman of Fort Jennings and Norbert Berelsman of Lima; two sisters, Bernadine Hoersten and Olivia Eickholt of Ottoville; 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Eugene Hoersten; three brothers, William, Ambrose and Hubert Berelsman; and three sisters, Margaret Erhart, Cecelia Plescher and Loretta Leatherman. Mrs. Hoersten was a homemaker and cooked at the Delphos Country Club. She also worked at Meyer’s Cleaners. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. Saturday and 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake will be at 3 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorials are to the American Diabetes Association, Lima Convalescent Home or St. Rita’s Hospice.

Elizabeth L. Ermi
Jan. 5, 1920 - Aug. 20, 2002
Elizabeth Louise Ermi, 82, of Lima, died 8 a.m. Tuesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Jan. 5, 1920, in Pittsburgh, to Martin and Anna Marie (Nikerle) Batory Sr. On March 4, 1940, she married August Ermi Sr., who died Oct. 21, 1996. Survivors include a son, August "Augie" (Ruby) Ermi Jr. of Kennewick, Wash.; two daughters, Mary Ann (Murrell) Wheeler of Lima and Barbara (Alan) Tashman of Placerville, Calif.; two sisters, Mary Ann Beatty of Pittsburgh and Ann (Wilbur) Keubler of Jacksonville, N.C.; a brother, Martin (Suzanne) Batory Jr. of Crestline; two nieces, Helen Miller of Crestline and Mary D’Arcangelis of Portage, Mich.; two nephews, John Ermi of Crestline and Armando Ermi of Islandton, S.C.; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Eleanore Ermi. Mrs. Ermi was a homemaker and member of St. Gerard Catholic Church, Lima. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Gerard Catholic Church, the Rev. Henry Sattler officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where a parish wake will be 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Medical Center or St. Gerard Catholic Church.

Clarence Cook
Sept. 21, 1916- Aug. 20, 2002
Clarence Cook, 85, of Haviland, died 7:30 a.m. Tuesday at the home of his son near Five Span. He was born Sept. 21, 1916, in Eifort to Edward O. and Ada May (Smith) Cook. His stepfather was Walter E. Stroh. On Nov. 3, 1946, he married Christina Leonard, who died Dec. 24, 1998. Survivors include a daughter, Victoria (Nick) Spencer of Oakwood; two sons, Clifford Cook of Haviland and Joseph (Betty) Cook of Five Span; two half sisters, Wilma Jean Everman of Portsmouth and Marian Frances Stroth of Blackfork; a half brother, Warren "Buzz" Stroth of Jackson; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two half sisters, Anna Lee Rutledge and Betty Lou Powell; and a great-grandson, Noah Keller. Mr. Cook worked as a carpenter and as a press operator at Federal Mogul in Van Wert, retiring in 1981. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Van Wert, and was an Army veteran of World War II, having served from 1941 to 1945 in the 607th Coast Artillery Battery and was a gun crewman during Pearl Harbor. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Tim Burden officiating. Burial will be in Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland, with military graveside rites conducted by the combined honor units of American Legion Post 178 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5803. Friends may call 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Thursday and one hour prior to services Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Trinity United Methodist Church, Van Wert.

Rev. John M. Hoffmann
May 27, 1929 - Aug. 19, 2002
Funeral services for the Rev. John M. Hoffmann, 73, of Gomer, who died 10:45 a.m. Monday at his residence, will be 4 p.m. Wednesday at Gomer United Church of Christ, the Revs. Brian Knoderer and Frank Isaacs officiating. Burial will be in Gomer Cemetery. He was born May 27, 1929, in St. Louis, Mo., to Arnold J. and Louise (Morrison) Hoffmann. He married Wanda E. Wilson, who survives in Gomer. Survivors also include two daughters, Linda (Jim) Smedinghoff of Wheaton, Ill., and Diane Kuhnen of Warrenville, Ill.; a son, Arnold J. (Jane) Hoffmann of Huntersville, N.C.; four stepsons, Steven Miller of Bartlett, Ill., Tim (Debbie) Miller of Fort Smith, Ariz., Jeff Miller of Tucson, Ariz., and Greg (Beth) Miller of Waynesfield; two stepdaughters, Bonnie (Ken) Dison of Menomonee Falls, Wisc., and Wendy Strack of Findlay; nine grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Rev. Hoffmann was a clergyman since 1954. He was a member of Gomer United Church of Christ, the Elks and enjoyed playing the tuba. He was also a past member of the Bath Community Band. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. Wednesday at the church. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice.

Diana Kay Aguirre
Sept. 13, 1966 - Aug. 18, 2002
Diana Kay Aguirre, 35, of Alger, died 12:50 a.m. Sunday on State Route 235 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. She was born Sept. 13, 1966, in Kenton to John and Melinda E. (Nichols) Bailey. Her father and stepmother, John and Wilma Bailey, survive in Alger and her mother and stepfather, Melinda and Michael Carpenter survive in Huntsville. She first married Robert Leiber. They divorced and he survives in Alger. On Feb. 19, 2001, she married John "David" Aguirre, who survives in Columbus Grove. Other survivors include a son, Jeremiah D. Leiber of Alger; a daughter, Ashley N. Leiber of Alger; two brothers, Johnny B. Bailey of Ada and Thad Bailey of McGuffy; two sisters, Jackie Bailey of Bellefontaine and Angie (Joseph) Freytag of Alger; maternal grandmother Doris M. Nevers of Bellefontaine; paternal grandmother Maxine Patrick of Alger; and several aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and two nieces. She was preceded in death by paternal grandfather Otis Bailey. Mrs. Aguirre was a homemaker. She attended Victory Chapel of Praise in rural Alger and was a 1985 graduate of Upper Scioto Valley High School. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Alger, Pastors David and Sandra Schneer officiating. Burial will be in Preston Cemetery, Alger. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday and until the time of services Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to her children.

Mary Kathryn Eickholt
April 7, 1951 - Aug. 19, 2002
Mass of Christian burial for Mary Kathryn "Kathy" Goedde Eickholt, 51, of Cloverdale, who died 9:25 a.m. Aug. 19 at her residence, will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville. She was born April 7, 1951, in Lima to James R. and Marge (Sargent) Donovan. Her father survives in Lima and her mother survives in Cloverdale. In 1999, she married John S. Eickholt, who survives. Other survivors include three sons, Chad Eickholt of Ottoville, Jeffrey Goedde of Lima and Shawn Blanchard of Cloverdale; two daughters, Tricia (Scott) Luthman of Columbus and Dawn (Stan) Mansfield of Cloverdale; two brothers, James Donovan Sr. of Cloverdale and Jeff (Pam) Donovan of Lima; four sisters, Patricia (Archie) Anderson of North Carolina, Jennifer Donovan of Spencerville, Sue (Greg) Brown of Lima and Christine (Jeff) Stemen of Virginia Beach, Va.; and two grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, John Frederick Goedde. Mrs. Eickholt had been an administrative assistant for Child and Family Services and also worked at Personal Growth Counseling. She was on the Aids Task Force and was a homemaker. She was a volunteer for United Way, was instrumental in the startup of Consumer Credit Counseling in Lima and had worked in various nursing homes in Lima doing physical therapy and rehabilitation. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake will be at 3 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Flower Fund or the American Cancer Society.

Elizabeth S. Fritz
April 15, 1902 - Aug. 18, 2002
Elizabeth S. Fritz, 100, formerly of St. Marys, died 2:15 p.m. Sunday at the home of her niece, Sandra (Gary) Halbert of Sebring, Fla. She was born April 15, 1902, in Venedocia to H.B. and Mary (Meihls) Sunderland. On June 5, 1948, she married James F. Ellsworth, who died Oct. 27, 1959. On Nov. 23, 1973, she married Charles A. Fritz, who died March 7, 1986. Survivors include three stepdaughters, Gloria (David) Freet of Covina, Calif., and Marilyn (Robert) Colwell and Susan (Charles) Pixler of Defiance; a sister, Mary Montague of Huntington, Ind.; two nephews, Sam Sunderland of Georgia and Mike Miller of Arizona; and five nieces, Sandra Halbert of Florida, Linda Bean and Natalie Carroll of Indiana, Janice Wright of Ohio and Judy Strayer of Elida. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Robert, J.B., Harmon and James Sunderland; and six sisters, Dorothy Dickman, Emma Sunderland, Ruth Furry, Martha Miller, Helen John and Donna Sunderland. Mrs. Fritz retired in 1962 as a secretary with City Loan and Savings in Lima after 26 years of service. She was formerly a member of Trinity United Methodist Church and choir in Spencerville and also the First Presbyterian Church and choir in St. Marys and was a member of First Baptist Church, Sebring. She was also a member of the Lima Susanna Russell Chapter of the D.A.R., which set a record at the time for the most sisters in one chapter. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. John G. Medaugh officiating. Burial will be in Spencerville Cemetery. Friends may call 3-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

William E. Oglesbee
Aug. 22, 1921 - Aug. 17, 2002
William E. Oglesbee, 80, of Van Wert, died 11 a.m. Saturday at his residence. He was born Aug. 22, 1921, in Jackson Township, Van Wert County, to George and Anna (Foulk) Oglesbee. On May 4, 1942, he married Rosemary Webster, who survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Mary Ann (Ivan) Rockwell of Traverse City, Mich.; a daughter-in-law, Lee Ann Oglesbee of Piqua; five grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by a son, William E. Oglesbee. Mr. Oglesbee was a retired farmer and had also worked at M&W Trailers in Ottoville. Private family services will be held with burial in King Cemetery, Washington Township. Arrangements are by Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert.

Charles D. Jacobs
Oct. 20, 1919-Aug. 16, 2002
Charles D. Jacobs, 82, of Van Wert, died 11:40 a.m. Friday at Van Wert Manor Nursing Home. He was born Oct. 20, 1919, in Decatur, Ind., to Thomas A. and Eva Pearl (Snyder) Jacobs. Survivors include four sisters, Hazel Mason and Mary Jacobs of Van Wert, Dorothy Windsor of Fort Wayne and Margaret Patch of Decatur. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Ida and Florence Jacobs. Mr. Jacobs had served in the U.S. Army for more than 20 years, where he served during World War II in the Philippines, the Korean War and the Vietnam Conflict. Burial of the cremated remains will take place at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Dennis J. Maas
June 9, 1955 - May 29, 2002
Dennis J. Maas, 46, formerly of Ottawa, died May 29 in St. Regis Montana from injuries sustained in a semi-tractor trailer accident. He was born June 9, 1955, in Detroit to Norbert and Jeannette (Maag) Maas. His mother survives in Ottawa. Other survivors include two sons, Justin and Kyle Maas of Rock Springs, Wyo.; four brothers, Raymond Maas and David (Alice) Maas of Ottawa, Ricky (Dianne) Maas of Miller City and Rodney (Christine) Maas of Deshler; a sister, Linda (Robert) Nichols of Ottawa; 21 nieces and nephews and three great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Steven Maas. Mr. Maas was employed at Veik Trucking Co., Missoula, Mont. He was a 1976 graduate of Ottawa-Glandorf High School. Memorial services will be 7 p.m. Friday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa, the Rev. James Miller and Deacon James Rump officiating. Burial of the cremated remains will be in Holy Family Cemetery, New Cleveland. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Ottawa. Preferred memorials are to the local food pantry or donor’s choice.

Amber Kirchenbauer
April 1, 1981 - Aug. 17, 2002
Amber Lea Kirchenbauer, 21, of Antwerp, died 5 a.m. Saturday at Paulding County Hospital. She was born April 1, 1981, in Van Wert to David Kirchenbauer of Van Wert and Jacqueline M. (Bob) Crouch of Celina. Survivors include two brothers, David L. Kirchenbauer II of Van Wert and Christopher M. Crouch of Celina; a sister, Melanie A. Kirchenbauer of Van Wert; a stepbrother, Juston Crouch of Celina; grandfather, Lester Kirchenbauer of Van Wert; maternal grandmother, Mary Wallace of Novi, Mich.; stepgrandparents Melvin and Madonna Crouch of Celina; and three aunts, Linda (Kirchenbauer) Bagley of Van Wert, Barbara Ross of Santa Anna, Calif., and Michele Tufenkjian of Howell, Mich. Miss Kirchenbauer had been employed at I&K Distributing of Delphos. She was a 1999 graduate of Celina High School, where she was active in track, cross country and Amnesty International. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Calvary Evangelical Church, Van Wert, Pastor Clark Williman officiating. Burial will be in Mercer Memory Gardens, Celina. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to Amnesty International.

Gladys E. Croft
June 23, 1904 - Aug. 16, 2002
Funeral services for Gladys E. Croft, 98, formerly of Lima, who died 4:51 a.m. Aug. 16 at the Otterbein-Cridersville Care facility, will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Carl Miller officiating. Burial will follow in Spencerville Cemetery. She was born June 23, 1904, in Logan Township, Auglaize County, to Samuel and Valdora (Leonard) Cook. On Feb. 17, 1922, she married Charles H. Croft, who died July 19, 1944. Survivors include several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by six brothers, Pearl, William, Ralph, George, Russell and Luther Cook; and three sisters, Rena Baber, Virginia Blackburn and Lottie Kurtz. Mrs. Croft and her husband had owned and operated Croft Meat Market in Spencerville until 1945. She then worked at Neon Products for 12 years and later at El Dora Dairy in Lima. She attended Gardendale Church of God in Lima and later was a member of Harvest Baptist Church in Wapakoneta. She was an active member of the Lima Senior Citizens, where she enjoyed the bowling league. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Marguerite Yeager
Feb. 6, 1917 - July 21, 2002
Marguerite (Stigall) Yeager, 85, of Rock Falls, Ill., died July 21 at Prophets Good Samaritan Nursing Home, Prophetstown, Ill. She was born Feb. 6, 1917, in Rock Falls to Bert R. and Henrietta (Jensen) Stigall. On June 3, 1937, she married Byers Yeager, who died Jan. 23, 1974. On Aug. 31, 1982, she married Seth Yeager, who died Dec. 16, 1997. Survivors include a daughter, Nancy (Gerald) Davis of Rock Falls; a son, Dennis (Grace) Yeager of Iowa City, Iowa; a brother, Walter "Bud" (Darla) Stigall of Rock Falls; a sister-in-law, Kathryn (Duard) Wolfe of Sterling; seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by an infant sister; two stepbrothers, William and Earl Howard; a stepsister, Dorothy Akridge; and two nephews, Rodney Fullmer and Lee Wolfe. Mrs. Yeager was a homemaker. She was a 1936 graduate of Jefferson High School. She was a member of Rock Falls United Methodist Church and a past member of the Ladies of Elks and a former Girl Scout and Brownie leader. Mrs. Yeager’s remains were buried in Oak Knoll Memorial Park, Sterling,