Robert L. Miller Sr.
Nov. 20, 1928-Oct. 12, 2002
Robert L. "Bob" Miller Sr., 73, of Wapakoneta, died 2:55 a.m. Saturday at his residence. He was born Nov. 20, 1928 in Wapakoneta, to Clinton J. and Icy M. (Felver) Miller. On Sept. 12, 1948, he married L. Jean Nuss, who survives in Wapakoneta. Other survivors include two sons, Robert L. "Bo" (Rosalie) Miller Jr. and Michael A. (Laura) Miller of Wapakoneta; two sisters, Betty Schaub of Wapakoneta and Sarah Theising of Lancaster; a sister-in-law, Nellie Miller of Wapakoneta; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Clinton J. "Babe" Miller Jr.; a sister, Johanna Finley; and three brothers-in-law, Herb Finley, Cletus Schaub and Rueben Theising. Mr. Miller retired from J.B. Tool Company in Wapakoneta, having worked as a tool and die maker. He was a graduate of Blume High School in Wapakoneta and was a professional trumpet player. He helped to organize the "Kings of Melody" band, which played in the Wapakoneta area for several years. He was an avid sportsman, coached midget league football for 28 years and helped to organize the Chiefs, Warriors and Cherokees teams. He was named Sertoma Club "Man of the Year," was a member of the Musicians Local 320 in Lima and was past vice president and member of the Tri-County Midget Football League. He served in the Naval Reserves. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Bayliff and Eley Funeral Home, Wapakoneta, the Rev. David Brewster officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapakoneta. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice.

Julia Ann Stechschulte
July 9, 1956 - Oct. 13, 2002
Julia Ann "Julie" Stechschulte, 46, of Bluffton, formerly of Spencerville, died 1:30 a.m. Sunday in the Richland Manor Nursing Home, near Beaverdam. She was born July 9, 1956 in Lima, to Wesley and Dorothea (Pugh) Plikerd, who survive in Spencerville. On June 3, 2000, she married Mark A. Stechschulte, who also survives. Other survivors include a stepson, Dustin Sharrer of Pandora; a sister, Janet (Douglas) Ruen of Venedocia; and two nieces, Rachel and Laura Ruen of Venedocia. Mrs. Stechschulte had worked in accounting for the Pepsi Bottling Company, at Trim Trends in Spencerville and Toledo Molding and Die in Carey and Delphos. She was an avid Ohio State football fan and a fan of NASCAR racing. She was a 1974 graduate of Spencerville High School and attended Bowling Green State University and Findlay University.Memorial services will be 8 p.m. Tuesday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. John Fleck officiating. Burial will be at a later date in Spencerville Cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Diabetes Association serving Ohio or the Kidney Foundation of Northwest Ohio.

Marguerite Wortman
June 5, 1917 - Oct. 11, 2002
Marguerite J. Wortman, 85, of Van Wert, died early Friday morning at her residence. She was born June 5, 1917 in Convoy, to Francis and Gemima (Wolfe) Bayles. In June 1940, she married Lloyd Miller, who died in 1981. She then married Elmer Wortman, who died in 1986. Survivors include a half sister, Alta Showalter of Marion; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, Larry D. Miller and Robert L. Miller; one brother and six half brothers; a sister and four half sisters. Mrs. Wortman was a homemaker. She was a member of Calvary Evangelical Church, Van Wert. A private family service will be held with no calling. The Rev. Ray Feeck will officiate. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Rockford. Preferred memorials are to Calvary Evangelical Church.

Margaret M. Miller
Sept. 25, 1923 - Oct. 12, 2002
Margaret M. Miller, 79, of Van Wert, died 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. She was born Sept. 25, 1923, in Darke County to H. William and Grace (Magoto) Stutz. On May 14, 1940, she married Earl W. "Bud" Miller, who died Sept. 15, 1976. Survivors include six sons, Billy (Karen) Miller of Cape Coral, Fla., Jimmy (Cindy) Miller and Gary (Deb) Miller of Van Wert, Ronald Miller of Fort Wayne, Michael (Mary) Miller of Valley Center, Kan., and Marvin Miller of Sandusky; two daughters, Patricia (Gary) Mason of Oakwood and Marcia (Brian) Pancake of Van Wert; four brothers, John (Helen) Stutz of Venedocia, Billy (Barb) Stutz and Danny (Carol) Stutz of Van Wert and Bob (Marge) Stutz of Ohio City; five sisters, Gertrude Topp and Ruth Ann (Lester) Topp of New Bremen, Edna Mae "Daisy" Creel of Anderson, Ala., Pearl (Bud) Mason and Judy Lewis of Van Wert; 23 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister and a grandchild. Mrs. Miller retired after many years at Kennedy Kit Manufacturing, Van Wert. She was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church, Van Wert, and the Van Wert Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Wesley United Methodist Church.

Robert E. Solomon
Oct. 13, 1916 - Oct. 11, 2002
Robert E. Solomon, 85, of Cairo, died 5:48 p.m. Friday at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born Oct. 13, 1916 in West Cairo, to Ervin E. and Myrtle (Snyder) Solomon. He married Edith Stockler, who survives. Other survivors include three sons, Jon (Deborah) Solomon of Elida, Don Solomon of Monclova and Mark (Tami) Solomon of Cairo; a daughter, Sharon Foltz of Lima; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; and a niece, Bonnie (Thomas) McAdams and nephew Robert (Charlotte) Paullin. He was preceded in death by a son, Robert Daniel Solomon; three sisters and a brother. Mr. Solomon retired in 1983 from Westinghouse Corp., Lima, after 43 years. He was affiliated with the Cairo United Methodist Church of Christ. He enjoyed hunting, trapping and fishing as well as taking trips and traveling. He was a member of the National Rifle Association. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, the Rev. James Klausing officiating. Burial will be in Cairo East Side Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Nellie F. Bowden
May 17, 1919 - Oct. 12, 2002
Nellie F. Bowden, 83, of Middle Point, died 3:04 p.m. Saturday at Paradise Oaks Nursing Home, Cloverdale. She was born May 17, 1919 in Middle Point, to Thomas and Maude (Neer) Armstrong. On Feb. 14, 1936, she married William W. Bowden, who preceded her in death. Survivors include a daughter, Karen Bowden-Cox of Oakwood; a brother, Maurice Armstrong of Fort Mead, Fla.; her twin sister, Della Rae Ringwald of Fort Mead; four grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, William L. Bowden; a brother and two sisters. Mrs. Bowden retired in 1981 after 25 years at National Seal Corp., Van Wert. She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Middle Point, where she had served as treasurer and pianist-organist. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Tom Cover officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call one hour prior to services Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Trinity Lutheran Church.

William Robert Evans
Feb. 16, 1930 - Oct. 10, 2002
William Robert "Bob" Evans, 72, of Manila, Philippines, formerly of Lima, died Thursday. He was born Feb. 16, 1930 in Lima, to Michael and Mellona (Wahmhoff) Evans. Survivors include two sons, John (Mary) Evans of Asheville, N.C., and Robert Evans of Seattle; a daughter, Suzanne (Jerry) DeBerry of Winston- Salem, N.C.; two stepdaughters, Lacie Venzara of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and Kathryn Soper of London, England; his stepmother, Dorothy Evans of Lima; a brother, Thomas (Angela) Evans; and a sister, Marilyn (Richard) Gengler of Landeck. He was preceded in death my two brothers, Jerry and Jim (Mary) Evans. Mr. Evans had owned White Falcon Services in the Philippines for the past 12 years. Prior to that he served as vice president of Nesma in Saudi Arabia and was a telecom engineer in Mobile, Ala., where he was also a tennis pro. He was a 1947 graduate of St. Rose Catholic School in Lima and earned his bachelor’s degree from Miami University in Oxford. The remains will be cremated. A memorial service is planned for a later date.

Edith Brickner Holiday
Edith Brickner Holiday, 74, of Mandeville, La., formerly of Van Wert County, died Thursday at Lakeview Regional Medical Center, Mandeville. She was married to Byron "Bill" Holiday, who is deceased. Survivors include three daughters, Barbara Bowers, Cheryl Rappold and Debbie Rose; three grandchildren and a great-grandchild. Graveside services are 11:30 a.m. today at the Mandeville City Cemetery. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, Inc. of Covington is handling the arrangements.

Robert McCune
Aug. 4, 1956 - Oct. 11, 2002
Robert Lee "Coonie" McCune, 46, of Spencerville, died 12:56 a.m. Friday at St. Rita’s Medical Center following a one-car accident. He was born Aug. 4, 1956 in Lima, to Robert E. and Miriam F. (Haller) McCune. His mother and step-father, Donald L. Steinebrugge, survive in Spencerville. On April 5, 1974 he married Cheryl Lynn Roberts, who survives. Other survivors include two daughters, Chrystal L. McCune of Sidney and Niki L. McCune of Spencerville; a brother, Mark E. (Joyce) McCune of Spencerville; two sisters, Patricia E (Cloyd) Burkheimer of Van Wert and Amy S. (Dennis) Albers of Wapakoneta; his father and mother-in-law, Richard and JoAnn Roberts of Spencerville; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by twin sons, Robert and Danny McCune; and a sister, Carolyn McCune. He had worked at the former Hayes-Albion Corp., Spencerville, Flex Foam Corp., A.L. Smith and Trans Sonic Express trucking companies and was presently working for Ross Crites Trucking Company of Lima. He had attended Spencerville High School. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, the Rev. Raymond S. Daniel Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Kossuth Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Laura Osborne
April 27, 1913 - Oct. 8, 2002
Laura Walters Osborne, 89, of Lima, died 2:12 a.m. Tuesday at SCCI Hospital, Lima. She was born April 27, 1913 in Lima, to Harry E. and Katherine (Hick) Walters. On June 26, 1937 she married James V. Osborne, who died in August 1992. Survivors include a daughter, Kathleen Wilson of Lima; and four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Suzanne Rogers; a brother, John S. Walters; and a grandson, James Rogers. Mrs. Osborne taught music and English in the Lima City School System at South High School and Maple Heights in Cleveland. She was a 1931 graduate of Central High School and a 1935 cum laude graduate of Miami University with a degree in music education and fine arts. She was a member of First Baptist Church and its Homemaker’s Class, Hannah Circle and directed several choirs. She was also a member of the Happy Hour Garden Club and the PEO Sisterhood AS Chapter. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Revs. George Pirtle and Greta Wagner officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Flower Fund at First Baptist Church.

Frances D. Osting
June 26, 1951 - Oct. 7, 2002
Frances D. Osting, 51, of Delphos, formerly of Nelson, Ga., died Monday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born June 26, 1951, in Blue Ridge, Ga., to Eurias and Gean (Paterson) Greene. On April 11, 1994, she married Arnold Osting, who survives in Delphos. Survivors also include a son, Curtis (Peggy) Roland of Jasper, Ga.; two daughters, Denise Cruikshank of Canton, Ga., and Susan (Scott) Lawson of Ellijay, Ga.; nine stepchildren, Arnold (Becky) Osting, Clayton P. (Susan) Osting, Melanie R. Osting, Kim A. (Brenda) Osting, Allison K. Osting, Shane M. Osting, Shawn C. Osting, Mitchel (Becky) Osting and Nathan (Sonya) Osting; four sisters, Barbara, Ann, Glenda and Elizabeth "Sadie"; three stepbrothers, Tony, Steve and Timothy Roland; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Osting had been a pharmacy technician at Suncrest Pharmacy in Knoxville, Tenn. There is no service and no visitation. Arrangements are by Harter and Son Memorial Chapel.

James S. Abram
June 7, 1931-Oct. 6, 2002
James S. Abram, 71, of Bonita Springs, Fla., formerly of Ashland, died Sunday at Hospice House in Fort Myers, Fla. He was born June 7, 1931, in Medina to Alfred and Doris Abram. He married Bonita Emmons, who died Nov. 23, 1983. Survivors include a son, Darren (Elaine) Abram of Delphos; a brother, Thomas (Betty)Abram of Middlefield; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Steven Abram. Mr. Abram had previously owned Abram’s TV in Ashland and had most recently worked for Bentley Village in Naples, Fla. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the American Legion. Private family services will be held at a later date.

William D. Timmons
Feb. 1, 1927-Oct. 6, 2002
William David Timmons, 75, of Elida, died 12:35 a.m. Sunday at Richland Manor Nursing Home. He was born Feb. 1, 1927, in Waynesfield to William and Catherine "Cassie" (Gossard) Timmons. On March 29, 1952, he married Isabelle Amstutz, who died July 14, 2002
. Survivors include a son, Stephen (Patricia) Timmons of Grayslake, Ill.; two daughters, Barbara J. Bame of Elida and Jenifer (Mark) Hahn of Deshler; a sister, Anna Mae (Frank) Hughes of Ormond, Fla.; six grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren, a niece, Pam (Dan) McElderry of Swanton; a great-niece, Carmen (Neil) Tedrow of Delta; and a great-great nephew, Noah Tedrow of Delta. Mr. Timmons worked as a maintenance technician for Vistron of Lima. He was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 and served in the Army from June 5, 1945 to Nov. 24, 1946. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Mel Hathaway officiating. Burial will be in Salem Cemetery, Elida, with a graveside military service conducted by VFW Post 1275. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home, where a VFW memorial service will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Veterans Administrative Center Hospital, 4100 W. Third St., Dayton, 45248.

Roy J. Dunlap
April 25, 1928 - Oct. 4, 2002
Roy J. Dunlap, 74, of Delphos, died Friday at St. Rita’s Ambulatory Care Center. He was born April 25, 1928, in Delphos to Roy O. and Bernice (Marvin) Dunlap. On June 13, 1948, he married E. June Ladd, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include two sons, Rick (Edith) Dunlap of Delphos and Tim (Lisa) Dunlap of Payne; two daughters, Rebecca (Chuck) Firtzwater of Sherwood and Beth (Rob) Kriegel of Delphos; four sisters, Oleta Leidy and E. Marie Winnings of Lima, Doris Jean (Richard) Ruebush of Bluffton and Lois Ann (Earl) Myers of Rimer; 14 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Brandon Meyer. Mr. Dunlap had worked at Gramm Trailer, managed the Sohio gas station, owned Philips 66 gas station and worked part-time for Harter and Son Funeral Home. His last job was as dispatcher for the Delphos Police Department. He was also instrumental in starting the Police Auxiliary in Delphos. He enjoyed working with horses and playing the drums in the Eagles band. He was a member of St. Paul United Methodist Church and a 1946 graduate of Vaughnsville High School. Funeral services were 10 a.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Ron Lumm officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Martha Planer
Dec. 15, 1914 - Oct. 5, 2002
Martha Planer, 87, of Delphos, died 8 a.m. Saturday at her residence. She was born Dec. 15, 1914 in Delphos, to Max William and Amelia Cathryn Bertha "Molly" (Rauschart) Planer. Survivors include a sister, Dorothy Arnold of Delphos; two nephews, Dale Arnold and Robert Freund; and two nieces, Sheba Haner and Kathleen Freund. Ms. Planer retired from G.C. Murphy Co. in Delphos after 30 years of service as a retail sales clerk. She was a lifelong member of St. Peter Lutheran Church, and a member of its Good Shepherd Circle. She enjoyed reading. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Peter Lutheran Church, the Rev. Bill Schultz officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 3-9 p.m. today at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel and one hour prior to services Tuesday at the church. Preferred memorials are to St. Peter Lutheran Church.

Germaine E. Strayer
Dec. 5, 1910 - Oct. 5, 2002
Germaine E. "Tutz" Strayer, 91, of rural Spencerville, died 6:05 a.m. Saturday at the home of her daughter near Elida. She was born Dec. 5, 1910, in Marion Township, Allen County, to William and Elizabeth (Rahrig) Suever. On Nov. 28, 1929, she married George Strayer, who died Feb. 8, 1989. Survivors include five daughters, Mary (William) Baxter and Joyce (Ronald) Brenneman of Elida, Jane (Eugene) Youngpeter of Spencerville, Jean (David) Miller of Ada and Shirley Strayer of Lima; a son, Paul (Sondra) Strayer of Spencerville; a brother, Norman (Katie) Suever of Delphos; 16 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by five brothers, George, Harold, Emerson, Vernon and Merlin Suever. Mrs. Strayer was a homemaker and worked with her husband on the family farm. She was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Spencerville. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. John Fleck officiating. Burial will be in Hartford Cemetery, northeast of Spencerville. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. today at the funeral home, where a prayer service will be at 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice.

Ruby M. Kreischer
March 25, 1915 - Oct. 6, 2002
Ruby M. Kreischer, 87, of Convoy, died 5:07 p.m. Sunday at Convoy Care Center. She was born March 25, 1915, in Richmond, Ky., to Ollin and Bessie (Hollingsworth) Adams. On July 31, 1936, she married Wilbur M. "Mike" Kreischer, who died April 5, 1981. Survivors include four sons, William D. Kreischer, Philip (Carol) Kreischer, Dennis (Debbie) Kreischer and Stephen Kreischer of Convoy; two daughters, Patricia (Dale) Perrott of Van Wert and Jane (Fred) German of Convoy; a sister, Helen (Lewis) Fralick of Fort Wayne; 18 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sons, John and Paul Wayne Kreischer; a brother, Clarence Adams; two sisters, Bertha Mefferd and Mertie Taylor; and a grandchild. Mrs. Kreischer was a homemaker and had worked as a cook at Crestview North Elementary School for 15 years. She was a member of St. Paul United Church of Church, Convoy, and a member of its Ladies Guild. She was also a member of the Convoy Fox Hunters Club, the former Convoy Fire Department Ladies EMS Auxiliary and received the 1992 Convoy Days Citizen’s Award. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Gearhart, Mack and Jurczyk Funeral Home, Convoy, the Rev. Ronald Fruth officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the Convoy Fire Department.

Joan Annis Gaskin
July 10, 1935 - Oct. 4, 2002
Joan Annis Gaskin, 67, of Lima, died 1:50 a.m. Friday at Shawnee Manor Nursing Home. She was born July 10, 1935, in Lima to Robert Adam and Rebecca (Allen) Cavinder. She had been married to Charles Franklin "Tiny" Gaskin, who preceded her in death. Survivors include four daughters, Candace "Candy" (Ted) Ansel, Mary Jean (Dennis) Schneider and Melody Ann (Everett) Gay of Lima and Mona Marie Gilby of Michigan; three sons, Michael Dale Henderson of Fort Wayne, Daniel Karlis Gaskin of Quincy, Mich., and Jeffery Howard Gaskin of Lima; three brothers, Robert Cavinder of Lakeview and Lynn and Robin Cavinder of Lima; 31 grandchildren and 34 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Charles "Gus" Gaskin III. She was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, was a Girl Scout in 1945 and volunteer of St. Rita’s Hospital. She was a life member of Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary Command Unit 19 and was state chaplain. She was a member of Adam G. Stelzer Navy Club Aux. 9 and past commander, was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275, a member of the Blue Star Mothers of American number 15, where she was recording secretary, chaplain and financial secretary, chapter 15 president, and USA chairman. She was the Blue Star Mothers of American, Department of Ohio as their financial secretary, recording secretary, vice president, department president, USA chairman and drill team member. She was a member of the Blue Star Mothers of America, their treasurer, vice-president and USO chairman. She was also a member of the Blue Star Mothers of American Department of Ohio Big Dipper, was their president and vice president. She was a member of Eastern Star, Koneta, Lacnip as vice president, Schoonover Park Neighborhood treasurer and president. In 1999, she started the Allen County Veteran Food Pantry, was a charter member of the Junior Order Eagles 137, worked at the service men’s canteen from 1951 to 1952, was first activity director of Elderly Nutrition, LACCA activity director. She worked at the Nickerson Farms Restaurant as an assistant manager, Tony Comp District Manager, delivered and collected for Larry Almond and was a bookkeeper and sales person for Niesner and Woolworths. She was also a homemaker. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Christ Episcopal Church, the Rev. Darwin Ralston officiating. Burial will be in Cairo West Cemetery. Friends may call 2- 4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where a Blue Star Mothers Service will be at 6 p.m. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

John G. McConnell
Jan. 10, 1913 - Oct. 5, 2002
John G. McConnell, 89, of the Elida area, died 6:20 p.m. Saturday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Jan. 10, 1913, in Colorado, to David Ross and Ella (Hollingshead) McConnell. On June 22, 1935, he married Helen B. Bricker, who died May 7, 1991. On Jan. 19, 1992, he married Joyce Sonner Gilford, who survives. Other survivors include three daughters, Joy Dawson of Spencerville, Margaret "Peggy" Weber of Canal Fulton and Polly G. McConnell of Kendallville, Ind.; two sons, John G. "Jack" (Kay) McConnell of Lima and Bruce E. (Jo) McConnell of Spencerville; a stepdaughter, Kay (Walter) Gilford-Gardner of Little Rock, Ark.; a stepson, E. Leslie Gilford of Yellow Springs; a sister-in-law, Margaret McConnell of Florida; and 10 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sons-in-law, Donald Dawson Jr. and Lewis Weber; a brother, George McConnell; a stepdaughter, Cheryl Gilford; and two grandchildren. Mr. McConnell was a member of Zion United Methodist Church near Elida, where he had been treasurer and Sunday school teacher. He retired as owner and operator of McConnell Orchard near Elida and had taught adult education following World War II at Continental and Spencerville. In 1931, he graduated from Greenford High School near Salem and in 1935 he graduated from Ohio State University, with a major in horticulture and had been a member of Alpha Gamma Sigma Agriculture Fraternity. He was the first announcer for the Elida football games, serving 29 years and retiring in 1973. He was co-founder of the Zion Boys 4-H Club and had been a member of the Allen County Farm Bureau and American Township Grange. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Mary Kay Brown officiating. Burial will be in Lima Memorial Park Mausoleum. Friends may call 3-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Zion Methodist Church Memorial Fund.

Joseph Azzarello
Aug. 28, 1912-Oct. 4, 2002
Joseph Azzarello, 90, of Lima, died 10:35 a.m. Friday at Lima Memorial Hospital. He was born Aug. 28, 1912, in Chicago Heights, Ill., to Antonio and Catterina (Venturella) Azzarello. On Oct. 27, 1946, he married Mary J. Cecala, who died June 24, 2002
. Survivors include a son, Anthony "Tony" (Sandi) Azzarello of Lima; a daughter, Kathy (Richard) Brown of Lima; three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Jimmie, Nickolas and Sam Azzarello; and a sister, Lena LoBue. Mr. Azzarello had owned Alpine and Azzarello’s restaurants in Lima. He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Lima and the Lima Elks Lodge. He enjoyed baseball, hunting, fishing and was known for his cooking abilities. He served in the Army during World War II. Mass of Christian burial was 10 a.m. today at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, the Rev. William J. Rose officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery, Lima. Preferred memorials are to Lima Central Catholic Capital Campaign, 720 S. Cable Road, Lima, 45805 or donor’s choice.

Derry Jon Michael
Dec. 31, 1939-Oct. 5, 2002
Derry Jon Michael, 62, of Lima, died 9:15 a.m. Saturday at his residence. He was born Dec. 31, 1939, in Lima to Paul A. Michael and Anna Louise (Wooley) Holliday. On Nov. 18, 1997, he married Tressie Coulter, who survives in Lima. Survivors also include two daughters, Angie (Kevin) McKinley of Fairdale, Ky. and Jodie A. (Jack) Thompson of Corydon, Ind.; two sons, Blaine E. (Kimberly) Michael and Josh (Michael) Gilman of Richmond, Va.; four brothers, David L. (Sharon) Michael, Patrick A. (Nora) Michael, James W. Michael and Tom (Evelyn) Holliday of Lima; two sisters, Karen A. (Mel) Hiller of Lima and Lana K. (Loyd) Adkins of Spencerville; and three grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Jonnie Holliday. Mr. Michael retired from Ford Motor Company, Lima, as an inspector. He was a member of Lima Eagles Aerie 270, Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 199, American Legion Post 96 and UAW Local 1219. He served in the U.S. Air Force. Funeral services will be 8 p.m. Tuesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Pastor John Spyker officiating. Cremation will follow the service. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801.

Fedora Rose Spencer
Jan. 26, 1923 - Oct. 5, 2002
Fedora Rose Spencer, 79, of Lima, died 4:15 a.m. Saturday at Lima Health and Rehab Center. She was born Jan. 26, 1923, in Lima to Rizieri and Antonietta (Pikari) Franklin. On Aug. 5, 1945, she married Paul M. Spencer, who died in November 1961. Survivors include a daughter, Rochelle Hicks of Lima; three sons, Paul Spencer and John (Mary Grace) Spencer of Lima and Roy Spencer of Raleigh, N.C.; a brother, Roy Franklin of Las Vegas; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Franklin. Mrs. Spencer was a homemaker and was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church. A private family service was held today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Burial was in Gethsemani Cemetery. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Bettie Sue "Betsy" Miller
Jan. 7, 1947-Oct. 3, 2002
Bettie Sue "Betsy" Miller, 55, of Bay Village, died Thursday. She was born Jan. 7, 1947, in Fort Smith, Ark., to Gipson and Helen Stevinson. She married Clinton Miller III, who survives. Other survivors include three daughters, Hilary Vick, Emily Ann and Sarah Rosemary; a sister, Shirley (Dan) Ball of Houston, Texas; father-in-law, Dr. Clinton J. Miller II; a brother-in-law, James A. Miller; six sisters-in-law, Taffy Speller, Julie McCormick, Marcey Brickner, Sally Pohlman, Molly McHone and Mandy Haiber. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Raphael Catholic Church, 525 Dover Center Rd., Bay Village. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Avalon. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Berry Funeral Home, 23040 Center Ridge Rd., Westlake. Preferred memorials are to Ireland Cancer Center, 11100 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 44106 or the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, 10819 Magnolia Dr., Cleveland, 44106.

James L. Goins
Aug. 11, 1938-Oct. 4, 2002
James L. "Jim" Goins, 64, of Haviland, died 3:45 a.m. Friday at his residence. He was born Aug. 11, 1938, in Greenville to Gladstone "Jack" and Mercedes (Hosbrook) Goins. His mother survives in Van Wert. On March 22, 1958, he married Carolyn L. Baker, who survives in Haviland. Other survivors include a son, Cameran (Connie) Goins of Scott; two daughters, Christi Dias of Haviland and Glenda Goins of Latty; two brothers, Jerry (Judy) Goins of Scott, Jack (Karen) Goins of Cecil; two sisters, Karen (Floyd) Mason of Van Wert and Roxanne Hosbrook of Tiffin; nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Steven Goins. Mr. Goins had worked at Ley Equipment and National Seal in Van Wert. He retired from Sims Cab in Payne. He served in the Ohio National Guard and was a former Haviland councilman. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Don Rogers officiating. Burial will be in Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland. Friends may call 2:30-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Paulding County Visiting Nurses and Hospice program.

Howard C. Wilkinson
Oct. 3, 1918-Oct. 4, 2002
Howard C. Wilkinson, 84, of Lumberton, N.C., and Pinehurst, N.C., died Friday. He was born Oct. 3, 1918, in Van Wert to Townsend C. and Agnes (Kuertz) Wilkinson, who preceded him in death. His stepmother Margaret (Huggins) Wilkinson also preceded him in death. On Oct. 11, 1947, he married Joan Eggerson, who survives in Pinehurst, N.C. Other survivors include two daughters, Christine (Patrick J.) Donovan of St. Paul, Minn., and Holly Floyd of Southern Pines, N.C.; two sisters, Louise W. Evans of Mansfield and Laura W. Conn of Boerne, Texas; and six grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by a son, Bradford C. Wilkinson; and a brother, Richard T. Wilkinson. Mr. Wilkinson was retired executive vice president of Alpha Cellulose Company. He attended Marion Military Institute in Marion, Ala., and Giffin Junior College in Van Wert. He was a major in the U.S. Army Air Corps, serving in Greenland during World War II. He was also in the Army Air Force Reserves in Boise, Idaho, during the Korean War. He had worked with his family at Wilkinson Printing Company and following his return from the service, her was employed at Aeroquip Corporation in Van Wert. He was on the board of Robeson County Boy Scouts and presented the Silver Beaver Award. He was a member of the Masons and founding member of the Jaycees in Van Wert. He also belonged to the Shrine of Wilmington, N.C. He served on the board of trustees of First Federal Savings and Loan of Lumberton and Marion Military Institute. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at First Presbyterian Church, Van Wert, the Rev. Dr. Edward Jillson officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Friends may call 5-7 p.m. Monday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to the Boys and Girls Club or donor’s choice.

Emmanuel M. McHugh
April 25, 1915 - Oct. 3, 2002
Emmanuel M. McHugh, 87, of Van Wert, died 4:11 a.m. Thursday at Van Wert County Hospital. He was born April 24, 1915 in Reynolds, Ind., to Thomas and Emma (Holcomb) McHugh. On Nov. 22, 1939, he married Helen M. Davis, who survives in Van Wert. Other survivors include two daughters, Connie Wood of Van Wert and Delda McHugh of Delphos; and a grandson, Christopher Wood of Van Wert. He was preceded in death by a son, Mearl McHugh, five brothers and three sisters. Mr. McHugh retired in 1985 after 21 as caretaker of Woodland Cemetery. He also delivered the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette Sunday edition for 32 years and the Van Wert Times Bulletin for six years. He attended First United Methodist Church, Van Wert, and enjoyed square dancing. Funeral services will be 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to First United Methodist Church.

Marjorie M. Sharp
July 12, 1918 - Oct. 3, 2002
Marjorie M. Sharp, 84, of Elida, died 3:25 a.m. Thursday at Shawnee Manor Nursing Home. She was born July 12, 1918 in Allen County, to Clyde and Florence (Nesbitt) Mechling. On May 27, 1951, she married Roy E. Sharp, who survives in Elida. Other survivors include a son, Mark L. Sharp of Eastlake; two daughters, Joan (Grant) Percy of Knoxville, Tenn., and Nancy L. (David) Grimm of Elida; a sister, Marilyn (Tad) Kready of Powell; eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mrs. Sharp was a homemaker and worked in the Savings Department at Huntington Bank and had worked at Greggs department store. She was a member of Market Street Presbyterian Church, where she was very active. She was a graduate of Sidney High School and a past member of the Lima Cotillion Club. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Market Street Presbyterian Church, the Rev. Richard Sheffield officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Chiles and Sons-Laman Funeral Home, Lima, and one hour prior to services Monday at the church. Preferred memorials are to Market Street Presbyterian Church Chapel Fund.

Barbara E. Fenton
Oct. 22, 1937 - Oct. 2, 2002
Barbara E. Fenton, 64, of Lima, died 11 a.m. Wednesday at her residence. She was born Oct. 22, 1937 in Lima, to Oliver V. and Margaret L. (Crumrine) Moyer. On Oct. 19, 1957, she married Thomas Fenton, who survives. Survivors also include four sons, Thomas (Patti Garcia) Fenton of Denver, Scott Fenton of Longmont, Col., and Todd Fenton and Rick Fenton of Lima; a daughter, Deborah (Jeff) Grothaus of Fort Wayne, Ind.; a brother, James (Judy) Moyer of Brentwood, Tenn.; three sisters, Kathleen Moyer and Rita Ross of Lima and Nancy (Carl) Talley of Roanoke, Va.; and seven grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas Moyer; and a sister, Marylou Spallinger. Mrs. Fenton was a homemaker and had worked at St. Rita’s Medical Center and McCrory’s, She was a 1956 graduate of St. Gerard Catholic High School. She was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, American Legion Post 96 and Fraternal Order of Orioles 173. She enjoyed playing Bunco and gambling. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Monday at St. Gerard Catholic Church, Lima. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Saturday and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where a parish wake will be at 8 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801.

Richard L. Eggeman
Feb. 16, 1959 - Oct. 2, 2002
Richard L. Eggeman, 43, of Delphos, died 8 a.m. Wednesday at his residence. He was born Feb. 16, 1959 in Delphos, to Ronald and LaDonna (Rode) Eggeman, who survive in Delphos. Survivors also include a sister, Catherine (David) Joseph of Delphos; and two brothers, Russell (Natalie) Eggeman of Fort Wayne, Ind., and Ronald (Laura) Eggeman of Goshen, Ind.; paternal grandmother, Esther Eggeman; 10 nieces and one great-nephew. Mr. Eggeman collected trains and was a 1977 graduate of St. John’s High School. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Saturday at Harter and Son Funeral Home, the Rev. David Howell officiating. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery. Friends may call 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Donald W. Shireman
Dec. 25, 1931-Oct. 1, 2002
Donald W. "Red" Shireman, 70, of Lima, died 12:05 p.m. Tuesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Dec. 25, 1931, in McCutchinsville, to Beach and Edith (Davidson) Shireman. On Dec. 6, 1951, he married Esther Lozier, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include a son, Steven Shireman of Baltimore; a daughter, Debra (Richard) Idol of Lexington, N.C.; two brothers, Harry (Pat) Shireman and Glen (Ida) Shireman of Perrysville; a sister, Helen (Harry) Brokaw of Mansfield; five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Mr. Shireman retired from Westinghouse in Lima. He was a member of New Creation Lutheran Church and American Legion Post 96, Lima. He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. He enjoyed traveling by RV, wood carving and gardening. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Byerly-Lindsey Funeral Home, Loudonville, the Rev. Rahel Hahn officiating. Burial will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Perrysville. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. today and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Local arrangements are by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima. Preferred memorials are to New Creation Lutheran Church or the American Cancer Society, 616 S. Collett, Lima, 45805.

Mary E. Meyer
Feb. 24, 1914 - Sept. 30, 2002
Mary E. Meyer, 88, of Ottawa, died 5:50 p.m. Monday at Putnam Acres Care Center, Ottawa. She was born Feb. 24, 1914 in Kalida, to Joseph and Amelia Verhoff. On Sept. 3, 1935, she married Joseph Meyer, who died Sept. 3, 1988. Survivors include two sons, Charles (Jeanette) Meyer of Ottawa and Thomas (Diane) Meyer of Columbus Grove; two daughters, Wilma (Richard) Vorst of Kalida and Pauline (Dennis) Giesige of Ayersville; a sister, Cecelia (Don) Zeller of Leipsic; 22 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Dorothy Hohlbein; and three brothers, George, Frank and Joseph Verhoff. Mrs. Meyer was a homemaker. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa, and its Altar Rosary Society. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Friday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, the Rev. Tom Hemm officiating. Burial will be in St. Anthony Cemetery, Columbus Grove. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. Thursday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a scripture service will be at 3 p.m. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Herman C. Verhoff
Sept. 19, 1907 - Sept. 30, 2002
Herman C. Verhoff, 95, of Ottawa, died 9:05 p.m. Monday at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Glandorf. He was born Sept. 19, 1907 in Kalida, to William and Clara (Schroeder) Verhoff. On Oct. 18, 1939, he married Bernadine Wehri, who survives in Ottawa. Other survivors include a son, Robert Verhoff of Ottawa; a daughter, Doris Rampe of Kalida; a daughter-in-law, Sandra Verhoff of Ottawa; three sisters, Philomena Stoepfel and Laura Foppe of Kalida and Magdalena Klausing of Delphos; six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, Richard Verhoff; two sisters, Anna Karhoff and Lenora Hovest; three brothers, Harry, Anthony and Thomas Verhoff; a grandchild; and a great-grandchild. Mr. Verhoff was a retired farmer. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa. Mass of Christian burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, the Rev. Tom Hemm officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a scripture service will be at 3 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Putnam County Hospice.

Larry Dean Prine Sr.
Apr. 29, 1935 - Sept. 27, 2002
Larry Dean Prine Sr., 67, of Tulsa, Okla., formerly of Delphos, died 10:38 a.m. Friday at St. Frances Hospital, Tulsa. He was born April 29, 1935, in Delphos to Clifford and Nora (Stopher) Prine. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Mary E. Milroy Prine, who resides in Tulsa. Other survivors include seven children, Larry Jr., Ralph, Dennis, Rodney, Patty, Ginny and Eddie; three brothers, Robert, William and Jack; two sisters, Margaret and Norma; 24 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Herschel, Richard and Melvin; and two sisters, Twilla and Lorraine. Mr. Prine was a retired independent truck driver. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, the Rev. Glenn Prine officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Charles F. Stelzer
April 18, 1917-Sept. 29, 2002
Charles F. Stelzer, 85, of Lima, died 3:40 p.m. Sunday at Lima Manor Nursing Home. He was born April 18, 1917, in Lima to Carl and Emma (Ward) Stelzer. On Sept. 12, 1936, he married Adelaide Frazee, who died Nov. 5, 1999. Survivors include two sons, Charles F. (Sally) Stelzer Jr. of Lima, and John T. (Peggy) Stelzer of Wapakoneta; four daughters, Margaret "Peggy" (Nelson) Bowsher, Loretta Ann (Williams) Voress and Gloria Sue (John) Stein of Lima and Elnora (Grady) Horn of Elida; two brothers, John (Glorraine) Stelzer of Defiance and Paul (Marilyn) Stelzer of Lima; three sisters, Helen Clark of Wapakoneta, Naomi (Duane) Saunders of Harrod and Marjorie (William) McCormack of Lima; 21 grandchildren, six step-great-grandchildren and four step-great-great-grandchildren. Mr. Stelzer ran a milk route for Eldora Dairy and worked at Superior Coach and the Lima Tank Depot before entering the Army. After his discharge he was self-employed in Stelzer Floor Service and contracted with Greggs, Starr Carpet, Sears, and other area businesses, retiring about 20 years ago. He was an avid fisherman and CB radio enthusiast. Private family services will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Greta Wagner officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to St. Rita’s Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801.