Naomi M. Lowe
May 17, 1922 - Oct. 31, 2002
Naomi M. Lowe, 80, of Lima, died 7:07 a.m. Thursday at Shawnee Manor Nursing Home. She was born May 17, 1922, in Floyd County, Ky., to George W. "GW" and Rachel (Music) Holbrook. She had been married to Denver Carter Burt, who preceded her in death. She then married Clarence "Bud" Lowe, who died Sept. 22, 1991. Survivors include two sons, Douglas (Donetia) E. Hurt of Lima and James (Linda) Darrell Hurt of Ankeny, Iowa; a daughter, Patricia Ann Bell of Lima; two brothers, Gus Holbrook of Lima and Jim Holbrook of Alger; two sisters, Letha Williams of Alger and Lillian Allen of Lima; eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Ballard, Willard and Gale Holbrook; and two sisters, Hattie Wright and EvaJean Butler. Mrs. Lowe had a rug cleaning business with her second husband in Belle Center. She was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 370 Auxiliary, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 Auxiliary and Gardendale Church of God. She enjoyed visiting with Vancrest nursing home residents in Delphos. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Siferd Westwood Chapel, Pastors Terry Davy and Gerbert Darlington officiating. Burial will be in Belle Center Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Gardendale Church of God.

Adeline F. Conn
Feb. 18 1917 - Oct. 29, 2002
Adeline F. Conn, 85, of Van Wert, died 4:30 p.m. Tuesday at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert. She was born Feb. 18, 1917 in Lima, to Fred and Minnie (Wilson) Berger. She was married to Leonard R. Conn, who died Sept. 18, 1988. Survivors include a son, Russel F. (Marge) Conn of Trabuco Canyon, Calif.; two daughters, Lynette Sue Cassari of Lansdale, Pa., and Martha Jean (Leland) Miller of New Haven, Ind.; eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Judy Kay Adkins; two brothers, Robert and Carl Berger; two sisters, Virginia Gilroy and Francis Sitz; and one grandchild. Mrs. Conn had worked at the former F.L.P. Company in Van Wert and also at Van Wert County Hospital. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Leland Miller officiating. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call one hour prior to services Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

Ruth L. Morris Leist
Feb. 14, 1910 - Oct. 30, 2002
Ruth L. Morris Leist, 92, of Spencerville, died 2 a.m. Wednesday at Roselawn Manor in Spencerville. She was born Feb. 14, 1910, in Lima to Jonas Thatcher and Rosetta (Long) McVicker. On Aug. 15, 1925, she married Lloyd R. Morris, who died Feb. 6, 1938. On March 27, 1939, she married John Leist, who died Oct. 14, 1989. Survivors include two sons, Melvin L. (Kathleen) Morris of Mission, Texas, and Howard G. (Mary) Morris of Spencerville; a brother, John McVicker of Toledo; 12 grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, seven step-great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Charles F. Morris; a daughter, Evelyn M. Young; and three sisters, Verna Westfall, Geneva Byrd and Elizabeth Morris. Mrs. Leist had been affiliated with Friends Church in Spencerville and Olive Chapel Methodist Church in Converse. She was a member of the Converse Garden Club. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. William R. Abram officiating. Burial will be in West Union Cemetery, north of Spencerville. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Roselawn Manor Activities Fund.

Kathryn M. Keel
Dec. 27, 1930 - Oct. 29, 2002
Kathryn M. Keel, 71, of Lima, died 6:43 a.m. Tuesday at Lima Manor Nursing Home. She was born Dec. 27, 1930 in Putnam County, to Alvia Daniel and Olivia Florence (Kershner) Kuehl. On Sept. 1, 1950, she married James Olin Keel, who died Sept. 27, 1955. Survivors include a daughter, Theresa (James) King of Lima; two sisters, Martha P. (George) Bingham of Waynesfield and Anna M. (Kenneth) Brooks of Cridersville; a sister-in-law, June Ann Estes; three brothers, Robert (Mary) Kuehl of Wapakoneta, William (Glennabelle) Kuehl of Columbus and John (Mary Jean) Kuehl of Dade City, Fla., and four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Keel had taught second grade in Roman Catholic schools, mainly at St. John Elementary in Lima. She was a member of St. John Roman Catholic Church and a 1948 graduate of St. John High School. She attended Cardinal Stritch College in Milwaukee, Wisc. A memorial Mass will be 1 p.m. Saturday at St. John Catholic Church, the Rev. Christopher Vasko officiating. Arrangements are by Bayliff and Son Funeral Home, Cridersville. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to Lima Manor Nursing Home in Keel’s memory.

Bernard S. Muleski
30 Aug 1934-29 Oct 2002
Bernard S. "Bernie" Muleski, 78, of Cridersville, died 1 p.m. Tuesday at Otterbein-Cridersville. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Bayliff and Son Funeral Home, Cridersville.

Dennis P. Mowery
27 Jan 1955 - 26 Oct 2002
Dennis Patrick Mowery, 47, of Van Wert, died 9:45 p.m. Saturday at Select Specialty Hospital, Columbus. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with the Deacon Timothy Knepper officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Further arrangements are incomplete at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Walter T. Simon
Nov. 1, 1935-Oct. 26, 2002
Walter T. "Thad" Simon, 66, of Van Wert, died 7:30 p.m. Saturday at his residence. He was born Nov. 1, 1935, in Defiance to Walter T. and Helen (Nusbaum) Simon Sr. His mother survives in Sherwood. On Aug. 24, 1957, he married Sandra J. Rosselet, who survives in Van Wert. Other survivors include three daughters, Lisa (Tim) Ellert of Fort Wayne, Renee (Jesse) Velasquez of Dayton and Jana (David) Parsons of Boise, Idaho; a brother, Michael (Sandy) Simon of Defiance; three sisters, Mary Hauenstein of Lima, Jane (Leonard) DeWitt of Elkhart, Ind., and Ida (Denver) Hammons of Hamilton, Ind.; and six grandchildren. Mr. Simon worked three years as a salesman for Heckman Biscuit Company, 21 years as an agent for Western-Southern Life Insurance and retired after 16 years at Lima Correctional Institute in Lima. He was a member St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, the American Legion Post and Elks Lodge. He was a 1953 graduate of Oakwood High School and the James A. Rhodes State College with a degree in law enforcement and corrections. He was in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1954 to 1957. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Monday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Revs. Joseph Schmelzer and James Slow officiating. Friends may call noon to 3 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Angel Foundation or Community Health Professionals of Van Wert.

Paul A. Kahle
July 20, 1925-Oct. 27, 2002
Paul A. Kahle, 77, of Kalida, died at 8:21 a.m. Sunday at Putnam County Ambulatory Care Center, Glandorf. He was born July 20, 1925 in Kalida, to Leo and Susanna Ellerbrock Kahle, who preceded him in death. On June 29, 1957, he married Dorothy Burgei, who survives. Survivors also include two sons, Kent Kahle of Kalida and Rodney (Kristen) Kahle of Tybee Island, Ga.; three daughters, Connie Kahle of Auburn Township, Lois (Chris) Wilken of Mandeville, La., and Nadine (Charlie) Schnipke of Kalida; a brother, Leonard Kahle of Kalida; a sister, Mary Lou (William) Felkey of Kalida; and a granddaughter, Katie Wilken. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Arthur, William and Donald Kahle. Mr. Kahle retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation and was self-employed at Paul’s Tire Service for 25 years. He also farmed with his brothers. He attended St. Joseph College, Rensselaer, Ind. He was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida, and its Holy Name Society. He was a life member of American Legion Post 63, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9142 and Disabled American Veterans of Ottawa, and the Kalida Lions Club. He was an honorary member and former chief of the Kalida Fire Department. He was a former member of the Kalida Board of Public Affairs. He was a Navy veteran of World War II. He was an avid sports fan. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida, the Rev. Scott Kramer officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military rites conducted by VFW Post 9142. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. Tuesday and 2-9 p.m. Wednesday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a Kalida Fire Department memorial service will be at 7:30 p.m. today and a scripture service will be 3 p.m., a VFW service will be 7 p.m. and a Holy Name Rosary will be 8 p.m. Wednesday. Preferred memorials are to the Kalida Volunteer Fire Department and the EMS, the St. Michael Catholic Church Improvement Fund or the Kalida Lions Club.

Edward C. Schnipke
July 12, 1912 - Oct. 26, 2002
Edward C. Schnipke, 90, of New Cleveland, died 9:55 a.m. Saturday at his residence. He was born July 12, 1912, in Cloverdale to Joseph and Mary (Kamphaus) Schnipke. On Aug. 5, 1936, he married Alma Wittler, who survives in New Cleveland. Survivors also include eight sons, James (Dorothy) Schnipke, Fred (Jane) Schnipke, Bill (Bonnie) Schnipke, Frank (Janet) Schnipke and Louis (Lisa) Schnipke of New Cleveland, Edward (Mary Agnes) Schnipke Jr. of Glandorf, Harold Schnipke of Miller City and Tom (Donna) Schnipke of Kalida, four daughters, Rosemary (Ray) Powell of New Cleveland, Cathy (Robert) Duling of Glandorf, Judy (Harold) Gerten of Columbus Grove and Anna (Tim) Recker of Ottawa; two sisters, Bernadine (Art) Heidnesher of Lima and Martha Saski of Bellevue; and 51 grandchildren and 42 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by seven brothers, Charles, Romie, Otto, Paul, Aloysius, Sylvester and Josegh Jr. Schnipke; three sisters, Bertha Sykes, Marie Huysman and Mary Catherine Schnipke; and a grandchild and a great-grandchild. Mr. Schnipke was a retired farmer. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, New Cleveland, the Ottawa Knights of Columbus, Fourth Degree St. Leo Council, Findlay, and the Ottawa Eagles. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 am. Tuesday at Holy Family Catholic Church, New Cleveland. The Rev. Robert DeSloover will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2 to 9 p.m. today at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a Scripture service at 3:30 p.m. and a Knights of Columbus rosary service at 8:30 p.m. today. Memorial contributions are to Putnam County Hospice or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Velma A. Queen
Sept. 14, 1938 - Oct. 27, 2002
Velma A. Queen, 64, of Elida, died 3:05 a.m. Sunday at SCCI Hospital, Lima. She was born Sept. 14, 1938 in Middleboro, Ky., to Tony and Ada (Mason) Martin. Her mother survives in Elida. Survivors include two sons, James Queen and Tony (Renee) Queen of Kingsport, Tenn.; a sister, Arleen (Robert) Jones of Tucson, Ariz.; two brothers, Ronald (Jewell) Martin of Lima and Terry (Janet) Martin of Sandusky; and three grandchildren. Mrs. Queen worked at Sears Department Store in Lima for 22 years. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Terry Brock officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 4-7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Virgil Truesdale
May 6, 1917-Oct. 24, 2002
Virgil Truesdale, 85, of Phoenix, formerly of Delphos, died at 7:02 p.m. Thursday at Veterans Hospital. He was born May 6, 1917 in Delphos, to Don and Iva Truesdale, who preceded him in death. On Aug. 19,1945, he married Norma Good, who survives. Survivors include two sisters, Jean Bice of Phoenix and Leola Williams of Lima. He was preceded in death by five brothers. Mr. Truesdale retired from the US. Postal Service in 1980 after 25 years of service. Prior to moving to Phoenix in 1949, he was an accountant. He served three years in the Army during World War II, of which more than two-and-a half years were spent overseas. He had attended the University of Northwestern Ohio and attended Evangel Assembly of God Church, Sun City, Ariz. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Chiles and Sons-Laman Funeral Homes, Shawnee Chapel, the Rev. Ron Jones officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Delphos. Friends may call one hour prior to services Wednesday at the funeral home.

Clara M. Vondran
May 29, 1916 - Oct. 24, 2002
Clara M. Vondran, 86, of Delphos, died 12:25 a.m. Thursday at Roselawn Manor Nursing Home, Spencerville. She was born May 29, 1916 in Ottoville, to Henry and Lena (Hohlbein) Pohl. On June 19, 1937, she married Bernard H. Vondran, who died Oct. 2, 1993. Survivors include three sons, Norman (Nancy) Vondran of Lima, Gerald (Patricia) Vondran of Cincinnati and Robert (Rhonda) Vondran of Marion, Ind.; a daughter, Marilyn Titzer of Newburgh, Ind.; a sister, Margaret Powell of Delphos; 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers, Edward, John and Elmer Pohl; and two sisters, Lucille Clark and Dorothy Barnes. Mrs. Vondran was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and the Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471 Auxiliary. 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 the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be at 4:30 p.m.

Roseland Mae White
Nov. 27, 1919 - Oct. 21, 2002
Roseland Mae White, 82, of Lima, died 5:15 a.m. Monday at Southwest Florida Regional Medical Center. She was born Nov. 27, 1919, in St. Marys to Daniel and Clara (Greiser) Bates. Survivors include a son, Dr. Ken (Betty) White of Lima; two daughters, Jeanene Aukerman of Fairborn and Jackie Miller of Columbus; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Rex Aukerman; two brothers, David and Eugene Bates; a sister, Martha; and a grandchild, Christina Renee Bigelow. Mrs. White worked for Dr. G.E. Jones of Lima for 19 years. She retired from University Hospital in Columbus, where she worked in labor and delivery. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi and was very active with Grace Community Church. She loved to crochet, quilt, sew and travel. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Pastor John Heyward officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 2-7 p.m. Friday and one hour prior to services Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Grace Community Church.

Evelyn M. Schier Wood
Nov. 9, 1917 - Oct. 23, 2002
Evelyn M. Schier Wood, 84, of Flora, Ind., died 9:04 a.m. Wednesday at St. Elizabeth Hospital, Lafayette, Ind. She was born Nov. 9, 1917, in Muskegon, Mich., to Ray and Caroline (Miel) Belmore. In 1944, she married Robert J. Schier, who died May 4, 1964. In 1966, she then married James E. Wood, who died in 1988. Survivors include a son, Robert "Joe" (Cheryl) Schier of Paulding; a daughter, Carolyn (Mark) Sharp of Flora; a sister, Berniece Allen of Anderson, Ind.; four grandchildren, Julie Sharp, Cory Sharp, Eric Schier and A.J. Schier; and a great-grandson, Joey Schier. She was preceded in death by one brother, one sister, and a great-grandson. Mrs. Wood worked as a nurse at St. John Hospital, retiring in 1965. She was a graduate of Muskegon High School and the St. John School of Nursing. She was a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church, Anderson. She was a devout Catholic. She enjoyed travel, fishing, playing cards and crocheting. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Delphi, Ind., the Rev. Peter Vanderkolk officiating. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery, Alexandria, Ind. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. Friday at Rienke Funeral Home, Flora, Ind., where parish wake will be 7 p.m. and a rosary service will be at 7:30 p.m. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Dossie Ilene Hale
Aug. 25, 1923 - Oct. 23, 2002
Dossie Ilene Hale, 79, of Delphos, died 1:25 p.m. Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Aug. 25, 1923, in Attica, Mich., to Lewis Edward and Sarah Catherine (Diltz) Butterfield. She had been married to Shirley J. "Duke" Hale, who preceded her in death. Survivors include a son, Daniel Lee (Lynn) Hale of Delphos; five daughters, Janet Rowbotham, Sharon Hardin, Sue (Steve) Dancer and Sandra (Steve) Briggs of Delphos and Terry Lee (Randy) Peters of Charlotte, N.C.; 14 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by five brothers and four sisters. Mrs. Hale had been a homemaker and worked several places in Delphos. She was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471 Auxiliary and the Walterick-Hemme Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Auxiliary of Delphos. She was an avid bowler and won several trophies. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Friday and one hour prior to services Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Autistic Foundation or Special Olympics.

Roland V. Halker
Oct. 3, 1923 - Oct. 22, 2002
Roland V. Halker, 79, of Huntsville, formerly of Columbus Grove, died 12:23 a.m. Tuesday at Mary Rutan Hospital, Bellefontaine. He was born Oct. 3, 1923, in Columbus Grove, to Leo and Frances (Nartker) Halker. On Dec. 26, 1958, he married Margaret Killen, who died March 7, 1971. On July 3, 1981, he married Mary (Williams) Smith, who survives. Other survivors include two sons, Jack (Nikki) Smith of Russells Point and Robert Smith of Lima; four daughters, Mary Kay (Jim) Bonnell, Renee Bogart and Jan (Dave) Kidd of Columbus Grove and Sara (Lew) Tracey of Huntsville; five brothers, Edward (Mary Ann) Halker, Harold (Vivian) Halker, James (Daisy) Halker, Raymond (Esther) Halker and Richard Halker of Columbus Grove; a sister, Mary (Leroy) Fischer of Columbus Grove, 14 children and 19 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Eugene and Francis "Sonny" Halker; two sisters, Dolores Hermiller and Rose "Rosie" Miller; and four grandchildren. Mr. Halker had worked at Phillips Display Components in Ottawa before retiring in 1982. He was a member of St. Marys of the Woods Catholic Church, Russells Point, and an avid Detroit Tigers fan and enjoyed traveling. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Columbus Grove, the Rev. David Ross officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Thursday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, where a scripture service will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association or St. Anthony School Endowment Fund.

Harold Wieging
Oct. 22, 1930-Oct. 19, 2002
Two-time Delphos mayor and past president of city council Harold Wieging, 71, died 9:22 p.m. Saturday evening at St. Rita’s Medical Center. Wieging served as mayor from 1968 to 1971 and again from 1984 to 1990 and president of city council from 1964 to 1967. He was also a past partner in the Pizza Pantry, owner of HAW Repair, Washington Warehouse and a former owner of Harold’s Bar. He served as principal at Fort Jennings High School and as Van Wert County Precinct Committee Man. The former mayor served in the U.S. Air Force and was a Korean War veteran, receiving the Korean Service Medal, USAF Service Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Medal and the USAF Achievement Medal and was a member of the 49th Fighter Bomber Wing. Wieging was a graduate of St. John’s High School, Ohio Northern University with a bachelor of Arts; St. Francis of Fort Wayne with a master of science; Bowling Green State University with a degree in administration; the University of Dayton and Wright State University with a doctorate in psychology; the International Business College in Fort Wayne in business; and Northwest Technical College as an auctioneer. He was a member of the Delphos Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035, American Legion Post 268, Eagles Aerie 471, Ohio Association of Guidance Counselors, Ohio Education Association, Ohio Principals Association and the Ohio Psychologist Association. He was a notary republic and enjoyed collecting and restoring classic cars and spending time with his grandchildren. He was born Oct. 22, 1930 in Delphos, to Joseph Anthony and Estella Antonette (Best) Wieging. Wieging is survived by his wife of more than 48 years, Peggy Lee (Byers) Wieging; a son, Michael Joseph Wieging of Texas; two daughters, Catherine Ann Myers of Nashville and Roxanne Marie Martin of Delphos; three brothers, Merlin (Mary Lou) Wieging of Upper Sandusky, Darrell (Judy) Wieging of Delphos and Donald (Barb) Wieging of Fort Wayne; a sister, Colleen "Ann" Conley of Antwerp; and nine grandchildren, Brandon and Quinten Martin, Drew, Amanda, Tiffany and Airan Myers and Tara Myers Miller; and Brett and Heather Wieging; and four great grandchildren, Ethan Mandic and Austin, Zachary and Nicholas Miller. An infant sister preceded him in death. Friends may call 9:30-11:30 a.m. Friday at Harter and Son Funeral Home. Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m. Friday, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Military services will be conducted by the Delphos Veterans Council. Preferred memorials are to the family.

John Robert Kill
Sept. 15, 1927-Oct. 22, 2002
John Robert Kill, 75, of Delphos, died 10:40 a.m. Tuesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Sept. 15, 1927, in Delphos to John V. and Viola (Lang) Kill. On Aug. 4, 1951, he married Felicitas "Woody" Gasser, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include five sons, Jack (Joan) Kill of Norcross, Ga., Gary (Diane) Kill of Van Wert and Ken (Mary Jo) Kill, Dave (Diane) Kill and Ron (Deb) Kill of Delphos; a daughter, Diane (Ted) Wells of Delphos; two sisters, Angela Kill and Rita (Ollie) Sever of Delphos; a sister-in-law, Pauline Kill of Delphos; 19 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Norbert, Bernard "Ben" and Paul "Pidge" Kill; and a sister, Sr. Roberta Kill, S.N.D. Mr. Kill had worked at New Delphos Manufacturing, then retired from Meadow Gold in Lima after 34 years. He then worked 10 years at Appeal Manufacturing in Delphos. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471. He was an avid bowler and St. John’s and Notre Dame fan. He coached the Delphos Braves Little League team for many years and the Delphos Acme team. He attended St. John’s High School and was a World War II Navy veteran. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Randy Giesige officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted by the Delphos Veterans Council. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Thursday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. John’s Teacher Endowment Fund.

James William Stratton
Oct. 3, 1927-Oct. 21, 2002
James W. Stratton, 75, of Delphos, died 4:30 p.m. Monday at Cridersville Health Care Center. He was born Oct. 3, 1927 in Lima, to Otto R. and Mary (Joseph) Stratton. Survivors include four sisters, Ruby Mihm and Isabelle (William) Houston of Lima, Helen Bennett of Ocala, Fla., and Mary Thitoff of Delphos. Mr. Stratton had been a truck driver for Kissel Coal Company. He was a 1945 graduate of Lima Central High School and a member of Sugar Creek Church of the Brethren in Lima. He also served in the U.S. Army. Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Thursday at Sugar Creek Cemetery, Pastor Marty Moyer officiating, with graveside military rites conducted by the Delphos Veterans Council. Preferred memorials are to Sugar Creek Church.

Ralph E. Harting
Sept. 28, 1926-Oct. 19, 2002
Ralph E. Harting, 76, of Convoy, died 3:40 a.m. Saturday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. He was born Sept. 28, 1926 in Van Wert County, to William E. and M. May (Klinger) Harting. Survivors include four brothers, Lawrence (Charlotte) Harting and Gene (Marsha) Harting of Van Wert, Gerald Harting and Roger (Mary) Harting of Convoy; a sister, Grace Burley of Convoy; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother, Delmer Harting; and a sister, Olive Harting. Mr. Harting was a lifetime farmer in Tully Township, Van Wert County. He served in the U.S. Army in occupied Japan. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Gearhart, Mack and Jurczyk Funeral Home, Convoy, the Rev. Greg Leigh officiating. Burial will be in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Convoy EMS or donor’s choice.

Justin K. Cash
Dec. 2, 1983 - Oct. 19, 2002
Justin K. "Judge" Cash, 18, of Kalida, died 9:21 a.m. Saturday on County Road Q-17, Putnam County. He was born Dec. 2, 1983, in Lima to Jeffrey and Jeneva (Phalen) Cash. His father survives in Columbus Grove. His mother survives in Omaha, Neb. Survivors also include two sisters, Courtney McCann and Kaitlyn McCann of Shawnee Township; and grandparents, Larry and Ruth Phalen of Kalida and James and Pearl Lancaster of Lima. He was preceded in death by a sister, Amanda Cash. Mr. Cash was a senior at Kalida High School and worked at Kahle Turkey Farm in Kalida. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Kalida Family Outreach Center, the Rev. Derrick Wallace officiating. Burial will be in Union Township Cemetery, Kalida. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Tuesday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, and from 10 a.m. until time of services Wednesday at the outreach center. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Josephine D. Merkner
Oct. 23, 1908 - Oct. 19, 2002
Josephine D. Merkner, 92, of Lima, formerly of Chicago, died 3:40 p.m. Saturday at Lima Health and Rehab. She was born Oct. 23, 1908, in Liverpool, England, to Thomas and Susannah (Cunningham) Duncanson. On Nov. 22, 1930, she married Oscar R. Merkner, who died Jan. 13, 1985. Survivors include a son, Lawrence (Helen) Merkner of New Carlisle, Ind.; a daughter, Judy (Robert) Wojtas of Elida; and three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Harry Duncanson; and three sisters, Letty Small, Zilla McCallum and Loretta Murphy. Mrs. Merkner worked with safety deposit boxes at a bank in Chicago. She was an avid bowler, loved sports, playing bingo, crossword puzzles and reading. Funeral services will be in Chicago at a later date. Friends may call 2-6 p.m. Tuesday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel. Burial will be in Chicago at a later date. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association.

Ruth C. Monfort
April 19, 1914 - Oct. 19, 2002
Ruth C. Monfort, 88, of Spencerville, died 1:45 a.m. Saturday at Roselawn Manor Nursing Home, Spencerville. She was born April 19, 1914, in Logan Township, Auglaize County, to Clarence E. and Myrtle (Rempfer) Dingledine. On March 21, 1931, she married J. Harold Monfort, who died May 15, 1982. Survivors include a daughter, Grace (Glen) Place of Spencerville; a brother, Clyde H. (Carrie) Dingledine of Wapakoneta; a brother-in-law, Dr. Homer Monfort of Columbus; three sisters-in-law, Delphene Monfort of Columbus, Madonna Monfort of Spencerville and Doris Dingledine of Lima; two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and two stepgreat-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Merlin and Carl Dingledine; and a grandson, Dr. David Place. Mrs. Monfort was a member of the former Christie United Methodist Church. She was a 50-year member of the Spencerville Chapter 130, Order of Eastern Star, where she served as worthy matron in 1959 and high priestess of Jerusalem in 1986. She was a member of the Lima Chapter 20, Order of the White Shrine, the Social Order of the Beaucent, the Order of the Amarath, Wapakoneta, and the Excelsior Club and the Hobby Club of Spencerville. She was a 50-year member of the Spencerville Grange 2424 and had served on the Allen County Children’s Home Board. She was a retired seamstress with the Leader Store and later the Abram’s Store in the Lima Mall. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville. Burial will be in Maplewood Cemetery, east of Spencerville. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today at the funeral home, where an Order of Eastern Star service will be 9 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Myrtle Brotherwood
April 15, 1921 - Oct. 18, 2002
Myrtle M. Brotherwood, 81, of Delphos, died 8:40 a.m. Friday at Roselawn Manor Nursing Home, Spencerville. She was born April 15, 1921 to Frank and Elsie (Blockberger) Carder. On Nov. 26, 1942, she married Francis F. Brotherwood, who died June 15, 1979. Survivors include four sons, Dave (Barbara) Brotherwood, Karl (Shirley) Brotherwood and Alan (Ruth) Brotherwood of Delphos and Chris (Teresa) Brotherwood of Texas; four daughters, Julie (Jack) Schosker and LaDonna (Robert) Siefker of Delphos, Doris Brotherwood of Fremont and Vivian (Robert) Mohler of Spencerville; four brothers, Orville "Bud" Carder, Donald Carder and Del Carder of Delphos and Richard Carder of Ottoville; four sisters, Amelia Bullinger of Fort Jennings, Lois Osting of Delphos and Marylou Bullinger and Janette Mesker of Oakwood; and 26 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, Raymond and Roger Brotherwood; a sister, Colleen Carder; and a grandson, Kevin Siefker. Mrs. Brotherwood was a home health care provider. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the American Legion Auxiliary of Spencerville, Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471 Auxiliary, Delphos, the Delphos Quilters and Craft and the Altar Rosary Society of Spencerville. She was a graduate of Ottoville High School and enjoyed sewing, knitting and crocheting. Mass of Christian burial was 11 a.m. today at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Randy Giesige officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery. Preferred memorials are to the Sisters of Notre Dame, the American Diabetes Association or donor’s choice.

Jacob R. "Moe" Shafer
Jacob R. "Moe" Shafer, 87, of Cairo, died 9:05 p.m. Thursday at Hilty Memorial Home, Pandora. He was born Nov. 15, 1914 in Lima to George Merle "Cap" and Clara (Getz) Shafer. On March 23, 1938 he married Marian "Tootie" Gephart, who survives. Other survivors include five sons, Richard (Nancy) Shafer, Kraig Shafer and Steven (Sue) Shafer of Cairo, Thomas (Susan) Shafer of San Francisco, and Cary Shafer of Elida; one daughter, Nancy Shafer of Henderson, New York; 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandson. He was preceded in death by five brothers, Fred, Claire, Paul, Norman and Marvin Shafer; and two sisters, Virginia Jones and Jane Conrad. He had owned and operated Shafer’s Meat Market, Lima, until it closed in 1984. The market was the family business started by his grandfather in 1877. He also worked for Lima Locomotive from 1941 until 1954, and at Ex-Cello/Textron from 1954 until 1984 when he retired. He was a farmer, member of the National Rifle Association and an avid deer hunter. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, Pastor Rich Rakay officiating. Burial will be in Altstaetter Cemetery, Cairo. Friends may call 7-9 p.m. today and 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society or Allen County Council on Aging.

Elene V. Combs
July 12, 1943 - Oct. 18 2002
Elene V. Combs, 59, of Ottawa, died 2:13 a.m. Friday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born July 12, 1943 to Merl and Gertrude (Gephardt) Combs. Survivors include six brothers, Gerald, Richard, William, Terry, Ervin and James Combs; and five sisters, Betty Agner, Clara Pugh, Donna Lause, Madeline Combs and Charlene Combs. She was preceded in death by a brother, Leonard Combs, and an infant brother, Edward Eugene Combs. She attended Brookhill Workshop, Ottawa. She enjoyed watching television and working at Brookhill. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Monday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove. Burial will be in Center Cemetery, Leipsic. Friends may call 1-3 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to Brookhill School and Workshop, Ottawa.

Paul Linn
Jan. 17, 1920 - Oct. 16, 2002
Paul Linn, 82, of Lima, died 9:45 p.m. Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Jan. 17, 1920, in Mercer County to Walter and Ollie (Laudenbeck) Linn. On March 13, 1946, he married Helen Miller, who died June 11, 1967. Survivors include three daughters, Judy (Kim) Spyker of Massillon and Jean Lasak and Debbie (Fred) Carmichael of Lima; a son, David Linn of Cleveland; three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and James Linn. Mr. Linn had been a self-employed truck owner and operator. He was a charter member of Peace (New Creation) Lutheran Church in Lima and also served as trustee. He was an avid OSU and Detroit Lions and Tigers fan. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Gust Wuorinen officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to New Creation Lutheran Church.

Marguerite Calvelage
Feb. 17, 1917 - Oct. 16, 2002
Marguerite (Rinklin) Calvelage, 85, of Delphos, died Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Feb. 17, 1917, in Bronx, N.Y., to John and Caroline (LeBrun) Rinklin. On Jan. 27, 1943, she married Hubert B. Calvelage, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include a son, James (Phyllis "Phud") Calvelage of Delphos; a son-in-law, Bruce Maag; three daughters, Barbara (Bob) Foust of Findlay, Michele (David) Wittler of Delphos and Julie (Glenn) Bertling of Lima; a brother, John (Mary) Rinklin of Babylon, N.Y.; 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Shirley Maag. Mrs. Calvelage had been a secretary at Prudential Life Insurance and a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Florida. She enjoyed playing golf, knitting, crossword puzzles and bridge. Mass of Christian burial was 11 a.m. today at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, theRev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial was in Resurrection Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to Parkinson’s disease or St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

Viola M. Mack
June 12, 1925 - Oct. 15, 2002
Viola M. Mack, 77, of Lima, died 2:19 p.m. Tuesday at Lima Manor. She was born June 12, 1925, to Howell and Florence (Patton) Jones. On Aug. 22, 1948, she married William Mack, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include three sons, Franklin H. (Stacy) Mack, Patrick Mack and James S. (Deb) Mack of Lima; a sister, Virginia Bok of Cairo; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Owen and Clark Jones. Mrs. Mack was a registered nurse at Lima Memorial Hospital for 24 years and then served as school nurse at Gomer Elementary for 20 years. She was also an Elida band camp nurse. She was a 1943 graduate of Gomer High School and a 1946 graduate of Lima Memorial School of Nursing. She was a member of the Elida Veterans of Foreign Wars Post Auxiliary, serving as secretary. She enjoyed gardening and flowers. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Doug Adams officiating. Burial will be in Gomer Cemetery. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Martha A. Tullis
March 14, 1929 - Oct. 14, 2002
Martha A. "Marty" Tullis, 73, of Rockford, died 1:16 p.m. Monday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born March 14, 1929 in Van Wert, to Harry and Icy (Health) Waldron Bates. On March 14, 1946 she married Joseph Tullis, who survives. Other survivors include a daughter, Kathy (Michael) Shrider of Rockford; a son, John Tullis of Rockford; a brother, Bill Waldron of New York, N.Y.; a sister, Madge Eichhorn of Decatur; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Joseph Tullis; and a brother, Harry Waldron. Mrs. Tullis was a cook in several area restaurants. She enjoyed bowling and had been active in several leagues. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Michael Berne officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society or Colonial Nursing Home, Rockford.

Lewis W. Kaduk
Aug. 22, 1918 - Oct. 15, 2002
Lewis W. Kaduk, 74, of Van Wert, died 3:25 p.m. Tuesday at Van Wert County Hospital. He was born Aug. 22, 1918 in Van Wert County, to Andrew and Anna (Hertz) Kaduk. On Oct. 27, 1969, he married Dorothy M. Sherburn, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include a son, Michael L. (Heidi) Kaduk of Syracuse, Ind.; a stepson, Milo (Jo) Schaffner of Van Wert; two stepdaughters, Sandra (Cal) Hasty of Wichita Falls, Texas, and Carolyn Blue of St. Cloud, Fla.; two brothers, John (Dorothy) Kaduk of Hicksville and Frank Kaduk of Van Wert; a sister, Anna Diennes of Van Wert; seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by a brother, Andy Kaduk; and two sisters, Betty German and Sue Hartman. Mr. Kaduk owned Mobil Distributing from 1946 to 1963 and Wonder Bar in Van Wert from 1963 to 1981. He was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Van Wert. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II in First Battalion, 32nd Armored Regiment in the European Theatre. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Paul Miller officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

Linnie Lucile Goodwin
April 20, 1916 - Oct. 14, 2002
Linnie Lucile Goodwin, 86, of Willshire, died at 7:05 a.m. Monday at Van Wert County Hospital. She was born April 20, 1916 near Spencerville, to Orville and Minnie Barber Coffman, who preceded her in death. Her stepmother, Gladys Coffman, also preceded her in death. On Sept. 18, 1937, she married Glenn G. Goodwin, who died Feb. 13, 1988. Survivors include two sons, The Rev. John O. (Barbara) Goodwin of Van Wert and Gary G. Goodwin of Tokyo, Japan; four daughters, Phyllis (Ronald) Brockmeyer of Fort Wayne, Mary Haddad of Adrian, Mich., Janet (Fred) James of Springfield and Martha (Palmer) Inniger of Indianapolis; two brothers, Harold "Bud" (Margie) Coffman of Spencerville and Homer (Eva) Coffman of Edgerton; four sisters, Marie Savidge of Celina, Mary Jane (Carl) Putman of New Haven, Ind., Marilyn (Alfred) Emans of Mendon and Martha (Max) Wood of Spencerville; 15 grandchildren, five stepgrandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one foster grandchild. She was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister. Mrs. Goodwin was a homemaker and had worked at Decatur Industries in Decatur. She was a member of Willshire United Brethren Church and numerous historical societies. She was an avid quilter and gardener. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. John O. Goodwin officiating. Burial will be in Wright Cemetery in rural Van Wert County. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to The Navigators, Living Rock Family Outreach or the Willshire Park Fund.