1-7-1987
Richard W. Bernard
Richard William Bernard, Ottoville, 72, died 2 p.m., January 7, at his residence.
He was born October 6, 1914, in St. Henry. OH, to Henry and Matilda (Romer) Bernard. On January 11,
1941, he married Fern Hutchins in St. Henry and she survives.
Also surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Robert (Patricia) Mach, Jamstown, OH. Mary Kaye Montoya, Troy,
and Mrs. John (Joan) Brickner, Warsaw, TN; three sons, Ralph E., Xenia, William R., Dayton, and Edward C.,
Columbus; 13 grandchildren; three brothers, Paul, St. Louis, MO., Dr. Edward H, St. Henry, John, Crossville,
TX; four sisters, Mrs. William (Mary) Faller, Ft. Recovery, Mrs. Ferdinand (Anne) Kopp, Dayton, Sister Mary
Henry and Sister Mary Matilda both Ursuline Convent, Cincinnati. One brother, Joseph, is deceased.
Mr. Bernard was an assistant cashier at St. Henry Bank from 1941 to 1950. He was the vice president and
cashier at Ottoville Bank from 1950 to December 31,1977, when he retired. He belonged to the Ottoville V.F.
W., Ft. Jennings American Legion and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Services were held Saturday at Immaculate Conception Church, Ottoville. Rev. Sylvan Obergefell
officiated. Burial was in St. Mary's Cemetery. .
A memorial service by the V.F.W. and American Legion was held 7 p.m., Friday, at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-
Sifered Funeral Home, followed by a parish rosary recited at 8 p.m.
1-8-1987
Rose A. Wildenhaus
Rose A. Wildenhaus, 91, Ft. Jennings, died at 2:10 a.m., Thursday, at Paradise Oaks Nursing Home,
Cloverdale.
She was born November 9, 1896, in Ottoville, the daughter of Alex and Bernadine (Kortokrax) Heinl. In
November 1916, she married Leo J. Wildenhouse, who died in November 1958.
Mrs. Wildenhouae was a member of the Alter Rosary Society of the Joseph's Catholic Church, Ft. Jenninge.
Survivors include one son, Paul Wildenhaus, Fairborn, and Leonard Wildenhaus. Pipua; 14 grandchildren;
three great-grandchildren, had three sisters, Madonna Wildenhaus and Betty Wildenhaus both of Ft. Jennings,
and Mrs. Ray (Joan) Szenderski, Temperance, MI.
Mass of Christian Burial was at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, with Rev. John
Shanahan officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.
A parish wake service was held a1 7 p.m., and an Altar Rosary service at 8 p.m. at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-
Siferd Funeral Home, Delphos.
1-17-1987
Joseph F. Beining
Joseph F. Beining, 58, Findlay, died at 9:15 a.m., Saturday, at Lima Memorial Hospital after a long illness.
He was born February 24, l928, in Ottoville, the son of Joseph and Veronica (Koetter) Beining. His mother
survives in Ottawa. On May 21,1955, Mr. Beining married Arlene A. Nartker, who survives.
Mr. Beining was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, its Holy Name Society, Ottawa Veterans of
Foreign Wars and Findlay Moose Lodge, 698.
Survivors also include two sons, Michael J. and Craig A, both of Findlay; two brothers, Walter J. Lima, and
Gene, Ottoville; and two sisters, Mrs. Loretta Miller, Ottoville, and Mrs. Hilda Ricker, Delphos.
Services were held 0:30 a.m., Tuesday, at St. Michael's Catholic Church. Rev. Franklin Kehres officiated.
Burial was in St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery.
A 7:30 p.m. scripture service was held Monday at Kirkpatrick-Behnke Funera1 Home.
1-19-1987
Alvera M. Benson
Alvera M. Benson, 75, Cridersville, died at 4:45 a.m., Monday at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.
She was born August 11, 1911, in Ottoville, the daughter of Joseph and Hermina (Hofstetter) Looser. On
September 11, 1930, she married Cloyd Benson, who died in 1949.
Mrs. Benson was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Ft. Jennings, and William Benefit Association
Lodge, Delphos.
Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Paul (Bill) (Beatrice) Dunlap, Cridersville; three grandchildren; and
eight great-grandchildren.
Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, Delphos. Burial will be made in
Walnut Grove Cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m., Wednesday, at Harter and Son Memorial Funeral Home,
Delphos.
1-20-1987
Coletta A. Bigelow
Coletta A. Bigelow, 74, Ottoville, died 4:58 p.m., Monday, at Van Wert County Hospital.
She was born April 3, 1912, in Ottoville to Michael and Anna (Bendele) Kehres. She married Hillary J.
“Buck” Bigelow on December 2, 1930, in Ottoville, and he survives.
Also surviving are five sons, Robert Sr., Ft. Jennings, Raymond Sr., Lima, Robert, Delphos, Ronald,
Reserve, La., Paul, Aitkin, Mn.; two daughters, Anna Marie Irick, Celina, and Mrs. Arland (Jane) Lintermoot,
Van Wert; 30 grandchildren’ four step-grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
Two brothers, Victor and Ewald Kehres, preceded her in death.
Mrs. Bigelow was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and a former
employee of St. Mary’s packing Co., Delphos.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with
Rev. Sylvan Obergefell officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, and 2-4 and 7-9 p.m., Thursday, at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-
Sifred Funeral Home, Ottoville. a parish wake service will be recited 8:30 p.m. Thursday.
1-24-1987
Harriet R. Sanders
Harriet R. Sanders, 75, Ottoville, died at 10:08 a.m. Saturday, at Van Wert County Hospital.
She was born September 30, 1911, in Marion, IN., the daughter of Ben and Lizane (Harris) Bone. On April
11, 1942, she married Gilbert J. Sanders, who died April 15, 1968.
A retired employee of Lima Tank Depot, Mrs. Sanders was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church in Ottoville.
Survivors include nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial was at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Rev.
Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was in St. Mary's Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake
service was held at 8 p.m., Monday.
2-2-1987
Mary M. Odenweller
Mary M. Odenweller, 77, Ottoville, died at a.m., Monday, at Van Wert County Hospital.
She was born April 18, 1909, in Putnam County to John and Emma (Ott) Pittner. She married Edward L.
Odenweller on October 22, 1935, in Ottoville, and he survives.
Other survivors include four daughters, Mrs. Arnold (Mary Ann) Rode, Ft. Jennings. Mrs. Thomas C.
(Patricia) Weger, Delphos, Mrs. Robert (Marcia) Meyer, Kettering, Mrs. David (Joan) Engelaman, Dayton; ten
grandchildren; one great- grandchild; one sister, Mrs. Marge Burger. Delphos: and two brothers, Andrew and
John Pittner, Ottoville.
Mrs. Odenweller was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Ottoville, and its Altar
Rosary Society. She was retired from J.J. Miller Company, Ottoville.
Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m., Thursday, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church with Rev.
Sylvan Obergefell officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, where
a parish rosary will be recited 7 p.m., Wednesday.
2-9-1987
Regina F. Miller
Regina F. Miller, Delphos, died 6 a.m., Monday, at Sara Jane Chambers
Geriatric Center, Delphos.
She was born January 30, 1896, in Ottoville, the daughter of Lawrence and Minne (Wurst) Miller.
Miss Miller was an employee of Toledo Devilbiss and St. Mary’s Packing Company.
She is survived by a niece, Mrs. Ralph (Evelyn) Miller, Glandorf, and a nephew, Lawrence Miller, Ottoville.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, at St. John’s Catholic Church, Delphos. Burial will be
in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m., Wednesday (today) at Kolkmeter-Helmkamp-Siferd
Funeral Home, Delphos, where a parish wake service will be at 8 p.m., Wednesday.
3-15-1987
Theresia Kemper
Theresia Kemper, 90, Ft. Jennings, died at 4:20 p.m. Sunday at Delphos Memorial Home.
She was born May 11, 1896, in Ottoville, the daughter of Henry and Mary (Lehmkuhle) Ricker. On April 28,
1915 she married Herman Kemper who died August 16, 1958.
Mrs. Kemper was a homemaker and a member for the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville,
and its Alter Rosary Society.
Survivors include four sons, Arnold, Isadore, John and Joseph, all of Ottoville; five daughters, Mrs. Alex
(Francis) Muzechuk and Amelia Burdg, both of Dayton, Mrs. Robert (Lucille) Lammers, New Cleveland, Mrs.
James (Theresa) Kramer, Ottoville, and Mrs. Donald (Agnes) Ostendorf, Ft. Jennings; 46 grandchildren; nine
step-grandchildren; 80 great-grandchildren; and 11 step-great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Immaculae Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville, with Rev. Sylvan Obergefell, Rev. John Shanahan and Rev. Herman Fortman officiating. Burial will be
in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Visitation is at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, after 2 p.m. Wednesday (today),
where a rosary will be recited at 8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association or American Cancer Society.
3-15-1987
Martha B. Miller
Martha Blandina Miller, 93, Sandusky, died at 10:55 p.m. Sunday at Huron Health Care Center, Sandusky.
She was born August 14, 1893, in Ottoville, the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Meier) Schneider. She
married John G. Miller, who died in 1942.
Survivors include a son, John J., Sandusky; three grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; five great-
grandchildren; 10 step-great-granchildren.
Services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel, Delphos, with the Rev.
Stark officiating, with burial in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Delphos.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday (today) at the funeral home.
3-16-1987
Sister Alma Trenkamp
Sister Alma Trenkamp, 74, Slemm Heights Convent, Dayton, died at 2:30 a.m. Monday, March 16, at Good
Samaritan Hospital, Dayton.
She was born July 19, 1912, in Ottoville to August and Anna (Ruen) Trenkamp.
Sister Alma entered the Sisters of the Precious Blood, September 11, 1926.
She taught elementary and high school classes in Ohio and Arizona and prior to her retirement in June
1985, she was librarian at Glandorf and Kalida schools.
Surviving are one brother, August, Delphos; three sisters, Francis Landwehr, Delphos, Mrs. Irene Dugan,
Lima, and Mrs. Marcella Fisher, Huntington Woods, Mi., and two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Marguerite Hermiller,
Pandora, and Mrs. Marguuerite Trenkamp, Ottoville.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m., Thursday, at Salem Heights Convent Chapel, 4960 Salem
Avenue, Dayton. Burial will be in the convent cemetery.
Friends may call 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday (today) and 9 to 10:45 a.m., Thursday, before Mass at the
Convent Chapel.
4-1-1987
Beatrice M. Smith
Beatrice M. Smith, 82, Lima, died at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday at Lima Memorial Hospital following an extended
illness.
She was bron November 3, 1904, in Ottoville, the daughter of Calvin and Mary (Eickholt) Carter. She
married Earl J. Huysman, who died in 1948. On April 11, 1959, she married Clarence H. (Smitty) Smith who
survives.
Survivors include six sons, C. G., Eugene A., Ralph E., Fredrick L. and James J. all of Lima, and Robert H.
Washington Court House; four daughters, Mary (Betty) Yant, Bluffton, Mrs. Jerry (Carol) Stanley, Mrs. Donald
(Joyce) Kohl and Phyllis Cloyd, all of Lima; 32 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in St. John’s Catholic Church, Lima. Burial was
in Gethsemani Cemetery.
4-5-1987
Irma Wannemacher
Irma Bohn Wannemacher, 81, Defiance, died at 6:20 p.m. Sunday, at Defiance Hospital.
She was born February 3, 1906, in Ft. Jennings, the daughter of Frank and Helen (Bendele) Wieging. On
June 12, 1928, she married Joseph Bohn, who died September 10, 1965. She then married Benedict J.
Wannemacher, who died June 15, 1966.
Survivors include a son, Fred J. Bohn, Defiance; a daughter, Mrs. Robert (Illa) Honigford, Columbus
Grove; 11 grandchildren; two brothers, Albert Wieging, Ottoville, and Vincent Wieging, Michigan; and four
sisters, Helen Schmenk, Mrs. Carl (Rose) Kortier, and Leona Hoehn, all of Leesburg, Fl., and Mrs. Tony
(Fridona) Klima, Ottawa.
One son, Paul A. Bohn, preceded her in death.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m., Wednesday (today) at Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church. Rev. James Wieging officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home where a parish wake service
was held 8 p.m. Tuesday.
4-24-1987
Regina C. Hoehn
Regina C. Hoehn, 93, Ottawa, formerly of Ottoville, died at 5:10 p.m. Friday, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born February 22, 1894, in Putnam County, the daughter of Henry and Louise (Schulte) Kemper.
On June 16, 1915, she married Joseph M. Hoehn, who died May 7, 1962.
Mrs. Hoehn was a homemaker. She was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Ottawa,
Catholic Ladies of Columbia, and past president of the Alter Rosary Society. She was a member of the
Ottoville Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary.
Survivors include six sons, Eugene, and Gerald, both of Ottoville, Ralph, Delphos, Richard, Ottawa,
Joseph, North Olmsted, and Orville, Dearborn, Mi.; five daughters, Mrs. James (Mary) Mack, Ft. Jennings, Mrs.
Frank (Wilma) Sunderhaus, and Mrs. Richard (Norma) Welke, both of Ottawa, Mrs. Mildred Wieging, Lima, and
Mrs. Daniel (Genvieve) Maag, Columbus Grove; 54 grandchildren; 82 great-grandchildren; and one great-
great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by two sons Victor and Thomas.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Rev. Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was made in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a CL of C
service was at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, and a VFW Auxiliary service was at 7:30 p.m. Monday followed by a parish
rosary service at 8:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.
5-1-1987
Laurent E. Schlotterbeck
Laurent E. Schlotterbeck, 70, Ottoville, died at 2:15 p.m. Friday, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born June 16, 1916, in Preble County, the son of Christian and Rose (Kisling) Schlotterbeck. On
December 23, 1959, he married Hazel Eikenberry, who survives.
Mr. Schlotterbeck was a retired vocational agriculture teacher and is a retired employee of Allis Chalmers.
Survivors include one daughter, Sheri Schlotterbeck, Lakeside, Ca.; three sons, Jan Stitler, Eaton, P. J.
Schlotterbeck, Priest River, In., and Joe Schlotterbeck, Laurel, Md.; 11 grandchildren; three great-
grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Paul (Catherine) Edwards, Anaheim, Ca.; and two brothers, Paul, Findlay, and
Charles, West Manchester.
He was preceded in death by one sister, Mildred Cisson.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville. Burial services were
private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ottoville Emergency Medical Squad or the American Heart
Fund.
5-7-1987
Jacob J. Burgei
Jacob J. Burgei, 86, Ottoville, died at 4:55 a.m. Thursday at Delphos Memorial Home.
He was born May 10, 1900, in Ottoville, the son of William and Margaret (Studer) Burgei. On February 22,
1922 he married Veronica Ricker who died June 5, 1976.
Mr. Burgei was a retired farmer, a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, and its church
council, Holy Name Society and the St. Mary’s Cemetery Board.
Survivors include three sons, Orville and Tom, Delphos, and John, Elida; six daughters, Alma mining,
Rosemary Pohlman, Mrs. Jerome (Ruth) Pohlman, Mrs. Harold (Norma) VonderEmbse, and Mrs. Kenneth
(Gertrude) Rode, all of Delphos, and Mrs. Ralph (Irene) Miller, Ft. Jennings; 50 grandchildren; 71 great-
grandchildren; and two sisters, Clara Rahrig, Delphos and Sophia Hugel of Landeck. He was preceded in
death by five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, four brothers, and five sisters.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Rev. Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Memorials may be made to Delphos Memorial Home, Cancer Research Center or Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church.
5-16-1987
Treva M. Plescher
Treva M. Plescher, 81, Cloverdale, died at 12:28 p.m. Saturday, at her residence.
She was born July 3, 1905, in Putnam County, the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Miller) Hammons.
She married Albert A. Plescher, who died June 20, 1979.
A homemaker, Mrs. Plescher was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, the
Alter Rosary Society of the church, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary in Ottoville.
Survivors include one son, Joseph Osenga, Cloverdale; one daughter, Mrs. Fred (Mary) Wootton, Lima;
seven grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; one brother, Ralph Hammons, Cloverdale; and one sister, Mrs.
Glen (Veva) Shellabarger, Lafayette.
Two brothers, Burnelle and Doyle, preceded her in death.
Mass of Christian Burial was at 10 a.m., Tuesday, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
Rev. Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd funeral Home, Ottoville, where a VFW
Auxiliary service was held at 8 p.m., Sunday, and a combined parish wake-Alter Rosary service was held
Monday 1t 8:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ottoville EMS.
5-17-1987
Irene M. Pearce
Irene Mary Pearce, 87, Delphos, died at 9:50 a.m. Sunday, at Paradise Oaks Nursing0 Home, Cloverdale.
She was born December 28, 1899, in Ottoville, the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Pavel) Brabant. On
October 12, 1919, she married Arthur F. Pearce who died in 1971.
Survivors include two daughters, Ethel Arnold, Cridersville, and Mrs. Harold (Elizabeth) Smith, Cochocton;
four grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a sister, Loretta Conkwell Akom, Van Wert.
Services were held 11 a.m. Tuesday, at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel. Rev. Allan Brown officiating.
Burial was in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Delphos.
5-18-1987
Cletus J. Gerding
Cletus J. Gerding, 77, route 2, Ft. Jennings, died 7:10 p.m. Monday at Van Wert County Hospital.
He was born May 21, 1909, in Kalida to Henry and Elizabeth (Kramer) Gerding. On May 6, 1936, he
married Mary Hohenbrink in Kalida and she survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Robert A., Kalida, Thomas A., Raleigh, N. C.; three daughters, Mrs. Jerry
(Dorothy) Pohlman, Mrs. Howard (Ruth) Miller, and Mrs. Dennis (Mart)Landin, all of Ottoville, 18 grandchildren;
three great-grandchildren; two brothers, Raymond and Felix, Columbus Grove; three sisters, Mrs. Sylvester
(Matilda) Hohenbrink, Mrs. Alphonse (Elenora) Jerwers, and Mrs. Gerald (Rita) Grote, all of Kalida.
One brother and three sisters are deceased.
Mr. Gerding retired in 1971 as a welder in a pattern shop of General Motors, Defiance Foundry. He is a
member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Holy Name Society.
Mass of Christian Burial is 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Rev.
Sylvan Obergefell officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
6-6-1987
Lucy M. Lauer
Lue M. Lauer, 92, Monroe, Mi., died 4:45 p.m. Saturday at Mercy Memorial Hospital, Monroe, of a cerebral
hemorrhage.
She was born September 7, 1895, in Ottoville to Nicholas J. and Anna (Bohnholzer) Lauer.
Survivors include a sister, Gertrude A. Hoffman, Monroe, Mi.
Her body was donated to the Medical College of Ohio, Toledo. A memorial service will be held at St. Mary’s
Cemetery, Ottoville.
6-7-1987
Charles J. Studenka
Charles J. Studenka, Sr., 77, Delphos, died at 11:45 a.m. Sunday at Paradise Oaks Nursing Home,
Cloverdale.
Born February 18, 1910 in Czechoslovakia, the son of Frank and Magdalena (Pala) Studenka, he is
survived by his wife, Della (Yochum Simmons), whom he married November 26, 1955.
Studenka was a WWII U. S. Army Veteran. He was retired from the Lima Army Tank Plant.
Survivors include a son, grand daughter, a brother and a sister.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Wednesday morning at St. John’s Catholic Church, Delphos, with burial
in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation or the Van Wert Nurses Association.
6-9-1987
Margaret B. Pease
Margaret B. Pease, 81, died Tuesday in Ft. Wayne, IN.
She was born on July 30, 1905, in Ottoville, the daughter of Joseph and Eugenia (Deck) Schneeg. She
married Luzerne Pease and he died in 1964. Mrs. Pease has lived in Ft. Wayne since 1923.
She is survived by one daughter, Patricia A. Pease, Ft. Wayne; and one grand-daughter.
Mrs. Pease was a member of St. Jude’s Catholic Church, Ft. Wayne, IN.
Prayer services were held 9:30 a.m. Wednesday (today) at D. O. McComb and Sons Lakeside Park
Funeral Home, Ft. Wayne, IN.
Burial was in the Catholic Cemetery, in Ft. Wayne, IN.
A rosary was recited 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
7-22-1987
Waldon Wannemacher
Waldon “Wally” Wannemacher, 70, Michigan, former Delphos resident, died 3:50 p.m. Wednesday, July
22, at Mercy Hospital, Toledo, following an extended illness.
He was born August 1, 1916, in Ottoville, to Paul and Amelia (Winkelman) Wannemacher. He married
Dorothy R. Scheckelhoff October 6, 1951, in Toledo, and she survives.
Other survivors include a son, Paul J. Wannemacher, Toledo; a daughter, Ellen M. Wannemacher,
Monroe, MI.; and one grand daughter.
He was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Monroe.
Funeral services were held 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Rupp Funeral Home, Monroe, MI., with a services
following at 11 a.m. in St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Rev. Daniel F. Rebain officiated. Burial was in St. Joseph
Cemetery, Monroe.
7-24-1987
Beverly J. Shade
Beverly J. Shade, 46, of Hamler, died at 4:30 p.m. Friday July 24 at her residence after an extended illness.
She was born February 24, 1941, in Paulding, the daughter of Howard C. and Irene Bigelow Spencer. Her
parents survive in Ottoville. On August 31, 1963, she married Robert Shade, who survives.
She was a 1959 graduate of Ottoville High School.
Survivors include two sons, Woodie A. Shade and Kirk Shade, both at home; one daughter, Deana Shade,
at home; two brothers, Dean Spencer and Jimmy Spencer, both of Ottoville; and one sister, Mrs. Robert
(Jacqueline) Urton of Ottoville.
Mass of Christian Burial was at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Hamler. Rev. Francisco
Cabalero officiated. Burial was made in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Chad L. Staib Scholarship Fund in care of Ottoville Bank
8-14-1987
Mildred C. Wieging
Mildred C. Wieging, 69, Ft. Jennings, died 6:15 a.m. Tuesday at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.
She was born April 11, 1918, in Ottoville to George and Fredricka (Ruen) Hoersten. On November 30,
1940, she married Albert Wieging in Ottoville and he survives.
Also surviving are one son, Rev. James F. Wieging, River Rouge, MI.; three daughters, Mrs. Robert
(Janice) Conrad, Romulus, MI., Mrs. David (Lucy) Pohlman, Delphos, and Mrs. Patrick M. (Barbara) Meachum,
Bennet, CO; three brothers, Rudolph Hoersten, Landeck and Arthur and Othmar “Pete” Hoersten, both of
Delphos; and seven grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by one sister, Alma Lauf and one brother, Harry Hoersten.
Mrs. Wieging was a homemaker. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its
Alter Rosary Society of the St. Francis Xavier Church in Ecorse, MI; also CLC Council 88 of Ft. Jennings; past
president and charter member of the Unit 272 American Legion Auxiliary of Ecorse, MI; present member,
charter member, and life member of Unit 319 American Legion Auxiliary of Ecorse, MI; past president of the
16th District Association American Legion Auxiliary; past president from 1970-1971 of Department of Michigan
American Legion Auxiliary.
She is also a member and past member of Chapeau Salon Number 279, 8 at 40 of the 16th District in
Michigan and was serving as the president secretary of the Ottoville Senior Citizens.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m., Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville,
with Rev. James Wieging officiating. Rev. Thomas Kowalczyk and Rev, Sylvan Obergefell will also officiate.
Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Friends may call after 7 p.m. on Wednesday (today) and after 2 p.m. on Thursday at Kolkmeyer-
Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home in Ottoville where an 8 p.m. wake service along with the Immaculate
Conception Rosary Alter Society will be held on Thursday.
8-20-1987
Hilary J. Bigelow
Hiliary J. (Buck) Bigelow, 77, Ottoville, died at 5 a.m., Saturday at Van Wert County Hospital.
He was born December 12, 1909 in Ottoville of William A. and Josephine (Sanders) Bigelow. He married
Coletta A. Kehres on December 2, 1930 in Ottoville, and she died January 19, 1987.
Also surviving are five sons, Robert Sr., Ft. Jennings, Raymond Sr., Lima, Robert, Delphos, Ronald,
Reserve, La., Paul, Aitkin, Mn.; two daughters, Anna Marie Irick, Celina, and Mrs. Arland (Jane) Lintermoot,
Van Wert; 30 grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren; and four sisters, Vera
Wieging and Dorothy Horstman, Ft. Jennings, Frances Keifer, Swanton, and Mrs. Howard (Irene) Spencer,
Ottoville.
Mr. Bigelow was the former owner of Bigelow Building Movers, Ottoville. He also had been an Ottoville city
employee and an employee of the Lima Ordinance Depot and the Delphos Bending Co.
A funeral Mass was held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
The Revs. Roger Bonifas and John Shanahan officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
9-14-1987
Rachel E. Wannemacher
Rachel E. Wannemacher, 67, Ottoville, died at 8:40 p.m. Monday at Lima Memorial Hospital.
She was born September 30, 1919, in Hartsburg, Putnam County, the daughter of Grover Cleveland and
Clara (Miller) Adams. In May 1937, she married Oscar Rayle who died on January 15, 1947. She married
Stanley J. Wannemacher, who died March 3, 1976.
Mrs. Wannemacher was a homemaker and a member of the Ottoville Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Survivors include five sons, Fred Rayle, Garrett, IN, Stanley J. Wannemacher Jr. and Richard L.
Wannemacher, Delphos, Michael D. Wannemacher, Van Wert, and Donald R. Wannemacher, Ottoville; three
daughters, Mrs. Gene (Clarice) Byrne, Ottoville, Mrs. Clifford (Clorice) Chandler, Ft. Jennings, and Deborah
Drake, Vane Wert; two sisters, Mrs. Wilbur (Thelma) Eyer, White Cloud, MI, and Mrs. E. F. (Evelyn) Scott, Van
Wert; 37 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, where friends may call after
2 p.m. Wednesday.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery,
Ottoville.
9-18-1987
Doris A. Ricker
Doris A. Ricker, 48, Ft. Jennings, was pronounced dead at the scene of an accident Friday at 4:40 a.m.
Mrs. Ricker was born August 19, 1939, in Ottoville, the daughter of John and Philomena (Warnecke)
Brickner. On July 26, 1958, she married Arnold A. Ricker, who survives.
She was an employee of I & K Distributors, Delphos. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Alter Rosary Society. She was a member of the Eagles Auxiliary of Delphos,
Board of Elections, Monterey Township and was president of St. Mary’s Credit Union.
Survivors include four daughters, Mrs. Bill (Rebecca) Young, Ottoville, Jennifer, Cynthia, and Amy, all at
home; a son Robert, at home; three grandchildren; four sisters, Sister Catherine Brickner, Claremont, CA,
Lauretta Kroeger, Venedocia, Mrs. Otto (Rose) Wenzlick and Mrs. Gerald (Carolyn) Schimmoeller, of Ottoville;
and five brothers, Walter and Ralph, Ottoville, Clifford, Delphos, Steven, Columbus Grove, and John Warsaw,
IN.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
9-21-1987
Fred J. Geier
Fred J. Geier, 105, Delphos, and formerly of Elida, died at 5:40 p.m. Monday following an extended illness.
He was born May 12, 1882, in Ottoville the son of Michael and Eva (Hempfling) Geier. He married Nora
Wahmhoff, who is deceased. He then married Agnes Wannemacher, who is also deceased.
Mr. Geier was a retired farmer and shoe cobbler. He was a member of St. John’s Catholic Church and
Delphos Senior Citizens.
Survivors include a stepdaughter-in-law with whom he lived, Mrs. Homer (Naomi) Buettner, Elida; three
step-grandchildren; seven step-great-grandchildren; and two step great-great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John’s. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery,
Delphos.
Visitation is being held at Harter and Son Funeral Home, Delphos from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today
(Wednesday). A parish wake service will be held 8 p.m. Wednesday.
10-1-1987
Bradley S. Schnipke
Bradley Scott Schnipke, 9 Ft. Jennings, died at 9:02 a.m. Thursday, ay St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born November 29, 1977, in Lima, the son of Norbert and Rita (Ernst) Schnipke, who survive in Ft.
Jennings.
Bradley was a student at Ottoville Elementary School. He was a member of the Ottoville summer baseball
program and Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
Survivors include four brothers, Michael, Defiance, Rodney, Delphos, and Terry and Christopher, at home;
a sister, Maria Schnipke, at home; and paternal grandparents, Otto and Alma Schnipke, Cloverdale.
Mass of Christian Burial was held 10:30 a.m., Monday, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Rev.
Roger Bonifas, and Rev. Keith McCormack officiating. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville where a parish wake
service was held at 7 p.m. Sunday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Chad Staib Scholarship Fund.
10-1-1987
Permilla A. Ricker
Permilla A. Ricker, 82, Lima Convalescent Home, died at 8:30 a.m. Thursday October 1, at the nursing
home.
She was born July 3, 1905, in Ottoville, the daughter of Henry and Emma Kalt Wannemacher. On august 6,
1929, she married Bernard O. Ricker who is deceased.
Mrs. Ricker was a former member of St. John’s Catholic Church, Delphos and a present member of St.
John Catholic Church, Lima.
Survivors include a son, Dennis J. Ricker, of Dayton; a daughter, Carolyn Beck of Lima; 11 grandchildren;
seven great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Otmer Wannemacher of Delphos and Edwin Wannemacher of
Ottoville.
Services were held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, October 3, at St. John Catholic Church, Delphos, with burial in
the church cemetery.
10-3-1987
Ambrose H. Koester
Ambrose H. (Bud) Koester, 66, Ft. Jennings, died at 7:28 a.m. Saturday, at his residence.
He was born February 22, 1921, in Ottoville, the son of William and Rosa (Beining) Koester. On June 22,
1946, he married Catherine Leis, who survives.
Mr. Koester was retired from M and W Trailer and was a farmer. He was a member of the Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church in Ottoville, its Holy name Society and Ottoville Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Steve (Kathleen) Lambright, Ann Arbor, MI, and Mrs. Ron (June)
Miller, Ottoville; three sons, Dennis and Timothy, both of Ottoville, and Jeffery, Columbus; eight grandchildren;
two brothers, Richard, Ottoville, and Celestine (Dick), Shepherd, MI; and three sisters, Mrs. Norbert (Lucinda)
Langhals, Mrs. Cyril (Alberta) Weber and Mrs. Elmer (Rosemary) Markward, all of Ottoville.
One brother, Hilarius (Red) Koester is deceased.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Rev. Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake
service was held at 8 p.m., Monday.
10-21-1987
Henry B. Landwehr
Henry B. Landwehr, 84, formerly of Ottawa, died at 11:40 p.m., Wednesday, at Calvary Manor Nursing
Home, Glandorf.
He was born August 30, 1903, in Ottoville, the son of Henry and Katherine (Ricker) Landwehr. On June 29,
1929 he married Bernadine Siefker, who died April 2, 1959, he married Mary C. Beck, who died November 21,
1984.
Mr. Landwehr was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Glandorf, and Kalida Knights of Columbus.
Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. Carl (Marcille) Kehres, Ottoville; four sons, Louis and Jerome, both of
Ottoville, Arthur, Glandorf, and Henry Jr., Hollywood, FL; three step-daughters, Helen Kill and Mrs. Paul
VanderEmbse, both of Lima, and Mrs. Ray (Martha) Howe, Springfield; two step-sons, Robert Beck, Elida, and
George Beck, Phoenix, AZ; 15 grandchildren; 25 step-grandchildren; 15 step-great-grandchildren; a great-
grandchild; a brother, John, Ottoville; and two sisters, Anna Koenig, Leipsic, and Betty Koenig, Adrian, MI.
Services were held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Rev.
Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake
service was at 8 p.m. Friday.
10-31-1987
Sylvester F. Grubenhoff
Sylvester Frank Grubenhoff, 85, of Ft. Myers, Florida, died at 5:00 a.m., Saturday October 21.
He was born September 1, 1902 in Ottoville to Henry and Matilda (Kehres) Grubenhoff.
On September 30, 1930 he married Anne Marie Sarnowski who died April 6, 1964. On April 15, 1965 he
married Ramona Alverez Sweetman who survives.
Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Dean (Anita) Dolbeck of Ticonderoga, New Yor and two step-
daughters, Lucille Westervelt of Florida and Marie Neil Drummond of California. Two grandsons, Joel and
Jason Dolbeck of the United States Coast Guard Academy. Four brothers, Gilbert, Ft. Jennings, Victor of
Solon, Ohio, Othmar (Bob) of Ft. Myers, Florida and Edwin of Ottoville. One sister, Mrs. Joe (Genevieve) Alt of
Tiffin, Ohio. He was preceded in death by one brother, Cyril and one sister Armella Rizzo.
Services were held in Ft. Myers, Florida and a Memorial Mass will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday November 6, at
Immaculate Conception Church, Ottoville.
11-15-1987
Harold A. Gasser
Harold A. Gasser passed away suddenly Sunday, November 15, 1987, at his cabin in Prudenville,
Michigan. Age 70 years. He was born April 25, 1917 in Ohio. His parents were John and Elizabeth (Nietling)
Gasser. He married Catherine Gross Sept. 24, 1938 in Maple Grove. She survives him. He retired from Farmer
Peets in 1979 after 40 years of service. Surviving besides his wife are two children. Jack Gasser and Mrs.
Clare (Jane) Drexler, both of Chesaning; 12 grandchildren; one great granddaughter; three brothers and one
sister, Urban Gasser, Clarence Gasser, Mrs. Patricia Meyers, all of Chesaning; Wilford Gasser of Maple
Grove. One sister Alfreda Hemgesberg predeceased him.
Funeral services will take place 11:00 A.M. Wednesday at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in
Chesaning. Burial will be made in Resurrection Cemetery, Chesaning. Friends may call at the Misiuk-Morse
Funeral Home in Chesaning. There will be a scripture service at 7:00 p.m. today.
11-28-1987
Anthony F. Sanders
Anthony F. Sanders, 73, Ottoville, died, at 2L40 p.m., Saturday, November 28, 1987, at his residence.
He was born October 26, 1914, in Putnam County, the son of John G. and Margaret (Thines) Sanders. On
July 10, 1948, he married Dorothy B. Hellman, who survives.
Mr. Sanders was a retired employee of the Central Foundry in Defiance where he worked 28 for years. A U.
S. Army veteran of World War II, he was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Daniel (Janice) Schimmoeller, Perrysburg, and Diane Sanders at
home; five sons, John Defiance, Robert and Larry, both of Ottawa, James, Delphos, and Michael, at home;
nine grandchildren; and one sister, Mrs. Margaret Grothouse, Ft. Jennings.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Gilbert, Edward and Urban; and one sister, Jacquay.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Rev. Sylvan Obergefell officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Klokmeyer-Helmkamp-Siferd Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake
service was held at 8 p.m., Monday.
12-1-1987
Albert W. Schmersal
Albert W. Schmersal, 94, Delphos, died at 11:50 a.m., Tuesday, December 1, 1987, at Delphos Memorial
Home following an extended illness.
He was born May 13, 1893, in Ottoville, the son of Henry and Mary Schmersal. On April 20, 1915, he
married Eleanora T. Weichart, who died in 1979.
Mr. Schmersal was a member of St. John Catholic Church. He was formerly employed at AC & Y Railroad
and retired from Clark Equipment Company.
Survivors include a son, Eugene H. Schmersal, Delphos; two daughters, Mrs. Elbert (Helen) Swaney,
Refield SD, and Mrs. Alphonse (Betty) Karhoff, Leesburg, FL; 15 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; and
five great-grandchildren.
Mass of Christian Burial was held at 11 a.m., Saturday, at St. John Catholic Church, Delphos. Burial was in
the church cemetery.
Arrangements were handled by Harter and Son Funeral Home where parish wake service was held at 7:30
p.m., Friday.
12-17-1987
Ralph L. Weber
Funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. Monday December 21, 1987, at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church for
Ralph L. Weber, 79, Glandorf. He died at 6:30 p.m. Thursday December 17, 1987, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born January 6, 1908, in Ottoville, the son of Charles and Lena Obringer Weber. On August 16,
1934, he married Evelyn Miller who survives.
Mr. Weber was retired from Lima Ordinance Depot, and Wynham Trucking, Ottawa and was a
representative for All American Life Ins. & Casualty Co. of IN for four years. He was a member of St. John The
Baptist Catholic Church and its Holy name Society.
Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. Arthur (Patricia) Wurst of Ottoville and Mrs. Don (Evelyn Marie)
Strauer of Glandorf; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one sister, Mrs. Elvin (Leona) Rekart
of Southgate, MI.
Rev. Louis Osterhage officiated. Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
12-21-1987
Hubert H. Dickman
Hubert H, Dickman, 75, Kalida, died at 10:30 a.m., Monday, December 21, 1987 at St. Rita’s Medical
Center.
He was born December 11, 1912 in Ottoville to William and Philomena (Wehri) Dickman. He married
Loretta Kamphaus on May 4, 1936 and she survives.
Also surviving are four sons, Floyd of Columbus Grove, Roger, Gene and Gary, all of Kalida; 10
grandchildren; two brothers, Ferd of St. Louis, MI, Ed of St. Louis, MI; and four sisters, Anna Dickman,
Ottoville, Mrs. Louis (Agnes) Moegenborg, Alma, MI, Hildagard Schnipke, Delaware, Delores Eickholt, Ottawa.
Mr. Dickman retired in April 1975 after 22 years at Teledyne Ohio Steel of Lima. He was an honorary
member of the Kalida Fire Department. He was a member of Catholic Knights of Columbus; Ottawa Eagles; St.
Michael’s Catholic Church, Kalida, and the Holy Name Society of the church.
A funeral Mass will be said at 10:30 a.m. Thursday December 24, 1987, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church,
the Rev. John Hoying officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Visitation will be held at 204 and 7-9 p.m. today (Wednesday, December 23, 1987) at McCrate-Love
Funeral Home, Ottawa where a scripture service will be held at 8 p.m. today (Wednesday, December 23, 1987)
at the funeral home.