1-2-2002
James A. Hilvers
James A. "Windy" Hilvers, 64, died at 6:15 p.m. Jan. 2, 2002, at Van Crest of Delphos.
He was born June 11,1937, in Ottoville to Stephen and Veronica Beining Hilvers, who preceded him in
death. On Oct. 14, 1961, he married Jean M. Mandery, who survives in Ottoville.
Mr. Hilvers retired in April 2000 from Chrysler ICM, Van Wert, after 34 years. He was a member of the
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. He had been a member of the Lions Club and the Ottoville
Volunteer Fire Department. He was a National Guard veteran.
Survivors also include a daughter, Judy (Dave) Kemper of Ottoville; son-in-law, Donald Dearth of Bluffton;
four brothers, John (Annette) Hilvers, Robert (Alice) Hilvers, Richard (Janice) Hilvers and Thomas (Karen)
Hilvers, all of Ottoville; a sister, Ruth (Richard) Schroeder of Leipsic; and two granddaughters, Mallory and
Cassandra, both of Ottoville.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Jacquelyn Dearth, who died July 7, 2001; and a brother, Donald
Hilvers.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 am. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 9 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral
Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be held at 5 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rita's Hospice or the charity of the donor's choice.
1-22-2002
John Pittner
John Pittner, 84, Ottoville died at 7:10 a.m. Tuesday, January 22, 2002, in Van Wert County Hospital.
He was born March 11, 1917, in Ottoville to John P. and Emma (Ott) Pittner. Surviving is a sister, Margaret
E. "Marge" Burger, Delphos.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Joe Pittner and Andy Pittner; and two sisters, Mary Odenweller
and Gertie Wiechart.
Mr. Pittner was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. He was a member of the
Ottoville Board of Public Affairs and an avid ham radio operator where he was known as "KABVFT" and a
member of the Eagles Lodge #2234. Ottawa.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 24. at Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church, Ottoville. Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m today (Wednesday) at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral
Home, Ottoville. where a parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice or to the Van Wert County Hospital.
1-23-2002
John O. Rellinger
John O. Rellinger, 81, died at 7:55 a.m. Jan. 23, 2002, at Otterbein-Cridersville Assisted Living Center,
Cridersville. He was born Jan. 17, 1921, in August and Pauline Rellinger, who preceded him in death. On Aug.
28, 1946, he married Ann C. Bensman, who died in 1986.
Mr. Rellinger retired as an insurance agent from Nationwide Insurance, after more than 40 years. He was a
member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ft. Jennings. He had been a Red Cross volunteer, a volunteer fireman
and a school bus driver. He was a member og the United Way Campaign, the Lions Club, the Ft. Jennings and
Ottoville Parish bands and was on the initial board of directors for the Delphos Country Club. His invilvement in
the Ft. Jennings community included the formation committee for the Ft. Jennings Community Park, parade
marshall of the Ft. Jennings Sesquacentennial and he served on the village council.
Survivors include a son, George (Deb) Rellinger of Upper Sandusky; a daughter, Marie (Thomas) Miller of
Delphos; three brothers, Oscar (Mary) Rellinger of Fremont, Paul Rellinger of Cloverdale, and Arthur (Doris)
Rellinger of Manitou Beach, Mich.; four sisters, Mary Metzger and Lucinda (Russ) Donaldson, both of Ft.
Jennings, Imelda (Harold) Stechschulte of Kalida, Isabelle (Donald) Markward of Delphos; and six
grandchildren, Kevin and Eric Rellinger, Tracey (Bradley) Gerkens, and Quinton, Leah and Audra Miller.
He was Preceded in death by a brother, carl Rellinger; and a sister Adelaide (Fred) Smith. Mass of
Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Ft. Jennings. The Rev. Tony
Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Harter & Son Memorial Chapel, Delphos. Memorial contributions
may be made to the charity of the donors choice or the Ft. Jennings Communuty Park.
2-17-2002
Dorothy R. Osting
Dorothy R. Osting, 82, Delphos, died at 4:40 p.m. on Sunday, February 17, 2002, at St. Rita's Medical
Center, Lima.
She was born September 29, 1919 to William and Mary (Ricker) Gasser. On June 13, 142. She married
Moletus F. Osting in Tampa Florida and he survives in Delphos.
Also Surviving are two sons, Jerry (Gail) Osting, Ottawa, and Donald (Judy) Osting, Spencerville; two
daughters, Carolyn (Thomas) Pittner, Delphos, Diane (Gary) Miller, Ft. Jennings; nine grandchildren, Robin
(Jerry) Levine, Grand Rapids Michigan, Amy (Dean) Kuhlman, Ottoville, Scott (Shannon) Osting, Ottawa,
Ericka (Cam) Aller, St. Mary's, Anita (Rich) Ross, Ottawa, Trent (Shelly0 Osting, Spencerville, Travis (Melanie)
Pittner, Bradington Florida, Jason Osting, Ottawa, Ross Miller, Ft. Jennings; 10 great-grandchildren, Austin
and Madison Levine, Avery Ross, Kennedy Osting, Lauren, Regan, Reed Aller, Trevor Osting, Kela Osting,
and Connor Kuhlman; ten sisters, Ann Knippen,Ottoville, Regina Boehmer, Ft. Jennings, Agnes (Joe) Knippen,
Delphos, Rita Miller, Warsaw Indiana, Leona (Len) Bruskotter, Ft. Jennings, LaDonna Ostendorf, Ft. Jennings,
Lavera Hanf, Delphos, Alvera (Gene) Kleman, Derby Kansas, Mary Ann (Ed) Grote, Kalida and Delores
(Tony) Schulte, Kalida, and one brother; Bob (Dorothy) Gasser, Ottoville.
She was preceded in death by two brothers, Art Gasser and Bill Gasser and a grandchild, Ryan Miller.
Mrs. Osting worked for 22 years at the Cigar Factory. She was a homemaker, bee keeper and an avid
gardener. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Delphos, past president of Catholic Ladies of
Columbia, and past vice-president of the Alter Rosary Society. She was instrumental in starting the St. John
Church Festival Country Store, assisted the Junior Catholic Daughters of America. She was a volunteer at the
Delphos Thrift Shop. She was a five year member of Meals on Wheels, was a volunteer for the Delphos
Nursing Homes until the present. She also sewed diapers for the nursing homes. She volunteered at the
Mom's Room at St. john's Elementary and also was a playground supervisor for many years. She was an
excellent seamstress and quilter. She sewed linens for the Sisters of Notre Dame. She was an avid bingo
player. She was 1992 Women of the year. She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Delphos VFW Post
3055.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at Delphos St. John Catholic Church, Delphos.
Father Thomas Gorman will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.
2-21-2002
Erwin E. Martz
Erwin E. Martz, 86, died at 3 p.m. Feb. 21,2002, at Medical College of Ohio, Toledo.
He was born Sept. 16,1915, in Delphos to Edward and Gertrude Gladen Martz, who preceded him in death.
He married Florence Rekart, who died in 1955. He then married Luella Unterbrink, who died in 1962. On Dec.
26, 1964, he married Eileen K. Burke Lawler, who died Oct. 26, 2001.
Mr. Martz was self-employed as a businessman, owning businesses in Delphos and Lima. He was a member
of St. Gerard Catholic Church. He was a life member of Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 54 and
a member of the Delphos Club and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 370.
Survivors include a stepson, Thomas D. (Elizabeth) Burke of Perrysburg; two daughters, Judy A. (Virgil)
Miller of Ottoville and Connie (Donald) Birkemeier of Cridersville; a stepdaughter, Mary Kathleen Burke White
of Chatham, Mass.; a daughter-in-law, Janet Martz of Cridersville; a brother, Melvin J. Martz of Delphos; two
sisters, Leone Miller of Ottoville and Alice Hoehn of Delphos; and 17 grandchildren and 19 greatgrandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Martz; a sister, Alvera Osting; and a granddaughter, Michelle
Miller.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Gerard Catholic Church. The Rev. Thomas
Lacey will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday and Monday at Chiles & Sons- Laman Funeral Homes,
Shawnee Chapel, where a Catholic wake service will be held at 8 p.m. Monday.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude or the charity of the donor's choice.
Condolences may be sent to chiles@wcoil.com.
2-28-2002
Ruth Ann Beining
Ruth Ann Beining, 76, Ottoville, died at 8:35 a.m. on Thursday, February 28, 2002, at Calvary Manor
Nursing Home, Glandorf.
She was born July 23, 1925, in Ottawa, to Dewell and Eleanor (Weis) Martin. On September 29, 1948, she
married Arthur Beining, and he died September 7, 1974.
Surviving are two sons, Douglas (Shirley) Beining, Ottoville, and Jeffrey (Lorna) Beining. Ottawa; two
daughters, Kathy (Ed) Shinabery, Knoxville, TN, and Lynn (Gary) Cramer, Lima: seven grandchildren; and
three brothers. Frances Martin, Ottawa, Harold Martin, Rawson, and Carl Martin, Leipsic.
Mrs. Beining had been the bookkeeper for the Ottoville Mutual Telephone Company. She was a member of
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a member of the
Catholic Ladies of Columbia, and a member of the Ottoville VFW Ladies Auxiliary.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. Rev. Tony
Borgia officiated. Burial was in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home. Ottoville.
Memorials may be made to Putnam County Home Health Agency.
3-5-2002
Othmer A. Calvelage
Othmer A. Calvelage, 73, died March 5, 2002, at his residence.
He was born Dec. 18,1927, in Ottoville to Walter I. and Mary E. Krieger Calvelage, who preceded him in
death.
Mr. Calvelage retired from Philips DCC after 38 years. He was a member of Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church. Ottoville, and its Holy Name Society. He was a member of the Philips DCC Quarter Century
Club.
Survivors include a brother, Leander (Maneta) Calvelage of Delphos; and two sisters, Rita (Gumar) Weis of
Ottawa and Loretta Hoffman of Delphos.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Eugene and Arthur Calvelage.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
The Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Fort Jennings.
Friends may call froh 2 to 9 p.m. Friday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a
parish wake service will begin at 7 p.m
Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church repair fund.
4-18-2002
Regina T. Jerwers
Regina T. Jerwers, 88, died at 3:04 p.m. April 18,2002, at St. Rita's Medical Center.
She was born July 2,1913, in Ottoville to George and Elizabeth Deitering Wenzlick, who preceded her in
death. On Nov. 20,1934, she married Leonard Jerwers, who died Oct. 5,1987.
Mrs. Jerwers was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings.
Survivors include two daughters, Mary (James) Peery of Lakeview and Alice (James) Landwehr of Fort
Jennings; and 12 grandchildren, 16 greatgrandchildren and a great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by a son, Leo Jerwers; two brothers, Herman and Lawrence Wenzlick; a sister,
Caroline Hoffman; and a grandson, Eugene Landwehr.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings. The
Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday and Monday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral
Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday
Memorial contribution may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church or to the Masses.
5-8-2002
Evelyn M. Brinkman
Evelyn M. Brinkman, 86, died at 5:05 a.m. Wednesday, May 8, in her residence.
She was born Dec. 4, 1915, in Ottoville, the daughter of Edward and Matilda (Weber) Eickholt. In 1938, she
married Raymond Brinkman, who survives. She was a homemaker and a member of St. Barbara’s Catholic
Church in Cloverdale and its Altar Society.
Also surviving are six sons, Dennis of Antwerp, Lawrence, Raymond Jr. and Stephen, all of Cloverdale,
Kenneth of Tiffin and Darwin of Broadview Heights; three daughters, Margaret “Peg” (Ernest) Dickman and
Ellen Rupert, both of Ottawa, and Mary Ann (Omar) Calvelage of Fort Jennings; five sisters, Norma (Bernard)
Smith and Lucille Mangus, both of Lima, Jeanette Ruhe and Doris (Karl) German, both of Ottawa, and Lillian
Kohlrieser of Florida; 21 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
Preceding her in death was a brother, Kenneth Eickholt.
Services were held Saturday, May 11, at St. Barbara’s Catholic Church, with Father Robert Kill officiating.
Burial was in the church cemetery. Heitmeyer Funeral Home in Continental was in charge of the arrangements.
Preferred memorials are to Putnam County Home Health.
5-14-2002
Alfred L. Schimmoeller
Alfred L. (Jack) Schimmoeller, 80, Fort Jennings, died at 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2002, at Van
Crest Health Care Center, Delphos.
He was born on June 16, 1921, in Ottoville, to Edward and Veronica (Kaverman) Schimmoeller. On
November 22, 1945, he married Lucille E. Korte and she died on December 22, 1995.
Survivors include three sons. Dennis (Jan) Schimmoeller, Delphos, Michael (Elaine) Schimmoeller, Kalida,
and Carl (Marsha) Schimmoeller, Fort Jennings; one daughter. Carmen (Steve) Humes. Lima: eight
grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; eight step-great-grandchildren; and three brothers, Phillip
Schimmoeller, Donald Schimmoeller and Thomas Schimmoeller.
He was preceded in death by one brother, Robert Schimmoeller, and one sister, Ruth Perrin. Mr.
Schimmoeller retired as a gauge inspector at Ex- Cello Corp and as a clerk of Fort Jennings Township. He
served in the 15th U.S. Air Force as a First Lieutenant Bombardier with the 98th Bombardier Group, 415
Squadron. 47th Wing, during WWII. Mr. Schimmoeller was a past council member of, Fort Jennings Village, a
life member and past commander of American Legion Post 715 and a life member of VFW Post 2740. He was
an avid historian of family trees and the local history of Fort Jennings. He was a past board member of the
Putnam County Historical Society. He was one of the originators and served as the coach of the Fort Jennings
Pee-Wee League for many years and was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort
Jennings. Father Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Fort Jennings.
Visitations will be held today (Wednesday) from 6 to 8 p.m. and on Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m. at the Harter
and Sons Memorial Chapel. Delphos. A Parish Wake Service will be held at 3 p.m., and an American Legion
Memorial Service at 7:30 p.m. both on Thursday at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund or the Northwest
Ohio Alzheimer's Association.
5-17-2002
Anna M. Knippen
Anna M. Knippen, 84, died 7:30 a.m. May 17, 2002 at her residence.
She was born Jan. 5, 1918, in Putnam County to William and Mary Ricker Gasser, who preceded her in
death. On Feb. 11, 1942, in Ottoville, she married William H. Knippen who died Jan. 20, 1985.
Mrs. Knippen was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville,
and its Alter Rosary Society. She was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary, Ottoville.
She loved bingo and crocheting and was an avid sports fan, especially when her grandchildren were playing.
Survivors include six sons, William G. (Lynn) Knippen of Bellefontaine and Robert (Edith) Knippen, Richard
(Delores) Knippen, Virgil (Mary Jo) Knippen, Ronald (Becky) Knippen and Eugene (Laurie) Knippen, all of
Ottoville; five daughters, Judy (Larry) Horstman of Cloverdale, Ruth (Gary) Verhoff, and Marilyn (Richard)
Siefker, both of Glandorf, Barbara (Gene) Hovest of Ottawa and Carol (Ronald) Vorst of Eagle River Alaska; a
brother, Robert Gasser of Ottoville; nine sisters, Regina Boehmer, Leona Bruskotter and LaDonna Ostendorf,
all of Ft. Jennings, Agnes Knippen and LaVera Hanf, both of Delphos, Rita Miller of Warsaw Indiana, Alvera
Kleman of Derby Kansas, and Mary Ann Grote and Delores Schulte, both of Kalida; and 32 grandchildren and
nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a son Roger Knippen; a daughter, Janet Knippen; two brothers,
Art and Bill Gasser; and a sister, Dorothy Osting.
mass of Christian Burial will begin at10:30 a.m. Tuesday ay Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Re. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday and 2 to 9 p.m. Monday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral
Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery or the charity of the donors choice.
Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. today (Wednesday) at Harter and Son Memorial Chapel,
Delphos, where a Catholic Ladies of Columbia Service will be held at 3 p.m. and a parish wake service will be
held at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John Catholic Church, Delphos.
5-19-2002
Leon Turnwald
Leon Turnwald, 83, Ottoville, died at 10:05 p.m. on Sunday, May 19, 2002, in Van Crest Care Center, Van
Wert.
He was born on January 30. 1919, in Lenawee County, MI. to William and Mary (Landwehr) Turnwald. On
June 21, 1944, he married Rita Miller and she survives in Ottoville.
Survivors also include one son, Steve (Ann) Turnwald. Fort Wayne. IN; five daughters, Dorothy (Jose)
Flores and Irene (Roger) Helms, both of Ottoville, Jeanette (Kenneth) Hazelton, Ada. Agnes (James)
Ellerbrock. Ottawa, and Nancy (Lawrence) Suer, Cincinnati; 20 grandchildren: 12 great-grandchildren; one
brother. John (Dolores) Turnwald, Ottoville; two sisters, Anna Marie Eickholt, Ottoville, and Betty (Karl)
Schumacher, Columbus Grove; and one sister-in-law, Betty (Elmer) Friemoth, Delphos.
He was preceded in death by two brothers. Sylvester Turnwald and William Turnwald. Jr.; one grandson,
Andy Helms; one great-grandchild. Myka Turnwald; and one brother-in-law. Jerome Eickholt.
Mr. Turnwald was retired from the Ottoville Lumber Co. and from farming in 1981. He previously worked for
the National Lime and Stone Company for 17 years. Leon was ordained a Deacon in the Catholic church on
November 17, 1984, and retired from active ministry in 2000. He was a member of the Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church. Ottoville, and its Holy Name Society. He was also a member of the Ottoville Local School
Board.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 9 p.m. today (Wednesday) at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home.
Ottoville. where a parish wake service will be held at 6 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to National MS Societv.
2-27-2002
Clara H. Smith
Clara H. Smith, 93, Columbus Grove, died at 8:10 a.m. on Monday, May 27, 2002, at Hilty Memorial Home,
Pandora.
She was born on May 14, 1909, in Ottoville, to Henry and Mary (Eickholt) Hilvers. On November 15, 1933,
she married Othmar F. "Ott" Smith and he died on April 20, 1992.
Survivors include two sons, Paul J. (Karen S.) Smith and Kenneth (Karen L.) Smith, both of Columbus
Grove; three, daughters, Jeanette (George) Knippen, Ottoville, Dorothy (George) Bonifas, Landeck, and Joan
(Ray) Moening. Fort Jennings; 17 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and one step-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by three brothers, Alex Hilvers, Edwin Hilvers and Steve Hilvers; two sisters,
Regina Schweller and Loretta Ruen; one great-grandson, Wesley Bonifas; and one son-in-law, Kenneth
Kramer.
Mrs. Smith was a homemaker and an avid gardener. She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church,
and its Altar Rosary Society and CLC.
Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Columbus Grove.
Rev. Bernard Kokocinski will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today (Wednesday) at Hartman Sons Funeral Home. Columbus
Grove, where a CLC service will be held at 4 p.m. and a scripture service will be held at 8:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony School Endowment Fund or to a charity of the donor's
choice
5-30-2002
WILLIAM J. HORSTMAN
William J. (Pete) Horstman, 70, Ottoville, died at his residence on Thursday, May 30.
He was born Nov. 28, 1931 in Ottoville, the son of William and Flo (Martin) Horstman. In 1953, he married
Sylvia Wittler, who survives.
He was an electrician at Philips Display Components, Ottawa from 1952-1991, a member of Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, Holy Name Society where he was past treasurer, I.B.E.W., Ohio
Longrifles, National Rifle Assoc. International Muzzleloaders Assoc., attended St. Paul Catholic Church in
Leesburg, Fla. during the winter, and former owner of Sno-Cone Restaurant in Charloe from 1977-1981.
Also surviving are a son, Vaughn (Lynne) Horstman, Ottoville; two daughters, Kathy J. Tanner, Bellbrook,
Ohio and Saundra (Bob) Klima, Ottoville; one sister, Jane Stallkamp, Leesburg, Fla.; ten grandchildren, and
one great-grandchild.
Preceding him in death was a granddaughter, Ashley Klima.
Mass of Christian Burial was at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church on Monday, June 3, with Rev. Tony
Borgia officiating. Burial was held in St. Joseph Cemetery in Fort Jennings.
Preferred memorials are to Putnam County Hospice or donor’s choice.
6-7-2002
Dolores R. Montooth
Mass of Christian burial for Dolores R. Montooth, 74, of Leipsic, who died 1:23 p.m. June 7 at St. Rita's
Medical Center, was 10 a.m. today at St. Mary Catholic Church, Leipsic, the Rev. John Joseph officiating.
Burial was in the church cemetery.
She was born Nov. 28, 1927, in Ottoville to Alex and Clara (Kracht) Hilvers. On May 28, 1949, she married
James Montooth, who died Aug. 3, 1999.
Survivors include six daughters, Sandra (Eugene) Dulle of Glandorf, Ruth Ann (Roger) Kahle of Kalida,
Darlene (Dennis) Sudlow, Diana (Marvin) Niese, Karen (Roger) Selhorst of Leipsic and Laurie (Kevin)
Basinger of Ottawa; three brothers, Ralph (Doris) Hilvers of Leipsic, Alfred (Irma) Hilvers of Delphos and
Leonard (Virgileen) Hilvers of Ottoville; 23 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. She was preceded in
death by a brother, Elmer Hilvers.
Mrs. Montooth was a homemaker. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, and its Altar Rosary
Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia. She was also a member of the Leipsic American Legion
Auxiliary. Preferred memorials are to St. Mary School or the Leipsic Library.
6-8-2002
Henrietta A. King
Mass of Christian burial for Henrietta A. "Tudy" (Ruen) King, 87, of Ottoville, who died 9:57 a.m. June 8 at
Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos, will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville, the Rev. Tony Borgia officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
She was born May 10, 1915, in Ottoville to Henry and Mary (Reifers) Ruen. On May 6, 1947, she married
George B. King, who preceded her in death June 15, 1972.
Survivors include many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great-nieces and
nephews. She was preceded in death by four sisters, Mary Falke, Clara Brinkman, Dorothy Mesker and
Frances Wolke; and five brothers, Joe, William, Andy, Albert and John Ruen.
Mrs. King retired from Sylvania in Ottawa in 1977 and was a member of its 25 year club. She was a member
of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its Altar Rosary Society. She was also a member of Veterans
of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary since 1948, where she was president two years and also held other
offices locally and was District II president for one year and held other offices at the district level.
Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish
wake service will be 3:30 p.m. and a VFW memorial service will be at 7 p.m. Preferred memorials are to
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
6-10-2002
Euletta C. Rieger
Mass of Christian burial for Euletta C. Rieger, 96, of Ottoville, who died 11:23 p.m. June 10 at Vancrest
Healthcare Center, Delphos, will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville,
the Revs. Tony Borgia and James Serrick officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery.
She was born May 19, 1906, in Ottoville to George N. and Anna K. (Wannemacher) Rieger.
Survivors include a sister-in-law, Bernice Rieger of Ottoville; and several nieces and nephews. She was
preceded in death by a brother, George C. Rieger; and two sisters, Ruth Ann Hoehn and Ethel A. Rieger.
Ms. Rieger was a teacher and began her career in a one-room school house in Putnam County in 1924 at
the age of 18. After four years she moved to Mercer County and taught mostly in the St. Henry School District
until her retirement in 1967. She then worked as a secretary for her brother George in his plumbing and
heating business.
She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its Altar Rosary Society. She was also a
member of the National Organization of Retired Teachers Association and the Putnam County Retired
Teachers Association. She enjoyed bingo and cards and made the best "brown bread."
Friends may call 2-9 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish
wake service will be at 3 p.m. Preferred memorials are to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Repair Fund
or St. Mary Cemetery Fund.
7-2-2002
Joseph E. Kemper
Joseph "Joe" E. Kemper, 67, Ottoville, died at 1:45 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, 2002, at his residence.
He was born on August 28, 1934, in Putnam County, to Herman and Theresia (Ricker) Kemper. On June 3.
1961, he married Eileen M. Rieman, in St. Isadore Catholic Church, Cuba, and she survives.
Survivors also include two sons, Roger Kemper and Daniel Kemper, both of Ottoville; two brothers, Arnold
(Norma) Kemper andIsadore (Leona) Kemper, both of Ottoville; four sisters, Frances Muzechuck, Centerville,
Lucille (Bob) Larnmers, Ottawa, Theresa (Jim) Kramer, Ottoville, and Agnes (Don) Ostendorf, Ft. Jennings;
and three sisters-inlaws, Mary Kemper, Ottoville, Angela Kemper, Delphos, and Ruth Johnson, Leipsic.
He was preceded in death by five brothers, Henry Kemper, Leo Kemper, Lawrence Kemper, Alphonse
Kemper, and his twin, John Kemper; and two sisters. Amelia Burdg and Bertha Gasser.
Mr. Kemper was retired from Philips Display Components, Ottawa. He was a field reporter for the Farm
Service Agency and was a farmer. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and
its Holy Name Society. He was a former Cub Scout Master and liked to play cards. He was also a U.S. Army
veteran.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Rev. Tony Borgia
officiated. Burial was in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Arrangements were handled by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville.
Memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Hospice.
8-8-2002
Opal T. Andrews
8-21-2002
Mary A. Hoersten
Mary A. Hoersten, 87, died at 11:50 a.m. Aug. 21,2002, at Lima Convalescent Home.
She was born April 21,1915, in Fort Jennings to Anton and Elizabeth Wieging Berelsman, who preceded
her in death. On May 4,1938, she married Felix "Sandy" Hoersten, who died, May 7,1967.
Mrs. Hoersten was a homemaker. She had been a cook at the Delphos Country Club and had worked at
Meyer's Cleaners. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar
Rosary Society
Survivors include two sons, Harold (Connie) Hoersten of Ottoville and Clete (Carol) Hoersten of Delphos;
two daughters, Patricia Hoersten of Ottoville and Marilyn (Wayne Girod) Hoersten of Delphos; a daughter-in-
law, Mary Ann Hoersten of Kalida; three brothers, Linus Berelsman of Delphos, Albert Berelsman of Fort
Jennings and Norbert Berelsman of Lima; two sisters, Bernadine Hoersten and, Olivia Eickholt, both of
Ottoville; and 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and three stepgreat-grandchildren. .
She was preceded in death I by a son, Eugene Hoersten; three brothers, William, Ambrose and Hubert
Berelsman; and three sisters, Margaret Erhart, Cecelia Plescher and Loretta Leatherman.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-
Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, the Lima Convalescent Home
or St. Rita's Hospice.
9-15-2002
Wilma Sellet
10-24-2002
Clara M. Vondran
Clara M. Vondran, 86, died at 12:25 a.m., Oct. 24, 2002, at Roselawn Nursing Home, Spencerville.
She was born May 29,1916, in Ottoville to Henry and Lena Holbein Pohl, who preceded her in death. On
June 19,1937, she married Bernard H. Vondran, who died Oct. 2, 1993.
Mrs. Vondran was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Delphos. She was a
member of Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary.
Survivors include three sons, Norman (Nancy) Vondran of Lima, Gerald (Patricia) Vondran of Cincinnati
and Robert (Rhonda) Vondran of Marion, Ind.; a daughter, Marilyn Titzer of Newburgh, Ind.; a sister, Margaret
Powell of Delphos; and 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by three brothers, Edward, John and Elmer Pohl; and two sisters, Lucille Clark
and Dorothy Barnes.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. John Catholic Church, Delphos. The Rev.
Randy Giesige will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. today at Harter & Son Memorial Chapel, where a wake service
will be held at 4:30 p.m.
11-7-2002
Jeanne A. Wannemacher
Jeanne A. Wannemacher, 95, died at 5:52 p.m. Nov. 7,2002, at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos.
She was born Feb. 2,1907, in Dover, N.H., to Lee and Grace Walker Aseltine, who preceded her in death.
On July 22, 1929, she married Robert M. Wannemacher, who died Nov. 15,1980.
Mrs. Wannemacher was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville, where she had been the oldest member.
Survivors include a son, Don (Rita) Wannemacher of Landeck; a daughter, Dollie (Ernest) Wolke of
Delphos; five grandchildren, Debbie (Tom) Buettner, Gary (Teresa) Wolke, Don (Donna) Wolke, Dan (Linda)
Wannemacher and Dave (Connie) Wannemacher; and 14 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by four brothers and five sisters.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a
parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.
11-16-2002
Alice L. Fortman
Alice L. Fortman, 81, died at 5:40 a.m. Nov. 16,2002, at her residence.
She was born March 8,1921, in Ottoville to Alex and Bertha Flanagan Odenweller, who preceded her in
death. On Nov. 27, 1943, she married Elmer Fortman, who survives in Ottawa.
Mrs. Fortman was a homemaker and a former registered nurse at Westinghouse Corp. She was a member
of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. She was a graduate of St. Rita's School of Nursing. She enjoyed
playing bridge and euchre in various card clubs.
Survivors also include two sons, Tim (Linda) Fortman of Ottawa and Robert (Nancy) Fortman of
Beavercreek; three daughters, Marsha (Roger) Lammers of Ottawa, Barbara (Keith) Hall of Dayton and Mary
Jo (Dan) Bockrath of Glandorf; two brothers, Eugene Odenweller of Ottoville and James Odenweller of Ottawa;
and 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Thomas Odenweller; and two sisters, Kathleen Koehl and Irene
Ricker.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 am. Tuesday at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. The Rev. Tom
Hemm will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemtery.
Friends may call after 7 p.m. today and from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday at Love Funeral Home, where a
scripture service will be held at 3 p.m. Monday
Memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Hospice and SS. Peter and Paul Endowment Fund.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome. com.
11-23-2002
Milfred L. Gilgenbach
Milferd L. Gilgenbach, 75, of rural Van Wert, died at 5 p.m. Saturday, November 23, 2002, at Memorial
Hospital in Lima.
He was born October 28, 1927, in Henry County, the son of the late Phillip and Agnes (Limbaugh)
Gilgenbach. On August 17, 1949, he married Betty Selhorst, who survives in rural Van Wert.
Mr. Gilgenbach was a lifetime farmer and a past director of the Federal Land Bank/Ag Credit, Scott Equity
Exchange. He was also a Hoaglin Township trustee for 14 years and a member of St. Mary of the Assumption
Catholic Church in Van Wert. He belonged to Lincolnview Athletic Booster Club, Veterans of Foreign Wars
Post 8847 in New Bavaria and VFW Post 2873 in Grover Hill.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by 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, all 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 Gilgenbach; a son-in-law, Butch Giesige; one granddaughter, Lindsey Byrne, and a great-
granddaughter, Langdyn Wannamacher.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Mary of the Assumption
Catholic Church in Van Wert, with Father Joseph M. Schmelzer officiating.
Burial will be in Immaculate Conception Church Cemetery in Ottoville. Calling hours are 7-9 p.m. Monday
and 2-8:30 p.m. Tuesday at Brickner Funeral Home, where a parish rosary service will be held at 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Lincolnview Track and Field Fund or a charity of donor's choice.
12-13-2002
Mary L. Schimmoeller
Mary L. Schimmoeller, 84, died at 7:25 p.m. Dec. 13, 2002, at Paradise Oaks, Cloverdale.
She was born May 12, 1918, in Lima to Louis and Mary Fischer Schaffner, who preceded her in death. On
Aug. 16, 1941, she married Philip W. Schimmoeller, who survives.
Mrs. Schimmoeller was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville, where she was a member of its Altar Rosary Society, choir and Catholic Ladies of Columbia. She was
a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary, the Senior Citizens and Hum-a-Tune. She had been a 4-
H adviser.
Survivors also include a son, Gerald P. (Carolyn) Schimmoeller of Ottoville; two daughters, Phyllis (Robert)
Verhoff of Holgate and Anna (Edward) Bockrath of Ottoville; a brother, Paul (Jeanie) Schaffner of Delphos;
and 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her foster parents.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at noon Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
Burial will be at a later date in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 9 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. until time of services Saturday at Harter & Son
Memorial Chapel, Delphos, where a CLC service will be held at 2:45 p.m. and a wake service at 3 p.m. at the
funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.
12-28-2002
James A. Landwehr
James A. Landwehr, 67, died at 7:20 a.m. Dec. 28, 2002, at his residence.
He was born March 13,1935, in Ottoville to Charles I. and Frances J. Trenkamp Landwehr, who preceded
him in death. On Aug. 31, 1957, he married Alice M. Jerwers, who survives in Fort Jennings.
Mr. Landwehr was a lifelong farmer and retired from Philips Display Components in 1993 after 42 years of
service. He was an Army veteran of the Korean War. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and of
American Legion Post 715, both in Fort Jennings.
Survivors also include four sons, Carl (Tammy Rena) Landwehr, Stephen (Tammy) Landwehr and Donald
Landwehr, all of Fort Jennings, and Thomas (Sharon) Landwehr of Elida; a daughter, Joan (Terry) Meyer of
Columbus Grove; five brothers, Joseph (Lillian) Landwehr of Ottawa, Charles (Mary Jane) Landwehr of Fort
Jennings and Alfred Landwehr, Elmer (Jane) Landwehr and Paul (Pat) Landwehr, all of Kalida; three sisters, Jo
Ann (Herk). Menke and Irene (Bill) Warnecke, both of Fort Jennings, and Rita (John) Martin of Delphos; eight
grandchildren, Gina Schrader, Beth Landwehr, Alan Landwehr, Rachel Landwehr, Ashlee Wallen, Theresa
Evans, Kyle Meyer and Cory Meyer; and two great-grandchildren, Brittany Schrader and Courtney Ebbeskotte.
He was preceded in death by a son, Eugene Landwehr; a brother, Edward Landwehr; two sisters, Mary
Maag and Anna Marie Landwehr; and a sister-in-law, Janet Landwehr.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 am. Tuesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings. The
Rev. Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Fort Jennings, with military rites
by American Legion Post 715.
Friends may call from 2 to 5 and 6 to 9 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Delphos,
where a parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m. and an American Legion service at 7:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Masses, St. Joseph Catholic Church Building
Fund or to the Delphos Visiting Nurses and Hospice.