Eunice A. Lamb
June 2, 1928 - May 29, 2003
Eunice A. Lamb, 74, of Cairo, died at 3:26 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born June 2, 1928, in Bluffton, to Mark and Cleopatra (Myers) Spacht. On Aug. 14, 1948, she married George E. "Ed" Lamb, who died Feb. 17, 2002. Survivors include three sons, Eugene (Terry) Lamb and Greg Lamb of Lima and George Lamb Jr. of Cairo; a daughter, Marjean (Steve) Finn of Morley, Mich.; two brothers, Leonard (Jenny) Spacht of Wapakoneta and Wesley (Ilene) Spacht of Defiance; 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Mildred Kimble; and two infant sisters. Mrs. Lamb retired from RG Dunn Cigar Factory in Lima in 1986. She was a member of Cairo United Methodist Church, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 908, the Lima Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 Auxiliary and Fraternal Orders of Eagles Aerie 370 Auxiliary. She enjoyed fishing and camping. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, Pastor Rich Rakay officiating. Burial will be in Cairo Eastside Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society or Cairo United Methodist Church.

Laura Rose Atterberry
July 22, 1956 - May 29, 2003
Laura Rose Atterberry, 46, of Delphos, died at 8:29 a.m. Thursday at her residence. She was born July 22, 1956 in Lima, to Rudolph and Elizabeth (Lucke) Wurst. Her father preceded her in death in 1992. Her mother, Elizabeth Ricker, survives in Delphos. She married Dennis Atterberry, who also survives in Delphos. Other survivors include two sons, Craig D. and Jared S. Atterberry at home; five sisters, Theresa (Clem) Osting and Mary Ann (Kim) Buzard of Delphos, Carol (Dave) Till of Wabash, Ind., Christine (Kim) Heckler of Ashville and Sarah (Kenny) Franks of Panama City, Fla.; six brothers, Steven Wurst of Clayton, Ala., Joseph (Tish) Wurst of Waynesfield, Anthony (Jill) Wurst of Solon, Thomas (Kris) Wurst of Fort Wayne and Andrew (Shelly) Wurst and Phillip (Teresa) Wurst of Delphos. Mrs. Atterberry was district administrator for Western & Southern Life Insurance Company. She was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Trinity United Methodist Church, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Sunday and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Monday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, and one hour prior to services Tuesday at the church. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society or Delphos Area Visiting Nurses Hospice.

Rita M. Kesler
Jan. 3, 1920 - May 29, 2003
Rita M. Kesler, 83, of Delphos, died at 2:30 a.m. Thursday at her residence. She was born Jan. 3, 1920, in Delphos, to Frank and Margaret (Rahrig) Friemoth. On Feb. 20, 1941, she married Hayden Kesler, who died May 15, 1990. Survivors include two sons, James A. (Carolyn) Kesler and Keith (Lori) Allen of Van Wert; a daughter, Susanne Keister of Delphos; three brothers, Eugene (Dorthy) Friemoth and Don (Irene) Friemoth of Van Wert, and Elmer E. (Helen) Friemoth of Elida; six grandchildren, Erin (Todd) Hansen, Melissa (Gregory) Odenweller, Erica (Kirk) Berryman, J.D. Keister and Katie and Jamie Allen; and six great-grandchildren, Derek and Jonathon Hansen, Alex and Jeffrey Odenweller and Allison and Adam Berryman. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Melvin and Louis Friemoth; a sister, Lucille Allen; and a grandson, Kevin Kesler. Mrs. Kesler retired in 1977 from Van Wert County Hospital as a nurse, serving as supervisor for 14 years. She helped start and organize Visiting Nurses when it first opened, was chairman of the Van Wert Visiting Nurses Advisory Board and a member of the Registered Nurses Association. She was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert and the Tri-County Doll Club. She was an avid doll collector. She attended St. John’s Schools and graduated from Van Wert High School and St. Rita’s School of Nursing in 1940. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, the Rev. Todd Dominique officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Sunday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be Sunday. Preferred memorials are to Delphos Visiting Nurses and Hospice.

Irene Pothast
Jan. 17, 1910 - May 28, 2003
Irene Adeline Pothast, 93, of Fort Jennings, died at 11:55 p.m. Wednesday at Putnam Acres Nursing Center in Ottawa. She was born Jan. 17, 1910, in Van Wert County, to Sylvester and Katherine (Holdgreve) Gerdeman. On June 6, 1934, she married Aloysius W. Pothast, who died Feb. 2, 1974. Survivors include three daughters, Ruth (Richard) Hawk of Lexington, Ky., Jane (Omer) Elwer of Defiance and Sr. Carol Pothast, O.S.F. of Glandorf; a son, Harold Pothast of Fort Jennings; a sister Amilda Mueller of Venedocia; seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Ralph, Carl and Gerald Gerdeman; and a sister, Leona Grothaus. Mrs. Pothast was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings, and its Altar Rosary Society and was active in Catholic Ladies of the Columbias. She enjoyed cooking and baking for the St. Joseph Parish Festival and going to the Delphos and Ottawa Senior Citizens Centers. Mass of Christian burial will be 1:30 p.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery in Fort Jennings. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake will be at 3 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Putnam County Home Health and Hospice or St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund.

Janet M. Haines
Feb. 14, 1921 - May 27, 2003
Janet M. Haines, 82, of Van Wert, died at 12:10 p.m. Tuesday at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne. She was born Feb. 14, 1921 in Van Wert, to William I. and Mabel G. (Blank) Murphy. On March 4, 1944, she married Leo M. Haines, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Gary Haines of Van Wert; a brother, Lowell (Jane) Murphy of Van Wert; a sister, Annalee Duncan of Longview, Texas; and one grandson, Jonathan Scott (Laura) Haines of Delphos. Mrs. Haines was a homemaker. She was an active member of First Presbyterian Church, Van Wert. Graveside services will be 1 p.m. Friday at Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, the Rev. Edward Jillson officiating. There is no visitation. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association or First Presbyterian Church. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert is in charge of arrangements.

Irven E. Bindel
July 27, 1924 - May 25, 2003
Irven E. Bindel, 78, of Findlay, died at 4 p.m. Sunday, at Heritage House in Findlay. He was born July 27, 1924, in Delphos, to Fred and Nora (Mox) Bindel. On Oct. 15, 1950, he married June Oackes, who survives in Findlay. Other survivors include a son, Jack I. (Pat) Bindel of Findlay; a brother, Louis Bindel of Lima; and a granddaughter, Jennifer Bindel of Findlay. He was preceded in death by a brother, Fred Bindel, and a sister, Esther Paul. Mr. Bindel was co-founder of Bindel Appliances in Findlay, which has been in business since 1965. He was a World War II Air Force veteran, serving in the European Theater. He was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and Elks Lodge B.P.O.E. 75 in Findlay, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 in Delphos, where he had served as commander, American Legion Ralph D. Cole Post 3, a charter member of Alco Sertoma Club in Lima and the Findlay Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Merchants Association. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Coldren-Crates Funeral Home, Findlay, Pastor Christian Dittmar officiating. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery, Findlay, with military graveside services conducted by the Hancock County Veteran Memorial Squad. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.Irven E. Bindel

Catherine Ann Hutson
Dec. 22, 1934 - May 23, 2003
Catherine Ann Hutson, 68, of Lima, died at 7:30 a.m. Friday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Dec. 22, 1934, in Lima, to R. Perry and Pauline (Schimpf) Jones. On May 21, 1955, she married Hershell N. Hutson, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include a son, David Alan (Julie) Hutson of Delphos; a daughter, Laura Kay (Steve) Blankemeyer of Westerville; two brothers, Robert P. (Audrey) Jones III of Lima, and Rodger L. (Sara) Jones of Harrod; five grandchildren, Bradley J. and Christopher R. Hutson of Delphos, and Nathan, Alyssa and Erica Blankemeyer of Westerville; one niece; and five nephews. Mrs. Hutson was a secretary for Dr. V. H. Hay for 21 years and was also secretary for the Rev. Dave French at St. Gerard Catholic Church. She was a 1952 graduate of St. John’s High School and was active in planning their class reunions. She was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church and was past president of the Altar and Rosary Society. She was a volunteer for the board of elections and enjoyed crocheting and knitting. Mass of Christian burial was 10 a.m. today at St. Rose Catholic Church, Lima, the Rev. Christopher Vasko officiating. Burial was in Gethsemani Cemetery. Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

F. Marie Edwards
Aug. 30, 1904 - May 25, 2003
F. Marie Edwards, 98, of Van Wert, died at 7:16 p.m. Sunday at Van Wert Manor Nursing Home, Van Wert. She was born Aug. 30, 1904 in Paulding County, to Clarence Eli and Bertha (Bice) Adams. On May 1, 1926, she married Lawrence Edwards, who did May 4, 1996. Survivors include a daughter, Doris (Dean) Ley of Van Wert; a daughter-in-law, Beverly Edwards of Van Wert; a brother, Doyt Adams of Rockford; a sister, Thelma Proffit of Huntington, Ind.; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth Edwards; a daughter, Dorothy Jean Edwards; and a brother, Marian Adams. Mrs. Edwards was a homemaker and formerly worked at Van Wert Manufacturing Co., Van Wert. She was a former member of the Ohio City Church of God. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Friends may call 3-6 p.m. Wednesday and one hour prior to services Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association.

M. June Johnson
Feb. 26, 1922 - May 26, 2003
M. June Johnson, 81, of rural Spencerville, died at 12:15 p.m. Monday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Feb. 26, 1922 in Auglaize County, to Fred H. and Nellie E. (Richardson) Smith. On March 3, 1944, she married John B. Johnson, who died July 20, 1983. Survivors include a daughter, Kathy (Lyle) Sandkuhl of Spencerville; a son, James M. (Linda) Johnson of Spencerville; a brother, Howard C. Smith of Largo, Fla.; a sister, Hazel Thaxton of St. Marys; seven grandchildren, John P. "J.P." (Linda) Johnson, Daniel Leiber and Lacy and Jeb T. Johnson of Spencerville, Jennifer (Scot) Cramer of Ada, Jill Johnson of Reynoldsburg and Kimberly (Chad) Prine of Venedocia; three stepgrandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and eight step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, John F. Johnson; a sister, Helen Tester; and two brothers, Emerson "Bud" and Harold Smith. Mrs. Johnson worked at the Lima Army Modification Center during World War II. She was a member of Buckland United Church of Christ and the Ida Rebekah Lodge 391 of Spencerville. She was a 1940 graduate of Buckland High School. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Jeanette Rode officiating. Burial will be in Buckland Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Buckland United Church of Christ or Roselawn Manor Activity Fund.

Marjorie VanTilburg
Feb. 16, 1916 - May 26, 2003
Marjorie P. VanTilburg, 87, of Van Wert, died at 2:25 p.m. Monday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. She was born Feb. 16, 1916, in Paulding County, to Colonel and Pearl (Staples) Stover. She had been married to Cleo Shivley, who preceded her in death. She then married Don VanTilburg, who also preceded her in death. Survivors include three sons, Bud L. (Pat) Shivley of Convoy, Ronald C. (Joan) Shivley of Ossian, Ind., and Gordon K. (Velma) Shivley of Delphos; a daughter, Beth A. (Richard) Lininger of Van Wert; a sister, Mildred Horner of Bradenton, Fla.; 12 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Gladys Zimmerman and Dorothy Malston; and two brothers, Wilbur and Ralph Stover. Mrs. VanTilburg was a homemaker and member of Jennings Road Church of Christ. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. David Ray officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 5-9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Community Health Professionals Hospice.

Lucien W. Ellis
Jan. 13, 1919 - May 21, 2003
Lucien W. "Luke" Ellis, 84, of Delphos, formerly of Mount Sterling, Ky., died at 4:36 a.m. Wednesday at Boulder City Veteran’s Nursing Home. He was born Jan. 13, 1919, in Kentucky, to Forest and Prudie (Clarkston) Ellis. He married Mary Jane Ellis, who preceded him in death. Survivors include a daughter, Ola (Patrick) Ellis of Las Vegas; and eight stepchildren, Pat (Bob) Poling and Nona (Frank) Lumpkins of Delphos, Lynn (Joseph) Wilson of Mount Sterling, Donald (Betty) Pierce of Forest Grove, Ga., David Pierce of Frankford, Ky., Sue Cooper of Indian Lake, Terry Pierce of Spencerville, and Becky Stubbs of Harrod. He was preceded in death by a brother, Carlyle Ellis. Mr. Ellis served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and was a P.O.W. during the war. Funeral services were 2 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Burial was in Walnut Grove Cemetery, with military graveside services conducted by the Delphos Veterans Council. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Ella Almeda Beckner
Dec. 23, 1919 - May 23, 2003
Ella Almeda Beckner, 83, of Delphos, died at 12:30 p.m. Friday at Vancrest Health Care Center. She was born Dec. 23, 1919, in Scott, to Charles Elmer and Minnie Mae (Long) Cotterman. On Oct. 16, 1939, she married Harold Clayton Beckner, who died March 19, 1997. Survivors include two sons, Harold Richard (Pam) Beckner and Charles William Beckner of Delphos; three daughters, Carla Jean (Fred) Goodwin, Jill Christina (Tom) Syphrit and Brenda JoAnn (Mike) Ricker of Delphos; 15 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Barbara Eloise Wheeler; a sister, Nellie Viola McGue; and a grandson. Mrs. Beckner was a homemaker. She was a member of First United Presbyterian Church, where she served as an Elder and was past president of the Presbyterian Women’s Society and also served as deacon and elder. She was a PTA member and band booster at Jefferson High School and started mothers’ patrol at East Fifth and North Franklin streets. She was a graduate of Ridge Middle Point High School. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at First United Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Harry Tolhurst officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Sunday and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Monday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, and one hour prior to services Tuesday at the church.

Mary Julia Hanser
July 5, 1941 - May 22, 2003
Mary Julia "Julie" Hanser, 61, of Delphos, died Thursday. She was born July 5, 1941, in East St. Louis, Ill., to Forrest and Cecilia Hanser. Survivors include two brothers, the Rev. Forrest Patrick "Pat" Hanser of Dallas, and James "Rick" (Pam) Hanser of Delphos; two nieces, Julie (Brent) Morris of Asheville, N.C., and Kate Hanser of Cincinnati; a nephew, James Hanser of Delphos; a great-niece, Lily Morris; three aunts, many cousins, friends and business associates. Hanser retired from Mercy Health Partners in Cincinnati as president and chief executive officer in February 2001 after eight years. While there, she was instrumental in developing an integrated health care network consisting of six hospitals, several long-term health facilities, wellness centers and home health care agencies. Following her retirement, she did consulting work in both health care and non-health care administration. She was also a member of the Daughters of Charity of the St. Vincent de Paul Society for 29 years. Her career in health care began as a critical care nurse at Hotel Dieu Hospital in New Orleans. She returned to school to earn her master’s degree in health care administration at Indiana University. She served as president and CEO of Providence Hospital in Mobile, Alabama; St. Marys Hospital and Milwaukee County Hospital in Milwaukee. In 1993, she returned to Ohio at the invitation of Catholic Health Partners to form Mercy Health Partners in Cincinnati. She was also involved in many social service organizations, particularly those dealing with women’s needs. She also worked with the Girl Scouts of America. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Pat Hanser officiating. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, and 10-11 a.m. at the church on Monday. Preferred memorials are to the St. John’s Teachers’ Endowment Fund or Healing Connections Associates of Cincinnati.

Camryn Mae Mansfield
Camryn Mae Mansfield, 44 minutes old, of Cloverdale, died at 2:44 p.m. Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born at 2 p.m. Wednesday to Stanley and Dawn (Eickholt) Mansfield. She is survived by a brother, Jonah Mansfield at home; paternal grandparents, Stan and Bonnie Mansfield of Cloverdale; maternal grandparents, John Eickholt of Cloverdale and Joyce Brooks of Delphos; paternal great-grandparents Celeste "Babe" Wannemacher of Cloverdale, and Robert and Betty Mansfield of Defiance; maternal great-grandparents, Roman Eickholt of Cloverdale, Norma Brooks of Delphos and Marge Donovan of Cloverdale; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Cathy Eickholt. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Joseph Perrin
May 30, 1925-May 21, 2003
Joseph Perrin, 77, of Delphos, died at 1:05 a.m. Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born May 30, 1925, in Putnam County, to William and Helena (Weber) Perrin. On July 15, 1950, he married Ethel Kennedy, who preceded him in death. Survivors include two sons, Bill (Sue) Perrin of Lima and Mike Perrin of Harrod; a daughter, Becky Perrin of Delphos; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, John Perrin; and a sister, Mary Fleming. Mr. Perrin retired from Westinghouse in Lima. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. He was also a member of the Ottoville American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts, Eagles Aerie 471 and Military Order of Cootie. He enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre at the VFW and Senior Citizen Center. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville. Friends may call 6-8 .m. Sunday and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Monday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, where a VFW service will be 7 p.m. Monday and a parish wake will be 7:45 p.m. Monday. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Mary E. Howell
April 27, 1922 - May 22, 2003
Mary E. Howell, 81, of rural Spencerville, died 12:10 a.m. today at Roselawn Manor Nursing Home, Spencerville. She was born April 27, 1922, near Buckland in Auglaize County, to Virgil T. and Cecilia (Taylor) Krites. On March 31, 1969, she married Wilbur H. "Bill" Howell, who died Sept. 27, 1986. Survivors include a son, James F. "Jim" (Judith I. "Judy" Stout) Williams of Spencerville; a sister, Betty Fenneman of Spencerville; a sister-in-law, Rose Krites of Wapakoneta; three grandsons and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Kenneth Krites; and a grandson, Jarret Williams. Mrs. Howell worked at the Lima Tank Depot during World War II and later at Westinghouse and Moore’s Store in Lima. She was a member of Bowersock Bros. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6772 Auxiliary and the Harry J. Reynolds American Legion Post 191 in Spencerville. She was a 1940 graduate of Buckland High School. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Burial will be in Spencerville Cemetery. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Roselawn Manor Nursing Home.

Vena Mae Kill
June 1, 1924 - May 17, 2003
Vena Mae Kill, 78, of Delphos, died at 10:40 p.m. Saturday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born June 1, 1924, in Van Wert, to Oscar E. and Alta M. (Hargesheimer) Mousa. On Sept. 25, 1948, she married Vernon R. Kill, who survives in Delphos. Survivors also include two sons, Virgil Kill of Bellvue, and Vincent Kill of Altamone Springs, Fla.; a daughter, Vera (Terry) Edmonds of Apex, N.C.; surrogate daughter, Carolyn Brenneman of Elida; a sister, Florence (Fred) Laman of North Vernon, Ind.; five grandchildren, Stacie Jones, Troy Arnold, Sandra Knauf and Levi and Alexis Kill; two stepgrandsons, James and Jason Brenneman; four great-grandchildren, Riley Vivian, Gabrielle Grace, Justin Dakota and Caitlyn Shelby; and two step-great-grandchildren, Emily Jewel and Madison Camille. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Vivian Brenneman; two brothers, Harold and Virgil Mousa; and a granddaughter, Hillary Kill. Mrs. Kill was a homemaker and also secretary at Kill Brothers for 23 years. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters of the Americas and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post Auxiliary in Spencerville. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday 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, where a parish wake will be this evening. Preferred memorials are to St. John’s School.

Kenneth G. Miller
Aug. 8, 1953 - May 20, 2003
Kenneth G. Miller, 49, of Delphos, died Tuesday afternoon at his residence. He was born Aug. 8, 1953 in Lima, to James and Rita (McRedmond) Miller. His mother survives in Delphos. On Aug. 20, 1971, he married Elaine Gasser, who also survives in Delphos. Other survivors include a daughter, Kathleen (Keith) Schimmoeller of Delphos; a sister, Barbra (Dan) Osting of Delphos; a brother, Dennis (Karen) Miller of Florida; and one grandchild. Mr. Miller retired from Elida Machine and Tool and worked as a policeman in Delphos for three years. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Eagles Aerie 471 and the board of the Delphos Area Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board. He was a 1971 graduate of St. John’s High School and a 1975 graduate of the police academy. He enjoyed fishing and playing golf. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be at 7:45 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Columbus Children’s Hospital.

Daisy Mae Stepleton
April 14, 1919 - Feb. 8, 2003
Daisy Mae Stepleton, 83, of Delphos, died Feb. 8 at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born April 14, 1919 in Dupont, to Samuel Walter and Eda Mae (DeCoursey) Etter. She married Anthony Joseph Stepleton, who died Aug. 27, 1983. Survivors include a son, Michael L. (Carol) Stepleton of Livonia, Mich.; a daughter, Beverly K. Hipsher of Lima; a sister-in-law, Anna Mary Etter of Dupont; 14 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her stepmother, Zora Frankie Wells Etter, a son, Anthony E. Stepleton, three infant children; four brothers, two sisters and a son-in-law, Vernon Hipsher. Mrs. Stepleton worked at the cigar factory in Delphos and Lima. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 371 Auxiliary, the Walterick-Hemme Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Auxiliary and American Legion Post Auxiliary. Memorial graveside services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. John’s Cemetery. Mass of Christian burial was Feb. 11 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Arrangements are by Harter and Son Memorial Chapel.

Esther A. Etzkorn
Nov. 11, 1909 - May 20, 2003
Esther A. Etzkorn, 93, of Landeck, died at 3:32 a.m. Tuesday at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Ottawa. She was born Nov. 11, 1909 in Landeck, to Charles and Veronica (Peters) Kill. She married Clarence Etzkorn, who died Dec. 17, 1975. Survivors include a son, Robert (Janice) Etzkorn; two daughters, Dolores (Harold) Pohlman and Angela Rose Vulgamott of Delphos; a sister, Augusta Shepler of Mount Cory; 12 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Carl Etzkorn; a brother, Victor Kill; a son-in-law, Paul Vulgamott; three grandchildren, Daniel, Donald and Harold Pohlman Jr.; and two great-grandchildren, Adam and Amber Wrasman. Mrs. Etzkorn was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Landeck. She enjoyed playing cards and gardening. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, the Rev. John Fleck officiating. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be at 8:45 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the church or donor’s choice.

Alberta L. Hartman
Oct. 21, 1935 - May 18, 2003
Alberta L. Hartman, 67, of Van Wert, died at 8:10 p.m. Sunday at Van Wert Manor Nursing Home. She was born Oct. 21, 1935, in Mendon, to Dwight and Mae (Sill) Drake. On Jan. 28, 1951, she married Charles J. Hartman, who died in 1987. Survivors include three sons, Randy (Brenda) Hartman and Kip (Marci) Hartman of Van Wert and Mike (Juanita) Hartman of Spencerville; two daughters, Shelia (John) Winters of Ohio City and Kathy (Eugene) Eash of Van Wert; two sisters, Elaine (Fred) Walser and Judy McElroy of Van Wert; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Charles Hartman; and a brother, Dean Drake. Mrs. Hartman worked at Dana Weatherhead Plant, Antwerp, for 17 years and then at Teleflex Corp., Van Wert, for nearly 12 years. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Scott Fleming officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association or the American Diabetes Association.

Gary L. Stewart
Oct. 11, 1952 - May 19, 2003
Gary L. Stewart, 50, of Wapakoneta, formerly of Spencerville, died at 2:15 p.m. Monday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Oct. 11, 1952, in Richmond, Ind., to Ralph E. and Maxine (Cisco) Stewart. His mother survives in Wapakoneta. Other survivors include three daughters, Amy L. (Keith) Bracy of Wapakoneta and Whitney N. and Ashley A. Stewart of Shawnee; two brothers, Robert E. Stewart of Pleasant Hill and William A. "Bill" (Lisa Lawrence) Stewart of Spencerville; two sisters, Kim S. (Jeff) Coil of Venedocia and Melanie A. (Ben Huddleston) Stewart of Wapakoneta; and one grandchild. Mr. Stewart was a truck driver for TNT Trucking Co., Sidney, had worked at Toledo Molding and Die, Delphos, and for his brother at Stewart Auto Repair in Spencerville. He attended Spencerville Schools and received his GED. He enjoyed woodworking, motorcycles, NASCAR and nature. He also designed and built a wind turbine to indicate wind speeds and along with his brother, designed and built a four-wheeled pedal bike that allows both riders to pedal separately. Funeral services will be 8 p.m. Thursday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Ron Lee officiating. Cremation will follow the service. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association.

Donna C. Duncan
Mar. 18, 1916 - May 18, 2003
Donna C. Duncan, 87, of St. Marys, formerly of Van Wert, died at 12:55 p.m. Sunday at Valley Nursing Home, St. Marys. She was born March 18, 1916, in Scott, to Thomas and Elizabeth (Schmidt) Miller. On May 11, 1941, she married Doyle F. Duncan. He died July 2, 1999. Survivors include two sons, Roger (Charlotte) Duncan of St. Marys and Dr. Phillip (Mary) Duncan of Kennett Square, Penn.; a brother, T. Paul (Betty) Miller of Van Wert; one sister, Ruby Roth of St. Paul, Minn.; and four grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, an infant and Donald R. Miller; and four sisters, an infant, and Marian Weber, Allegra Miler and Edith Brown. Mrs. Duncan had worked part time for Dr. Hyre and Dr. Gates, and worked part time as church secretary at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Van Wert, where she was also a member and in the Women’s Circle. She was a member of the Van Wert YWCA. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Joseph Wilck officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 3-6 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the church or Otterbein-St. Marys Benevolent Fund.

Audrey E. Carpenter
Oct. 18, 1923 - May 19, 2003
Audrey Elizabeth "Dolly" Carpenter, 79, of Columbus Grove, died at 8 a.m. Monday at her residence. She was born Oct. 18, 1923, in Duluth, Minn., to Hilding and Grazilla "Grace" (Berquist) Dahlen. On Nov. 10, 1944, she married Harold "Ted" Carpenter, who survives. Survivors also include three sons, David (Lynda) Carpenter of North Canton, Kenneth Carpenter of Lima and Gary (Linda) Carpenter of Apex, N.C.; a daughter, Victoria Hovest of St. Marys; and eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Beatrice King. Mrs. Carpenter was a homemaker and had worked at Konalrad Products, Columbus Grove. She attended Columbus Grove United Church of Christ and was a life member of the Columbus Grove American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post auxiliaries. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Thursday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, the Rev. Don Sadler officiating. Burial will be in Truro Cemetery, Columbus Grove. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, where an American Legion Auxiliary service will be at 8 p.m. and a VFW Auxiliary service will be at 8:30 p.m.

Donald C. Enyart
Sept. 20, 1934 - May 15, 2003
Donald C. Enyart, 68, of Rockford, died at 11:40 a.m., at Laurels of Shane Hill. He was born Sept. 20, 1934, in Celina, to Sherman and Carrie (Williamson) Enyart. Survivors include the mother of his children, Eva (Martin) Drieling; five sons, Don Enyart, Ed Enyart, Garry Enyart and Bob Enyart of Portland, Ind., and James Enyart of Indianapolis; two daughters, Amy Bash of Celina and Teresa Enyart of Delphos; two sisters, Mary Steiner of Rockford and Ada Fast of Celina; a brother, Mike Enyart of Van Wert; and 14 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Norma Jean Howell, Dorothy Flore and Barbara Enyart; and a brother, Jerry Enyart. Mr. Enyart was a mechanic and a former employee of Napa Portland Motor Parts. He was a member of Berne Indiana Lions Club and the Portland Reserve Police Department. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at The Lord’s Church in Celina, Pastor Randy Christian officiating. There is no visitation. Preferred memorials are to Lehman Funeral Home, 901 Myers Road, Celina.

Leo J. Winter
May 25, 1925 - May 17, 2003
Leo J. Winter, 77, of Lima, died at 10:05 p.m. Saturday at his residence. He was born May 25, 1925, in Hardin County, to Day Walter and Jenny (Sauers) Winter. On Feb. 18, 1947, he married Jeanne E. Makley, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include three sons, Danny Lee (Pyong) Winter of Omaha, Neb., Thomas Richard (Kathie) Winter of Delphos, and Kevin Francis Winter of Lima; two daughters, Cathy (Larry) Agler of Charlotte, N.C., and Carole Rose (David) Glick of Lima; three brothers, Michael and Theodore Winter of Lima, and Wallace Winter of New Carlisle; a sister, Lois Lambert of Lakeworth, Fla.; and five grandchildren, Sara Winter, Kaitlyn Glick and Monica Glick and Ryan and Travis Agler. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Connie and Nancy Winter and Donna Marie Pohlabel; and a brother, Donald Winter. Mr. Winter worked at Teledyne for 33 years as a tool and die maker. He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Lima, where he was an usher. He served in the U.S. Navy as a gunner’s mate on a liberty ship during World War II from 1942 to 1945. He enjoyed fishing and gardening. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, the Rev. David M. Ross officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, where a rosary service will be at 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials may be sent to Spiritual Bouquets.

Socorro Tumaliuan
Oct. 8, 1919 - May 18, 2003
Socorro "Corring" Soriano Tumaliuan, 83, of Vaughnsville, died at 8:30 p.m. Sunday at her residence. She was born Oct. 8, 1919, in Tuguegarao, Cagayan, Philippines, to Alejandro and Guadalupe Narag Soriano. In 1937, she married Maximino N. Tumaliuan, who died April 30, 1984. Survivors include three sons, Emidio S. (Emilia) Tumaliuan, Lucito S. (Gloria) Tumaliuan and Nelson S. (Linda) Tumaliuan of Tuguegarao, Cagayan; four daughters, Florita T. (Michael) Bishop of Vaughnsville and Marita T. Punzalan, Edna T. (Benito) Pagulayan and Josie T. (Melecio) Maribbay of Tuguegarao, Cagayan; two brothers, Mariano N. (Tinang) Soriano and Antonio N. (Chuching) Soriano of Tuguegarao, Cagayan; three sisters, Primitiva S. Tumaliuan, Claudia S. Tamayao and Mercedez S. (Nazario) Tumaliuan of Tuguegarao, Cagayan; 26 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Maximino S. Tumaliuan; a daughter-in-law, Siony Tumaliuan; a son-in-law, Benjamin Punzalan; and two brothers-in-law, Siru Tumaliuan and Orring Tamayao. Mrs. Tumaliuan was a homemaker and seamstress. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, Columbus Grove, and the Senior Citizens in the Philippines. She enjoyed sewing, doing word-search puzzles and reading. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Anthony Catholic Church, the Rev. David Ross officiating. Burial will be in the Philippines. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. Wednesday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, where a scripture service will be at 9 p.m. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to the family.

Melvin J. Meyers
Feb. 28, 1909 - May 17, 2003
Melvin J. Meyers, 94, of Delphos, died at 10 a.m. Saturday at Vancrest Health Care Center in Delphos. He was born Feb. 28, 1909, in Delphos, to Joseph and Mary (Best) Meyers. On Oct. 24, 1933, he married Helen Kerman, who died March 22, 1992. Survivors include three sons, William (Diane) Meyers of Van Wert, Thomas (Deb Kinder) Meyers of Roanoke, Ind., and Daniel Meyers of Delphos; three daughters, Carole (Leonard) Herman of Columbus, Mary (Richard) Banta of Coco Beach, Fla., and Margaret (Anthony) Mesker of Delphos; 18 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Janice Richardson; two sons, James and Richard Meyers; a sister, Leona Krendl; and a brother, Eugene Meyers. Mr. Meyers retired from Norfolk-Western Rail Road Company as yard master after 48 years. After his retirement, he worked at Meyer IGA in Delphos. He also played in various bands since the age of 13, including the Merle Hollar Band until 1983 as a drummer. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, a life member of the Delphos Eagles Lodge and an honorary member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035. He was a graduate of St. John’s High School. He enjoyed painting ceramics and gardening. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday 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. Tuesday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be at 7:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the church.

Betty J. Garlock
Nov. 29, 1925 - May 17, 2003
Betty J. Garlock, 77, of Lima, died at 3:55 a.m. Saturday at her residence. She was born Nov. 29, 1925, in Mount Giliad, to Edwin and Adda (Moore) Paxton. On Sept. 14, 1946, she married A. Thomas "Tom" Garlock, who died Oct. 3, 1997. Survivors include a son, Daniel Thomas (Debbie) Garlock of Bluffton; a daughter, Chris Garlock Sacks of Dublin; numerous brothers and sisters-in-laws; four grandchildren; friend and caregiver, Bonnie Thomas of Lima; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Cynthia Jane Garlock; a sister, Jane Ellen Paxton; and two brothers, Floyd Allen and Edwin "Eddie" Paxton. Mrs. Garlock worked for Northwest Travel and Bank One Travel in Lima as a travel manager. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Lima, and Sigma Zeta Beta Sorority for more than 50 years. She was active in numerous charitable activities and loved to travel. Mass of Christian burial will be noon Tuesday at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Lima, the Rev. David Ross officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801 or LCC High School Capital Campaign.

Vena Mae Kill
June 1, 1924 - May 17, 2003
Vena Mae Kill, 78, of Delphos, died at 10:40 p.m. Saturday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born June 1, 1924, in Van Wert, to Oscar E. and Alta M. (Hargesheimer) Mousa. On Sept. 25, 1948, she married Vernon R. Kill, who survives in Delphos. Survivors also include two sons, Virgil Kill of Bellvue, and Vincent Kill of Altamone Springs, Fla.; a daughter, Vera (Terry) Edmonds of Apex, N.C.; surrogate daughter, Carolyn Brenneman of Elida; a sister, Florence (Fred) Laman of North Vernon, Ind.; five grandchildren, Stacie Jones, Troy Arnold, Sandra Knauf and Levi and Alexis Kill; two stepgrandsons, James and Jason Brenneman; four great-grandchildren, Rylie Vivian, Gabrielle Grace, Justin Dakota and Kaitlin Shelby; and two step-great-grandchildren, Emily Jewel and Madison Camille. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Vivian Brenneman; two brothers, Harold and Virgil Mousa; and a granddaughter, Hillary Kill. Mrs. Kill was a homemaker and also secretary at Kill Brothers for 23 years. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters of the Americas and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post Auxiliary in Spencerville. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Tuesday and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be Wednesday evening. Preferred memorials are to St. John’s School.

Kathryn M. Snyder
Dec. 1, 1931 - May 17, 2003
Kathryn M. Snyder, 71, of Middle Point, died at 4:05 a.m. Saturday at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert. She was born Dec. 1, 1931, in Van Wert County, to David and Thelma (Tabler) Stemen. On Nov. 25, 1949, she married Dewane E. Snyder, who died Feb. 28, 2001. Survivors include two sons, Stephen (Deborah) Snyder of Oxford and Douglas (Margaret) Snyder of Cincinnati; a daughter, Jody Snyder of Tiffin; a brother, Dean (Shirley) Stemen of Middle Point; and five grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Phyllis Stemen. Mrs. Snyder retired in 1997 after working 22 years in the business office at Van Wert County Hospital. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Middle Point, and the Middle Point Fire Department Auxiliary. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Thomas Cover officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Middle Point Fire Department Auxiliary or Trinity Lutheran Church.

Peter Perani
May 15, 1924 - May 14, 2003
Peter Perani, 78, of Elida, died at 9:47 p.m. Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born May 15, 1924, in Brownsville, Penn., to Peter and Lucy (Grassi) Perani. On July 6, 1946, he married Erma Balini, who survives in Elida. Other survivors include two daughters, Pia Johns of New Smyrna, Fla. and Patricia (Manny) Perani of Charleston, S.C.; a daughter-in-law, Edna Perani of Jacksonville, Fla.; and a son, Paul Perani of Lima. He was preceded in death by a brother, Louis Perani; a son, Peter F. Perani; and a sister, Mary Turkovich. Mr. Perani retired from Chrysler Defense Division in Research and Development as an engineer. He was also with the Chrysler Space Division in New Orleans and was instrumental in the opening of the Lima Army Tank Plant. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps from Nov. 30, 1942 to Dec. 4, 1945. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, the Rev. David M. Ross officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to services Monday at the church. Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are to Our Daily Bread Soup Kitchen on McClain Road in Lima or St. Charles Catholic Church Visitation Sunday.

Rosalia M. Schnipke
April 27, 1920 - May 15, 2003
Rosalie M. Schnipke, 83, of Kalida, died at 6:37 p.m. Thursday at Calvary Manor Nursing Home in Glandorf. She was born April 27, 1920, in Kalida, to Mathias and Philomina (Uphaus) Verhoff. On June 26, 1946, she married Wilfrid J. Schnipke, who survives in Kalida. Survivors also include two sons, Norman (Sandy) Schnipke of Kalida and Gregory (Marie) Schnipke of Harvard, Mass.; eight daughters, Joan (Myron) Dodds of Lima, Noreen (John) Odenweller of Perrysburg, Evelyn (David) Nash of Oxford, Conn., Grace Genzer of Cordova, Tenn., and Phyllis (Mark) Langhals, Barbara (Harold) Horstman, Norma (Michael) Unverferth and Marie (Gary) Langhals of Kalida; two brothers, Victor (Lucille) Verhoff of Kalida and the Rev. Werner Verhoff of Carthagena; a sister, Armella Turnwald of Ottoville; 25 grandchildren and one great-granchild. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Ambrose, Mathias and Brother Michael Verhoff. Mrs. Schnipke was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church in Kalida, and its Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia Council 134. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Michael Catholic Church, the Revs. Werner Verhoff and Scott Kramer officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. today and 2-9 p.m. Sunday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a CLC and Altar Rosary service will be 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorials are to St. Michael Catholic Church and Putnam County Hospice.