1-19-2005
Earl Philip Weber
Earl Philip Weber, 78, of Portage, died Wednesday, Jan. 19, 2005, in Florida. Earl was born May 27,
1926, in Ottoville, Ohio.
A resident of Portage and Taylor, Earl enjoyed vacationing in the Traverse City area. He was a World
War II veteran and a retired bricklayer.
Surviving are his children, Denise (Rick) Moore, Pam (Larry) Newhouse, Eric (Johanna) Weber, Nancy
(Dave) Blakley, Mary (Dale) Kalhorn, Mike Weber, Dorothy (Phil) McIntyre, John Weber, Kathy Weber and
Valerie (Craig) Duncan; 21 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; four brothers, Robert, William, Tom and
Mark Weber; and three sisters, Dorothy Caron, Betty Finstad and Carol Serra.
He was preceded in death by wife, Elaine (Page) Weber.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Feb. 5, 2005, at noon, at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic
Church, 1150 W. Centre Ave., Portage, MI. Following Mass the family will receive friends during a luncheon in
Marion Hall. On Monday, there will be combined burial service for Elaine and Earl in Ft. Custer National
Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be considered to the American Lung Association or the American Heart
Association.
Arrangements are by Langeland Funeral Homes, www.langelands.com.
2-6-2005
Hildegard R. Bensman
Hildegard R. Bensman, 88, died Feb. 6, 2005, at Paradise Oaks Healthcare Center. She was born April
14, 1916, in Putnam County to Henry and Odelia Miller Bensman, who preceded her in death.
Miss Bensman had been a housekeeper for Catholic rectories for 47 years. She was a member of St.
John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos, where she was a eucharistic minister. She had been a member
of the Catholic Daughters of America.
Survivors include four sisters, Gertrude Deaubler of Bellefontaine, Geraldine Houck of Holgate, Agnes
Shadle of Fort Wayne, Ind., and Bernadine Houck of Continental; a sister-in-law, Bernadette Bensman of
Bellefontaine; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Herbert Bensman; two nieces; and two great-nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church,
Delphos. Father Thomas Gorman will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Delphos,
where a parish wake service will be held at 8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church or Paradise Oaks
Healthcare Center.
2-7-2005
Lavern S. Wannemacher
Lavern S. “Bunk” Wannemacher, 91, died at 6:20 p.m. Feb. 7, 2005, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born Feb. 25, 1913, in Putnam County to Henry and Eleanor Grothaus Wannemacher, who
preceded him in death. On Aug. 25, 1952, he married Eleanor E. Pohlman, who died May 12, 2004.
Mr. Wannemacher retired as co-owner of M&W Trailers Inc., Ottoville . He was a member of Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville . He was an Army veteran of World War II. He enjoyed spending winters
in Florida, fishing and taking trips to Michigan and Las Vegas.
Survivors include a son, Terry J. Wannemacher of Ot toville; a brother, Harold (Mae) Wannemacher of
Southgate, Mich.; and two sisters, Marceil (Bernie) Musser of Delphos and Louella (Paul) Cook of Lima.
He was preceded in death by four siblings, Eileen (Russ) Gemmel, Hubert (Armella) Wannemacher,
Eugene (Valeta) Wannemacher and Orville (Mary) Wannemacher; and two brothers-in-law, Doyle Fought and
Al Kunz.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville . Father Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville , with military rites by
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville , where a
parish wake service will be held at 4 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or the charity of the
donor’s choice.
2-10-2005
Norbert F. Burkhart
Norbert F. “Norb” Burkhart, 55, died at 6:32 p.m. Feb. 10, 2005, at Putnam County Ambulatory Care
Center.
He was born Dec. 28, 1949, in Cloverdale to Clarence and Alma Geckle Burkhart, who preceded him in
death.
Mr. Burkhart was a truck driver. For the last 20 years he drove for K&L Ready Mix, Kalida. He was a
member of St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale. He was a member of the Cloverdale Game Club and the
Buckeye Riders and Drivers and a guest member of the Continental American Legion. He was a 1967
graduate of Ottoville High School. He enjoyed playing cards with friends and family and going fishing.
Survivors include a sister, Donna (Ron) Burgei of Cloverdale; three brothers, Larry (Ann) Burkhart of
Cloverdale, Ken (Ruth) Burkhart of North Star and Mike (Melissa) Burkhart of Broken Arrow, Okla.; a sister-in-
law, Mary Burkhart of Cloverdale; and a brother-in-law, Cy Hubert of Fort Wayne, Ind.; a step-granddaughter,
Brittnee McKenzie; six nieces, Brenda Westbeld, Karen Smallwood, Kathy Johnson, Barb Rombke, Jennifer
Burkhart and Destinee Russell; and 15 nephews, Kevin Hubert, Steve Burgei, Joe Burkhart, John Burkhart, Jim
Burkhart, Mark Burkhart, Craig Burkhart, Tom Burkhart Luke Burkhart, Tim Burkhart, Karl Burkhart, Daniel
Burkhart, Chase Bostick, Aaron Russell and Austin Russell.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and Dennis Burkhart; a sister, Mary Lou Hubert, and
two nephews, Jeffery and Jerry Burkhart.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale.
Father Robert Kill will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today and Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral
Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be held at 4 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place,
Memphis, TN 38105-1942.
2-20-2005
Helen M. Schneeg
Helen M. Schneeg, 78, died at 1:35 p.m. Feb. 20, 2005, at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Glandorf.
She was born Aug. 29, 1926, in Lima to Louis and Caroline Berelsman Brenner, who preceded her in death.
She married Tom Arnold, who died in 1959. On Nov. 12, 1960, she married Oscar “Buck” Schneeg, who died
Feb. 9, 1988.
Mrs. Schneeg was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville
. She was a 1944 graduate of Delphos St. John’s High School. She enjoyed playing bingo.
Survivors include three sons, John (Sandy) Schneeg of Canton, Mich., and Tim Schneeg and Mike (Mary Beth)
Schneeg, both of Ottawa; five grandchildren, Katelyn, Lauren, Lindsey, Matthew and Kristy Schneeg; and a
brother, Carl Brenner of Montpelier.
She was preceded in death by three brothers and four sisters.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville . Father Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville .
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today 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 Alzheimer’s Association.
2-24-2005
Basil V. Alt
Basil V. Alt, 93, died at 12:07 p.m. Feb. 24, 2005, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born June 6, 1911, in North Auburn to Henry and Rose Mann Alt, who preceded him in death. On
June 27, 1946, he married Louise “Sis” Altenburger, who survives in Ot toville.
Mr. Alt was involved in education his entire adult life. He retired in 1997 as a special education supervisor
for Auglaize County schools. He began his teaching career in Monroeville, where he taught at several schools.
He taught music for 25 years at Ottoville , was an assistant principal and guidance counselor at Delphos St.
John’s for several years and an elementary principal at Perry schools. He had also served as supervisor of
pupil personnel services for the Allen County school system. He was also well known for his years as a music
educator and organist, teaching countless music students in the area, oftentimes in their homes, to play the
piano, organ, guitar, banjo, violin and the accordion among other instruments. He had served as organist for
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville , for more than 60 years, and for several years at St. Peter
Lutheran Church, Delphos. He played his last service in Ottoville on Feb. 5, 2005, less than three weeks
before his death.
He was a member and current vice president of the governing board of the Putnam County Educational
Association, which he has served on for 23 years. He also served several terms on the Ottoville Board of
Education. In 1997, he was honored with his selection to the All-Ohio School Board. He was a founding
member of the Ottoville Mutual Telephone Co., where he recently received an award for 50 years of service
on the board of directors, and was currently serving as president. He was a member of the Putnam County
Board of Health and the Putnam County Alcohol and Drug Addiction mental health boards.
He received his bachelor’s degree in music in 1931 from the Columbia School of Music, Chicago; his master’s
degree in education in 1956 from Indiana University and a post master’s degree in counseling from the
University of Toledo.
Survivors also include a daughter, Cindy (Dan) Kimmet of Toledo; three sons, David (Jeanie) Alt of Fort
Jennings, Darrell (Jenny) Alt of Toledo and Don (Lisa) Alt of Delphos; and 12 grandchildren, three step-
grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Wasserman; two brothers, Paul and Joseph Alt; and a
daughter-in-law, Darlene Walbolt Alt.
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 at a later date in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville .
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today and 1 to 3 and 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-
Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville , where a parish wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ottoville EMS; Putnam County Visiting Nurses; or to the music
needs of St. Peter Lutheran Church or Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
3-5-2005
Rosalie Kay Brinkman
Rosalie Kay Brinkman, 52, died at 8:05 p.m. March 5, 2005, from injuries suffered in an auto accident.
She was born July 19, 1952, in Lima to Robert “Bob” and Lois Saxton Bullinger. Her father preceded her
in death. Her mother survives in Fort Jennings. On June 26, 1981, in Ottoville, she married Michael Brinkman,
who survives in Fort Jennings.
Mrs. Brinkman worked at The Drapery Stitch for several years and drove school buses for Ottoville
schools for 13 years. She had also worked at Jonashtons Machine Shop, Cloverdale, for Delphos Visiting
Nurses and at Eaton Corp., Van Wert. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. She was an auxiliary member of the Knights of Columbus. She was a graduate of Ottoville High
School. She had taken home health care classes. She enjoyed crafts and craft shows and playing board
games and cards with her family on the weekends. She loved to care for other people and was the kind of
person who put others before herself. She was a loving wife and wonderful mother. She was a Lifeline tissue
donor.
Survivors also include a son, Perry Brinkman at home; three daughters, Amy (Frank Bailey) Brinkman,
Trish (Shane Moening) Brinkman and Miranda (Matt Lehmkuhle) Brinkman, all at home; a brother, Randy
(Karen) Bullinger of Convoy; a brother-in-law, Frank (Cathy) Brinkman of Fort Jennings; and several nieces
and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Rodney Bullinger.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Father Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. today and 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home,
Delphos, where a parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
3-7-2005
Evelyn Horstman
Evelyn Horstman, 89, died at 7 a.m. March 7, 2005, at Van Wert County Hospital, Van Wert.
She was born Oct. 17, 1915, in Delphos to Harry and Lillian Betzenheimer Seymour, who preceded her in
death. On Nov. 22, 1934, she married Cyril “Shrimp” Horstman, who died Oct. 11, 1997.
Mrs. Horstman retired from Sylvania/GTE, Ottawa, after 27 years. She was a member of Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a member of Veterans of Foreign
Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary, Ottoville, and the Quarter Century Club of Sylvania.
Survivors include two sons, Joseph (Sharon) Horstman and John (Susan) Horstman, both of Ottoville; a
daughter, Ruth “Sis” (Tom) Schimmoeller of Delphos; a sister, Florence Ness of Delphos; four sisters-in-law,
Lucille Horstman of Tennessee, R osemary “Babe” Wannemacher of Ottoville, Mary Ann “Toots” Bullinger of
Defiance and Agnes Horstman of Ottoville; eight grandchildren, Tammy Bergfeld, Shelly Kayser, Steve
Horstman, Rick Horstman, Christy Schwinnen, Brad Horstman, John Horstman Jr. and Jason Horstman; and 15
great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Thelma Morgan and Beatrice Brand; and four brothers, Harry
Jr., Howard, Arlington and Raymond Seymour.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Burial will be in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a
VFW Auxiliary service will be held at 7 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
3-20-2005
Philip W. Schimmoeller
Philip W. Schimmoeller, 87, died at 11:45 a.m. March 20, 2005, at Paradise Oaks Nursing Home,
Cloverdale.
He was born Dec. 9, 1917, in Putnam County to Edward C. and Veronica Kaverman Schimmoeller, who
preceded him in death. On Aug. 16, 1941, he married Mary Schaffner, who died in 2002.
Mr. Schimmoeller retired as a self-employed farmer. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church, Ottoville. He served on the school board for eight years and as a township trustee for 11 years. He
was a life member of American Legion Post 715, Fort Jennings. He was an Army veteran of World War II.
Survivors include a son, Gerald (Carolyn) Schimmoeller of Ottoville; two daughters, Phyllis (Robert)
Verhoff of Holgate and Anna (Edward) Bockrath of Ottoville; a brother, Donald (Coletta) Schimmoeller of Fort
Jennings; and 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by three brothers, Jack Alfred, Thomas and Robert Schimmoeller; a sister,
Ruth Perrin; and a granddaughter, Theresa Bockrath.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Father Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be at a later date in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 9 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday at Harter & Schier Funeral
Home, Delphos, where a parish rosary service will be held at 4 p.m., an American Legion service at 7 p.m. and
a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m., all today.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice or Mass for the deceased.
3-21-2005
Terry Plescher
Terry Plescher, 58, of Okeechobee, Fla., formerly of Ottoville, died at 3:10 a.m. March 21, 2005, at
Raulerson Hospital following a short illness.
He was born Dec. 3, 1946, in Lima to Hubert P. and Jane E. Bowersock Plescher. His father preceded him
in death. His mother survives in Ottoville.
Mr. Plescher was a Navy veteran of the Vietnam War. He had lived in Okeechobee, Fla., for 20 years.
Survivors also include two sons, Ryan Plescher of Texas and Sean Plescher of Colorado; a daughter,
Tana (Bryan) Paleneton of Texas; three granddaughters; a grandson; two brothers, John Plescher of Delphos
and Michael Plescher of Fort Jennings; and a sister, Sharon Plescher Knippen of Ottoville.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Joan Plescher Hartnet, who had lived in Toledo.
Memorial services were held in Okeechobee, Fla.
3-22-2005
Martha D. Byrne
Martha D. Byrne, 88, died at 7:42 a.m. March 22, 2005, at Putnam Acres Care Center, Ottawa.
She was born Aug. 28, 1916, in Cloverdale to John and Anna Osting Knippen, who preceded her in
death. She married Hugo C. Byrne, who died in May 1978.
Mrs. Byrne was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville,
and its Altar Rosary Society. She loved baking, gardening and crocheting.
Survivors include a daughter, Boneta L. Niese of Cloverdale; and three grandchildren and two great-
grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Mary Byrne; five brothers, Albert, Edward, Raymond,
Mellitus and Arthur Knippen; and six sisters, Armella Wannemacher, Louise Horstman, Adeline Kleman, Amelia
Bendele and Marcella and Clarina Knippen.
Services will begin at 11:30 a.m. Saturday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos. Father Tony Borgia
will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, where a parish wake service will
be held at 3:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family.
4-7-2005
Rev. Sylvan W. Obergefell
The Reverend Sylvan W. Obergefell, 76, died at 4:14 a.m. Thursday, at Van Wert County Hospital.
He was born Feb. 19, 1929, in Sandusky, to Charles and Henrietta (Roedler) Obergefell.
Father Obergefell was a graduate of Sandusky St. Mary Grade School and High School. He was a graduate of
College and Theology at Pontifical College Josephinum, Worthington. He was ordained as a priest on June
10,1958.
He served as an Associate Pastor at St. Mary Parish, Vermillion; St. Rose Parish, Perrysburg; and Our
Lady of Perpetual Help, Toledo. He then served as pastor at St. Stephen?s Parish, The Bend and Immaculate
Conception Parish, Marysdale, St. Mary?s Parish in Mansfield and most recently at Immaculate Conception
Parish, Ottoville, from July 1984, until July 2000. Upon his retirement, he resided in Ottoville, and the past two
years he lived at Vancrest Assisted Living, Delphos.
Surviving is a brother: Ralph Obergefell of Sandusky.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Lewis, Irvin, Alvin and Arthur Obergefell; and three sisters,
Ethel Chamberlain, Mary Petrick and Florence Stein.
Reception of the Body and Vespers will be 4 p.m. Sunday at Immaculate Conception Church, Ottoville,
followed by visitation until 9 p.m.
His funeral liturgy will begin at 11:00 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Church, with Bishop Leonard
Blair presiding, with Fr. Roger Bonifas Fr. Tony Borgia and Fr. Kent Kaufman in attendance.
His Rite of Committal will be on Monday, at Calvary Cemetery, Sandusky.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Toledo Diocesan Retirement Fund for Priests.
Arrangements by the Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville.
4-11-2005
Harold R. Hoehn
Harold R. Hoehn, 71, of Ottawa, died at 8:05 a.m. Monday at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Glandorf.
He was born Oct. 11, 1933, in Ottoville, to Rudolph B. and Marceil (Altenburger) Hoehn.
On Sept. 5, 1959, he married Rosemary Gerdeman, who survives in Ottawa.
Other survivors include three daughters, Deb (Mel) Warniment of New Cleveland and Lisa Hoehn and
Brenda (John) Berger of Ottawa; a brother, Donald (Angie) Hoehn of Delphos; two sisters, Marilyn (Bob)
Sickels and Geralyn (Ed) Bailey of Delphos; and three grandchildren, Kevin, Kurt and Katie Warniment.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Hoehn.
Mr. Hoehn retired after 43 years from Philips ECG in Ottawa; and did lawn care for Stonehedge
Apartments in Ottawa. He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa, Catholic Knights of
Ohio, the Ottawa Eagles, Leipsic Fish and Hunt Club and Glandorf Rod and Gun Club. He was an avid
fisherman and follower of the Ottawa-Glandorf and Miller City basketball teams and served in the Ohio National
Guard.
Mass of Christian burial will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, the Rev.
Tim Knepper officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2-8 p.m. Wednesday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a scripture service will
begin at 2:30 p.m. and an Eagles service will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Preferred memorials are to the Ottawa-Glandorf Athletic program or donor’s choice.
4-21-2005
Clarence W. Hoersten
Clarence W. Hoersten, 80, of Ottoville, died Wednesday morning at his residence.
He was born September 9, 1924, in Ottoville, to Joseph and Anna (Beining) Hoersten.
On September 8, 1948 he married Rita Tigner, who survives.
Survivors also include nine children, David (Kathleen) Hoersten of Ottoville, Irene (Ken) Rieman of
Bowling Green, Evelyn (Eugene) Klima of Payne, Phillip (Marilyn) Hoersten, Marcille (Edward) Hoehn and
Beverly (Randy) Schnipke of Ottoville, Ralph (Beth) Hoersten of Delphos, Bryan (Shelley) Hoersten of Fort
Jennings, and Audrey (David) Kimmet of Ottoville; three sisters: Barb Schneider of Ottoville, Julie Hemker of
Ottoville, and Clarann (Herb) Gerdeman of Delphos; and 28 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a grandson, Craig Hoersten; three sisters, Betty Wegesin, Tillie Herman, and
Victoria Luersman; five brothers, Hugo, Felix, Vince, Lawrence, and Anthony Hoersten; two half brothers, Joe
and Edwin Hoersten; and half sister, Marie Ellerbrock.
Mr. Hoersten was a retired farmer and had also retired from Central Soya. He was a member of the
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and VFW Post 3740 in Ottoville. He enjoyed collecting toy tractors,
gardening, and polka music. He was an Army Corporal having served overseas during WWII.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 2 p.m. Saturday afternoon at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
in Ottoville. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville, where a joint Military Graveside Service will
be conducted by the VFW Post 3740 and American Legion Post 715.
Friends may call from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. today at the Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home,
Ottoville, where a Parish Wake Service will begin at 3 p.m. and a VFW Service will begin at 7 p.m.
Preferred memorials are to the American Lung Association, American Cancer Society or the American
Red Cross.
4-21-2005
Armella M. Martz
Armella M. Martz, 87, died at 5:25 p.m. April 21, 2005, at VanCrest of Delphos.
She was born June 21, 1917, in Ottoville, to John and Josephine Schimmoeller Thines, who preceded her
in death. On July 25, 1940, she married Elmer W. "Ted" Martz, who died Nov. 19, 2004.
Mrs. Martz and her husband had been owner and operator of the Dew Drop Inn for 45 years and she had
been bookkeeper there for 55 years. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville,
where she was a member of its Altar Rosary Society and was a eucharistic minister. For several years, she
and her husband visited residents of the area nursing homes.
Survivors include four daughters, Carolyn (Eugene) Nartker of Kalida, Marilyn (Robert) Hoffman of
Ottoville, Janice (Denis) Neidert of Fort Jennings and Darlene (William) Maenle of Ottoville; 20 grandchildren;
34 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Valeta (Joseph) Stallkamp of Delphos and Janet (Robert) Fisher of
Boynton Beach, Fla.; a brother, Dennis Thines of Lima; two daughters-in-law, Nancy (Virgil) Hohlbein of
Ottoville and Rosie (James) Schwinnen of Landeck.
She was preceded in death by two sons, Elmer J. and John J. Martz; a grandson, John Martz Jr.; and a
sister, Dolores (Cyril) Hempfling.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Father Tony Borgia will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-
Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be held at 7 p.m. Monday.
Memorial contributions may be made to PSA 3 Agency on Aging Inc., Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church or St. Mary Cemetery.
5-4-2005
Montez P. Dray
Montez P. Dray, 97, died at 1:30 p.m. May 4, 2005, at Lima Manor Nursing Home.
She was born May 10, 1907, in Ottoville to William and Flossie Wolfe Dray, who preceded her in death.
Miss Dray retired in 1964 as an assembler from Westinghouse Electric Corp. She was a member of South
Side Christian Church.
Survivors include a niece, Pam Shaw of Lima; a great-nephew, Keith Shaw of Columbus; and a cousin,
George Huntley of Columbus.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Fern Furry.
Services will begin at noon Saturday at Chiles & Sons-Laman Funeral Homes, Lewis Chapel. The Rev.
Tina Dietsch will officiate. Burial will be in Salem Mennonite Cemetery, Elida.
Friends may call from 10 a.m. until time of services Saturday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church.
Condolences may be expressed at www.chileslamanfh.com.
5-7-2005
Richard R. Swint
Richard R. Swint, 86, of Lakeland, Fla., died Saturday at his residence.
He was born May 13, 1918, in Fremont, to Urban and Anna Swint.
He married Dorothy Swint, who survives.
Other survivors include five children, Kathleen (Jerry) Hoffman of Ottawa, Michael (Agnes) Swint of
Ottoville, Sheila (James) Eley of Lima, Vicki (Ken) Siefker of Delphos and Jeffrey (Joann) Swint of Fort
Jennings; a sister, Sr. Pauline Marie Swint, RSM, of Fremont; 13 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren.
Mr. Swint was a retired supervisor of Property Management and a World War II veteran. He was a
member of the Scott Lake Baptist church, Masonic Temple 91 and Scottish Rite.
Funeral services were held at Heath Funeral Chapel, Lakeland, with burial in Lakeland Memorial Garden.
In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are to Hospice of Lakeland, Rose Team.
5-9-2005
Rudolph J. Hoersten
Rudolph J. “Rudy” Hoersten, 88, of Delphos, died at 4:44 p.m. Monday at Vancrest Health Care Center.
He was born Dec. 6, 1916, in Putnam County, to George J. and M. Frederica (Ruen) Hoersten and
stepmother Helen (Schmitz) Hoersten.
On May 8, 1946, he married Florence Fischer, who survives in Delphos.
Other survivors include two sons, Arnold “Arnie” (Rosanne) Hoersten and Charles “Chuck” (Brenda)
Hoersten of Delphos; two daughters, Bea (David) Schnipke of Delphos and Dorothy “Dottie” (Lin Kimler)
Hoersten of Columbus; a brother, Arthur (Thelma) Hoersten of Middle Point; a sister-in-law, Velma Hoersten of
Delphos; an aunt, Mary Schmitz of Delphos; and 10 grandchildren, Christopher, Nathan, Aaron and Lauren
Schnipke; Amanda, Curtis, Timothy, Bryan, Chad and Lindsey Hoersten.
He was preceded in death by two children, Carl J. Hoersten and Eileen R. Hoersten; two brothers, Harry
and Othmar Hoersten; and two sisters, Alma Lauf and Mildred Wieging.
Mr. Hoersten retired from Suever Stone Company, was a farmer, custodian of Catholic Knights of Ohio
Hall in Landeck and was caretaker of St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Landeck. He was a member of St. John
the Baptist Catholic Church, Landeck, and its Holy Name Society, the CK of O and a past member of Eagles
Aerie 471. He enjoyed polka music, tinkering in his garage and could fix anything and stayed busy.
Mass of Christian burial will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Baptist Church, the Revs. John
Fleck and Jim Wieging officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where a
parish wake will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Preferred memorials are to the church, Vancrest Activity Fund or the Salvation Army.
6-5-2005
Rita B. Miller
Rita B. Miller, 87, died at 10:45 p.m. June 5, 2005, at Lincolnway Nursing Home, Middle Point
She was born Dec. 20, 1917, in Ottoville to Jacob and Emma J. John Thitoff, who preceded her in death.
On June 20, 1942, she married John C Miller, who preceded her in death.
Mrs. Miller had worked at Goddard’s Grocery, Grover Hill, and for the Paulding County Board of Elections.
He was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. She was a member of Veterans of
Foreign Wars Post 2873 Auxiliary, Grover Hill. She enjoyed bowling, knitting and crocheting. She loved
spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include four children, Larry (Deb) Miller of Van Wert, Lonnie (Sue) Miller and Jim (Mary Jo)
Miller, both of Grover Hill, and Roger (Deb) Miller of Convoy; a brother, Donald “Pug” (Margaret) Thitoff of
Celina; a sister, Agnes Stewart of Delphos; and nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by four brothers, Pete, Syl, Vince and Dick Thitoff; and a great-grandchild.
Services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. The Rev. Paul
Miller and Father Thomas Gorman will officiate. Burial will be in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill. Friends
may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contribution may be made to the American
Cancer Society or the Grover Hill Fire Department and EMS. Condolences may be sent to agfh@bright.net.
6-10-2005
Amanda C. Turnwald
Amanda C. Turnwald, 85, died at 4:35 p.m. June 10, 2005, at Sarah Jane Living Center in Delphos.
She was born Feb. 26, 1920, in Putnam County to Joseph and Elizabeth (Heitmeyer) Burgei. On Oct. 2,
1940, she married Lawrence W. Turnwald, who survives.
Mrs. Turnwald retired from K.P. Industries after more than 16 years. She was a member of Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church in Ottoville and its Altar Rosary Society. In addition to her family, her loves in life
included quilt making, crocheting, sewing, baking and service to others.
Survivors also include four sons, Richard (Frances) Turnwald of Van Wert, Thomas (Ruth) Turnwald of
Van Wert, Victor (Bonnie) Turnwald of Ottoville and Larry Turnwald of Ottoville and three daughters, Millie
(Oscar) Maag of Kalida, Julie (Ted) Sadler of Fort Wayne, Ind., and Carol (Jerry) Feldhaus of Indianapolis; two
sisters, Monica Verhoff of Kalida and Dolores Schroeder of Glandorf; 18 grandchildren and 26 great-
grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by three brothers, Leo, Edward and Gilbert Burgei; and two sisters, Mary
Burgei and Barb Miller.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
in Ottoville. Father Thomas Gorman will officiate. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home in
Ottoville where a parish wake service will be held at 3 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Building Repair
Fund, the St. Mary’s Cemetery Fund, the Alzheimer’s Association or a charity of the donor’s choice.
6-28-2005
Elizabeth R. Ricker
Elizabeth R. Ricker, 89, died at 10:12 a.m. June 28, 2005, at VanCrest of Delphos.
She was born Jan. 24, 1916, in Florence, Ala., to Anthony and Clara Hoernig Epping, who preceded her
in death. On July 16, 1945, she married Alfred “Pete” Ricker, who died May 5, 1991.
Mrs. Ricker was a homemaker and had worked in the cafeteria at Ottoville schools. She was a member of
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society.
Survivors include four sons, Louis (Ruth) Ricker and David (Connie) Ricker, both of Ottoville, Victor
(Patricia) Ricker of Toledo and John W. (Karen) Ricker of Cloverdale; 10 grandchildren; two great-
grandchildren; and a brother, Cletus Epping of Florence, Ala.
She was preceded in death by a son, Donald Ricker; and three sisters, Barbara Gresham, Rosa Thomas
and Adeline Carr.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary 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 3 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
7-14-2005
Jeanette A. Hohlbein
Jeanette A. Hohlbein, 76, of Ocala, Florida, formerly of Ottoville, died at 11 a.m., July 14, 2005, at Sylvia’s
House, in Ocala.
She was born April 4, 1929, in Ottoville, to Albert & Lucinda (Becker) Hohlbein. On June 18, 1949, she
married Eugene J. Liebrecht, who survives.
M r s. Hohlbein was a h o m e m a k e r and worked many years at Maas Bros. Department Store in
Ocala. She was a member of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, Ocala.
Survivors also include a son, Dennis L. Liebrecht of Ocala; a daughter, Rebecca Marie (Doug) Gilchrist of
Tavinier, Fla.; a sister, Norma (Eugene) Wittler of Defiance; and two grandsons, Troy and Brent Gilchrist
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville,
where a parish memorial service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
7-25-2005
Frances M. Kroeger
Frances M. Kroeger, 96, died at 2:45 a.m. July 25, 2005, at VanCrest of Delphos.
She was born April 24, 1909, in Ottoville to George and Elizabeth Hoffman Martin, who preceded her in
death. On Feb. 26, 1930, she married Gilbert D. Kroeger, who preceded her in death.
Mrs. Kroeger was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. She was a member of
the Delphos Sacred Heart League. She enjoyed gardening, bingo, crocheting and her family.
Survivors include three daughters, Betty Ann (Donald) Beining and Arlene (Robert) Bendele, both of
Ottoville, and Marilyn (Eugene) Lenhart of Spencerville; three sons, Kenneth E. Kroeger of Ottoville and
William M. (Barb) Kroeger and Thomas G. (Janet) Kroeger, both of Delphos; eight sisters, Eleanor Grothouse
and Irene Kill, both of Delphos, Catherine Miller of Landeck, Marie Etzkorn and Helen (Fred) Cross, both of
Delphos, Leona (Billy) Adams of Grover Hill and Jane Young of Van Wert; and 31 grandchildren, 63 great-
grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by an infant son, Robert Kroeger; a daughter-in-law, Margery Kroeger; a
sister, Viola Studenka; and a brother, Albert Martin.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church,
Delphos. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home,
Delphos, where a parish wake service will be held at 8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. John Parish Foundation or the American Heart Association.
8-3-2005
John Paul Miller
John Paul Miller, 63, died at 2:15 a.m. Aug. 3, 2005, at the Richard Ross Heart Center of The Ohio State
University Medical Center, Columbus.
He was born May 7, 1942, in Van Wert to Victor and Leone Martz Miller. His father preceded him in death.
His mother survives in Ottoville. On Feb. 15, 1969, he married Marilyn A. Foppe, who survives.
Mr. Miller was a truck driver for R.L. Lipton Distributing, Maple Heights. He was a member of Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. He was a member of Teamsters Local 293 and the Ottoville Lions Club.
He was a social member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740, Ottoville. He was a 1960 graduate of Ottoville
High School and had attended OSU. He dearly loved gardening and landscaping. He took great pride in
spending time with his grandchildren, family and friends. He was know as “PaPa” to his grandchildren.
Survivors also include two daughters, Wendy (Mark) Rieser of West Des Moines, Iowa, and Carmen
(Dwight) Closson of Glandorf; four grandchildren, Marianna Therese, Victor Mark, Britney Marie and Courtney
Rose; and 10 siblings, Jim (Virginia) Miller and Guy (Linda) Miller, both of Ottoville, Mike (Barb) Miller and Tom
(Marie) Miller, both of Delphos, Monica (Carl) Ricker and Mary (Alan) Miller, both of Ottoville, Bob (Cindy) Miller
of Kalida, Marge (Roy) Boop of Cridersville and Larry (Bonnie) Miller and LeAnn (Andrew) Carey, both of
Ottoville.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Anthony Miller.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a
parish wake service will be held at 7 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or the Unverferth House,
190 King Ave. Columbus, OH 43201.
8-26-2006
Wilbur Markward
Wilbur Markward, 70, died at 1:35 p.m. Aug. 26, 2005, at his residence.
He was born March 16, 1935, in Ottoville to Alphonse and Rosa Klima Markward, who preceded him in
death. On Aug. 27, 1960, he married Lois Fair, who survives in Delphos.
Mr. Markward retired in 1998 from Ford Motor Co. Lima Engine Plant, after 38 years. He was a member of
St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. He was a life member of American Legion Post 268,
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 and Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, all in Delphos. He was a
graduate of Mishawaka High School. He was a Navy veteran of the Korean War.
Survivors also include three sons, Scott (Nancy) Markward of Delphos, Todd (Cindy) Markward of Van
Wert and Mitchell (Melissa) Markward of Middle Point; two daughters, Roxann (Robert) Yant of Defiance and
Ronda (Brent) Rasche of Huntingburg, Ind.; three sisters, Alice Wolfinger of Lancaster, Delores Sheeter of
Delphos and Beatrice Dray of Fremont; two brothers, Urban Markward of Van Wert and Arthur (Barbara)
Markward of Lima; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Genevieve Rupert and Valita Grewe; a brother, Richard
Markward.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos.
Father Thomas Gorman will officiate. Burial will be in Walnut Grove Cemetery, Delphos, with military rites by
the Delphos Veterans Council.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a
parish wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
9-1-2005
Diane Marie Buettner
Diane Marie Buettner, 42, of Nashville, Tenn., formerly of Ottoville, died Sept. 1, 2005, at Summit Medical
Center in Nashville, after suffering a heart attack on Aug. 24.
She was born April 22, 1963, in Lima to Norman and Stella Hilvers Buettner, who survive in Ottoville.
Miss Buettner was the assistant branch manager at Total Supply Inc., Nashville, Tenn. She was a 1981
graduate of Ottoville High School.
Survivors also include three brothers, Kevin (Karen) Buettner of Cloverdale, Jeff (Kathy) Buettner of
Delphos and Brian (Debbie) Buettner of Sandusky; and five nieces and nephews, Neil, Eric, Nadine, Collin and
Monica Buettner.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Father John Stites 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 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
9-6-2005
Franklin B. Kleman
Franklin B. Kleman, 84, of Ottoville, died at 4:15 p.m. Wednesday at his residence.
He was born June 5, 1922, in Kalida, to Frank and Elizabeth (Kottenbrock) Kleman.
On May 3, 1947, he married Luetta (Becker) Kleman, who survives in Ottoville.
Other survivors include son Thomas (Debra) Kleman of Graytown; daughters Darlene (Don) Kemper of
Delphos, Debra Oney of Fort Jennings and Janice (Jerry) Roth of Cincinnati; brothers James (Janice) Kleman
of Fort Jennings and Eugene (Alvera) Kleman of Darby, Kan.; 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert; and infant sister, Mary Elizabeth.
Mr. Kleman was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II. He retired from Lima Register in 1984, after 35 years of
service. The Fort Jennings High School graduate held membership with Immaculate Conception Catholic
Church in Ottoville, the Ottoville VFW and the Catholic Knights of Ohio.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, the
Rev. John Stites officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, with military rites by the Ottoville
VFW and the Fort Jennings American Legion.
Friends may call from 2-8 p.m. today at Harter and Schier Funeral Home in Delphos, where a parish wake
service will be held at 7:30 tonight.
Preferred memorials are to the church or to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
9-6-2005
Lauretta A. Fischer
Lauretta A. Fischer, 94, died at 2:50 p.m. Sept. 6, 2005, at VanCrest of Delphos.
She was born March 31, 1911, in Cloverdale to Christopher and Josephine Beines Wolke, who preceded
her in death. On Nov. 30, 1933, she married Lawrence M. Fischer, who died May 1, 1977.
Mrs. Fischer retired in 1976 from GTE Sylvania/Philips Electronics, Ottawa, after 24 years. She was a
member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a member
of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3035 Auxiliary, Delphos. She loved polka music, gardening and quilting.
Survivors include four daughters, Mary Lou Clement (Bob) Geier of Delphos, Alice (Roger) Broecker of
Fort Jennings, Carolyn (Frank) Tobe of Glandorf and Marilyn (Melvin) Fischer of Gibson City, Ill.; and 11
grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by 10 siblings; and a son-in-law, Jim Clement.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a
VFW Auxiliary services will be held at 6:45 p.m. and a parish wake service will be held at 7 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
9-23-2005
Rita Goergens
Rita Goergens, 91, died at 7:55 p.m. Sept. 23, 2005, at Paradise Oaks Care Center.
She was born May 6, 1914, in Delphos, to John and Josephine Wahmhoff Martz. In 1939, she married
Edwin Clark Dunbar, who died Sept. 4, 1969. In 1971, she married Anthony Goergens, who died Aug. 7, 1995.
Mrs. Goergens was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ottoville. She enjoyed
gardening and flowers.
Survivors include a son, Donald (Marilyn) Dunbar of Ottoville; three stepsons, Alan (Catherine) Goergens
of Delphos, Arthur “Jim” Goergens of Delphos, and Ronald (Jane) Goergens of Delphos; four grandchildren,
James (Colleen) Dunbar of Cloverdale, Charles Dunbar of Kalida, Michael Dunbar of Ottawa, and Tambera
(Blas) Alvarado of Oakwood; 12 great-grandchildren; many stepgrandchildren and stepgreat-grandchildren; a
stepdaughter-in-law, Milly Stoner of Delphos; and a sister, Helen Pohlman of Delphos.
She was preceded in death by a son, Charles Lee Dunbar; two stepsons, Donald and David Goergens;
three brothers, Cornell, Raymond, and Elmer “Ted” Martz; and a sister, Lucille Wiechart.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in
Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery in Lima.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home,
Ottoville, where a parish wake service will begin at 7 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Association.
9-26-2005
Kevin S. Brickner
Kevin S. Brickner, 37, formerly of Ottoville, died at 11:10 p.m. Sept. 26, 2005, from injuries suffered in a
motorcycle accident on township Road 55 in Logan County.
He was born Aug. 1, 1968, in Lima to Ralph W. and Sharon A. Wieman Brickner, who survive in Ottoville.
On Nov. 5, 1988, in Ottoville, he married Janet M. Will, who survives in Bellefontaine.
Mr. Brickner worked in the maintenance department at Honda, East Liberty, and as a karate instructor at
the Ohio Fitness of Martial Arts Academy. He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Bellefontaine. He
was a 1986 graduate of Ottoville High School and a 1989 graduate of ITT Technical Institute, Fort Wayne, Ind.
Survivors also include two sons, Andrew James Brickner and Conner John Brickner, both at home; a
daughter, Marisa Renee Brickner at home; and a sister, Laura (Dan) McDowell of Columbus
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites and the Rev. Patrick Sheridan will officiate. Burial: St Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today at Eichholtz Funeral Home, Bellefontaine, and 2 to 4
and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville.
Memorial contributions may be made to a scholarship fund for his children.
Arrangements are by Eichholtz Funeral Home.
10-4-2005
Urban H. Schnipke
Urban H. Schnipke, 81, died at 6:05 p.m. Oct. 4, 2005, at Van Crest Health Care Center, Delphos.
He was born July 10, 1924, in Cloverdale, to Henry and Lillian Miller Schnipke, who preceded him in
death. On Sept. 27, 1950, he married Betty Ricker, who survives in Cloverdale.
Mr. Schnipke was a retired farmer and had worked at Odenweller Milling in Cloverdale. He retired in 1989
as a representative for the National Farmers Organization. He was a member of St. Barbara Catholic Church,
Cloverdale, where he was a Eucharistic minister and lector, and belonged to the Holy Name Society. He was an
Army veteran of World War II and the Korean conflict. He was a member of Ottawa American Legion Post 63,
Ottawa Eagles, Cloverdale Game Club, National Farmers Organization, and was a 13-year member of the
Ottoville School board. He was an avid fan of Ottoville basketball, The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cincinnati
Reds.
Survivors also include four sons, David (Bea) Schnipke of Delphos, Randy (Bev) Schnipke and Dennis
(Melissa) Schnipke, both of Ottoville, and Dalynn (Rickie) Schnipke of Convoy; two daughters, Kathy (Herbert)
Gardner of Clayton, Mich., and Connie Schnipke of Cloverdale; five brothers, Othmar (Dolorosa) Schnipke and
Oscar (Shirley) Schnipke, both of Glandorf, Ralph (Wilma) Schnipke of Cloverdale, Robert (Patricia) Schnipke
of Samaria, Mich., and Karl (Patricia) Schnipke of Toledo; three sisters, Margie (Dan) Schroeder of Kalida,
Helen Schroeder of Columbus Grove and Laura (Dick) Coressel of Glandorf; 19 grandchildren and nine great-
grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Gary Schnipke; a daughter, Karen Rieman; and a brother, Virgil
Schnipke.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. Barbara Catholic Church, Cloverdale.
Father Robert Kill will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery, where military rites will be conducted by
the Ottawa American Legion.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today and 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where an
Eagle service will begin at 7:30 p.m. today and a scripture service at 8 p.m. Friday.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Barbara Catholic Church.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.
10-28-2005
Ronald J. Schimmoeller
Ronald J. “Mouse” Schimmoeller, 64, died at 11:25 a.m. Oct. 28, 2005, at Putnam Acres Care Center in
Ottawa.
He was born Dec. 15, 1940, in Detroit, to Walter and Yoland (Flanagan) Schimmoeller.
Mr. Schimmoeller was a truck driver and was self-employed in the recycling business. He was a member
of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fort Jennings.
Survivors also include two sons, Tom (Donna) Schimmoeller of Ottoville and Duane Schimmoeller of
Delphos; three daughters, Kelly (Tony) Recker of Fort Jennings, Della (Kevin) Wenninger of Haviland and
Jennifer (Kirk) Perry of Ohio City; and 13 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Ricky Dean Schimmoeller.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Father Joe
Przybysz will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery in Fort Jennings.
There will no visitation.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Hospice.
Arrangements are by Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Homes.
11-5-2005
Alice J. Bendele
Alice J. Bendele, 75, died at 3:45 p.m. Nov. 5, 2005, at her residence.
She was born July 25, 1930, in Fort Jennings to Joseph F. and Mary Ann Osting Menke, who preceded
her in death. She married Richard J. “Dick” Bendele, who survives in Ottoville.
Mrs. Bendele was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its Altar Rosary Society. She
enjoyed bowling and was especially fond of camping and 4-wheeling in Michigan. She loved being a mom and
grandma.
Survivors include five children, Daniel R. Bendele of Lakeland, Fla., Terry L. Bendele of Ottoville, Bruce
A. (Lisa) Bendele of Ottoville, Martin E. (Angie) Bendele of Cloverdale and Michelle M. Bigelow of Delphos; 10
grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; three brothers, Robert Menke, Ralph (Ruth) Menke and Edward
(JoAnn) Menke, all of Fort Jennings; and two sisters-in-law, Mary Jeanette Menke of Delphos and Mary Lou
Menke of Fort Jennings.
She was preceded in death by a son, Randall J. Bendele; a sister, Elizabeth Siebenecke; and four
brothers, Raymond Menke, Paul Menke, Joseph Menke and Len Menke.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. The Rev. John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. today at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Fuenral Home,
Ottoville, where a parish wake service will be held at 8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Putnam County Hospice or toward Masses in Mrs. Bendele’s
memory.
11-15-2005
Janet Brown
Janet Brown, 71, died at 6:45 a.m. Nov. 15, 2005, at her residence.
She was born Dec. 11, 1933, in Putnam County to Felix and Margaret Sterling Wieging, who preceded
her in death. On June 19, 1981, she married Richard O. Brown, who survives in Cloverdale.
Mrs. Brown retired as a nurse’s aide and beautician from Paradise Oaks Nursing Home, after 36 years.
She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville. She was a graduate of Fort Jennings
High School. She enjoyed embroidering and woodworking, but her passion was her family.
Survivors include two sons, Michael (Brenda) Ricker of Delphos and Mark (Becky) Ricker of Ottoville; 11
daughters, Julia (Keith) Kleman of Venedocia, Kathy (Wayne) Risner of Grover Hill, Laura (Philip) Johnson of
Chippewa Falls, Wis., Margaret (Michael) Pavel of Van Wert, Deanna Jewell of Grover Hill, Elaine (Chuck)
Metcalfe and Amy (David) Zalar, both of Delphos, Malinda Ricker of Van Wert, Linda (David) Neth of Lima,
Robin (Jeff) McGinnis of Westminster and Kelly (David) Butler of Lima; a sister, Beth “Bess” Gener of Delphos;
and 38 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by three sons, David, Timothy and Bernard Ricker.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Fort Jennings.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where
a parish wake service will be held at 8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Delphos Hospice or the Ottoville EMS.
12-1-2005
Edwin John Hoersten
Edwin John Hoersten, 89, died at 5:28 a.m. Dec. 1, 2005, at Lost Creek Care Center.
He was born Aug. 13, 1916, in Ottoville to Louis and Catherine Fischbach Hoersten, who preceded him in
death. On Sept. 20, 1945, he married Emma Wurth, who survives.
Mr. Hoersten retired as a delivery driver from Nickles Bakery. Following his retirement, he was a vault
attendant at the Metropolitan Bank. He was a 55-year member of St. John Catholic Church, Lima, where he
was a member of the choir, an usher and had been head of its Holy Name Society three times. He had been a
board member of the Association of Retarded Citizens, where in 1991, he was Member of the Year. He was an
Army veteran of World War II, serving in the European Theater. He was a lifelong fan of the Detroit Tigers and
Notre Dame and was a railroad buff.
Survivors also include two sons, Greg A. Hoersten and Mark J. (Linda) Hoersten, both of Cridersville; nine
daughters, Kathleen (Brian) Quirk of Whitefish Bay, Wis., Jean Ann (Jerry) Burden of Lima, Linda R. Hoersten
of Knoxville, Tenn., Sandra L. (Scott) Hofacker of Elida, Patricia K. Hoersten, Christine M. (Donald Guerrero)
Hoersten, Judith E. (Bob) Galasso and Carol J. (Vern) Bockrath, all of Columbus, and Annette T. Hoersten of
Lima; four brothers, Richard Hoersten, Harold Hoersten, Roger Hoersten and John Hoersten; three sisters,
Betty Daeger, Jeannette Black and Rita Adams; and 24 grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Ike Hoersten; and a sister, Mary Therese Bullinger.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at St. John Catholic Church, Lima. Father
William Rose will officiate. Burial will be in Gethsemani Cemetery, with military rites by Veterans of Foreign
Wars Post 1275.
Friends may call from 3 to 8 p.m. today at Chiles & Sons-Laman Funeral Homes, Lewis Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be made to Lost Creek Care Center or St. John Catholic Church.
Condolences may be expressed at www.chiles -lamanfh.com.
12-2-2005
Rose V. Hoersten
Rose V. Hoersten, 82, of Ottoville, died at 2:45 p.m. Friday at Vancrest Health Care Center, Delphos.
She was born July 1, 1923, in Delphos, to Henry and Crescentia (Elwer) Fischer. On Nov. 7, 1945, she
married Hugo F. Hoersten, who died July 26, 1971.
Survivors include five children, Joan (Steven) Bockey, Thomas (Mary Ann) Hoersten and Jerry (Marcia)
Hoersten of Delphos, James (Lois) Hoersten and Donald (Karen) Hoersten of Ottoville; four sisters, Edna
Dickrede and Helen Ebbeskotte of Delphos, Florence Hoersten of Landeck and Ruth Ernst of Coldwater; 19
grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a grandson, Luke Bockey; five brothers, infant Elmer, Arthur, Hubert,
Otmer and Ralph Fischer.
Mrs. Hoersten had been a homemaker and worked as a custodian for Ottoville Local Schools. She was a
member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and its Altar Rosary Society. She had been a 4-H advisor
for the Ottoville Up-To-Date Club.
Mass of Christian burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2-9 p.m. Sunday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville, where a
parish wake will begin at 7 p.m.
Preferred memorials are to the church or donor’s choice.
12-11-2005
Joseph A. Herman
Joseph A. “Joe” Herman, 73, of Spencerville, died at 11:08 p.m. Sunday at St. Rita’s Medical Center
following a short illness.
He was born Dec. 12, 1931, in Ottoville to Albert “Peck” and Mathilda Theresa “Tillie” Hoersten Herman,
both of whom are deceased.
On June 9, 1956, he married Marie Kroeger, who survives.
Other survivors include three daughters, Teresa (Eric) Riffle of Spencerville, Julie Herman of Fort Wayne
and Bev England of Elida; two brothers, Leonard (Carole) Herman of Columbus and James (Arlene) Herman of
Kettering; a sister Mary Ann (Al) German of Delphos; a sister-in-law Pat (Frank) Vasquez of Delphos; a brother-
in-law Bob (Shirley) Kroeger of Spencerville; and four grandchildren: Kristen and Matt Riffle of Spencerville
and Michael and Aaron England of Elida.
Mr. Herman owned and operated Herman’s T.V. in Spencerville for 50 years before retiring this year. He
was a 1950 graduate of St. John’s High School and served in the United States Army in Germany during the
Korean War. He then attended the Coyne Technical School in Chicago. He held membership at St. Patrick
Catholic Church in Spencerville, the Harry J. Reynolds American Legion Post 191 and the Bowersock Brothers
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6772.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Patrick Catholic Church in
Spencerville, the Rev. John Fleck officiating. Burial will follow in Spencerville Cemetery with military rites.
Friends may call from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. today at the Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville
where a parish wake will take place at 8 p.m.
Preferred memorials are to St. Patrick Catholic Church.
12-13-2005
Chris A. Gerdeman
Chris A. Gerdeman, 47, of Fort Wayne, Ind., formerly of Ottoville, died at 2:18 a.m. Dec. 13, 2005,
surrounded by family at her mother’s residence in Ottoville, following a four-year battle with breast cancer.
She was born March 5, 1958, in Lima to Eugene and Martha “Marty” Bendele Gerdeman. Her father died
Sept. 5, 1996. Her mother survives in Ottoville.
Miss Gerdeman was a senior pharmaceutical representative at Takeda Pharmaceuticals, where she
received several awards in excellence. She was a member, since childhood, of Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church, Ottoville, where she continued to sing the praises of the Lord with the choir. She was a
devoted Christian who mentored troubled youth through St. Vincent Catholic Church, Fort Wayne, Ind. She
was a 1976 graduate of Ottoville High School, received a registered nursing degree from Lima Technical
College and her bachelor’s degree in general science from Indiana University-Purdue University, Fort Wayne,
Ind. Her sparkling personality and her beautiful smile touched many lives. In her short life, she accumulated
many friends.
Survivors also include three brothers, Todd (Cheryl), Jed (Joann) and Scott; two nieces, Ashley and
Amber; and a nephew, Blake.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at D.O. McComb & Sons Pine Valley Park Funeral
Home, Fort Wayne, Ind., and 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Kolkmeyer-Helmkamp-Orians Funeral Home, Ottoville,
where a vigil service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to local animal shelters or food pantries.
Arrangements are by D.O. McComb & Sons.
12-22-2005
Mary C. Metzger
Mary C. Metzger, 83, of Fort Jennings, died at 9:35 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born Dec. 9, 1922, in Ottoville, to August and Pauline (Flatz) Rellinger.
On May 24, 1944, she married Anthony P. Metzger, who preceded her in death.
Survivors include four sons, Ronald (Martha) of Cable, Daniel (Marilyn) of Kalida and Joseph (Diane) and
Michael (Melanie), of Fort Jennings; two daughters, Judy (John) Washbush of Madison, Wis., and Virginia
(James) Miller of Ottoville; two sisters, Isabelle (Don) Mardward of Delphos and Lucina (Russ) Donaldson of
Fort Jennings; three brothers, Art (Doris) Rellinger of Ottoville, Paul Rellinger of Cloverdale and Oscar (Mary)
Rellinger of Fremont; 16 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death two sisters Adelaide Smith and Imelda Stechschulte; and three brothers: Karl,
John and Ferdinand Rellinger.
Mrs. Metzger was a former secretary for Nationwide Insurance in Fort Jennings and a volunteer at Fort
Jennings Elementary School. She was a 1940 graduate of Ottoville High School, held membership with St.
Joseph’s Catholic Church in Fort Jennings and enjoyed gardening and playing cards with close friends.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Monday at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, the Rev. Joseph
Przybysz officiating. Burial will take place at a later date.
Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. today and from 2-6 p.m. Saturday at Harter and Schier Funeral Home and
one hour prior to Mass Monday at the church. There will be a parish wake service at 2 p.m. Saturday at the
funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to the Fort Jennings Library Program.