Robert V. Rinard Jr.
May 29, 1915-Jan. 30, 2003
Robert Vaughn Rinard Jr., 87, of Van Wert, died at 1:40 a.m. Thursday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. He was born May 29, 1915 in Findlay, to Robert V. and Grace (Barnt) Rinard Sr. On June 6, 1938 he married Marcile (Brickner) Rinard, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Alan V. (Beth) Rinard of Columbus; four daughters, Elaine (John) Varalla of Huntington Beach, Calif., Kathy (Al) Cook of Dublin, Linda (Doug) Snyder of College Station, Texas, and Debra Rinard of Phoenix; two sisters, Katherine Porter and Betty Hoverman of Delphos; and eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas Rinard. Rinard worked at Central Mutual Insurance Company from 1947-1975 when he retired vice president of automobile underwriting. In 1977 he was appointed director of the Van Wert County Welfare Department from which he retired in 1990. He was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert. He was a graduate of Delphos Jefferson High School and attended Giffin College. He was an Army veteran of World War II and served in the European Theater of Operations where he earned 3 Bronze Stars, the Purple Heart and Good Conduct Medal. He was a member of the Van Wert American Legion Post 178, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5803 Van Wert, Disabled American Veterans, Elks Lodge 1197, Van Wert, Knights of Columbus Council 6034, Chairman of the Van Wert County Selective Service Board from 1948-1971, charter member and past president of the Van Wert Jaycees, state trustee of the Ohio Jaycees, Jaycee Boss of the Year in 1958, past president of the Van Wert Chamber of Commerce in 1963, campaign chairman for the American Red Cross, YMCA membership drive, and the Van Wert United Fund. He served on boards for the YMCA, Van Wert County United Health Foundation, Van Wert County Health Services Council, Van Wert County Comprehensive Mental Health Services Inc., 648 Mental Retardation Board, Chamber of Commerce, NW Mental Health Clinic in Lima. He was the first President of the Van Wert County Comprehensive Planning Council. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, where graveside military rites will be conducted by the Honors Unit of Van Wert American Legion Post 178 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5803. Friends may call 2-5 and 7-9 p.m. Sunday at Brickner Funeral Home, where a parish vigil will be at 8:45 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church or the Van Wert Fire Department and EMS.

Orman Lavelle Renner
April 11, 1918 - Jan. 28, 2003
Orman Lavelle Renner, 84, of Gomer, died 1:10 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos. He was born April 11, 1918 in Mandale, to Oscar and Jessie (Caskey) Renner, who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were a son, Allan Keith Renner, who died Feb. 16, 2002
; a brother, Dale Renner, and two brothers-in-law, Richard E. Lewis and Merlin Benroth.He married Margaret Lloyd, who survives in Gomer. Mr. Renner was a farmer for 65 years, working with his father and two brothers. He was also employed for a short time at the Lima Ford Engine Plant. He was a member of Gomer United Church of Christ. He attended Gomer School, was a member of the Gomer Dad's Club and Lima Farmer's Club. For 25 years he was director on the Allen County Fairboard. He was the grand marshal of the fair parade in 2000, in honor of his service to the organization. He loved the Gomer community, friends and family, gardening and traveling, especially to Ohio fairs, antique car shows and parades. Survivors include a daughter, Linda (David) Whittington of Gomer; a daughter-in-law, Jill Renner; three grandchildren, Cynthia (Scott) Neubert, Traci (Bart) Wheeler and Jerrod Renner; and two great grandsons, Evan and Alex Neubert. Also surviving is a brother, John (Deloris) Renner of Gomer; and five sisters, Methel Benroth of Bluffton, Mary (Dave) Humphreys of Gomer, Helen Lewis of Lima, Norma (Lewis) Martz of Cairo and Margie (Tom) Bourne of Scottsdale, Ariz.; a sister-in-law, Carol Renner; and many nieces and nephews. Services will begin 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Brian Knoderer officiating. Burial will be in Pike Run Cemetery, Gomer. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Gomer United Church of Christ

Harry L. Jenner
Nov. 2, 1946-Jan. 26, 2003
Harry L. Jenner, 56, of Elida, died at 10:19 p.m. Sunday at St. Rita's Medical Center. He was born Nov. 2, 1946 in Lima, to Harry V. and Dorothy (Bercaw) Jenner. His father and stepmother, Judith Jenner, and his mother, Dorothy Hartge, survive in Lima. On March 19, 1970, he married Brenda Jenner, who survives in Elida. Other survivors include three sons, Scott (Cristine) Jenner of Lima, Michael (Kara) Jenner of Elida and Todd (Jessie) Jenner of Spencerville; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, William Jenner; and a sister, Ruth Ann Rex. Mr. Jenner worked for Premcor Refinery, Lima, for over 24 years as a control house operator. He was a member of Rouscoulp Church of the Brethren and Pace Local Union 5-0624. He was a pitcher for the 1964 Lima Senior State Champion Baseball Team and was a fan of the Spartans, Buckeyes, Browns and Reds. He also threw out the first pitch for a Red's game in 2001. He served in the Air Force from May 18, 1966 to Oct. 27, 1967. He enjoyed fishing, sports and walking his dog, Killer. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Pastor Mark Vernick officiating. Burial will be in Allentown Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Jude's.

Orman L. Renner
Orman L. Renner, 84, of Gomer, died 1:10 p.m. Tuesday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where friends may call 2-8 p.m. Friday. Further arrangements are incomplete.

Harriet I. Thatcher
July 27, 1919 - Jan. 27, 2003
Harriet I. Thatcher, 83, of rural Middle Point, died at 8:33 p.m. Monday at Lincolnway Nursing Home, Middle Point. She was born July 27, 1919 in Van Wert County, to Glen E. and Beryl (Martin) Hanby. On Nov. 10, 1937, she married Floyd E. Thatcher, who died March 28, 1989. Survivors include two sons, Danny L. (Phyllis) Thatcher and Clair O. (Diane) Thatcher of Middle Point; four grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Barbara Thatcher; a sister, Margaret Morris; and a granddaughter, Carla Kay Thatcher. Mrs. Thatcher was a homemaker. She was a member of the former Grace United Methodist Church and a lifetime resident of Van Wert County. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Paul Miller officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Middle Point United Methodist Church, Lincolnway Nursing Home Activities Fund or Delphos Hospice.

Grace B. Waymire
June 21, 1909 - Jan. 26, 2003
Grace B. Waymire, 93, of Van Wert, died 4:30 p.m. Sunday at Van Wert Manor Nursing Home, Van Wert. She was born June 21, 1909 in Van Wert County, to Charles and Ethel (Carey) Allison. On May 16, 1931, she married Paul D. Waymire, who died Aug. 31, 1965. Survivors include three daughters, Marcia (Lewis) Elston of Middle Point, Nancy (Larry) Coplin of Convoy and Karen (John) Linton of Van Wert; a brother, Barney Allison of Ocala, Fla.; a brother-in-law, Warren Willis of Chicago, Ill.; 17 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. She was preceded in death by a son, John Waymire, six brothers and three sisters. Mrs. Waymire worked at G.C. Murphy 5 and 10 Cent Store and Butler's Bakery, Van Wert. She was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, Van Wert; former board member of the Van Wert YWCA; former Girl Scout leader; and served on the Van Wert County Board of Elections for 50 years, and was a member of the Van Wert American Legion Auxiliary, the Republican Women's Club and the Women's International Bowling Congress. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Mark Lutheran Church, the Rev. Joe Wilck officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and one hour prior to services Thursday at the church. Preferred memorials are to St. Mark Lutheran Church or the Van Wert County Cancer Society.

Austin Gordon Haver
Dec. 10, 1998 - Jan. 25, 2003
Austin Gordon Haver, 4, of Lima, died 4:12 p.m. Saturday at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born Dec. 10, 1998 in Lima, to Marlo and Colleen (Miller) Haver, who survive in Lima. Other survivors include three brothers, Johnny, Billy and Joey Haver at home; two sisters, Paige and Jessica "Sissy" Haver at home; a grandmother, Mary "Casey" Cope; paternal grandparents, Ronald and Georgiann Haver; special aunts, Cheryl Birkemeyer and Rhonda Turner; and aunts and uncles, George (Pam) Casey, Sean (Shawn) Casey, Terry (Eugene) Lamb, Becky (Steve) Garrett, Corinne (Billy) Garland, Dawn (Mike) Bradley, Gary (Loretta) Michael, Debbie (Albert) Michael, Leah Michael and Jeff Michael. He was preceded in death by maternal grandfather William "Pop" Casey; three uncles, John Michael Casey, Roger David Casey and Richard Eugene Casey; and an aunt, Heather Haver. Austin attended Perry Head Start, loved school and the snow and his favorite 4x4 Jeep. He was also a fan of "Bob the Builder." His best friends were his little sister, Jessica, "Sissy" and his dog, Jake. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Pastor Terry Davey officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Dale Ernest Shonkwiler
Sept. 29, 1934-Jan. 24, 2003
Dale Ernest Shonkwiler, 68, of Lima, died 11:55 a.m. Friday at Shawnee Manor Nursing Home. He was born Sept. 29, 1934, in Ashland to Everett L. and Cleo E. (Warnes) Shonkwiler. On Nov. 12, 1954, he married Mary Jane Schuttera, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include a son, Kevin Shonkwiler of Holmes Beach, Fla.; a daughter, Teri (Greg) Schockman of Lima; and three grandchildren. Mr. Shonkwiler was a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service. He served in the U.S. Army from May 3, 1955 to April 30, 1963. He was a member of Bethel Lutheran Church of Clearwater, Fla., and Free and Accepted Masons, Mansfield Lodge. There are no services or visitation. Arrangements are by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home.

Robert L. Phillips
Mar. 30, 1944 - Jan. 25, 2003
Robert L. Phillips, 58, of Middle Point, died 8:44 p.m. Saturday at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. He was born March 30, 1944, in Yellow Mountain, Ky., to Charles and Parrot (Sparkman) Phillips. On Jan. 17, 1966, he married Janet K. Stant, who survives. Other survivors include two sons, Jason "Jake" (Hollie) Phillips of Ohio City and Anthony (Vonda) Phillips of Hindman, Ky.; two daughters, Sandra (Keith) Hill of Middle Point and Phyllis (Gary) Hoskins of Pineville, Ky.; a brother, Marion Sawyer of Lima; two sisters, Bonnie Smith of Decoy, Ky.; and Dorothy Oliver of Sarasota, Fla.; and 12 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, James Phillips; six brothers, William Abe, Truman, Lee, Edward, Earl and Owen Phillips; five sisters, Hattie Hamilton, Bertha Hatfield, Betty Lee Chaffins, Genadith Watkins and Emmajean Phillips; and one grandchild. Mr. Phillips was a retired automotive mechanic. Funeral services will be 7 p.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Neil Hammons officiating. Private burial will follow. Friends may call 4-7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Donald E. Taylor
Oct. 25, 1925-Jan. 26, 2003
Donald E. Taylor, 77, of Van Wert, died 4:50 a.m. Sunday at Parkview Memorial Hospital, Fort Wayne. He was born Oct. 25, 1925 in Middle Point, to James and Esther (Knittle) Taylor. On Nov. 14, 1947, he married Carol A. Spieth, who survives in Van Wert. Survivors also include a son, Gary Lee Taylor of Van Wert; two daughters, Linda (Robert) Schick and Vickie (Bob) Foster of Van Wert; a brother, Marcus (Bonnie) Taylor of Middle Point; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Eugene and Max Taylor. Mr. Taylor owned and operated Taylor Auto Sales in Van Wert. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, serving at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and a member of the U.S. Coast Guard. He was a member of the Van Wert American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts, the Van Wert Elks Lodge, Friend of Starr Commonwealth School, Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary International, and Independent Auto Dealer Association. He was a former grand marshal of the Van Wert Peony Festival and escort for the queen and her court for all Peony Festival activities. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Dr. James C. Dunaway officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, with military graveside rites conducted by the combined units of the Van Wert American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Starr Commonwealth School or the Van Wert Rotary Club.

Cyrilda J. Grote
May 29, 1913 - Jan. 24, 2003
Cyrilda J. Grote, 89, of Fort Jennings, died Friday afternoon at her residence. She was born May 29, 1913 in Kalida, to John B. and Anna (Saum) Siefker. In 1940, she married Leo Grote, who died in 1997. Survivors include a son, John (Marie) Grote of Ottoville; three daughters, Joann (Tom) Hempfling and Janet (Jerome "Jim") Trentman of Delphos and Eileen (Paul) Gedert of Maumee; three brothers, Wilbert Siefker and Harry Siefker of Kalida and Laverne "Pud" Siefker of Columbus Grove; a sister, Rosena Verhoff of Columbus Grove; 12 grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Raymond and Richard "Dick" Siefker and infant brother, Aloysius Siefker; and a grandson, Kevin Grote. Mrs. Grote was a homemaker and worked with her husband on their farm. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings, and enjoyed playing cards and quilting. Mass of Christian burial was 10:30 a.m. today at St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Preferred memorials are to donor's choice.

Raymond A. Koontz
Dec. 12, 1936-Jan. 22, 2003
Raymond A. Koontz, 66, of Lima, died 12:25 p.m. Wednesday at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born Dec. 12, 1936 in Hancock County, to Henry and Helen (Elzay) Koontz. On May 11, 1958, he married Carol Lamphier, who survives. Other survivors include two sons, William "Bill" (Lynn) Koontz of Lima and Henry (Adrian) Koontz of Lorton, Va.; a daughter, Rayleen Sterling of Phoenix, Ariz.; a daughter-in-law, Julie Koontz of Lima; three brothers, Richard (Eunice) Koontz of Columbus, Russel (Ruth) Koontz of Bluffton and Robert (Susan) Koontz of Findlay; 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mr. Koontz worked in management at Maplewood Northwood Apartments for 25 years. He was a member of Lima Baptist Temple and helped on the Building Committee. He was also a member of Eagles Aerie 370 and the American Real Estate Investors Association. He was a 1954 graduate of Mount Cory High School and officiated high school sports for many years, especially basketball. He also served in the National Guard. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home,Pastor Gary Hohman officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 2-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Lima Memorial Hospital Dialysis Unit.

Iluminada G. Montano
Nov. 29, 1913 - Jan. 23, 2003
Iluminada G. Montano, 89, of Lima, died 5:37 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita's Medical Center. She was born Nov. 29, 1913 in the Philippines, to Eulalio and Jacinta (Yson) Gecale. On May 15, 1930, she married Ambrocio Montano, who died Sept. 8, 1966. Survivors include a son, Gil G. Montano of Lima; six daughters, Nati Banaticla, Josie G. Montano, Fely (Fred) Hernandez, Eugenia (Bayani) Rodis, Lulu (Ancing) dela Cruz and Zeny (Ganie) Yumul of Lima; two sisters, Paula G. Rubio and Felina G. de Villa of the Philippines; 23 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Ponciano Montano; three brothers, Bonifacio, Ireneo and Leonilo Gecale; a sister, Julia Gecale; and two grandchildren. Mrs. Montano was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Gerard Catholic Church and its Altar and Rosary Society. She was a choir organizer and prayer leader in The Barrio Chapel in the Philippines and did volunteer cooking for the American soldiers during World War II and delivered fruit to the GI soldiers. She moved to the United States Nov. 23, 1976 to join her children, who are all American citizens. 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 6-8 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be at 8 p.m. and a Rosary will be said in Filipino at 8:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Gerard Catholic Church.

Gerald Claypool
Aug. 1, 1921 - Jan. 22, 2003
Gerald "Bud" Claypool, 81, of Delphos, died 5:30 p.m. Wednesday at his residence. He was born Aug. 1, 1921 in Paulding County, to Ernest and Edith (Dotson) Claypool. His stepmother, Margaret Slusser of Defiance, survives. On June 7, 1940, he married AnnaBelle Diltz, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include a son, Dennis (Dianne) Claypool of Delphos; three daughters, AlVera Paxson of Scottsdale, Ariz., Geralene (Dick) Thitoff of Delphos and Joyce (Mark) Miller of Van Wert; three sisters, Wanda (Bill) Boutwell of Beaverdam, Thelma (Cletus) Brenneman of Wapakoneta and Judy (Skip) Lolmaugh of Defiance; several nieces and nephews; 14 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by a sister, Rosemary Fleischmann; and two brothers, Harold and Robert Claypool. Mr. Claypool retired from Fruehauf Trailer Corporation and drove semi-tractor trailers. He was a member of Delphos Wesleyan Church, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471 and the fathers' club of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035. He enjoyed talking on his CB radio, fishing, hunting and owned and drove sprint race cars. Funeral services were Saturday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, with burial in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to the Delphos Wesleyan Church or St. Rita's Hospice.

Colleen A. Saine
Jan. 22, 1951 - Jan. 21, 2003
Colleen A. Saine, 51, of Lima, died at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at St. Rita's Medical Center. She was born Jan. 22, 1951 in Lima, to Norman and Patricia (Doyle) Saine, who survive in Lima. Survivors also include seven brothers, Patrick D. (Jenny) Saine, Mark S. Saine, Tim (Kathy) Saine, John M. Saine, Philip A. (Becky) Saine and Joseph A. (Judy) Saine of Lima, and David L. (Tila) Saine of Dayton; two sisters, Eileen (David) Barger of Clarksville, Tenn., and Kerry (Richard) Tullis of Boise, Idaho; and special friend, Hal Wright of Lima. She was preceded in death by a sister, Kathleen Saine; and paternal and maternal grandparents. Ms. Saine attended St. Rose Grade School and was a 1969 graduate of Lima Central Catholic High School. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, the Rev. Christopher Vasko officiating. Burial of the cremated remains will be at a later date. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Rose Catholic Church or St. Rita's Development Fund.

Alfred Roberts
April 22, 1939 - Jan. 16, 2003
Alfred "Al" Roberts, 63, of Muskegon, Mich., died Jan. 16. He was born April 22, 1939, in Tulsa, Okla., to James and Marcille (Boroff) Roberts On Aug. 11, 1973, he married the Linda Dean, who survives in Muskegon. Mr. Roberts was a employed as a teacher for 41 1 2 years, most recently at Reeths Puffer Public Schools. He attended Central United Methodist Church. Survivors also include a son, Chris (Heather) Roberts of Huntsville, Ala.; a daughter, Alicia Roberts of North Muskegon, Mich.; a sister, Deloris (John) Renner of Gomer; a brother, Clyde (Beverly) Bellinger of Coldwater; and three aunts, Helen Fackler, Louise Boroff and Vera Mae Wallace of Ohio. Funeral services will be 5 p.m. Friday at Central United Methodist Church, Muskegon, the Rev. Randall R. Hansen officiating. Burial will be in Laketon Township Cemetery. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. today at Clock Funeral Home, 1469 Peck Street, Muskegon. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association.

Blaine Eugene (Beno) Metcalf
May 8, 1920-Jan. 21, 2003
Blaine Eugene Metcalf, 82, of Borden, Ind., died Tuesday at his residence. He was born May 8, 1920, in Delphos to Ben and Esther (Wert) Metcalf. He married Loretta "Linda" Metcalf, who preceded him in death. Survivors include two sons, Blaine Metcalf of Henryville, Ind., and Gary Metcalf of New Albany, Ind.; a daughter, Carol Craddock of Borden; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by five brothers, Harold, Edgar, Irvin, Carroll (Archie) and Bobby Metcalf; and five sisters, Vernene Kampf, Beulah Allison, Morene Hennon, Treva Sanders and June Blue. Mr. Metcalf retired as a laborer from Falls City Brewery. He was a member of Teamsters Union Local 89 and was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday at Scott Funeral Home, North Chapel, 2515 New Albany-Charlestown Pike, Jeffersonville, Ind. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Louisville, Ky. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. today and after 9 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Hospice and Palliative Care of Southern Indiana.

Lois Irene Kirsch
Mar. 16, 1920 - Jan. 20, 2003
Lois Irene Kirsch, 82, of Lima, died 4:40 a.m. Monday at Sara Jane Living Center, Delphos. She was born March 16, 1920, in Jenkin Jones, W.Va., to James Edward and Grace L. (Armentrout) Presley. On Dec. 2, 1948, she married Jack DeVol Kirsch, who died Feb. 6, 2001. Survivors include a daughter, Jacqueline L. (James) Boughan of Lima; a son, Peter Kirsch of Golden, Colo.; a brother, Harry E. Presley of Boiling Springs Lake, N.C.; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by five brothers, Lou Godby and George, William, Frank and Robert Presley; a sister, Leona Huff; and a sister-in-law, Lucille Crow. Mrs. Kirsch retired from Lazarus Department Store. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima, and its United Methodist Women and the Eastern Star. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Jack Chalk officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Mausoleum, Lima. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Trinity United Methodist Church.

Frank J. Kaduk
Nov. 14, 1916-Jan. 20, 2003
Frank J. Kaduk, 86, of Van Wert, died 5:40 p.m. Monday at Convoy Care Center, Convoy. He was born Nov. 14, 1916 in Van Wert County, to Andrew and Anna (Hritz) Kaduk. On Jan. 29, 1938, he married Betty Joe Huston, who preceded him in death. Survivors include two sons, Paul D. Kaduk of Thousand Oaks, Calif., and Charles L. (Deborah) Kaduk of Auburn, Ind.; a daughter, Nancy G. Lowe of Van Wert; a brother, John (Dort) Kaduk of Hicksville; a sister, Anna Dienes of Convoy; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Kaduk of Van Wert; nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Be was preceded in death by two brothers, Andrew and Lewis; and two sisters, Betty Germann and Susan Hartman. Mr. Kaduk retired from Kennedy Manufacturing, Van Wert. He was a life member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Van Wert. He served on the Van Wert Election Board for 28 years, was a current board member and past president of the Van Wert Historical Society where he had been a member for 40 years, past president of the United Way, 1978 Jaycee Citizen of the Year, received Scout of the Year in 1971 and was awarded the Silver Beaver in 1972. He received the Chamber of Commerce Ray Miller Award in 1999 and was a Toastmaster member for 30 years. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Friday at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, the Rev. Lance O'Donnell officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, with military graveside services conducted by the Van Wert American Legion and VFW posts. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and one hour prior to services Friday at the church. Preferred memorials are to Emmanuel Lutheran Church Elevator Fund or Van Wert Area Visiting Nurses.

Lois Irene Kirsch
Mar. 16, 1920 - Jan. 20, 2003
Lois Irene Kirsch, 82, of Lima, died 4:40 a.m. Monday at Sara Jane Living Center, Delphos. She was born March 16, 1920, in Jenkin Jones, W.Va., to James Edward and Grace L. (Armentrout) Presley. On Dec. 2, 1948, she married Jack DeVol Kirsch, who died Feb. 6, 2001. Survivors include a daughter, Jacqueline L. (James) Boughan of Lima; a son, Peter Kirsch of Golden, Colo.; a brother, Harry E. Presley of Boiling Springs Lake, N.C.; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by five brothers, Lou Godby and George, William, Frank and Robert Presley; a sister, Leona Huff; and a sister-in-law, Lucille Crow. Mrs. Kirsch retired from Lazarus Department Store. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima, and its United Methodist Women and the Eastern Star. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Jack Chalk officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Mausoleum, Lima. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Trinity United Methodist Church.

Raymond Brooks
March 3, 1927-Jan. 21, 2003
Raymond H. Brooks, 75, of Delphos, died 8:05 a.m. Tuesday at St. Rita's Medical Center. He was born March 3, 1927 in Spencerville, to Howard and Ethel (Stout) Brooks. On June 23, 1951, he married Norma Fiedler, who survives. Survivors also include a son, Dale (Candy) Brooks of Delphos; a daughter, Joyce Brooks of Delphos; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Ruth Marie Wilkins; and three brothers, Donald, Howard "Max" and Harold "Glen" Brooks. Mr. Brooks worked at Sheller Globe for 19 1/2 years and then the Lima Tank Plant, retiring after 10 years. He was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6772 of Spencerville, UAW 7120 and St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during World War II. He enjoyed hunting, camping, playing cards, fishing and spending time in Arizona. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Thursday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be at 7:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart or Lung Society.

Fred J. Conner
Dec. 6, 1922 - Jan. 18, 2003
Fred J. Conner, 80, of rural Spencerville, died 10:38 a.m. Saturday at St. Rita's Medical Center. He was born Dec. 6, 1922 in Lima, to Fred B. and Jessie Fay (Eley) Conner. On Sept. 21, 1946, he married Eva Patrick, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Bernard Lee (Carolyn) Conner of Cridersville; two daughters, Carol Sue (James) Hoffer of Lima, and Barbara A. (Keith) Bantner of Spencerville; two sisters, Mary (Robert) Numbers of Cridersville and Bonnie (Joe) Moots of Bradenton, Fla.; and seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Conner; and four sisters, Maxine Lones, Kathryn Conner, Virginia Gross and infant Carol Conner. Mr. Conner retired in 1985 after 35 years at Hayes-Albion Corp., Spencerville, where he worked in maintenance. He also worked at Lima Locomotive Works and the Lima Tank Depot. He was a 1942 graduate of Harrod High School and member of his Union Local 962, where he had served as trustee. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Pastor Mike Decker officiating. Burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery, east of Spencerville. Friends may call 3-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today and one hour prior to services Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Fort Shawnee Lions Club.

John W. Dannhausen
May 13, 1915-Jan. 18, 2003
John W. Dannhausen, 87, of Delphos, died 2:20 a.m. Saturday at Lima Convalescent Home. He was born May 13, 1915 in Delphos, to Walter and Louisa (Woerner) Dannhausen. On Sept. 16, 1947, he married Kathryn J. Roth, who died Oct. 28, 1997. Survivors include four sons, John (Lynn) Dannhausen Jr. of Sierra Madre, Calif., Robert (Jane) Dannhausen of Fort Wayne, Richard (Christine) Dannhausen of Columbus and James (Carol) Dannhausen of Cincinnati; a daughter, Ann Dannhausen of Richmond, Va.; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Moreo and Martha Simpkins; and a daughter, Karen Dannhausen. Mr. Dannhausen retired from the U.S. Postal Service. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and Knights of Columbus Council 1362. He was a U.S. Army Air Force veteran of World War II. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today and 10-11 a.m. Tuesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, where a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be 7:30 p.m. and a parish wake will be at 8 p.m. today. Preferred memorials are to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Ray Michael
May 24, 1911-Jan. 17, 2003
Ray Michael, 91, of Lima, died at 8:15 a.m. Friday at his residence. He was born May 24, 1911, in Monroe Township, to Elsworth and Chloe (Bushong) Michael. On Nov. 26, 1942, he married Helen Rohrbooh, who survives in Lima. Survivors also include a son, Kevin R. Michael of Cincinnati; a sister, Clara Beery of Lima; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Lynda Ann Michael; an infant sister, Helen Madelle Michael; and two brothers, Donald and Robert Michael. Mr. Michael retired in 1976 from Ex-Cello/Air-Flow Textron, Lima, after 24 years as a tool maker. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima, where he was a member of the Men's Club T.A.R.P.'s Association. He was in the Army during World War II serving from Aug. 18, 1942 to Nov. 30, 1945 in the European Theater and also in Africa, Italy and France. He was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1276, American Legion Post 93, Eagles Aerie 370 and UAW 211 retirees, Lima. Funeral services were 11 a.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Jack Chalk officiating. Burial was in Cairo East Cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted by VFW Post 1275. Preferred memorials are to Trinity United Methodist Church, Lima.

Ralph William Fry
Oct. 10, 1918 - Jan. 17, 2003
Ralph William Fry, 84, of Fort Jennings, died 10:22 p.m. Friday at Lincolnway Home, Ridge Township. He was born Oct. 10, 1918 in Delphos, to Glenn and Saloma (Bryan) Fry. On Nov. 11, 1977, he married Alice (Rider) Little Wallick, who survives at Lincolnway Home. Survivors also include a brother, Ernest (Delores) Fry of Sarasota, Fla.; a sister, Marciel Crosby; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Fry was a retired farmer. He was a member of Grace Church, Middle Point, Isaac Van Wert American Legion Post 178 and Robert G. Longwell Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5803. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Tuesday at Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Paul W. Miller officiating. Burial will be in Mercer Cemetery. Friends may call 3-6 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Lincolnway Home Activity Fund or Grace Church.

Marie Sauber Wilson
Oct. 6, 1903 - Jan. 18, 2003
Marie Sauber Wilson, 99, of Delphos, died 8:58 p.m. Saturday at Vancrest Health Care Center. She was born Oct. 8, 1903 in Landeck, to Nicholas and Matilda (Elesser) Sauber. On June 9, 1924, she married Burgan Wilson, who died May 29, 1972. Survivors include four sons, Robert (Margaret) Wilson of Manistee, Mich., Eugene (Mary) Wilson of Beavercreek, Frank "Nick" (Judy) Wilson of Delphos and Michael (Joyce) Wilson of Plant City, Fla.; four daughters, Maxine Link and Marilyn (Gerhard E.) Otte of Delphos, Katherine (Frank) Campanile of Beavercreek and Carolyn Masten of Las Vegas, Nev.; 27 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two daughters, Joan M. Wilson and Colleen E. Millet; four brothers, Cletus, Robert, Louis and Albert Sauber; two sisters, Josephine Krebs and Agnes Yochum; two half brothers, Oscar and Cornelius Sauber; four half sisters, Isabel Smith, Angela Nye, Emma Spangler and Helen Fillhart; and a grandson, Nicholas Eugene Wilson. Mrs. Wilson was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, its former Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be at 8:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Father Davis Missions, the Masses or donor's choice.

Erma M. Nihiser
Jan. 1, 1912 - Jan. 18, 2003
Erma M. (Fackler) Nihiser, 91, of Van Wert, died 12:52 a.m. Saturday at St. Rita's Medical Center. She was born Jan. 1, 1912, in Van Wert County, to Clarence E. and Martha Z. (Friend) Fackler. On Sept. 2, 1933, she married Lawrence A. "Tom" Nihiser, who preceded her in death. Survivors include two sons, Larry D. (Faye Ann) Nihiser and Jerry W. (Carol Lynne) Nihiser of Van Wert; one daughter, Sandra Kay (Jerry) Zeigler of Bluffton, Ind.; six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers and one sister. Mrs. Nihiser was a homemaker. She was a very active member of First United Brethren in Christ, Van Wert. She was a member of the Van Wert Hobby Club, past secretary of Council on Aging, past Senior Peony Queen, past treasurer of AARP and formerly contributed articles to the Van Wert Times Bulletin. She enjoyed cooking, reading, sewing for others, traveling and canning and was an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Van Wert Council on Aging or First United Brethren in Christ.

Veronica M. Golliver
Sept. 6, 1922 - Jan. 16, 2003
Veronica Mary "Ronnie" Golliver, 80, of Grover Hill, died 8:42 p.m. Thursday at Van Wert Manor. She was born Sept. 6, 1922, in Pittsfield, Mass., to Charles and Margaret (O'Boyle) Robinson. On Oct. 17, 1945, she married Russell T. Golliver, who died April 14, 1995. Survivors include a son, Michael (Becky) Golliver of Alvaton, Ky.; a daughter, Susan (John) Moon of Grover Hill; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by four brothers, John, Patrick, Donald and Charles Robinson; five sisters, Ellen Willner, Margaret Crofter, Nancy Carlson, Kathryn Mancivalano and Jane Spence; and a great-grandson, Austin Golliver. Mrs. Golliver was employed at General Electric in Pittsfield and Fort Wayne and was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Paulding, VFW Auxiliary 2873 in Grover Hill, Women's Auxiliary National Rural Mail Letters Carriers Association, National Lady's Veteran Memorial Association and the Grover Hill Euchre/Bunco Club. She was a Tech-4 WAC in the U.S. Army from 1943-1945, where she served as a surgical technician. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, the Rev. Rev. G. Allen Fillman officiating. Burial will be in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill, with military graveside rites conducted by VFW Post 2873. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Sunday and three hours prior to services Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Grover Hill EMS or donor's choice.

Marilyn E. Martin
Jan. 29, 1942 - Jan. 17, 2003
Marilyn Elaine Martin, 60, of Lima, died 5:51 a.m. Friday at her residence. She was born Jan. 29, 1942, in Delphos to Edwin and Lela (Putman) Lindeman. On July 30, 1960, she married James L. Martin, who survives in Lima. Survivors also include four daughters, Christina A. (Reggie) Rendon of Corpus Christi, Texas, and Nancy (Mark) Austin, Stacey (Matt) Widmaier and Mickie (Mike) Ebbeskotte of Lima; three sisters, Joanne (Richard) Roberts of Spencerville, Donna Snadley of Van Wert and Carl (Robert) Maloney of Middle Point; four brothers, Gerald (Kaye) Lindeman and Larry (Joyce) Lindeman of Delphos, Paul (Betty) Lindeman of Van Wert and James (Sue) Lindeman of Ohio City; 13 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, James L. Martin Jr.; two sisters, Imogene Joseph and Dorothy Williams; and four brothers, Carl, Donald, Edwin and Kenny Lindeman. Mrs. Martin was a homemaker and operated Dairy Island for 12 years. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Terry Brock officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday and 6-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Helping Hands Hospice.