Arthur Grone
March 8, 1917-May 15, 2003
Arthur A. Grone, 86, of Delphos, died at 6:12 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born March 8, 1917, in Marion Township, to Joseph and Agnes (Kaverman) Grone. He married Eva L. Yochum, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include three sons, Neil (Norma) Grone of West Chester, James (Lois) Grone of Fort Jennings and Michael (Dawn) Grone of Sidney; two daughters, Mary (Kinnaird) Kniss of Avilla, Ind., and Diana (Richard) Hitchcock of Delphos; three sisters-in-law, Zelma Grone and Patricia Yochum of Delphos, and Beatrice Basinger of Oregon; 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Catherine Marie Reinemeyer; and a brother, Richard Grone. Mr. Grone was a rural mail carrier at the Delphos Post Office for 44 years. He was a member of the National Association of Rural Carriers, the Delphos Country Club, Eagles Aerie 471, and was a 1935 St. John’s High School graduate. He served in the U.S. Navy as Carpenter’s Mate 1st Class during World War II. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed carpentry work. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Randy Giesige officiating. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be at 7:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. John Catholic School Tuition Fund.

Gaylord C. Kreischer
July 16, 1924-May 13, 2003
Gaylord C. "Fritz" Kreischer, 78, of Van Wert, died at 6 p.m. Tuesday at his residence. He was born July 16, 1924, in Van Wert County, to Lawrence W. and Edith R. (McClure) Kreischer. Survivors include seven brothers, Ralph (Helen) Kreischer, James Kreischer and Max (Janet) Kreischer of Van Wert, Gerald (Dixie) Kreischer and Harold (Sherry) Kreischer of Ohio City, Larry (Karen) Kreischer of Convoy and Ronnie (Linda) Kreischer of Lexington; three sisters, Barbara (Robert) Bashore of Paulding, Marcile Pennell of Idaho Springs, Colo., and Audrey Harter of Ridgecrest, Calif.; and many nieces and nephews. Mr. Kreischer retired as a postal worker from the Lima Post Office, and was a railway mail clerk for 20 years. He was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ, Van Wert, the Van Wert Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion posts, and the Experimental Aircraft Association. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and received a Purple Heart. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Paul United Methodist Church, Pastor Kenyon Kaehr officiating. Burial will be in Evangelical Protestant Cemetery in rural Van Wert, with military graveside services conducted by the combined units of the Van Wert VFW and American Legion posts. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to the Salvation Army or donor’s choice.

Ruth Irene Dershem
May 9, 1911 - May 13, 2003
Ruth Irene Dershem, 92, of Spencerville, died at 6:25 p.m. Tuesday at Roselawn Manor Nursing Home, Spencerville. She was born in the Fort Amanda area, to Archelaus and Irana May Baker. On Nov. 21, 1931, she married Byron H. Dershem, who preceded her in death Aug. 14, 1960. Survivors include a daughter, Alice M. Dershem of Lima; two sons, Thomas L. Kay Dershem of Trussville, Ala., and Robert L. (Betty) Dershem of Lima; 21 grandchildren; 34 great grandchildren and a great-great grandchild; three daughters-in-law, Jeanine Dershem of Pensacola, Fla., Betty Dershem of Newark, and Helen Dershem of Worthington; three sisters, Eunice Shock of Lima, Cleona (Robert) Layton of Cridersville, and Mary May "Dolly" (James) Carmean of St. Marys; and a brother, Norman (Marvalee) Martin of St. Marys. She was preceded in death by three sons, Carroll, Byron and James Dershem; a daughter, Mary Yazel; three brothers, John, Peter and Carl Martin; and a sister, Kathryn McPheron. She was a member of the Order of Easter Star. She had worked at the Lima Telephone Company as an operator/supervisor for the Elida, Gomer and Bluffton areas. She also worked at S.S. Kressge Company, Shepherd Real Estate, Penny’s and the Duff Truck Line. She was a 1930 graduate of Spencerville High School. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday in the Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, Pastor Tim Yazel officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Fort Amanda Cemetery. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. Friday and after 9 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s choice.

Ulin G. Lyle Anderson
Nov. 4, 1918 - May 12, 2003
Ulin G. Lyle Anderson, 84, of Columbus Grove, died at 8:49 p.m. Monday at her daughter’s residence in Lima. She was born Nov. 4, 1918 in Columbus Grove, to Clarice V. Featheringill. She was raised by her grandparents, Marion and Clara Featheringill. She married Victor Lyle and then Irvin Anderson. Both preceded her in death. Survivors include a son, Jay Lyle of Columbus Grove; two daughters, Jane (Bill) Flannery of Lima and Jeannie Beutler of Columbus Grove; three brothers, Danny Martin of Attica, Charles (Shirley) Hood of Chillicothe and Herb (Pat) Hood of Cincinnati; a sister, Jane (Chester) Shannon of Dayton; two sisters-in-law, Cleo Martin and Virginia Martin of Attica; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, George and Albert Martin and Ned Ford; and a granddaughter, Erica Ulin Lyle. Mrs. Anderson worked at Marlesta Nursing Home in Findlay, the Columbus Grove Post Office and cleaned houses and ironed for people. She was a member of Columbus Grove United Church of Christ, where she was a Sunday school teacher when she was younger. She was also a member of the Columbus Grove Eagles Auxiliary and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9648 Auxiliary. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, the Rev. Joe F. Pumphrey officiating. Burial will be in Campbell Cemetery, Columbus Grove. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice.

Sarah E. Ball
Jan. 23, 1934 - May 12, 2003
Sara E. "Sally" Ball, 69, of Tiffin, died Monday at her residence. She was born Jan. 23, 1934 in Brynamlwg in the sub-district of Llandyssul R.D., Wales, England, to William Joseph and Hannah (Griffiths) Farmer. On April 4, 1959 she married Richard P. Ball, who survives in Tiffin. Survivors also include two sons, Paul J. (Lenora) Ball of Cloverdale, and Edward James Ball of Toledo; a daughter, Diane (Scott) Brown of Tiffin; a sister, May Appleton of England; three stepgrandchildren, Travis, Kimberly and Kaleb, and two step-great-grandchildren, Mariah and Dalton. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Benjamin, John and Henry; and a stepgrandchild, Rodney. Mrs. Ball worked for Allied Signal in Fostoria as an assembler from 1968 until she retired in 1994. She was a member of Local UAW 533. Memorial services will be 2 p.m. Friday at Hoffmann-Gottfried Funeral Home, Tiffin, the Rev. Frank Murd officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to services Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Heartland Hospice or the American Heart Association.

Emma K. Heitmeyer
Oct. 1, 1916 - May 14, 2003
Emma K. Heitmeyer, 86, of Ottoville, died at 3:55 a.m. today at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Glandorf. She was born Oct. 1, 1916 in Fort Jennings, to John and Mary (Bendele) Wieging. She married Arnold J. Heitmeyer in 1942 in North Carolina. He preceded her in death July 15, 1983. She is survived by two sons, Larry (Stephanie) Heitmeyer of Ottoville, and Dennis (Margie) Heitmeyer of Kalida; three daughters, June (Melvin) Gable of Delphos, and Connie (David) Ricker and Shirley (Doug) Beining of Ottoville; a sister, Martha Pitt of Lima; 14 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Gilbert, Rudy, Cleo and Edmund Wieging; and a sister, Marie Meyer. Mrs. Heitmeyer was a homemaker and a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and it’s Altar Rosary Society. She was also a life member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Thursday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake will be at 3 p.m. Preferred memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the donor’s choice.

Elizabeth Ann Henson
April 30, 1925 - May 13, 2003
Elizabeth "Liz" Ann Henson, 78, of Lima, died at 8:19 a.m. Tuesday at Lima Memorial Hospital. She was born April 30, 1925, in Lima, to George and Anna (Yonosko) Adams. On Dec. 30, 1946, she married Val Henson, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include three sons, Keith Henson of Lima, David (Randee) Henson of Huntsville and Val (Diane) Henson of Louisville, Ky.; six daughters, Karen (Mike) Corcoran of Marion, Valerie Johnson and Joyce Stombaugh of Lima, Carla (William) Hill of Cloverdale, Carmen (Jody) Henson of Jackson, Mich., and Beth (Mike) Dible of Sunbury; a sister, Suzanne Adams; a sister-in-law, Angie Adams; 20 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, John Michael Henson; three brothers, George, Mike and John Adams; and three sisters, Anna Adams, Margaret Branovich and Mary Depoy. Mrs. Henson was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Lima, and its Altar Rosary Society and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 Auxiliary. She enjoyed bingo, camping and dancing. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. John Catholic Church, the Rev. Christopher Vasko officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where a parish wake will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. John Catholic Church Improvements.

Doyle J. Mikesell
Mar. 7, 1949 - May 13, 2003
Doyle J. Mikesell, 54, of Lima, died at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born March 7, 1949, in Lima, to Oliver Wayne and Marcetta I. "Marty" (Beemer) Mikesell. On Nov. 16, 1974, he married Betty M. Salsburey, who survives in Lima. Survivors also include two sons, Anthony W. (Channie) Mikesell and Matthew J. (Misti Fields) Mikesell of Lima; a sister, Sharon Mikesell of Cairo; and three grandsons. Mr. Mikesell worked at Dana Corporation for 29 years. He was a member of Cairo United Methodist Church and a 1967 graduate of Bath High School. He served in the U.S. Army. He enjoyed deer hunting, fishing and was a Cleveland Indians and Browns fan. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, Pastor Karen Lee Rarey officiating. Burial will be in Cairo West Side Cemetery. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. Thursday, 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Friday and one hour prior to services Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Bath EMS or the American Heart Association.

LaDonna Burgei
Aug. 15, 1915 - May 9, 2003
LaDonna Burgei, 87, of Cloverdale, died at 9:25 p.m. Friday at Paradise Oaks Quality Care Center, Cloverdale. She was born Aug. 15, 1915 in Kalida, to John and Frances (German) Schnipke. On April 17, 1940 she married Leo W. Burgei, who died Sept. 19, 1978. Survivors include three sons, Norbert (Sharon) Burgei of Kalida and Ronald (Donna) Burgei and Roger (Theresa) Burgei of Cloverdale; four daughters, Lucille (Norbert) Klima of Payne, Betty (Edward) Pohlman of Delphos, Joyce (Michael) Rode of Fort Jennings and Mary (Gerald) Renner of Cloverdale; three sisters, Sr. Xavier Schnipke of Dayton, Coletta Schimmoeller of Fort Jennings, and Jean Byrnes of Ottoville; three brothers, Alfred Schnipke of New Cleveland, and William and Thomas Schnipke of Kalida; 19 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by four brothers, Isadore, Melitus "Lee," Donald and Vincent Schnipke. Mrs. Burgei was a homemaker and worked in housekeeping at Paradise Oaks Quality Care Center. She was a member of St. Barbara Catholic Church, and its Altar Rosary Society. She enjoyed quilting and crocheting. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Barbara Catholic Church, the Rev. Robert Kill officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a Rosary service will be at 3 p.m. and a parish wake will be at 8:30 p.m.

Lillie Kraft
Aug. 10, 1903 - May 9, 2003
Lucille Kraft, 99, of Belleview, Fla., formerly of Kossuth, died at her residence in Belleview. She was born Aug. 10, 1903, in Salem Township, Auglaize County, to Jacob and Clara (Jacobs) Leffel. On June 25, 1921, she married J. Howard "Joe" Kraft, who died Sept. 18, 1955. Survivors include a son, Raymond (Velma) Kraft of Lima; two daughters, Koneta Northup of Belleview and Maxine Bartlett of Pahrump, Nev.; eight grandchildren, Raymond Kraft II and Nancy (Doug) Thompson of Lima, Maria Elena Kraft and Tamara (Mike) Kanitz of Elida, Kerry (Heather) Northup of Allentown, Ruth (Craig) Bowers and Twila (Jeff) Hobler of Moulton, and Julia (John) Vargo of Columbus; 19 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Amy Adryce Kandis; and a brother, Clarence Leffel. Mrs. Kraft was a homemaker. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Raymond S. Daniel Jr. officiating. Burial will be in Spencerville Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Ruth E. DuCheney
March 7, 1914 - May 9, 2003
Ruth E. DuCheney, 89, of Van Wert, died at 6:49 a.m. Friday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born March 7, 1914 in Van Wert County, to Oris Hayes and Ethel May (Remagen) Rogers. On Dec. 14, 1935, she married Kenneth R. DuCheney, who died April 30, 1997. Survivors include two sons, Ralph (Marlene) DuCheney and Kent (Karen) DuCheney of Van Wert; a daughter, Carole (Ron) Long of Middle Point; six grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and four stepgreat-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Margaret Kelley; and a brother, Espy Rogers. Mrs. DuCheney was a homemaker. She was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church, Van Wert, and its United Methodist Women. She was also a member of the Ridge Progressive Club. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. James Howell officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the church.

Richard J. Nienberg
April 15, 1929-May 8, 2003
Richard J. Nienberg, 74, of Columbus Grove, died at 5 a.m. Thursday at his residence. He was born April 15, 1929, in Glandorf, to Edward and Clara (Geier) Nienberg. In February 1955, he married Barbara Hilvers, who survives. Other survivors include two sons, John (Elizabeth) Nienberg of Lima and Robert Nienberg; a daughter, Teresa (Bruce) Grear of Lima; four brothers, Ray (Bernadine) Nienberg of Glandorf, Albert (Doris) Nienberg of Gilboa and Edward (Berdilda) Nienberg and Daniel (Pat) Nienberg of Ottawa; a sister, Florence Homier of Continental; two sisters-in-law, Marie Nienberg of Ottawa and Agnes Nienberg of Miller City; and six grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sons, Timothy and David Nienberg; three brothers, Fred, George and David Nienberg; and a sister, Helen Potts. Mr. Nienberg retired as an electrical journeyman from Cooper Tires after 25 years. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War as a sergeant first class. He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church and Bower Slusser American Legion Post 516, Columbus Grove. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Anthony Catholic Church, the Rev. David Ross officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. today at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, where a parish wake will be 8 p.m. today, and one hour prior to services Saturday at the church. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice or St. Anthony School Endowment Fund.

Patricia Ann Margalski
March 17, 1938 - May 8, 2003
Patricia Ann Margalski, 65, of Van Wert, died at 4:45 a.m. Thursday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born March 17, 1938, in Perrysburg, to Andrew and Anita (Kushner) Beloff. Her father survives in Navarre, Fla. On Sept. 29, 1979, she married Ralph Margalski, who died Nov. 5, 1995. Survivors include two sons, Steve (Tarri) Antal of Van Wert and Dean (Kelly) Margalski of Toledo; two daughters, Sharon (Jeff) Chubner of Toledo and Terri (Chuck) Anderson of Bowling Green; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Margalski worked in sales for many years and was an active volunteer for the Van Wert Chapter of the American Red Cross and the Van Wert Area Visiting Nurses Hospice Program. She was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church and had performed with the Toledo opera. A memorial Mass will be 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, the Rev. Tom Gorman officiating. A reception will be held at the church following the Mass. Preferred memorials are to Van Wert Area Visiting Nurses Hospice Program.

Irvin Clifford Everett
April 20, 1917-May 6, 2003
Irvin Clifford Everett, 86, of Lima, died at 5 p.m. Tuesday at Lost Creek Care Center. He was born April 20, 1917, in Bridgeport, Ill., to Clifford and Clara (Poindexter) Everett. On March 18, 1953, he married Ilean Shirraw, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include cousins, Michael and Jane Ketchum of Spencerville. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Irvin John Everett; and two brothers, Ralph Hartman and Vaughn Everett. Mr. Everett worked as a guard and supervisor at Lima State Hospital for 25 years and drove a school bus at Shawnee Schools for 10 years. He was an Army veteran of World War II, having served in Europe with the Third Armored Division. Graveside services were 1 p.m. today at Memorial Park Mausoleum, Lima, with military services conducted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275. There was no visitation. Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer’s Association-West Central Ohio, 892 S. Cable Rd., Lima, 45805 or Lost Creek Care Center Activities Fund.

John Richard Weber
July 10, 1926-May 7, 2003
John Richard Weber, 76, of Lima, died at 7:35 a.m. Wednesday at Van Wert County Hospital. He was born July 10, 1926, in Putnam County, to Harvey E. and Ola (Rogers) Weber. On May 4, 1951, he married Mary L. Derringer, who died Nov. 5, 1998. Survivors include a son, Douglas (Mary) Weber of Van Wert; two sisters, Betty (Donald) Edie of Indianapolis, Ind., and Mary (Fred) Johnston of Findlay; a grandson and one great-grandson. He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Weber; and a sister, Pearl Cook. Mr. Weber worked for Lima Electric and retired after 15 years. He had previously worked at Rusco Allied Industries. He attended First Church of the Nazarene. He served in the U.S. Navy from Oct. 3, 1944 to June 28, 1946 during World War II, serving at a Naval Air Base in Guam as security patrol. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral, Lima, the Rev. Bill Williams officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to hospice.

Mary Jane Schussler
March 23, 1922 - May 4, 2003
Mary Jane Schussler, 81, of Ottawa, most recently of Medeira Beach, Fla., died Sunday in Medeira Beach. She was born March 23, 1922, in Ada, to Bert and Fairy (Allen) Martin. In 1942, she married Lloyd Vermillion, who preceded her in death. In 1976 she married John Schussler, who also preceded her in death. Survivors include two sons, Philip Vermillion of St. Petersburg, Fla., and Jeffery (Lynette) Vermillion of Citra, Fla.; a daughter, Marsha (Robert) Gordon of Madeira Beach; a brother, Bert (Mary) Martin of Bluffton; a sister, Alberta Bray of Poway, Calif.; three grandsons and one great-grandson. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Charles and John Martin; and three sisters, Claudine Blume, Vivian Lucas and Mae Core. Mrs. Schussler worked at Triplett Corp. in Bluffton until 1975. She was also a homemaker. There is no service or visitation. Preferred memorials are to Putnam County Visiting Nurses, Ottawa, or Hospice of the Florida Suncoast, 300 E. Bay Dr., Largo, Fla., 33770. Hartman Sons Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Mark Jeffrey Mazur
Nov. 22, 1973 - May 4, 2003
Mark Jeffrey Mazur, 29, of Lima, died at 9:52 p.m. Sunday from injuries suffered in a car accident. He was born Nov. 22, 1973, in Lima, to Henry J. and Loleeta P. (Andrews) Mazur, who survive. Other survivors include his fiancé, Shelly A. Cain; a daughter, Caytlin Mazur; three sisters, Deborah (Randy) Heidt of Arab, Ala., Cheryl (Mike) Wood of York, Pa., and Theresa L. (Edward) Mazur-Ryan of Defiance; two brothers, Michael (Nancy) Mazur of Wapakoneta and Jim (Connie) Mazur of Defiance; grandmother Sarah Stark; and an uncle, a great-uncle and 15 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by grandfathers, Ralph Andrews and Henry Mazur; and grandmother, Margaret Mazur. Mr. Mazur was customer supervisor at the U.S. Postal Service in Findlay and a member of the National Association of Postal Supervisors. He was a 1992 graduate of Tinora High School, Defiance. He was also a member of the American Legion Post in Wapakoneta. He was an Ohio State fan and an avid dart player. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Revs. Kate Ackley and Rosalie Lora officiating. His ashes will be buried at a later date. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. A memorial fund has been set up for Mazur’s daughter, Caytlin.

Rex E. Craig Sr.
April 14, 1934 - May 5, 2003
Rex E. Craig Sr., 69, of Convoy, died at 8:10 p.m. Monday at his residence. He was born April 14, 1934, in Van Wert, to Joseph and Cecil (Risher) Craig. On Nov. 10, 1978, he married Evelyn E. Storm, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Rhett E. Craig of Convoy; a brother, Albert O. Craig of Salt Lake City, Utah; and a sister, Juanita Druckemiller of Van Wert. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph Craig Jr., and Walter R. Craig; and a sister, Betty Waldron. Mr. Craig retired from the city of Van Wert in 1996. He was working at Fort Wayne Vehicle Auction, Fort Wayne. He attended Joy Fellowship Church, New Haven, Ind., and was a social member of the Van Wert Veterans of Foreign Wars Post and a member of the Sons of the American Legion. Funeral services will be 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Pastor Matthias Snodderly officiating. Friends may call one hour prior to services Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Joy Fellowship Church, New Haven, or the family.

R. Michael Shinaberry
Oct. 12, 1948 - May 6, 2003
R. Michael Shinaberry, 55, of Van Wert, died at 3 a.m. Tuesday at his residence. He was born Oct. 12, 1948, in St. Marys, to Robert and Sally (Sink) Shinaberry. His mother survives. On Jan. 14, 1990, he married Barbara Killion, who also survives. Other survivors include a son, Douglas (Kelly) Shinaberry of Monroeville, Ind.; two stepdaughters, Tracey Lautzenheiser of Rockford and Dawn Taylor of Van Wert; a brother, David (Claudette) Shinaberry of Newark; five sisters, Jan (Mike) Beougher of Venedocia, Cathie Bellar of Springboro, Bobbie Poe of Payne, Jill (Bob) Hufford of Van Wert and Nikki (James) Fields of Harold, Ky.; and six grandchildren. Mr. Shinaberry retired from Chrysler Corp., Perrysburg. He was a member of the Van Wert Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, Sons of the American Legion and a social member of the Van Wert Veterans of Foreign Wars Post. He was also a member of the Eagles Lodge in Rockford. Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Woodlawn Cemetery, the Rev. Paul Miller officiating. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to Community Health Professionals Hospice Program.

William M. Paul
Sept. 8, 1932 - May 4, 2003
William M. "Bill" Paul, 70, of Delphos, died at 11:58 p.m. Sunday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Sept. 8, 1932, in Delphos, to E.J. "Boots" and Audrey (Kohn) Paul. On Nov. 9, 1963, he married Carolyn Rowley, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include two daughters, Lisa (Bill) Loughman of Findlay and Julie (Tim) Menke of Perrysburg; a sister, Joan Steinbrenner of Delphos; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Abie Marie Loughman. Mr. Paul retired from Ford Motor Company in 1993 after 34 years. He was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, Eagles Aerie 471 and a life member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks Lodge 54 in Lima. He was a 1950 graduate of Jefferson High School. He enjoyed traveling and was an avid Jefferson Wildcat fan, Ohio State football fan and a Cleveland Browns football fan. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Trinity United Methodist Church, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Wednesday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, and one hour prior to services Thursday at the church. Preferred memorials are to the American Lung Association.

Clarence B. Lee Jr.
Mar. 23, 1908 - May 5, 2003
G. Beatrice Armstrong, 95, of Middle Point, died at 10:20 a.m. Monday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born March 23, 1908, in Logan County, to William W. and Laura Edna (Klinger) Shafer. She married H. Ancel Armstrong, who preceded her in death. Survivors include four nieces, Joann Baker, Betty Lane, Phyllis Culver and Sheryl Ball; nine nephews, Lester, John and Ken Shafer and Norman, Nolan, Dean, Ernest, Ronald and Harry Armstrong, a sister-in-law, Dorothy Shafer; and a brother-in-law, Edwin Hammons. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Emery, Chester and Kenneth Shafer; a sister, Lucille Hammons; and one niece and one nephew. Mrs. Armstrong was a homemaker and had worked at Borden Cheese Co., in Van Wert. She enjoyed crocheting, cooking, baking, sewing and spending time with her family. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Thursday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Cynthia Lumm officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Middle Point Fire and EMS and Middle Point United Methodist Church.

Mandy L. Williamson
Jan. 4, 1976 - May 3, 2003
Mandy Lynn Williamson, 27, of Mendon, formerly of Delphos, died Saturday at her residence. She was born Jan. 4, 1976, in Lima, to Robert and Sandra (Lindeman) Williamson, who survive in Delphos. Survivors also include three sons, Robert Brown, Lae "Junior" Brown III and Curtis Brown at home; a daughter, Elizabeth "Lizzy" Brown at home; a brother, Jim Williamson of Delphos; a grandmother, Mildred McKinley of Delphos; and many uncles and aunts. She was preceded in death by grandparents Marge and Carl Lindeman and Harold Williamson. Mrs. Williamson was a nurse’s aid at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Mabel M. Stewart
March 9, 1914 - May 3, 2003
Mabel M. Stewart, 89, of Gomer, died at 8:35 p.m. Saturday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born March 9, 1914, in Van Wert County, to Eli and Lula (Markley) Stewart. Survivors include three nephews, Eric (Robin) Stewart, Larry (Deb) Stewart and Garry (JoAnn) Stewart; and a niece, Karen (James) Frankhouser; 10 great-nieces and nephews; and six great-great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Ralph and Kenny Stewart; and an infant sisters, Florence Stewart. Mrs. Stewart retired from JCPenney. She was a member of Ridge United Methodist Church. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Ron Lumm officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. Tuesday and 2-8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Delphos Visiting Nurses, Ridge United Methodist Church or Elida Fire and Rescue.

Donald C. Sapp
Sept. 22, 1926 - May 2, 2003
Donald C. Sapp, 76, of Lima, died at 10 p.m. Friday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Sept. 22, 1926, in Portsmouth, to Leslie and Florence (Thurman) Sapp. On Sept. 20, 1975, he married Darliene Gassman, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include three daughters, Mary Kramer of Dallas, and Judy (Brian) Hollar and Karen (Steve) Hollar of Lima; two stepdaughters, Mishell EnYart of Cincinnati and Melinda EnYart of Lima; two stepsons, David (Heather) EnYart of Vancouver, Wash., and Michael (Kim) EnYart of Plain City; three sisters, Margaret (Bill) Leach, Beulah (Verner) Hauld and Louise Armstrong of Portsmouth; a brother, Paul (Betty) Sapp of Portsmouth; and 16 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by four brothers, Eugene, Otis, Herbert and Dallas Sapp; and a brother-in-law, Haska Armstrong. Mr. Sapp was owner and operator of Sapp’s Car Company in Lima, when he retired in 1990. He had previously worked at Ford Motor Company in the cutter-grind department and then worked at the Valeron Corp. He was a member of American Legion Post 96, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 and Eagles Aerie 370. He was a World War II veteran, serving in Germany with the 3rd Army. Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Ken Love officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted by VFW Post 1275. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Helen A. Fackler
Jan. 14, 1912 - May 4, 2003
Helen A. Fackler, 91, of Van Wert, died at 12:57 p.m. Sunday at Hearth and Home in Van Wert. She was born Jan. 14, 1912, in Van Wert County, to George O. and Ocie (Temple) Boroff. On March 20, 1931, she married Thurman T. "Ted" Fackler, who died Sept. 18, 1976. Survivors include two sisters, S. Louise Boroff and Mae Wallace of Van Wert. She was preceded in death by eight brothers and one sister. Mrs. Fackler worked at Colonial Restaurant for 13 years and the Van Wert County Hospital for several years. She was a member of First Friends Church, Van Wert. She was a 50-year member of the Women of the Moose, member of the Van Wert American Legion Auxiliary and a charter member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Bill Jeffress officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Hearth and Home Activities Fund.

Dr. Clinton J. Miller II
DELPHOS — Longtime Delphos businessman and civic servant Dr. Clinton J. Miller II died early Friday morning at his residence. Dr. Miller, 80, owned and operated an optometry practice in Delphos and Elyria from 1951 to 1995, when he retired. He also served as the Delphos safety service director. After his 1941 graduation from Jefferson High School, Miller attended the Illinois College of Optometry and graduated in 1949. He was past president of the Ohio State Board of Optometry and a past member of the American Optometric Association. Miller was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, where he served on the finance committee and parish council. He was also past president of St. John’s Board of Education and a St. John’s Athletic Booster. He was a charter member of the Delphos Rotary Club and Delphos Country Club. He was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035, American Legion Post 268, and Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus. He served on the board of directors at People’s National Bank of Delphos and was a member of the Allen County Crippled Children’s Association. He served in the U.S. Navy Lighter Than Air Service (blimp) LST 908. Miller was born April 2, 1923, in Elyria, to Dr. G.K. and Dorothy (Brouse) Miller. On Sept. 7, 1946, he married Rosemary Bertling, who passed away Aug. 23, 1980. He is survived by two sons, Clinton J. "Joe" Miller III of Bay Village and Brother James Miller of Dearborn Heights, Mich.; six daughters, Taffy (Bill) Speller of East Hazel Crest, Ill., Julie (Patrick) McCormick, Marcey (Tom) Brickner, Sarah "Sally" (Roger) Pohlman and Mandy (Ron) Haiber of Delphos and Molly (Paul) McHone of Greenwood, Ind.; a sister, Patricia (Tom) Bodell of Waynesfield; two brothers, Dr. Ken (Thelma) Miller of Van Wert and Martin (Martha) Miller of Palm Harbor, Fla.; and 18 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter-in-law, Betsy Miller. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military graveside services conducted by the Delphos Veterans Council. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. Sunday and 2-8 p.m. Monday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be 8 p.m. Monday. Preferred memorials are to St. John’s Teacher Endowment Fund or donor’s choice.

Rita L. Boardwine
Aug. 15, 1954 - May 2, 2003
Rita L. Boardwine, 48, of Van Wert, died at 7:45 a.m. Friday at her residence. She was born Aug. 15, 1954, to Samuel and Geneva (Thomas) White. On April 22, 1989, she married John A. Boardwine, who survives. Other survivors include two sons, Thomas S. (Rhonda L.) White of Van Wert and Aaron R. (Rebecca M.) White of Lima; two brothers, Henry White of War, W.Va., and Dale White of Berwind, W.Va.; three sisters, Marsha (Danny) Muncy of Berwind, Phyllis (Bob) Thatcher and Patsy (Denny) Hockett of Rockford; and three grandchildren. Mrs. Boardwine was a homemaker. Private family services will be held. There is no visitation. Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, is in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice Program.

Kari Klaus-Lauck
Jan. 18, 1969 - May 1, 2003
Kari Klaus-Lauck, 34, of Lima, died at 2:58 a.m. Thursday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos. She was born Jan. 18, 1969, in Lima, to Gary R. and Agnes M. (Utrup) Klaus. Her father died June 29, 2001. Her mother survives in Delphos. On Oct. 13, 1998, she married J. Lee Lauck, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include a son, Keaton Matthew Lauck, at home; a daughter, Sara Lee Lauck, at home; two brothers, Kevin "Bundy" Klaus and Matthew (Jennifer) Klaus of Delphos; nieces and nephews, Cheyanne, Dean, Brock and Colby Klaus; paternal grandparents, Leo and LaDonna Schmelzer of Delphos; and maternal grandmother, Viola Sheppard Utrup of Highspire, Pa.; parents-in-law, Jerry and Jenny Lauck and Stan and Linda Merkle of Lima; and brothers-in-law, Chuck and Chad (Kelly) Lauck and Chris Merkle of Lima. She was preceded in death by paternal grandfather, Jerome A. Klaus; maternal grandparents, Alphonse and Agnes Utrup; and her godmother, Bernadette Siefer. Mrs. Klaus-Lauck had been a psychiatric nurse at Oakwood Corrections Center and later was employed as office manager at Right to Life in Lima. She was a 1987 graduate of St. John’s High School and a graduate of Lima Technical College with a degree in nursing. She was a member of St. Charles Catholic Church, Lima, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471 Auxiliary, Delphos, and Catholic Ladies of Columbia Council 40, Delphos. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos, the Rev. David M. Ross officiating. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Sunday at Siferd Funeral Home, Westwood Chapel, Lima, where a CL of C service will be at 3 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorials are to the Kari Klaus-Lauck Children’s Education Fund or the Right to Life Society.

Ray E. Bowersock
June 19, 1929-April 29, 2003
Ray Edward Bowersock, 73, of Lima, died at 11:55 a.m. Tuesday at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born June 19, 1929, in Wapakoneta, to Harley A. and Anna Pearl (Frazier) Bowersock. On Dec. 24, 1950, he married Juanita P. Beeler, who survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Rebecca A. (Mike) Campbell of Lima; two brothers, Roy (Barbara) Bowersock of Lima and Harvey (Dorothy) Bowersock of Wapakoneta; four sisters, Violet, Freda and Alice Bowersock of Wapakoneta, and Kathryn Daugherty of Continental; and one grandson. He was preceded in death by a son, Steven E. Bowersock; a daughter, Elisabeth "Lisa" R. Bowersock; four brothers, Clarence, Bernard, Dyle and Carl Bowersock; a sister, Shirley Bowersock; and two grandchildren, Shawn M. and Chad S. Campbell. Mr. Bowersock retired in 1991 as a machinist with Ex-Cello/Textron. He was a member of First Church of God at the Crossroads; past president of Ex-Cello/Textron Retirees Union; a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275, and its funeral detail; a member of American Legion Post and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 370 of Lima; past president of Ex-Cello Credit Union and member for 31 years; past vice president of the Lima Chapter of the Credit Union and member for nine years; Navy Club Officer; and he retired from the U.S. Navy after 21 years, serving during the Korean War. He was a 1948 graduate of Blume High School, Wapakoneta, where he was an FFA member and played football for three years. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Chiles and Sons-Laman Shawnee Chapel, Chaplain Richard Coon officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted by VFW Post 1275. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, where a VFW memorial service will be at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Preferred memorials are to the VFW Post 1275 Funeral Detail.

Cloyd M. ‘Stoney’ Burkheimer Jr.
Dec. 8, 1946 - April 29, 2003
Cloyd M. "Stoney" Burkheimer Jr., 56, of Van Wert, died at 12:32 p.m. Tuesday at Van Wert County Hospital. He was born Dec. 8, 1946, in Allen County, to Cloyd M. and Beulah L. (Graham) Burkheimer Sr. On June 7, 1968, he married Patricia E. McCune, who survives in Van Wert. Other survivors include four sons, James S. (Ava), Brent A., Joshua M. and Christopher C. Burkheimer of Van Wert; a brother, Emerson (Vicki) Burkheimer of Mercer; a sister, Linda S. (Albert) Swany of Swanton; and one grandchild. Mr. Burkheimer worked at Federal Mogul, Van Wert, for more than 26 years. He co-owned and operated Tricia’s Quality Furniture in Van Wert. He attended First Friends Church, Van Wert, and promoted and ran the B&B Demolition Derby at the Van Wert and Paulding County fairs and several small towns in Indiana. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Job Stagner officiating. Burial will be in Kossuth Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Van Wert Fire Department.

Angela Marie Viers
March 23, 1986 - April 29, 2003
Angela Marie (Godsey) Viers, 17, of Cecil, died at 8:41 p.m. Tuesday from injuries sustained in a car accident. She was born March 23, 1986. Her mother, Patty (Cooper) Simpson, also died Tuesday. Her step-father, Roger L. Simpson, survives in Cecil. Survivors also include two sisters, Nicole Hartman of Bethel Spring, Tenn., and Babette (Terry) Reiter of Hicksville; grandparents Richard and Karen Cooper of Silver Springs, Fla., and Billie and Franklin Williams of Chandler, Ariz.; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her grandparents, George W. and Betty E. (Barlow) Simpson. She was a junior at Vantage Vocational Center. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at DenHerder Funeral Home, Paulding. Friends may call 3-9 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. until time of services Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Patty L. Simpson
July 31, 1958 - April 29, 2003
Patty L. Simpson, 44, of Cecil, died at 8:41 p.m. Tuesday from injuries sustained in a car accident. She was born July 31, 1958, in Miami, Fla., to Richard and Billie (Moore) Cooper. Her mother, Billie (Franklin) Williams, survives in Chandler, Ariz., and her father, Richard (Karen) Cooper survives in Silver Springs, Fla. On Dec. 6, 2002, she married Roger L. Simpson, who survives in Cecil. Survivors also include two daughters, Nicole Hartman of Bethel Springs, Tenn., and Babette (Terry) Reiter of Hicksville; two sisters, Cherie Viers of Bryan and Diane Ortiz of Casa Grand, Ariz.; four brothers, Richard and Randy Cooper of Bryan, James Spurlin of Fort Wayne, and David Moore of Delphos; and two grandchildren. Her daughter, Angela Marie (Godsey) Viers, also died in the accident. She was preceded in death by a brother, John Spurlin Jr. Mrs. Simpson was sales manager and marketing director at Montpelier Auto Auction in Montpelier. She was a member of the Tribal Council of the Chicaahominy Nation and the American Indian Council of the Chicaahominy Nation. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at DenHerder Funeral Home, Paulding. Friends may call 3-9 p.m. Friday and 8 a.m. until time of services Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.