Bob J. Grear
March 14, 1935 - Jan. 14, 2003
Bobby Joe Grear, 67, of rural Lima, died 7:32 p.m. Tuesday at St. Rita's Medical Center. He was born March 14, 1935 in Spencerville, to Ralph M. and Althera G. (Wheeler) Grear. On June 16, 1962, he married Marilyn K. Montgomery, who survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Tiffany Grear of Lima; three sons, Bruce A. (Teresa) Grear and Tony (Sue) Grear of Lima and Chad (Joyce) Grear of Spencerville; a sister, Kay (Harold) Hesse of Spencerville; a brother, Dwaine (Irene) Grear of Spencerville; two nieces, Pam Grear of Lima and Roxanna (Gordon) Arnold of Toledo; a sister-in-law, Grace Grear of Spencerville; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Gene Grear. Mr. Grear owned and operated Custom Body and Welding for 45 years before his retirement. He also worked 15 years at Superior Coach Corp., Lima, as a welder on the school bus line. For several years he was a sprint car driver at the Allentown, New Bremen, Eldora and Findlay raceways, his last car being No. 56. He enjoyed inventing products in his work, fishing and had helped with the upkeep of the Limaland Motor Speedway. Memorial services will be 3 p.m. Friday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Michael Swanton officiating. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today and one hour prior to services Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Spencerville Invincible Fire Company.

Melynda Sterling
July 22, 1977 - Jan. 12, 2003
Melynda "Mindy" Sterling, 25, of Waynesfield, formerly of Lima, died 8 a.m. Sunday at her residence. She was born July 22, 1977 in Lima, to James D. and Susan M. (Montague) Sterling, who survive in Elida. Other survivors include a daughter, Taylor Anne Nicole Sterling at home; a son, Dustin Michael Klenke at home; fiancé Shawn Michael Klenke of Waynesfield; a sister, Katie Marie Sterling of Elida; maternal grandparents Patricia and Richard Day of Lima; paternal grandparents Marylou and James Sterling Sr. of Elida; and a niece, Samantha Renee Barton. She was preceded in death by an uncle, David A. Montague. Ms. Sterling was a line operator and inspector at Fetter Finishing in Waynesfield. She was a member of Cornerstone Harvest Church and the Lima American Legion Auxiliary. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Cornerstone Harvest Church, Lima, Pastor David Roberts officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today and 2-8 p.m. Wednesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Preferred memorials are to her children.

Robert Metzger
April 29, 1986 - Jan. 13, 2003
Robert J. Metzger, 16, of Lima, died 5:45 a.m. Monday at his residence. He was born April 29, 1986, in Lima to William L. and Margaret A. (King) Metzger. His mother survives in Lima. Other survivors include four stepsisters, Rhonda Perri, Eva Ann (Scott) Buxton and Bianca (Scott) Blackwell of Columbus and Chandra Johnson of Sarasota, Fla.; a brother, William Henry Metzger of Lima; two stepbrothers, Ronald A. (Betsy) Coelho of Lima and William Lee (Shelly) Metzger II of Columbus; and many nieces and nephews and aunts and uncles. He was preceded in death by a twin brother, Lee Thomas Metzger. Mr. Metzger was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church, Lima. He had attended Marimor School. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. David Ross officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, where a parish wake will be at 3:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Cerebral Palsy Association.

Karl W. Schaadt
Oct. 20, 1915 - Jan. 11, 2003
Karl W. Schaadt, 87, of Ohio City, died 3:20 a.m. Saturday at Van Wert County Hospital. He was born Oct. 20, 1915 in Van Wert County, to Joseph W. and Fae (Duprey) Schaadt. On Aug. 9, 1940, he married A. Florine Profit, who survives. Other survivors include two brothers, Gerald Schaadt of Rockford, and Ralph Schaadt of Van Wert. Mr. Schaadt worked for Goodyear Tire Co., Central Tool Manufacturing Co. and retired in 1976 after 28 years with Grange Mutual Casualty Company as an agent. He was also a retired farmer. He was a member of Ohio City United Methodist Church, where he had been a former trustee. He was a 50-year member of Liberty Grange, a member of the Pamona Grange, Ohio State Grange, National Grange, Ohio Holstein Friesan Association, Ohio Dairyman's Association, the National Rifle Association and the Sierra Club. In 1971, he was chosen to participated in an exchange program in Pakistan through the Farmers and World Affairs. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Michael Waldron officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Ohio City. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Ohio City United Methodist Church or Ohio City EMS.

William J. Brentlinger
June 6, 1972 - Jan. 10, 2003
William "Bill" "BJ" James Brentlinger, 30, of Lima, died 10:20 a.m. Friday at St. Rita's Medical Center. He was born June 6, 1972 in Lima, to James J. and Carol J. (McClellan) Brentlinger, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include a sister, Christina Brentlinger of Lima; and maternal grandmother, Louise McClellan of Lima. He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents James and Kathryn Brentlinger; and maternal grandfather, William McClellan. Mr. Brentlinger was a former Orioles 173 member. He loved to fish and rooted for the Cincinnati Bengals. He attended Lima Senior High School. Funeral services were 9 a.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Ernest Stephens officiating. Burial was in Salem Mennonite Cemetery, Gomer. Preferred memorials are to the American Kidney Foundation.

Dorothy P. Jacobs
July 3, 1923 - Jan. 12, 2003
Dorothy Pauline Jacobs, 79, of Lima, died 10:15 a.m. Sunday at Beverly Health Care Center. She was born July 3, 1923 in Delphos, to Ross H. and Vera (Wahmhoff) Tigner. In 1999, she married Anthony S. Jacobs, who survives. Other survivors include a stepson, Bradford Lyle Jacobs of Brewster, Mass.; a stepdaughter, Kay (Joe) Baughman of Lima; two sisters, Rita (Clarence) Hoersten of Ottoville, and Mary Lou Pastula of Harrisburg, Penn.; two grandchildren, four stepgrandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Lester Miller; a son, Ronald Miller; a stepson, Randall Jacobs; three brothers, Richard, Robert and Ross Tigner Jr.; and four sisters, Juanita Rex, Rosemary Hodges, Lois Hageman and Barbara Tigner. Mrs. Jacobs was a homemaker. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Siferd Westwood Chapel, Lima. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Parkinson's Foundation or donor's choice.

John Gerker
Oct. 4, 1928 - Jan. 11, 2003
John Gerker, 74, of Fort Jennings, died 3:55 p.m. Saturday at St. Rita's Medical Center He was born Oct. 4, 1928 in Fort Jennings, to Richard and Anna (Fisher) Gerker. On Feb. 9, 1946, he married Dolores Wieging, who survives in Fort Jennings. Other survivors include a son, Bob (Jane) Gerker of Roswell, Ga.; two daughters, Bev (Jay) Korte of Celina and Pat (Tom) Liebrecht of Fort Jennings; a sister, Wilma (Bob) Rose of Fort Wayne; 10 grandchildren, Neil and Stacie Korte, Vicki and Lloyd Stoker, Matt Korte, Brian Korte, Tricia and Eric Mondi, Stacy Gerker, Katie Gerker, Zach and Rhonda Liebrecht, Tara and Jason Deters, and Kyle Liebrecht; and seven great-grandchildren, Steven Stoker, Meagan Stoker, Brad Korte, Gracie Mondi, Eric Henry Mondi, Justin Liebrecht and Jared Liebrecht. He was preceded in death by a sister, Mildred Wildenhaus. Mr. Gerker owned and operated the Sohio Service Station in Fort Jennings. He had previously worked for the Lennox Furnace Company in Lima and was a former member of the Fort Jennings Fire Department, where he had served two terms as chief. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings, the Delphos Eagles Lodge, the Kalida Knights of Columbus and a charter member of the Fort Jennings Lions Club, where he served three terms as president. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Tuesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home in Delphos, where a parish wake will be at 3 p.m. and a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund or donor's choice.

Wilma Ann Black
Nov. 25, 1909 - Jan. 11, 2003
Wilma Ann Fensler Black, 93, of Convoy, died 7:42 p.m. Saturday at Convoy Care Center. She was born Nov. 25, 1909 in rural Convoy, to Frank and Rosa E. (Feasby) Fensler. On March 27, 1931, she married Bernard William Black, who died April 17, 1980. Survivors include a son, Byron (Kathy) Thompson of Convoy; a sister, Gladys Barkley of Convoy; four grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a son, Dr. Earl Eugene Black; four brothers, Floyd, Herbert, Lester and Russell Fensler; and two sisters, Lela Crabtree and Ruby Lare. Mrs. Black was a life member of Countryside Chapel United Methodist Church, Convoy. She loved to garden, raise chickens, cook, spend time with her family and play Euchre. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Countryside Chapel United Methodist Church, the Rev. Wayne Karges officiating. Burial will be in Convoy IOOF Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Gearhart, Mack and Jurczyk Funeral Home, Convoy, and one hour prior to services Tuesday at the church. Preferred memorials are to Countryside Chapel United Methodist Church.

Gloria J. George
Oct. 26, 1926 - Jan. 9, 2003
Gloria J. George, 76, of Lima, died at 11:50 p.m. Thursday at Lima Memorial Hospital. She was born Oct. 26, 1926 in Lima, to Russell L. and Helen M. (Davis) Rhoades. On May 29, 1943, she married Walter George, who survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Linda Moore of Lima and Susan (Richard) Garee of Elida; two sons, Nicholas (Cheryl) George of Lima and Michael (Jill) George of Auburn Hills, Mich.; 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Ned Rhoades; and a son-in-law, Michael Moore. Mrs. George was a homemaker and member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 Auxiliary. Funeral services were 11 a.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima. Burial was in Woodlawn Cemetery, Lima. Preferred memorials are to the Kidney Foundation.

Jeffery S. Salyer Sr.
May 19, 1968 - Jan. 10, 2003
Jeffery S. Salyer Sr., 34, of Cairo, died at 6:51 p.m. Friday at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born May 19, 1968 in Lima, to Burl and Edith (Marshall) Salyer. His father survives in Cairo. He married Annette Miller, who survives in Columbus Grove. Survivors also include two sons, Jeffery Scott "Scottie" Salyer Jr., and Cory Matthew Salyer of Columbus Grove; their half brother, Joshua Kline of Elida; a brother, Vic Salyer of Lima; two sisters, Tammy Salyer of Hilliard and Lisa (Cliff) Friar Jr. of Fort Wayne; and a nephew, Adam Friar of Fort Wayne. Mr. Salyer was a special deputy officer with the Allen County Sheriff's Department, was a Cairo police officer, volunteer firefighter with the Cairo Fire Department and EMT with the Cairo EMS. He had worked for Carter Lumber Company and was manager of their Danville, Ill., Carter Plumbing and Electrical Store. He was also self-employed in construction. He was a member of Grace Bible Church, Lima. He enjoyed playing golf and following the Cleveland Browns. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, Pastor Robert Hynes officiating. Burial will be in Vaughnsville Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Terry J. Blue
July 4, 1941 - Jan. 10, 2003
Terry J. Blue, 61, of New Haven, Ind., died 3:51 p.m. Friday at Parkview Memorial Hospital, Fort Wayne. He was born July 4, 1941 in Van Wert, to Owen Q. and Geraldine (Wilson) Blue. Survivors include two sons, Brian and Chris Blue of Convoy; a daughter, April Blue of Columbia, Mo.; a brother, Jack (Sally) Blue of New Haven; a sister, Beverly (Carl) Evans of Van Wert; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Gene and Max Blue; and a sister, Judy Guy. Mr. Blue worked at Grabill Cabinet Company in Grabill, Ind. Private family services will be held with no visitation. Arrangements are by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert.

E. Madelene Flavin
Feb. 14, 1909 - Jan. 9, 2003
E. Madelene "Babe" Flavin, 93, of Lima, died 3:45 a.m. Thursday at Lima Health and Rehabilitation Center. She was born Feb. 14, 1909, in Lima to Solomon H. and Lulu Daisy (Hawk) Ruff. She married Denis P. Flavin, who died Dec. 11, 1977. Survivors include five daughters, Darlyn A. Bell, Erin J. Kelly and Shannon (Ric) Bratton of Lima, D. Denise (Stan) Linder of Greenville and Suzanne L. (David) Bowles of New Freedom, Pa.; a son, Philip L. (Carolyn) Flavin of Defiance; two daughters-in-law, Nancy Flavin of Columbus and Jean Ann Flavin of Aurora, Ill.; 24 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, Ronald G. and Richard P. Flavin; two sons-in-law, Leo Bell and John Kelly; a brother, Willis Ruff; a sister, Hazel Emlinger; a grandchild, Thomas Flavin; and a great-grandchild, Mark Meister. Mrs. Flavin was a homemaker and seamstress, making costumes for Esther Damaris Toys and creating wedding attire for many Lima-area brides. She was an avid bingo player and loved music and animals. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 3-8 p.m. Sunday and one hour prior to services Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Jude's or donor's choice.

Marie C. Hedrick
March 3, 1920 - Jan. 7, 2003
Marie C. Hedrick, 82, of Lima, died 7:45 a.m. Tuesday at her residence. She was born March 3, 1920 in Lima, to Edward and Jessie (Harvey) Hedrick. Survivors include a sister, Genevieve Houtzer of Lima; two nieces, Sandra (Marty) McCaslin of Lima and Susan Campbell of Ottawa; a nephew, Rick (Eileen) Houtzer of Anaheim, Calif.; a niece-in-law, Jo Ellen Houtzer of Edina, Minn.; seven great-nieces and nephews and four great-great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Hedrick; a brother-in-law, Richard Houtzer; and a nephew, Terry Houtzer. Mrs. Hedrick retired from Eagle Home and Building Insulators and John R. Carnes after 38 years. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Lima, and was a 1940 graduate of South High School. She was an avid bowler and loved all sports. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Friday at St. John Catholic Church, the Rev. Christopher Vasko officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where parish wake will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita's Hospice, 730 W. Market Street, Lima, 45801.

Evelyn A. Coffelt
July 19, 1914 - Jan. 4, 2003
Evelyn A. Coffelt, 88, of Van Wert, died 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born July 19, 1914, in Thomasboro, Ill., to Joseph and Clara (Arnold) Vaske. On Oct. 19, 1938, she married Harold Coffelt, who died Jan. 1, 1971. Survivors include a daughter, Judy Good of Van Wert; a son, Ron Coffelt of Delphos; a brother, Ralph Vaske of Ohio City; a sister, Betty Krugh of Van Wert; 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Rosalyn Fisher; three brothers, Joseph, Larry and Raymond Vaske; and three sisters, Elsie Vaske, Anita Cera and Frances Baird. Mrs. Coffelt was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, the Rev. Joseph Schmelzer officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. today at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, where a parish wake will be at 7:45 p.m.

Ada Ozella Martin
March 4, 1914 - Jan. 4, 2003
Ada Ozella Martin, 88, of Elida, died 3:15 p.m. Saturday at Lima Memorial Hospital. She was born March 4, 1914 in Middlesboro, Ky., to Hillery and Mollie (Partin) Mason. On July 24, 1933, she married Tony Martin, who died in 1998. Survivors include two sons, Ronald (Jewell) Martin Sr. of Lima and Terry (Janet) Martin of Vickery; a daughter, Arleen (Robert) Jones of Tucson, Ariz.; two brothers, Neal Mason of Florida and Larry (Kathy) Mason of Lima; six sisters, Joyce (Richard) Johnson and Ora Lee (Urbanuo) Critco of Elida, Lauretta (Cecil) Evans of Florida, June (Levoy) Evans of Kentucky, Elizabeth Ackerman of Lima and Edna Sampson of Bluffton; seven grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Velma Queen; three brothers, Willard, Hillery Jr. and Leonard F. Mason; and two sisters, Edith Cawood and Helen Mason. Mrs. Martin was a cosmetologist and had owned a beauty shop in Buckland for many years and then worked for several shops in Lima. She was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, where she was a youth director, Sunday school teacher, played the piano and was a member of "The Gospelettes." She enjoyed bowling and golfing. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Revs. Terry Brock and Bryan Day officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Bethel Baptist Church.

Kenneth W. Fisher
Dec. 18, 1928 - Jan. 5, 2003
Kenneth W. Fisher, 74, of Delphos, died 7:20 p.m. Sunday at Vancrest Health Care Center. He was born Dec. 18, 1928 in Fort Jennings, to Ralph G. and Margaret (Von Sossan) Fisher. On Sept. 17, 1949, he married Dorothy A. German, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include three sons, Joseph C. (Patty) Fisher and Charles E. Fisher of Fairfield and Thomas A. Fisher of Delphos; three daughters, Marilyn R. Fisher, Margaret A. (Michael) Hedrick and Anne P. (Carl) Maas of Delphos; two sisters, Rita (Robert) Weber of Delphos and Marianne (William) McNamara of Lima; 12 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by a sister, Eileen Briggs; and a brother, George Fisher. Mr. Fisher retired after 23 years with I&K Distributors. He also was employed with Standard Oil for 20 years. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and the Delphos Optimist Club. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call 1-4 p.m. and 6:30-9 p.m. Wednesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be at 8:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to St. John's Parish Foundation or donor's choice.

Harold D. Allemeier
March 29, 1921 - Jan. 3, 2003
Harold D. Allemeier, 81, of Lima, died at 3:50 p.m. Friday at his residence. He was born March 29, 1921 in Delphos, to Russell E. and Belva M. (Richardson) Allemeier. On March 14, 1977, he married Florence Lavon Geckle, who died Sept. 20, 1978. Survivors include a sister, Ruth A. Robinson of Lima; two sisters-in-law, Lucille Houenstein of Indian Lake and Freda Martin of Lima; three brothers-in-law, Robert Geckle of Indian Lake, Glen Geckle of Melbourne, Fla., and Lavern Geckle of Leipsic; and two cousins, Dan Erwin of Fort Wayne and Susan Erwin of Elizabethtown, Ky. Mr. Allemeier retired in December 1980 from El Par Motors in Lima as a mechanic. He was a past member of St. John Lutheran Church, Fort Jennings. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving from Sept. 3, 1942 to Nov. 16, 1945. He was in World War II in the 2nd Armored Division for 3 1/2 years, serving his entire term under Commanding General George Patton in the 3rd and 7th Armies of the European Theater, 195th Anti-aircraft Battalion, 702nd Armored Tank Regiment. He served in the Battle of the Bulge, Africa Casablanca, the invasion of Sicily, Berlin, Belgium, Holland and France. Funeral services were today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Byron Lewis officiating. Burial was in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Delphos. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita's Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801.

Agnes V. Liebrecht
Sept. 21, 1936 - Jan. 4, 2003
Agnes V. Liebrecht, 66, of Delphos, died at 3:51 p.m. Saturday at Lima Memorial Hospital. She was born Sept. 21, 1936 in Delphos, to Bernard and Mary (Kleman) Falke. On Oct. 9, 1954, she married Arnold B. Liebrecht, who survives in Delphos. Survivors also include three sons, David A. (Elaine R.) Liebrecht of Springboro, Donald B. (Barbara R.) Liebrecht of West Dundee, Ill., and John J. (Sharon S.) Liebrecht of Pataskala; two sisters, Myrtle Louth of Spencerville and Elda Calvelage of Delphos; a brother, Bernard Falke of Delphos; and five grandchildren, Drew A., Alex A. and Brian J. Liebrecht and Ryan C. and Jess A. Verbecken. She was preceded in death by a brother, Forest Rahrig. Mrs. Liebrecht retired after 19 years at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church rectory. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Auxiliary. 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 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home. Preferred memorials are to St. Mary the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, the Kidney Foundation or American Diabetes Association.

Ann M. Shafer
Sept. 18, 1917 - Jan. 2, 2003
Ann M. Shafer, 85, of Kalida, died 5:30 p.m. Thursday at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Glandorf. She was born Sept. 18, 1917 in Putnam County, to Bernard and Elizabeth (Leopold) Wehri. On April 7, 1937, she married Robert V. Kahle, who died May 2, 1947. She then married Robert Shafer on July 18, 1949, who survives. Survivors also include three daughters, Betty (James) Hamilton of Kalida, Joyce (Phillip) Wiley of Lima and Mitsie (Wes) Sagness of Tempe, Ariz.; a sister, Bernadine Verhoff of Ottawa; eight grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Marie Looser; and two brothers, Henry Wehri and Clete Hoffman. Mrs. Shafer had been a clerk at Diehl's Market in Ottawa, Hub Market and Nartker's Grocery in Kalida, and Kohl's Market in Columbus Grove. She was also a former owner of the Old Fort Inn in Fort Jennings. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida, and its Altar Rosary Society. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Michael Catholic Church, the Rev. Scott Kramer officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Sunday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a scripture service will be at 3:30 p.m. and an Altar Rosary service will be at 7:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer's Association, St. Michael Catholic Church or donor's choice.

Mabel A. Kintz
Oct. 25, 1906 - Jan. 3, 2003
Mabel A. Kintz, 96, of Van Wert, died 11:31 a.m. Friday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born Oct. 25, 1906, in Hoaglin Township, Van Wert County, to Perry L. and Ethel (Coil) Brown. On June 22, 1927, she married Eugene G. Kintz, who died Jan. 4, 1979. Survivors include a son, Jack Kintz of New Haven, Ind.,; a daughter, Peg Kimball of Columbus; nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two daughters and three sisters. Mrs. Kintz was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, and its Altar-Rosary Society, Catholic Ladies of Columbia and Catholic Hour Study Club. She and her husband also researched and wrote of the history of the church. She was also a member of the Chautauqua Club and Garden Study Club. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, the Rev. Joseph M. Schmelzer officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Monday at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, where a parish rosary will be 7:45 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church or donor's choice.

Margaret R. Bellman
June 11, 1916 - Jan. 2, 2003
Margaret Rosella Kimmet Bellman, 86, of Delphos, died 7:20 p.m. Thursday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos. She was born June 11, 1916, in Delphos to Patrick and Frances (Hemker) Hickey. On Nov. 20, 1941, she married Carl M. Kimmet, who died June 9, 1973. She then married John Bellman on Feb. 24, 1979, who died April 19, 2000. Survivors include two sons, Robert (Sue) Kimmet and Ronald (Sara) Kimmet of Delphos; a daughter, Therese (Edward) Klaus of Delphos; two sisters, Mary (James) Deffenbaugh and Helen Pothast of Delphos; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Alvina Kimmet; three brothers, Cyril, Cletus and Gerald Hickey; a sister, Agnes Kimmet; and a granddaughter, Dawn Kimmet. Mrs. Bellman had worked at the Delphos Food Locker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters of the Americas and the Delphos Eagles Auxiliary. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, where a CL of C service will be at 3 p.m. and a parish wake will be at 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorials are to donor's choice.

Ruth E. Evans
Jan. 2, 1925 - Jan. 1, 2003
Ruth E. Evans, 77, of Venedocia, died at 4:22 p.m. Wednesday at St. Rita's Medical Center. She was born Jan. 2, 1925 in Van Wert County, to Edward and Mary Alma (Evans) Williams. On Jan. 2, 1949, she married David Hugh Evans, who survives in Venedocia. Other survivors include a son, Thomas W. (Bonnie) Evans of Venedocia; a daughter, Claudia LeValley of Van Wert; a sister, Dorothy (David) Allen of Melbourne, Fla.; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mrs. Evans was a homemaker. She was a member of Salem Presbyterian Church, Venedocia, and its Alpha Kappa Sunday School class and women's association. Memorial services will be at a later date with burial in Venedocia Cemetery. Arrangements are by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to Salem Presbyterian Church.

Juanita M. Wermer
March 17, 1914 - Jan. 1, 2003
Juanita M. Wermer, 88, of Van Wert, died 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born March 17, 1914, in Van Wert, to Alfred and Ethel (Shaw) Robeson. On Sept. 4, 1954, she married Glenn E. Wermer, who survives in Van Wert. Other survivors include two sisters, Marie (Bernard) Miller of Van Wert and Kathryn Atkinson of Napoleon. Mrs. Wermer worked at Marsh Foundation and for many years at Continental Can Company, Van Wert. She was a member of the Church of the Nazarene, Van Wert. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Ronald Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call two hours prior to services Saturday at the funeral home.

Kathryn Mohr Joseph
Feb. 13, 1949 - Jan. 1, 2003
Kathryn Mohr Joseph, 53, of Van Wert, died 6:20 a.m. Wednesday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born Feb. 13, 1949, in Van Wert, to John E. and Dores (Turner) Hart. Her mother survives in Van Wert. On March 29, 1969 she married Larry R. Joseph, who survives. Survivors also include a son, Nathan (Deirdre) Joseph of Mount Juliet, Tenn.; a daughter, Abigail (Rodney) Price of Van Wert; two brothers, Tom Mohr of Utah and Jim (Rhonda) Mohr of Van Wert; four sisters, Linda Buchheit of Philadelphia, Jeanne (Tim) Crafton of Phoenix, Chris Welker of Venedocia and Suzi (Jim) McCracken of Washington Courthouse; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Joe Mohr. Mrs. Joseph owned and operated Ohio Foam Novelties of Lima. She was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church, Van Wert, and its Altar Guild. She was also a member of Wassenberg Art Center, Lima Chamber of Commerce and a former member of Twigs and Van Wert Women's Club. She was a former 4-H adviser for many years. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mark Lutheran Church, the Rev. Joe Wilck officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 1-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to the Van Wert Salvation Army.

Edith Marie Browning
Feb. 20, 1930 - Jan. 2, 2003
Edith Marie Browning, 72, of Troy, died 8:17 a.m. Wednesday at her daughter's residence in Potsdam. She was born Feb. 20, 1930 in Elbert, W.Va., to Ira Otis and Virginia (Brown) Myers. She was married to Cleveland Browning Jr., who died in 1994. Survivors include six children, Bobby Gene (Tamara) Browning of Italy, Ernestine Browning of Tipp City, Kerry Lee Browning of Piqua, Patricia Marie Walker of Potsdam and Jerry Lynn Browning and Ed (Elizabeth Lenora) Bloomfield of Troy; a daughter-in-law, Deborah Jacomet of Delphos; five brothers, David (Helen) Myers and Ralph Myers of West Virginia, Jimmy (Jan) Myers of South Carolina, Walt (Hope) Myers of Georgia and Gene (Marcy) Myers of Virginia; four sisters, Joanie (Jack) Pate, Joann (Bill) Vanwaes and Phyllis Rutherford of West Virginia and Marlene Martin of Ohio; and 12 grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Larry Browning. Mrs. Browning had been a waitress at Stagers Restaurant in Troy, retiring in 1997 after 17 years. She was an avid bingo player. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Baird Funeral Home, Troy, the Rev. Hershel Fee officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Troy. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Hospice of Miami County, P.O. Box 502, Troy, 45373.

Mary Edna Morgan
Nov. 25, 1907 - Jan. 1, 2003
Mary Edna Morgan, 95, of Van Wert, formerly of Venedocia, died 3 a.m. Wednesday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born Nov. 25, 1907 in York Township, to David D. and Mary E. (Reese) Jones. On Feb. 23, 1928, she married T. Carl Morgan, who died in April 1966. Survivors include a daughter, Donna (Noah) Robeson of Van Wert; seven grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Robert A. Morgan; four sisters, Treva Wheeler, Leona George, Kathryne Wells and Margaret Davies Willson; a brother, Daniel Jones; and a great-grandson, Karl Andrew Kennedy. Mrs. Morgan was a homemaker and worked at Bordens until 1957. She also owned and operated Sandman Baby-sitting Services in Sarasota, Fla. She was a member of Salem Presbyterian Church and attended Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert. She was a 1926 graduate of York High School. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Neil Hammons officiating. Burial will be in Horeb Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to Vancrest Health Care Center Activities Fund, Van Wert, or donor's choice.

Elton E. Wallis
Aug. 2, 1924-Jan. 1, 2003
Elton E. Wallis, 78, of Convoy, died Wednesday morning at his residence. He was born Aug. 2, 1924 in Van Wert County, to Charles Emery and Nila (Robinson) Wallis. On Sept. 5, 1944, he married Erma Oeschle, who survives. Other survivors include two sons, Robert (Diane) Wallis and David (Kim) Wallis of Convoy; a daughter, Peggy Sue Wallis of Convoy; a sister, Eileen (Robert) Dailey of Convoy; 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Mr. Wallis was a lifetime farmer and retired as the Postmaster at the Convoy Post Office after 24 years. He also retired from the Ohio State Highway Patrol Auxiliary. He was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ, Van Wert, and the Convoy American Legion Post. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Gearhart, Mack and Jurczyk Funeral Home, Convoy. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association.

Nannette E. Nagel
Jan. 12, 1937 - Jan. 1, 2003
Nannette E. Nagel, 65, of Delphos, died at 12:54 p.m. Wednesday at St. Rita's Medical Center. She was born Jan. 12, 1937 in Delphos, to Harvey and Martha Bell (Moffett) Himmeger. On July 24, 1954 she married Eugene M. Nagel Sr., who died March 25, 1997. Survivors include four sons, Rick (Michelle) Nagel of Byron, Ill., Dan "Mike" (Kelly) Nagel of Shawnee, Jim (Ann) Nagel of Delphos and Eugene (Nicole) Nagel, Jr., of Van Wert; four daughters, Diana Frobase of Florida, Mary (Jerry) Looser and Lisha Garza of Delphos, and Nancy Jo (Steve) Gordon of Convoy; a twin sister, Nancy Fedele of Delphos; a brother, Harvey Lowell Himmeger of Arizona; 23 grandchildren; and stepmother, Lola Himmeger of Delphos. She was a homemaker and worked at Jim's Restaurant for several years. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be at 8 p.m. Memorial contributions can be made to Senior Citizens of Delphos.

Robert B. Kaufman
Oct. 29, 1926-Dec. 31, 2002
Robert B. Kaufman, 76, of Defiance, died 7:03 p.m. Dec. 31 at the Medical College of Ohio, Toledo. He was born Oct. 29, 1926, in New Cleveland, to Alfred and Cordula (Frank) Kaufman. On June 16, 1954, he married Ruth E. Reindel, who survives. Survivors also include three sons, Dennis, Dave and Douglas Kaufman of Defiance; four brothers, Ambrose Kaufman and Gerald Kaufman of Ottawa, Alvin Kaufman Sr. of Nettles Lake and Alfred Kaufman Jr. of Glandorf; a sister, Mary Lou (James) Reaman of Lima; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Daniel Kaufman Sr. and Cletus Kaufman. Mr. Kaufman retired in 1988 from Brown's Bakery after 25 years where he had worked in sales and as a delivery driver. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3360, the Defiance Eagles, Fish and Game Club and American Legion. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, serving in the South Pacific. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. Mary Catholic Church, the Rev. Tim Kummerer officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Defiance, where military graveside services will be conducted by VFW Post 3360. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today and 9-10:30 a.m. Friday at Lawson-Roessner Funeral Home, 1753 Clinton St., Defiance, where a parish wake will be 7:30 p.m. today. Preferred memorials are to St. Mary Catholic Church of the Kidney Foundation.