George Weldon
Aug. 3, 1942 - Nov. 26, 2002
George Weldon, 60, of Lima, died 4:19 p.m. Tuesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Aug. 3, 1942 in Georgia, to Mary L. Ragin, who survives in Perry, Ga. On Feb. 16, 2002
, he married Babette Wills, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include four daughters, LaShonda R. Weldon, Shannon Weldon, Melinda A. Thomas and Ashleigh E. Weldon of Lima; three stepsons, Anthony L. Sharp, Shane M. Sharp and Scott A. Sharp of Lima; five sisters, EuraLee Curtchfield of Stockbridge, Ga., Louise Ragin of Lima, Lucille Patrick of Stone Mountain, Ga., and Elizabeth Ragin of Perry; four brothers, James Woodard of Philadelphia, Joe Ragin Jr. of Byron, Ga., Hammie Ragin of Lima and Roosevelt Ragin of Perry; and four grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Evelyn Carr; and a brother, William Woodard. Mr. Weldon retired from Phillips Display Components in Ottawa as a truck driver. He was a member of Second Baptist Church, and the IBEW Local - Phillips Display Components. He enjoyed playing pinochle and do fill-in puzzles. Memorial services will be 1 p.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, the Rev. LaMont Monford Sr. officiating. Burial of the cremated remains will be in Greenlawn Cemetery, Elida. Friends may call noon to 2 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to his wife, Babette Weldon.

William T. Gordon
Aug. 10, 1945 - Nov. 27, 2002
William T. "Bill" Gordon, 57, of Lima, died 12:45 a.m. Wednesday at Blanchard Valley Regional Health Center. He was born Aug. 10, 1945 in Lima, to Eugene and Cecil (Thomas) Gordon. His mother survives. Survivors also include a son, Matthew Gordon of Columbus; a daughter, Jennifer (Brian) Sharp of Lima; two grandchildren; special friends, Ronda, Brian, Jessica and Patrick Maginnity of Lima; and his dog and best buddy, Fred. He was preceded in death by a sister, Deloris Gordon. Mr. Gordon retired as an administrator for Lima City Schools. He was a former teacher at Greenville from 1968 to 1976; at Apollo JVS from 1978 to 1983; and Lima City Schools from 1983 until he retired in 1998. He was currently working at the Lima News as a service runner and the Toledo Blade as a distributor. He received his bachelor of arts in education from Ohio State University and his master’s in educational administration from Bowling Green State University. He was a member of Southside Christian Church. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, the Rev. Mary Kay Brown officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 6-8 p.m. Saturday and 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the William T. Gordon Scholarship Foundation through Lima City Schools.

Matthew Ray Glass
April 10, 1997 - Nov. 27, 2002
Matthew Ray "Matt" Glass, 5, of Scott, died 10:40 a.m. Wednesday at Parkview Medical Center, Fort Wayne, from injuries sustained in a car accident. He was born April 10, 1997 in Lima to Bryon A. and Nicole S. (Davis) Glass, who survive in Scott. Other survivors include a sister, Macey Charlene Glass, at home; paternal grandparents, Dennis "Tiny" and Ruth Ann Glass of Scott; maternal grandparents, Dewey C. and Leah A. Shaw and Richard and Betty Learned of Van Wert, James and Norma Detterer of Bellefontaine, Robert and Lois Bollenbaugh of Ohio City and Thomas and Donna Davis of Kenton; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by a sister, Margery Elizabeth Glass; and great-grandparents, W. Ray and Betty J. Glass, Everet H. Gilroy and Isabelle Morris. Glass was a kindergarten student at Grover Hill Elementary. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Trinity Friends Church, Van Wert, the Revs. Neil Hammons and John Perkins officiating. Burial will be in Scott Cemetery. Friends may call 1:30-9 p.m. today at the Aslpach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and 9 a.m. until time of services Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to the family medical expense fund.

Margery E. Glass
Sept. 8, 1999 - Nov. 22, 2002
Margery Elizabeth "Maggie" Glass, 3, of Scott, died 1:27 a.m. Friday at Van Wert County Hospital after an auto accident. She was born Sept. 8, 1999, in Lima to Bryon A. and Nicole S. (Davis) Glass, who survive in Scott. Survivors also include a brother, Matthew Ray Glass, as home; a sister, Macey Charlene Glass, at home; paternal grandparents, Dennis "Tiny" and Ruth Ann Glass of Scott; maternal grandparents, Lisa and Mike Learned and Bob and Jean Davis of Van Wert; paternal great-grandparent, Estella Gilroy of Van Wert; maternal great-grandparents, Dewey C. and Leah A. Shaw and Richard and Betty Learned of Van Wert and James and Norma Detterer of Bellefontaine; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. She was preceded in death by great-grandparents, W. Ray and Betty Glass and Everet H. Gilroy and Isabelle Morris. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Trinity Friends Church, Van Wert, the Rev. Neil Hammons officiating. Burial will be in Scott Cemetery. Friends may call 1:30-9 p.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and 9 a.m. until time of services Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to family medical expense fund.

Monna J. VanHorn
Sept. 13, 1944 - Nov. 26, 2002
Monna J. VanHorn, 58, of Lima, died 11:15 p.m. Tuesday at Lima Manor Nursing Home. She was born Sept. 13, 1944 in Lima, to Anson and Bertha Mae (Price) Fanaff. Survivors include a son, Shannon (Tina) VanHorn of Lima: a daughter, Shelly (Greg) Bitters; a brother, Michael (Judy) Fannaff of Columbus Grove; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Terry A. Dotson; a brother, James Fanaff; and a grandchild, Terry A. Dotson II. Mrs. VanHorn worked at Helping Hands and as a nurse’s aid. She was a member of the Eagles Auxiliary. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Cancer Society.

Peggy Wieging
March 27, 1929 - Nov. 27, 2002
Peggy Wieging, 73, of Delphos, died 12:07 p.m. Wednesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born March 27, 1929 in Texas, to Bill and Lavert (Brown) Byers, who preceded her in death. Her stepfather, Stanley W. Tucker also preceded her in death. She married Harold Wieging, who preceded her in death this year. Survivors include a son, Michael Joseph Wieging of Texas; two daughters, Catherine Ann Myers of Nashville, Tenn., and Roxanne Marie Martin of Delphos; nine grandchildren, Brandon and Quinten Martin, Drew, Amanda, Tiffany, Airan and Tara (Ronnie) Myers and Brett and Heather Wieging; and four great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by her grandparents. Mrs. Wieging retired from the city of Delphos as custodian. She loved to play bingo, gardening, animals and spending time with her grandchildren. Private services will be held. Harter and Son Memorial Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Preferred memorials are to the Lung Association.

Helen L. McDaniel
Aug. 14, 1935 - Nov. 25, 2002
Helen L. McDaniel, 67, of Lima, died 5:38 a.m. Monday at Lima Memorial Hospital. She was born Aug. 14, 1935, in Lima to W. Harold and Alice (Fraunfelter) Wright. Survivors include a son, David (Beverly) McDaniel of Lima; two daughters, Diana (Doyle) Cheney and Sondra (Dennis) Martin of Lima; three sisters and two brothers; and four grandchildren. Mrs. McDaniel worked for many years at Pangle’s Master Market, was a dietary supervisor at St. Rita’s Medical Center, then worked at Gregg’s Department Store, Woolworths and then Perkins. She loved to crochet, sew, garden and cook. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. Gary Jones officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today and one hour prior to services Friday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Homer O. Gillam
6 Jul 1937 - 25 Nov 2002
Homer O. Gillam, 65, of Delphos, died Monday. He was born in Olive Hill, Ky., to Estel and Emil Gillam. His wife of 44 years, Evelyn Gillam, survives. Other survivors include five daughters, Rita Oakes, Verna Koger, Peggy (Todd) Tuite, Brenda (Scott) Carter and Penny (Eric) Hanson; two sons, Butch Gillam and Chuck (Sheri) Gillam; a sister, Jackie Lou Johnson; 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Verna May Layne and Flora Lee Callahan. Mr. Gillam retired from I&K Distributors. Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Friday at George C. Martin Funeral Home, Northridge Chapel, 5040 Frederick Pike, Dayton, Pastor Rick Crews officiating. Burial will be in Bear Creek Cemetery. Friends may call one hour prior to services at the funeral home.

Dale E. Wisener
October 1932-Nov. 2, 2002
Dale E. Wisener, 70, of Lantana, Fla., formerly of Van Wert, died Nov. 2 at Terrace Health Center, Lantana. He was born in October 1932, in Van Wert, to Lester L. and Cleo (Finkhousen) Wisener. He married Doris Brooks, who died in January 2001. Survivors include two brothers, Lester (Pat) Wisener and John (Helen) Wisener of Van Wert; and two sisters, Delores (Marvin) Laukhuf of Haviland and Rebecca (Chet) Hamrick of Van Wert. He was preceded in death by a brother, W.E. Wisener. Mr. Wisener retired from Pratt-Whitney Aircraft Corp., after 28 years. He served four years in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Private family services were held today. Burial will be in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Van Wert County. There is no visitation. Local arrangements are by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Preferred memorials are to Gideons International.

Mildred Prentice
Aug. 2, 1905 - Nov. 26, 2002
Mildred Prentice, 97, of Delphos, died 10:25 a.m. Tuesday at Laurels of Defiance. She was born Aug. 2, 1905 in Delphos, to Fred B. and Caroline (Scharf) Birkmeier. On Aug. 20, 1938, she married George "Jack" Prentice, who died in 1962. Survivors include a sister, Rita Gremling of Defiance; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Ralph J. and Carl Birkmeier. Mrs. Prentice retired from the American Red Cross. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and 3rd order secular, St. Francis. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 9-11 a.m. Saturday at Harter Memorial Chapel. Preferred memorials are to the St. John Foundation.

Gilbert A. Wehri
June 20, 1924-Nov. 25, 2002
Gilbert A. "Gip" Wehri, 78, of Delphos, died 12:15 p.m. Monday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born June 20, 1924, in Kalida, to Frank and Mary (Miller) Wehri. On Sept. 12, 1953, he married Velma Hugel, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include a son, Dennis (Janice) Wehri of Edgerton; five daughters, Janet (Gene) Siefker and Bonnie (Paul) Merschman of Delphos, Louise (Rick) Westbay of Fryburg, Elaine (Bob) Wehri of Fort Jennings and Diane "Turtle" (Brian) Eickholt of Ottoville; eight sisters, Margaret Dickman, Lucille Schroeder and Joanie (Dick) Selmet of Ottawa, Rosie Clementz of Kalida, Leona (Gerald) Youngpeter of Fort Jennings, Mary Ann (Bob) Kaple of Ottoville and Agnes Ulm of Delphos; two brothers, Clete (Delores) Wehri and Hubert (Joyce) Wehri of Kalida; a brother-in-law, Richard Hugel; 20 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and two step-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Luella Wehri. Mr. Wehri retired from Fruehauf after 33 years and worked many years at Royster Clark part time. He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus and a fraternal member of the CLofC Landeck Council 84. He was also a lifetime member of the Walterick-Hemme Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035. He was a World War II veteran of the Army, serving from 1944-1946 in the European Theater, operation Germany. He enjoyed gardening, farming, woodworking and Cincinnati Reds baseball. He was chauffeur for the Wehri Family Band. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Landeck, with military graveside services conducted by the Delphos Veterans Council. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. today and Thursday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a Landeck CLofC service will be 7 p.m. today and a rosary service will be 7:30 p.m. and a parish wake at 8 p.m. Thursday. Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.

Addie L. Mulholland
Jan. 7, 1937 - Nov. 20, 2002
Addie L. Mulholland, 65, of Brainerd, Minn., died Nov. 20 at St. Joseph Medical Center. She was born Jan. 7, 1937, in Circleville to Gideon and Nellie (Strawser) Eccard. She married James (Bob) Mulholland of Spencerville, who preceded her in death in 1982. Survivors include three daughters, Dorothy (Warren) Siebert of Warrenton, Va., Nancy (Robert) McMichael of Spencerville and Sharon (Basil) LeClaire of Brainerd; three sons, Tom (Loretta) Mulholland of Ogema, Minn., Jim (Lisa) Mulholland of Grinnell, Iowa, and John Mulholland of Cambridge; a son-in-law, Richard Bacon; a sister, Betty Brincefield of Spencerville; a brother, John Eccard of Spencerville; 19 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Shirley Bacon; and a sister, Virginia Stant. Mrs. Mulholland had owned and operated Mulholland’s Evergeen Resort in Portage Lake, Minn., until her husband’s death. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Spencerville and the American Legion, VFW and Eagles. Funeral services were held Monday at Temple Baptist Church in Brainerd. Burial was today in Northern Gospel Mission Cemetery in Lake, Minn.

Olen Shepherd
April 11, 1939 - Nov. 25, 2002
Olen Shepherd, 63, of Middle Point, died 12:20 a.m. Monday at Van Wert County Hospital. He was born April 11, 1939, in Mcgolfing County, Ky., to John and Aulda (Wireman) Shepherd. On Aug. 26, 1995, he married Angela Shafer, who survives in Middle Point. Other survivors include three sons, Olen (Ann) Shepherd Jr. of Mentone, Ind., John F. (Kelly) Shepherd of Milford, Ind., and Donald Ray Shepherd of Indiana; two daughters, Brenda Sue (Jeff) Bagwell of Warsaw, Ind., and Melissa Dawn Shepherd of Scottown; six sisters, Mentha Prater, Adgie Hall, Earlene Mundy, Gerlene Prater, Ruby Gene Bradley and Elma K. Caudill; four brothers, Owen, Quillen, Roger and Edgar Shepherd; and 10 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a son, William Shepherd; a brother, Elzie Joe Shepherd Jr.; and his first wife, Susie Shepherd. Mr. Shepherd had been a coal miner for Allen Creak in David, Ky. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, farmed tobacco for 10 years, ran flea markets and swap meets. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery. Friends may call 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Marcella I. Copeland
Oct. 2, 1902 - Nov. 23, 2002
Marcella Irene Ulrey Copeland, 100, of Beaverdam, died at 1:35 p.m. Saturday at Springview Manor Nursing Home. She was born on October 2, 1902 in Beaverdam to Frank N. Ulrey and Clara (Zeltz) Ulrey. She was married on Oct. 7, 1922, to John J. Copeland, who died on Oct. 14, 1962. Survivors include a daughter, Deloris Copeland of Lima; nephew, Nelson Ulrey of Waynesfield and several great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, William "Bill" Ulrey and an infant sister, Wava Ulrey. She was a homemaker and a member of the Waynesfield United Methodist Church. She was a life-long member of the Koneta Eastern Star of Wapakoneta. She was a charter member of the former Wayne Grange 2587 and a 1922 graduate of Lima South High School. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, the Rev. Jackie Leigh officiating. Burial will be in Wesley Chapel in Auglaize County. Friends may call 5 to 8 p.m. today and 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s choice of charities.

Milferd L. Gilgenbach
Oct. 28, 1927-Nov. 23, 2002
Milferd L. Gilgenbach, 75, of rural Van Wert, died 5 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Hospital in Lima. He was born on Oct. 28, 1927 in Henry County, to Phillip Gilgenbach and Agnes (Limbaugh) Gilgenbach. His wife, Betty (Selhorst) Gilgenbach, survives in rural Van Wert. They were married on August 17, 1949. Survivors also include six daughters, Karen (John) Saxton of Oakwood, Connie Jo (Jerome) Niese of New Bavaria, Sandy (Greg) Miller of Lima and Dianne (Denny) Byrne, Cindy (Arnie) Miller and Lisa (Al) Osting of Van Wert; a sister, Lucille Johnston of Continental; two brothers, Robert Gilgenbach of New Bavaria and Gerald Gilgenbach of Toledo; 19 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three sisters, Cecelia, Kathleen and Geraldine; three brothers, Clarence, Chester and his twin, Wilferd; son-in-law, Butch Giesige; grandaughter Lyndsey Byrne and great-grandaughter Langdyn Wannamacher. Gilgenbach was a lifetime farmer. He was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert and a past director of the Federal Land Bank/Ag Credit-Scott Equity Exchange. He was also trustee for Hoaglin Township for 14 years and a member of the Lincolnview Athletic Booster Club, VFW Post 8847, New Bavaria and VFW Post 2873, Grover Hill. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert, with Rev. Joseph M. Schmelzer officiating. Interment will occur at Immaculate Conception Church Cemetary in Ottoville. Friends may call 7 to 9 p.m. today and 2 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, where a parish rosary will be held at Brickner Funeral Home. Memorial contributions can be made to the Lincolnview Track and Field Fund or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Dean W. Miller
Dec. 8, 1925-Nov. 23, 2002
Dean W. Miller, 76, of Spencerville, died 10:40 p.m. Saturday at his residence following a five week illness. He was born Dec. 8, 1925 in Spencer Township., Allen County, to Harry F. Miller and Zoa Hannah (Emans) Miller. On June 18, 1949 he married Joan E. Hawk, who survives. Survivors also include three daughters, Cheryl (Greg) Hover of Spencerville; Theresa (Allen) Whittington of Van Wert and Martha Stuck of Troy; two sons; Dana (Donita) Miller of Elida and Philip Miller of Spencerville; a brother; Rev. Lowell B. (Ruth) Miller of Spencerville; a sister; Vonnie McDorman of Clayton; 15 grandchildrenand three great-grandchildren; Nathaniel and Hannah Good, Botkins and Abigail Purdy, Spencerville. He was preceded in death by a son; Steven Miller; three brothers; Albert, Harry Jr. and infant Melvin Miller; and two sisters; Dorothy Thomas and Eloise Miller. Miller retired in 1985 following 42 years service with the Norfolk and Southern Railroad where he was a Journeyman Carman. He traveled several states as "Wreck Master," overseeing the cleanup of train wrecks. Miller was a 45 year member of the Spencerville Church of the Nazarene, where he had served as treasurer, S.S. Superintendent, teacher and trustee. Since 1952, he was a member of the Spencerville Invincible Fire Company, where he had served as chief and president for several years, and he had served on the Spencerville Village Council. During WW II, he served in the Army, 4th Armored Division, 8th Tank Battalion, D Company in Europe, where he received the Purple Heart for his injuries. He was a past member of the Harry J. Reynolds Post 191, American Legion in Spencerville. Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Wednesday in the Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville, Rev. Kenneth W. Perdue officiating. Burial will follow in the Mendon Cemetery, where graveside military rites will be conducted by the Harry J. Reynolds Post 191, American Legion and the Bowersock Bros. VFW Post 6772 of Spencerville. Friends may call from 1-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home, where the Invincible Fire Company will conduct services at 8:45 p.m. Tuesday. Memorials are to the Spencerville E.M.S. or to the Delphos Visiting Nurse and Hospice Program.

Evelyn L. Stemen
Mar. 14, 1920 - Nov. 23, 2002
Evelyn L. Renner Stemen, 82, of Columbus Grove, died at 6:05 p.m. Saturday at Hilty Memorial Home in Pandora. She was born on March 14, 1920 in Lima to Ross R. Growdon and Victoria (Leffel) Growdon. She was married to Don E. Renner on April 12, 1947. He died on Apr. 22, 1967. She later married Carl Stemen on Oct. 28, 1971. He died on Sept. 4, 1980. A homemaker, Mrs. Stemen had worked for 44 years at the Lima Westinghouse Corporation, retiring in 1984. She was a group leader at Westinghouse. She was a member of the Lima BPOE # 54, and the Eagles Aux. # 370 in Lima. She was a member of the Zion Lutheran Church of Lima. Survivors include, a stepson, Richard (Jo) Stemen of California; a her stepdaughter, Eva Mae Cosart of California; two sisters, Pauline Kruse of Wapakoneta and Maxine Curl of Elida; a brother-in-law, Rollie Renner of Columbus Grove; sister-in-law, Eleanor Renner of Bluffton; long-time friend, Phyllis Verhoff of Columbus Grove; several nieces and nephews; five step-grandchildren and several step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Elizabeth Sleeth and Eulalia "Tater" Wilhelm. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at Hartman Sons Funeral Home in Columbus Grove with Rev. Paul Gruetter officiating. Burial will take place at Cairo East Side Cemetery in Cairo. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today and one hour prior to services Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions can be made to Hilty Memorial Home in Pandora, the Zion Lutheran Church in Lima or the charity of the donor’s choice.

William R. Fulton
July 3, 1928-Nov. 21, 2002
William R. Fulton, 74, of St. Marys, died 6:55 p.m. Thursday on County Road 33-A just east of St. Marys after an apparent heart attack. He was born July 3, 1928, in Delphos to Carl and Hazel (Fair) Fulton. On July 10, 1949, he married Izetta Ice, who survives in St. Marys. Survivors also include a daughter, Karen (David) Schmerge of Wapakoneta; and a brother, Jack (Sharon) Fulton of Defiance. He was preceded in death by an infant brother, Robert William Fulton. Mr. Fulton retired from the Kroger Company and had served as store manager in St. Marys. He then worked 15 years a the Auglaize Acres Nursing Home as a janitor. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church and American Legion Post 323, St. Marys. He was a 1946 graduate of Jefferson High School and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Monday at Miller-Long and Folk Funeral Home, 314 W. High St. Marys, the Rev. Herb Berry officiating. Burial will be in Elm Grove Cemetery, St. Marys. Friends may call 4-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the American Lung Association.

Theresa Alspaugh
June 29, 1914 - Nov. 22, 2002
Theresa Alspaugh, 88, of Delphos, died 5:30 a.m. Friday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born June 29, 1914, in Delphos to Ben and Anna (Klausing) Bracker. In September 1939, she married Milford W. Alspaugh, who preceded her in death. Survivors include two sons, Ron (Jan) Alspaugh of Fort Wayne and Denny (Linda) Alspaugh of Duniden, Fla.; a brother, George Bracker of Lima; two grandchildren, Ginger (Chris) Ramirez of Fort Wayne and Thomas (Laurie) Alspaugh of Key Largo, Fla.; and two great-grandchildren. Mrs. Alspaugh had been an office assistant at Alspaugh’s Body Shop. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Catholic Ladies of Columbia and a charter member of the Lioness in Delphos. She enjoyed going to the lake and was very involved in her parish. Mass of Christian burial will be 1:30 p.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a CL of C service will be 3 p.m. and a parish wake will be 7 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the church.

Robert A. Matthews
Jan. 19, 1936 - Nov. 21, 2002
Robert A. Matthews, 66, of Scott, died 7:05 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. He was born Jan. 19, 1936, in Van Wert to Dale T. and Evelyn (Riley) Kear Matthews. His stepmother, Martha Kargas, survives in Convoy. On June 20, 1954, he married Lou Anne Rhinehalt, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Steven (Kathy) Matthews of Paulding; a daughter, Christi (Carl) Short of Van Wert; a brother, the Rev. Richard Matthews of Madison, Wisc.; a sister, Virginia (Dennis) Hammons of Middle Point; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Gene Matthews. Mr. Matthews retired in 1999 after 16 as a deputy with the Van Wert County Sheriff’s Department. He also owned Bob’s TV Service for 30 years. He was a member of Country Chapel United Methodist Church, Haviland, and the Van Wert County Fraternal Order of Police. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. Richard Matthews and Pastor Deb Frysinger officiating. Burial will be in Scott Cemetery. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to Scott EMS or the Van Wert County Cancer Society.

Rosemary Thompson
Aug. 18, 1921 - Nov. 21, 2002
Rosemary "Rosie" Thompson, 81, of Lima, died 7:15 a.m. Thursday at her residence. She was born Aug. 18, 1921, in Lima to Harry G. and Blanche (Shaffer) McBeth. On Oct. 12, 1941, she married Raymond F. Thompson, who survives in Lima. Other survivors include three daughters, Kay (Bill) Harnishfeger of Spring City, Tenn., Peggy Tenwalde of Findlay and Tena Thompson of Pacific Grove, Calif.; a sister, Vera (Edward) Potter of Lima; a grandchild, two stepgrandchildren, a great-grandchild and two step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two brothers, Harry "Bud" McBeth and Lester McBeth; and two sisters, Eulalia Young and Joan Sibold. Mrs. Thompson had retired from the Lima Public Library as a clerk typist and had worked at the Ottawa Valley Hospital in payroll and billing. She was a member of Order of Eastern Star Chapter 16, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1275 Auxiliary and was very active in the Lima Women’s Bowling Association for many years and had served on its board of directors. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, Chaplain Dick Coon 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 donor’s choice.

William Robert Evans
Feb. 16, 1930 - Oct. 10, 2002
William Robert "Bob" Evans, 72, of Manila, Philippines, formerly of Lima, died Oct. 10 in the Philippines. 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. A Memorial Mass will be 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Landeck, the Rev. John Fleck officiating. Burial will be in St. John Cemetery, Delphos.

Mary Ann Hesseling
Mary Ann Hesselng, of Pittsburgh, died Wednesday in Pittsburgh. She was the daughter of the late Raymond and Zita (Dickrede) Hesseling. Survivors include two sisters, Ruth of Pittsburgh and Ellen (Grant) Shepard of Linwood, Mich.; two brothers, Louis of Lima and Ralph (Diane) Hesseling of North Carolina; and several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Hesseling retired from Pittsburgh Public Schools, where she taught the visually handicapped. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Pittsburgh, and its Sacred Heart Women’s Guild and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Mass of Christian burial will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Rosemary Avery
Nov. 10, 1935 - Nov. 21, 2002
Rosemary Avery, 67 of Lima, died 3:35 a.m. Thursday at Shawnee Manor Nursing Home. She was born Nov. 10, 1935, in McGuffey to Joseph and Grace E. (Miller) Lyle. In 1966, she married George Avery, who died in 1972. Survivors include a daughter, Barbara Henry of Lima; five brothers, Larry, Wayne, John and Ricki Lyle of Lima and James Lyle of Miss.; two sisters, Shirley Phillips and Linda Smith of Lima; and three grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two sisters, Lorretta Mault and Beverly Courtney. Mrs. Avery was a homemaker and worked at Goodwill Industrial Warehouse as a sorter. She enjoyed bingo, camping and crafts. Funeral services will be 4 p.m. Saturday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, the Rev. James Bowers officiating. Burial of the cremated remains will be at a later date in Preston Cemetery, Alger. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Mary Rekart
Feb. 9, 1927 - Nov. 21, 2002
Mary Lou Rekart, 75, of Delphos, died 12:15 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born Feb. 9, 1927, in Delphos to Richard and Ruth (Boley) Best. On Oct. 26, 1946, she married William G. Rekart, who survives in Delphos. Other survivors include five sons, Dr. Michael (Josephine) Rekart of Vancouver, British Columbia, Patrick W. Rekart of Bangkok, Thailand, Richard T. Rekart of Houston, Thomas K. (Jennifer) Rekart of Delphos and Paul E. Rekart of Cincinnati; a daughter, Mary F. (Michael) LeValley; and nine grandchildren, Emma, Edward, Emily, James, Gina and Kelsey Rekart and Chase, Ian and Quinn LeValley. She was preceded in death by a son, Matthew J. Rekart. Mrs. Rekart was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church and a former member of the Phi Delta Sorority. She was a 1945 graduate of Jefferson High School. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Gorman officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call 6-9 p.m. Saturday and 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Sunday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, where a parish wake will be 8 p.m. Sunday. Preferred memorials are to the Right to Life Foundation or St. John’s Parish.

Barbara J. Gehres
Jan. 20, 1935 - Nov. 20, 2002
Barbara J. Gehres, 67, of Ohio City, died 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at her residence. She was born Jan. 20, 1935, in Harrison Township, Van Wert County, to John M. and Ada M. (Finkhousen) Weaver. On June 25, 1955, she married Gary Mac Gehres, who survives in Ohio City. Survivors also include a son, Kevin M. (Sharon) Gehres of Ohio City; two daughters, Kimberly (Bill) Clifton of Van Wert and Kelly (Scott) Rostorfer of Venedocia; three brothers, Donald L. (Marvene) Weaver and Paul R. (Theresa) Weaver of Convoy and Bill (Marlene) Weaver of Ohio City; four sisters, Phyllis (Gerald) Ulman, Norma Feasel and Mary Etta (Arthur) Heller of Decatur, Ind., and Cleva Myers of Convoy; seven grandchildren and one great-grandson. She was preceded in death by three brothers, John R., Glen and Tom Weaver; and three sisters, Arlene Zinn, Helen Schindler and Alma Weaver. Mrs. Gehres had worked at Lincoln Life Insurance in Fort Wayne and Central Mutual Insurance Company in Van Wert. She retired from Crestview School in Convoy after 25 years. She was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Harrison Township and its Women’s Guild. She was a 1953 graduate of Wren High School. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Paul United Church of Christ, the Rev. Jerry Flueckiger officiating. Burial will be at Evangelical Protestant Cemetery. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. Sunday at the Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, and one hour prior to services Monday at the church. Preferred memorials are to St. Paul United Church of Christ or Community Health Professionals Hospice.

Celia V. Ankrom
July 21, 1914 - Nov. 20, 2002
Celia V. Ankrom, 88, of Wapakoneta, formerly of Delaware, died 1:15 a.m. Monday at Auglaize Acres, Wapakoneta. She was born July 21, 1914, in Athens to Parmer and Edna (Robinson) Tippie. On Feb. 16, 1936, she married Gale M. Ankrom, who preceded her in death Sept. 6, 1989. Survivors include a son, Robert E. Ankrom of Hollywood, Fla.; a daughter, Ruth Ann (Dean) Bowman of Lima; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother and two sisters. Mrs. Ankrom retired from Parker’s, Delaware, in 1980. She also worked as a seamstress. She was associated with Immanual Methodist Church, Elida. She enjoyed bowling and during her high school years, she was an accomplished basketball player. Graveside services will be 11 a.m. Saturday at Fairview Park, Delaware, the Rev. Gary Rode officiating. Friends may call 5-8 p.m. Friday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima. Preferred memorials are to the Alzheimer’s Association-West Central Ohio, 892 S. Cable Rd., Lima, 45805; or St. Rita’s Hospice, 730 W. Market St., Lima, 45801.

Dennis E. Mann
Sept. 20, 1946-Nov. 18, 2002
Dennis E. Mann, 56, of Troy, formerly of Delphos, died 12:30 a.m. Monday at University Hospital in Cleveland. He was born Sept. 20, 1946, in Sidney to Louis and Evelyn (Sprague) Mann. His mother survives in Delphos. He married Annette Lammers who survives. Other survivors include three children, Gabriel Mann of Columbus and Denise and Michael Mann; a brother, Carl (Virginia) Mann of Dayton; and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Mann retired from the city of Troy as building and electrical inspector and had worked as director of plant operations at Stouder Memorial Hospital. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Troy, and its parish council. He was a member and past president of the Troy Board of Education and served on the boards of the Upper Valley Joint Vocational School, the Hayner Cultural Center and the Troy Recreation Department. He was a former soccer, baseball and Odyssey of Mind coach and a member of the Music Boosters, Troy Noon Optimists and a technician for the Sidney Dance Company. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, serving three years in Bitburg, Germany as a sergeant. He was a 1964 graduate of St. John’s High School and received his associate’s degree in electronic engineering. Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Friday at St. Patrick Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Brunner officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Troy. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at Baird Funeral Home, 444 N. Market St., Troy, where a prayer service will be 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to the Mann Children Scholarship Fund.

Alvira Stippich
April 25, 1916 - Nov. 19, 2002
Alvira Schnipke Stippich, 86, of Lima, died 3:15 p.m. Tuesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born April 25, 1916, in Fort Jennings to Joseph and Mary (Schulte) Wittler. On Aug. 25, 1934, she married Charles Schnipke, who died Dec. 2, 1941. She then married Norbert E. Stippich on July 9, 1967. He preceded her in death July 21, 1997. Survivors include a son, Richard (JoAnn) Schnipke of Lima; three daughters, Mary Ann (Jerome) Hoehn and Beatrice (Joseph) Zuppardo of Lima and Esther (James) Miller of Spencerville; two sisters, Alma Schnipke of New Cleveland and Sylvia Horstman of Ottoville; 15 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Albert Wittler; and four sisters, Eleanor, Agnes, Irene and Alice. Mrs. Stippich had worked at Gregg’s Department Store in Lima and retired from Stippich Hardware. She had worked at the Board of Elections for 25 years. She was a member of St. Gerard Catholic Church, Lima, and its Altar Rosary Society. She had been a Cub Scout Den Mother and a volunteer for Brownie and Girl Scout Troops at St. Gerard Catholic School. She was a member of the local AARP 452, where she had served as president, secretary and treasurer. She enjoyed gardening, sewing and making quilts. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Gerard Catholic Church, the Rev. Thomas Lacey, C.Ss.R. officiating. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery, Lima. Friends may call 2-8 p.m. today at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home, Lima, where a parish wake will be 8 p.m. Preferred memorials are to St. Gerard Building Fund or donor’s choice.

Howard Max Brooks
Aug. 31, 1921-Nov. 19, 2002
Howard Max "Bazz" Brooks, 81, of Spencerville, died 8:24 p.m. Tuesday at his residence. He was born Aug. 31, 1921, in Amanda Township, Allen County, to Howard and Ethel (Stout) Brooks. On June 26, 1954, he married Betty June Potts, who survives. Other survivors include a son, Randall J. Brooks of Spencerville; a brother, Howard (Norma) Brooks of Delphos; and a sister-in-law, Betty Brooks Adams. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Donald and Harold Glen Brooks; and a sister, Ruth Marie Wilkins. Mr. Brooks retired in 1978 as a stock handler from the Lima Ford Engine Plant after 20 years of service. He was a life member of the Bowersock Bros. Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6772 and was a member of the Harry J. Reynolds American Legion Post 191 in Spencerville and U.A.W. Local 1219 in Lima. He served in the Army during World War II in Saipan and the Asiatic Pacific Theater from 1942 until 1946. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, the Rev. Oran L. Thomas officiating. Burial will be in Spencerville Cemetery, with military graveside rites conducted. Friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to the family.

Velma R. Kramer
7 May 1916 - 18 Nov 2002
Velma Kramer, 86, of Fort Jennings, died Monday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was born in Glandorf to Henry and Philomena (Morman) Heitmeyer. She married Theodore Kramer, who died July 7, 1990. Survivors include two sons, James (Theresa) Kramer of Ottoville and Ralph (Izzie) Kramer of Fort Jennings; a daughter, Marilyn (Wayne) Kramer of Columbus; a daughter-in-law, Joan (Raymond) Moening of Fort Jennings; a sister, Bernadette (Heitmeyer) Unverferth of Glandorf; eight grandchildren, two stepgrandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Kenneth Kramer; four sisters, Klara Heitmeyer, Elenore Hoffman, Hilda Meyer and Ludmilla "Mutz" Meyer; and four brothers, Albert, Joseph, Elmer and Walter Heitmeyer. Mrs. Kramer had been a homemaker. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings. Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Rev. Tony Borgia 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 parish wake will be 3 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Ottoville EMS, St. Joseph Building Fund or donor’s choice.

Harriet L. McCoy
27 May 1921-1 Nov 2002
Harriet L. McCoy, 81, of Lima, died 8:44 a.m. Monday at St. Rita’s Medical Center. She was the wife of Ralph McCoy, who preceded her in death. Survivors include a daughter, Sheryl (William) Dawson of Spencerville; and a son, Richard (Linda) McCoy of Bluffton. Funeral arrangements are incomplete at Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home, Spencerville, where friends may call 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday.

Evelynne Wade
Nov. 1, 1908 - Nov. 13, 2002
Evelynne "Susan" Dienstberger Wade, 94, of Virginia Beach, Va., formerly of Delphos, died Nov. 13. She was born Nov. 1, 1908, in Delphos to William and Zoe (Dill) Dienstberger. She had been married to Edward Wade, who preceded her in death in 1980. Survivors include a daughter, Cynthia Herberton of Easton, Md.; two brothers, Donald Dienstberger of Tecumseh, Mich., and Robert Dienstberger of Delphos; and two grandsons and two great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Paul Dienstberger. A memorial service will be Dec. 7 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, Delphos, the Rev. William Schultz officiating. Cremation Society of Virginia, 509 Virginia Dare Dr., Virginia Beach, Va., 23451, is in charge of arrangements. Friends may sign the guest register for Ms. Wade at www.cremate.org.

Ruby L. Winhover
Jan. 30, 1912 - Nov. 17, 2002
Ruby L. Winhover, 90, of Van Wert, died 6:38 p.m. Sunday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Van Wert. She was born Jan. 30, 1912, in Van Wert County, to Orrin and Flossie (Mosier) Klinger. On June 3, 1933, she married Cel Winhover, who died Sept. 21, 1983. Survivors include three nieces, Juanita (Emmit) Lehman and Marsha and Debbie Klinger; six nephews, Gerald (Esther) Thatcher, Larry and Robert Klinger, Billie, Bobbie and Bryan (Lori) Winhover, and many other nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a sister and a half brother. Mrs. Winhover was a homemaker. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Antwerp and a longtime organist at the church. Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, the Rev. James Edwards officiating. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Friends may call 2-5 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the funeral home. Preferred memorials are to First Baptist Church of Antwerp or Paulding Visiting Nurses.

Marguerite E. Dackin
April 16, 1921 - Nov. 16, 2002
Marguerite E. Dackin, 81, of Lima, formerly of Kalida, died 2:20 a.m. Saturday at Springview Manor, Lima. She was born April 16, 1921, in Kalida to Russel E. and Velma (Carey) Dackin. Survivors include two brothers, Richard (Jeannine) Dackin of Cairo and Gary (Karen) Dackin of Olathe, Kan.; a brother-in-law, Paul Siebeneck of Kalida; four sisters, Ruth (Jack) Steele and Helen Stephens of Columbus Grove, Dorothy (Warren) Eastman of Bluffton and Martha Kohler of Cairo. She was preceded in death by a sister, Marcile Siebeneck. Ms. Dackin was a homemaker and worked at Westinghouse Corp., Lima, during World War II. She was a member of the former Kalida Methodist Church. She was a graduate of Kalida High School. Funeral services were today at Hartman Sons Funeral Home, Columbus Grove, the Rev. Rich Rakay officiating. Burial was in Truro Cemetery, Columbus Grove.