1-17-2007
Wilma A. Kromer
Wilma Kromer, 93, died at 9:35 a.m. Jan. 17, 2007, at the Lima Convalescent Home.
She was born March 4, 1913, in Ottoville to Frank and Anna Sellet Kromer, who preceded her in death.
Miss Kromer retired from the Lima Public Library, after 25 years. She was a member of St. Rose Catholic
Church.
Survivors include a sister-inlaw, Mary Jane Kromer, of Lima; a niece, Mary Ann Kromer, of Lima; four
nephews, Thomas (Joyce) Kromer, of Burlington, Vt., Marvin (Cheryl) Kromer, of Kalida, and Stephen J. Kromer
and John (Helen) Kromer, both of Lima; and two great-nephews and six great-nieces.
She was preceded in death by three brothers, Leon, Gerald and infant Marcus Kromer; and two infant sisters,
Elenore and Martha Kromer.
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. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
There will be no visitation.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Lima Convalescent Home.
Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.
Arrangements are by Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home.
2-1-2007
Susan A. Klima
Susan K. Klima, 63, died at 2:14 p.m. Feb. 1, 2007, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born Aug. 20, 1943, in Fremont to Robert and Marjorie Looser Shilling. Her father preceded her in
death. Her mother, Marjorie Dunlap, survives in Ottoville. On Aug. 8, 1964, she married Joseph “Sonny” Klima Jr.,
who survives in Ottoville.
Mrs. Klima retired as manager from Nichols Meats/Big ‘O’ Deli, Ottoville. She was a member of Immaculate
Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Altar Rosary Society and Catholic Ladies of Columbia. She served
on the Ottoville Village Council for several years. She was a member of the Jaycee-Otts and Veterans of Foreign
Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary, where she had served as vice president, both in Ottoville. She had also been a
member of the Putnam County Community Improvement Corp.
Survivors also include three sons, Jeff (Julee) Klima, of Westerville, Kevin (Alicia) Klima, of Cloverdale, and
Douglas Klima, of Ottoville; two daughters, Kim (Dave) Rue and Cheryl (Dennis) Karcher, both of Ottoville; seven
grandchildren, Nicholas Rue, Colin Rue, Greg Rue, Rhyan Klima, Grace Klima, Evan Karcher and Kaitlyn
Karcher; and two brothers, Steve (Ginger) Shilling of New Richmond, and Larry Dunlap, of Cloverdale.
She was preceded in death by her stepfather, David Dunlap.
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 the church cemetery.
Friends may call from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a
CLC service will be held at 6 p.m. and a Scripture service at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.
2-12-2007
Irma T. Pohlman
Irma T. Pohlman, 91, died at 5:40 p.m. Feb. 12, 2007, at her residence.
She was born Aug. 13, 1915, in Delphos to George and Clara Carder Rupert, who preceded her in death.
On Feb. 22, 1936, she married Hubert V. Pohlman, who died April 17, 1989.
Mrs.Pohlman was a homemaker. She was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville,
and its Altar Rosary Sodality and its Christian Mothers.
Survivors include three sons, Gerald (Dorothy) Pohlman, Michael (Louise) Pohlman and Kenneth (Beth)
Pohlman, all of Ottoville; three daughters, Margie (Harold) Honigford, of Ottoville, Marilyn (Daniel) Siefker, of
Kalida, and Carol (Don) Engel, of Glen Ellyn, Ill.; 15 grandchildren; 28 greatgrandchildren; and two sisters, Helen
Owens, of Colorado, and Lucille Burger, of Tiffin.
She was preceded in death by a brother, George Rupert; a sister, Ethel Bendele; and a daughter-in-law,
Margie Pohlman.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
Father John Stites and Deacon Joe Flores will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, at the corner of state Routes
613 and 224, Jackson Township, where a Scripture service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
2-27-2007
Mary Ann Koester
Mary Ann Koester, 74, died at 12:05 p.m. Feb. 27, 2007, at Calvary Manor Nursing Home, Glandorf, after a
courageous fight with breast cancer.
She was born Nov. 4, 1932, in Kalida to Albert and Mary Buss Kramer, who preceded her in death. On Aug.
13, 1955, she married Victor Koester, who died July 29, 1984.
Mrs. Koester was a retired housekeeper for Van Wert County Hospital, Van Wert. She was a member of
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its rosary altar society. She was a member of the Ottoville
Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary. She was a 1951 graduate of Kalida High School. She enjoyed her
grandchildren, gardening, ceramics and seasonally decorating her home. She was an excellent cook, was high
spirited and was an inspiration to all who knew her.
Survivors include two sons, Karl “Kork” (Tammy) Koester, of Ottoville, and Keith (April) Koester, of Fort
Jennings; three daughters, Judy Koester, of Ottoville, Joyce (Dale) Schimmoeller, of Findlay, and Vickie (Jerry)
Simpson, of Arlington, Texas; 10 grandchildren, Greg, Scott and Jessica Schimmoeller, Christopher Gessner,
Trent Simpson, Shayla and Haylee Koester, Zachary Friemoth and Abigail and Ethan Koester; a brother, Alfred
(Wilma) Kramer, of Fort Jennings; and three sisters, Catherine Hammons, of Delphos, Helen (Henry) Niese, of
Lima, and Teresa (Charles) Murphy, of Fort Wayne, Ind.
She was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Bob Hammons.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday 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 Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a VFW
Auxiliary service will be held at 3:30 p.m. and a Scripture service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
3-2-2007
Jerome A. Niemeyer
Jerome A. Niemeyer, 65, died at 5:38 a.m. March 2, 2007, in Atlanta.
He was born Dec. 6, 1941, in Landeck to Alphonse and Rosemary (Giesken) Niemeyer, who preceded him in
death. On June 3, 1967, he married Jean E. Best, who died March 2, 2007.
Mr. Niemeyer was a 1959 graduate of Ottoville High School. He was a member of St. A n t h o n y C a t h o l i
c Church, Knights of Columbus and the Holy Name Society. He was in the National Guard. He was a member of
Bowers Slusser American Legion Post 516 in Columbus Grove. He had worked at Philips Corporation until his
retirement in 2000. He was a member of Quarter Century Club of Philips. After retirement, he was a substitute
bus driver for Columbus Grove schools and worked for Executive Coach in Ottawa. He loved his grandson. He
enjoyed gardening, doing “handy work” for his wife and children.
Survivors include two sons, David L. and Gregory T. Niemeyer, both of Hilliard; a daughter, Julie A. (Jason)
Potts, of Dublin; five brothers, Ronald (Mary Lou) Niemeyer, of Ottoville, Charles (Anne) Niemeyer, of
Wapakoneta, Tim (Chris) Niemeyer, of Castalia, Paul (Ellen) Niemeyer, of Kalida, and Alan (Angie) Niemeyer, of
Ottoville; seven sisters, Norma (Wayne) Turk, of Fort Wayne, Ind., Mary Jane (Bernard) Averesch, of Kalida,
Ruth (Eugene) Hoorman, of Ottawa, Janice (Jerold) Eickholt, of Ottoville, Marcia (Daniel) Eickholt, of Ottoville,
Mary Jo (Jerald) Miller, of Delphos, Rose (Mark) Krietemeyer, of Columbus; a grandson, Brady Potts.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Sylvia Niemeyer; and a brother, Daniel Niemeyer.
Services will begin at 11 a.m. Wednesday at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus Grove. The Rev. Ron
Warnimont will officiate. Burial will be in St. Anthony Cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday and 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at
Hartman Sons Funeral Home in Columbus Grove. A Knights of Columbus Rosary service will be held at 3:30 p.m.
Monday and Altar Rosary and Catholic Ladies of Columbia will be held at 3:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Anthony School or to the wishes of the family.
3-2-2007
John W. Byrne
John W. Byrne, 91, died at 5:40 p.m. March 3, 2007, at Celina Manor Nursing Home.
He was born July 10, 1915, in Ottoville to Daniel and Emma Brandehoff Byrne, who preceded him in death.
On Aug. 20, 1938, he married Gertrude I r e n e B r i n k m a n , who died March 17, 1982.
Mr. Byrne retired as a welder from Fruehauf Corp., Delphos. He also was a retired farmer. He was a member
of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, and its Holy Name Society. He was a member of the Ohio
Farmers Union.
Survivors include two sons, Daniel (Joan) Byrne, of Celina, and Rodger (Diana) Byrne, of Van Wert; three
daughters, Virginia (James) Schroeder, of Pittsburgh, Rebecca (Barry) Cousins, of Toledo, and Cheryl (Greg
Golen) Byrne, of Novi, Mich.; 11 grandchildren; 13 greatgrandchildren; and a sister, Josephine Herman, of
Adrian, Mich.
He was preceded in death by a daughter, Patricia Byrne; a grandchild; three brothers, Joseph, Orion and
Hugo Byrne; and a sister, Salome Grosenbacher.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a
Scripture service will be held at 6 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or to the Ottoville High
School athletic program.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.
4-9-2007
Emma F. Schwinnen
Emma F. Schwinnen, 94, of Venedocia, died at 3:18 p.m. Monday, April 9, 2007, at Van Wert County
Hospital in Van Wert.
She was born November 27, 1912, in Ottoville, the daughter of the late John and Rosa (Schlagbaum)
Giesken. On May 11, 1938, she married Nelson Schwinnen, who preceded her in death on August 2, 1985.
Survivors include a foster son, John (Vicki) Michael of Landeck; one daughter, Mary (Robert) Beer of
Decatur, Ind.; three brothers, Ambrose Giesken, Julius Giesken and John Giesken, all of Delphos; and one
grandson.
A son, Dale Schwinnen; nine brothers and sisters; and two grandsons, also preceded her in death.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, April 13, at St. John the Baptist Catholic
Church in Landeck, with Father Fleck officiating. Burial will be in St. John Cemetery in Landeck.
Visitation is from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, and from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, April 12, at Harter &
Schier Funeral Home in Delphos, where a wake service will be held at 7:30 Thursday evening, as well as a
Catholic Ladies of Columbia memorial service.
4-15-2007
Bradley E. Longstreth
Bradley E. Longstreth, 54, of Ottoville, died at 7:27 p.m. Sunday at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born July 11, 1952, in Lima, to Earl and Mildred (Brumback) Longstreth. His mother survives in
Ottoville.
Other survivors include son Chad (Michele) Longstreth of Rockford; daughter Kasy Longstreth of Van Wert;
brother Terry Longstreth of Ottoville; sister Kim (Mike) Leis of Ottoville; a grandchild and several nieces and
nephews.
He was also preceded in death by sisters Sharon and Shelley Longstreth.
Mr. Longstreth was a United States Marine Corps veteran who served during Viet Nam. He was employed
with RTH Processing in Delphos.
Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home’s Jackson Township
location, Pastor Steve Elderbrock officiating. Burial will be at 11 a.m. Saturday in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Friends may call from 2-8 Wednesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to donor’s choice.
4-18-2007
Michael E. Garlock
Michael E. Garlock, 53, died at 10:15 a.m. April 18, 2007, at Putnam County Ambulatory Care Center,
Glandorf.
He was born Oct. 19, 1953, in Detroit to Edward and Jean Weaver Garlock. His father preceded him in
death. His mother survives in Ottoville.
Mr. Garlock had been a forklift operator. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. He enjoyed fishing, golfing and watching all sports on television, especially the Detroit Tigers.
Survivors also include a brother, Edward (Tanya) Garlock, of Grover Hill; five sisters, Diane (Kenneth)
Bendele, of Ottoville, Judy (Hugh) Hughes, of Commerce Township, Mich., Jean (Marty) Rhodes, of Monroe, N.C.,
Tracey Garlock, of Cloverdale, and Janet (Dan) Kwiser, of Saginaw, Mich.; and several nieces, nephews, great-
nieces and great-nephews.
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 Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, corner of state Routes 224 and
634, Jackson Township.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
4-23-2007
Mildred L. Longstreth
Mildred L. Longstreth, 77, died at 3:28 a.m. April 23, 2007, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born July 26, 1929, in Paynes Depot, Ky., to Alonzo and Fannie Newton Brumback, who preceded
her in death. On Aug. 12, 1946, she married Earl L o n g s t r e t h , who died Aug. 1, 1995.
Mrs. Longstreth retired from Dana Corp., Columbia City, Ind., and had worked at Express Mart, Ottoville. She
was a member of Middle Point Presbyterian Church, Middle Point. She attended Middle Point High School.
Survivors include a son, Terry Longstreth, of Ottoville; a daughter, Kim (Mike) Leis, of Ottoville; 10
grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Charles (Louise) Brumback, of Georgetown, Ky., and Lewis
(Pam Grey) Brumback, of Leo, Ind.; and a sister, Sheila (Bill) Evans, of Findlay.
She was preceded in death by a son, Bradley Longstreth; two daughters, Sharon and Shelley Longstreth;
three brothers, Herb, Jack and Stanley Brumback; and four sisters, Myrtle Bruin, Evelyn McGinnis, Blanche
Dragoo and Beulah Brumback.
Services will begin at 11 a.m. Friday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, at the corner of state Routes 224 and
634, Jackson Township. Pastor Steve Elderbrock will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
4-25-2007
Herbert J. Bendele
Herbert John Bendele, 87, of Van Wert, died at 5:20 a.m. Friday at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van
Wert.
He was born Nov. 12, 1920, in Jackson Township, Van Wert County, to Sebastian and Mary Elizabeth
(Altenberger) Bendele.
He was married to Juanita Jean (Wall) Bendele, who survives.
Other survivors include son Karl (Barb) Bendele of Denver; daughters Karen (Neil) Hammons of Van Wert,
Marlene (Bob) LeDoux of Castle Rock, Colo., and Diana (Thomas) Pawloski of Akron; sister Lucille Lytle of Van
Wert; 18 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by children Danielle Zinn, Judy Fodrie and Harry Barber; brothers Cleo, Harold,
Ervin, Walter “Jack”, Lawrence “Red” and Leonard Bendele; and sister Maricelle Bendele.
Mr. Bendele served in the Civilian Conservation Corp and retired from Clark Equipment in Lima as a welder
in 1971. He attended Trinity Friends Church of Van Wert.
Memorial services will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday in the Fireside Room at the church, his son-in-law
Pastor Neil Hammons officiating.
Arrangements are by Cowan and Son Funeral Home in Van Wert.
4-27-2007
Douglas A. Vorst
Douglas A. Vorst, 45, died at 12:32 a.m. April 27, 2007, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 23, 1961, in Lima to Thomas Vorst and Joan Gordon Bleim. His father and stepmother,
Fran Vorst, survive in Ottoville. His mother survives in Toledo.
Mr. Vorst was a crew foreman for his family’s business, Vorst Pa v i n g , C l o v e r d a l e , where he
oversaw many projects in the southern states. He had also worked several years as a carry-all driver for S.E.
Johnson and as a shift supervisor at True Mark & Engraving. He was a member of Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church, Ottoville. He was a 1979 graduate of Ottoville High School, here he played on the basketball
team that went to state in 1978. He was an avid golfer. He was the fourth of five children.
In February 2005, he was diagnosed with squamous cell cancer. During his battle, and throughout his life,
he was an inspiration with his sense of humor, kind heart and wondering spirit. He is now gone after 45 years of
sharing his love and laughter.
Survivors also include two sons, Brian Vorst and Chad Vorst, both of Delphos; a daughter, Jessica Vorst, of
Lima; two brothers, Mark (Lisa) Vorst and Dan (Mary) Vorst, both of Ottoville; two sisters, Catherine (Don
Kenney) Vorst, of Whitehouse, and Diane (Bill) Sturt, of Waterville; his friend, Carol Wannemacher, of Ottoville;
and eight nieces and nephews, Michelle Vorst, Shannon Vorst, Josh Vorst, Alyeska Sturt, Sierra Sturt, Erica
Vorst, Andrea Vorst and Nicole Vorst.
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 Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, at the corner of state routes 224
and 634, near Ottoville, where a Scripture service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made
to Putnam County Home Health & Hospice or Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Condolences may be
expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com. God Saw You God saw you getting tired, And a cure was not to be, As
He put His arms around you And whispered “Come with me”
With tears we watched you suffer And saw you fade away Although we loved you dearly We couldn’t make
you stay.
God held his hand out to you And touched your gentle face And now we know you rest in peace In God’s
most heavenly place — Author unknown.
5-6-2007
Hilda M. Menker
Hilda M. Menker, 90, of Englewood, died Sunday.
She was born Jan. 29, 1917, in Ottoville, to Andrew and Rose (Weber) Hoehn.
She was married to Wilbert Menker, who preceded her in death.
Survivors include daughters Irene Gaylor and Mary Ann (Bob) Catrow; sons Vern (Kathie) Menker and
Gene (Paula) Menker; sister Ann Bonifas of Ottoville; brother Walter (Betty) Hoehn of Lima; and 16
grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.
She was also preceded in death by her son, Roger; and brothers John and Lawrence Hoehn.
Mrs. Menker had served as a branch counselor with the Dayton Daily News for more than 21 years. She
held memberships with St. Rita Catholic Church, the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the St. Rita and Precious
Blood Leisure clubs.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Rita Catholic Church in Dayton, the Rev.
Geoffrey Drew officiating. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery.
Friends may call from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at the George C. Martin Funeral Home in Dayton, where a
prayer service will begin at 9:30 a.m. Thursday.
Preferred memorials are to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, St. Rita Catholic Church or Hospice of Dayton.
5-13-2007
Marjorie A. Herman
Marjorie A. Herman ,77, died at 12:45 p.m. May 13, 2007, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born Feb. 23, 1930, in Ottoville to Gregory and Esther Wallenhorst Eggeman. Her father preceded
her in death. Her mother survives in Ottoville. On Aug. 19, 1950, she married John “Dag” Herman, who survives
in Ottoville. They had been married for 56 years.
Mrs. Herman was a devoted sales associate at J.J. Miller Co., Ottoville, for 55 years. She was a member of
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville, where she was a member of its Altar Rosary Society and
served on the Liturgy Committee. She was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3740 Auxiliary, Ottoville,
and the Delphos Country Club, Delphos. She had served as president of the Tuesday Ladies Golfers League
and was the 1987 Women’s Senior Division Golf Champion. She had been the adviser of the Ottoville Upto-Date
4H for 20 years and was co-founder of the current Ottoville Park. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandma and
great-grandma, who was a good cook, excellent seamstress and avid golfer.
Survivors also include a son, William (Debbie) Herman, of Medina; two daughters, Patricia (Ted) Elliott, of
Glandorf, and Jean (Tom) Gemmer, of Van Wert; eight grandchildren, John Gemmer, Christopher Gemmer, Jill
Gemmer, William Herman Jr., Michael Herman, Joy Miller Martz, Jared Miller and Kelsey Elliott; seven great-
grandchildren, Austin McNeilan, Tyler McNeilan, Brooke Gemmer, Gwyneth Martz, Michael Herman, Erin Gemmer
and Alix Gemmer; and a brother, Ronald Eggeman, of Delphos.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday 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 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson
Township, 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.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
6-17-2007
Richard Hoersten
Richard (Bud) Hoersten, 85, Rockford, died Sunday, June 17, 2007 at Colonial Nursing Center, Rockford.
He was born August 19, 1921 in Ottoville to Louis and Catherine (Fishbaugh) Hoersten. He married Madge
(VanFleet) Fox in 1972 and she survives. He was a farmer and a trucker and served in the Navy during WW II.
He was a member of St Teresa Catholic Church, Rockford American Legion Post 508, Knights of Columbus
Council 1800, Celina and Ponderosa Club, Atlanta, Michigan
Surviving in addition to his wife is one step-son, Gary (Delight) Fox, Rockford, one step-daughter, Jill Fox,
Tennessee and one step-daughter-in-law, Joan Fox, Rockford, nine step grandchildren, eight step great-
grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Also surviving are three brothers, Harold, Van Wert, Roger (Julie), Sidney, and John, Rockford and three
sisters, Rita Adams and Betty (Louie) Daeger, Grover Hill, OH and Jeanette (Fred) Black, Payne, OH.
Deceased is a step-son, Pat Fox, two brothers, Edwin and Isadore and one sister, Mary Bullinger
Services will be Thursday, June 21, 2007 at 10:00 a.m. at Ketcham-Ripley Funeral Home.
Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery, Rockford with Rockford American Legion Post 508 having military
services.
Friends may call at the funeral home on Wednesday, June 20, 2007 from 2-5 and 7-8 p.m. and 1 hour prior
to the service on Thursday.
Condolences can be sent to ketchamripleyfh@earthlink.net
7-29-2007
Sister Mary Petronia “Anna” Krietemeyer
Sister Mary Petronia “Anna” Krietemeyer, 96, died July 29, 2007, at the Maria Joseph Living Care Center,
Dayton.
She was born Anna Krietemeyer on Oct. 15, 1910, in Ottoville to J.H. and Catherine Wallen Krietemeyer,
who preceded her in death.
Sister Mary entered the Sisters of the Precious Blood on Nov. 10, 1930, where she received the name of
Sister Mary Petronia. She retired in 1987, to Salem Heights, after 54 yeas of domestic services, primarily as a
housekeeper and a food service worker. She had served in seminaries in Cincinnati, Carthagena and Denver,
and in convents in Linton, N.D., Ottoville, and Lafayette, Ind. She had also ministered in the Chancery at St.
Louis Church, Cincinnati, and at Little Flower Academy, San Luis Rey, Calif. Because of declining health, she
moved to the Maria Joseph Living Care Center in 2002. She had been a Sister of the Precious Blood for 76
years. She was one of 11 children.
Survivors include several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by five sisters and five brothers.
The Resurrection Liturgy will begin at 1 p.m. Thursday at Salem Heights, Dayton. Burial will be in Salem
Heights Cemetery.
Friends may call from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Thursday at Salem Heights, where a prayer service will be held
at 11 a.m.
7-29-2007
Arthur Louis Hoersten
Arthur Louis Hoersten, 86, died at 10:25 p.m. July 29, 2007, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne, Ind.
He was born Oct. 14, 1920, in M o n t e r e y Township, Putnam County, to George J. and M. Frederica Ruen
Hoersten, who preceded him in death. On Oct. 10, 1945, in Biloxi, Miss., he married Thelma L. Pohlman, who
survives in Delphos.
Mr. Hoersten retired in 1990 from farming and in 1984 from Fruehauf Corp. He was a member of St. John the
Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. He was a member of American Legion Post 715, Fort Jennings. He was an
Army Air Corps veteran of World War II, serving as an airplane mechanic, an instructor and a crew chief. He
enjoyed the farm life, traveling with his camper, WWII history, storytelling, practical jokes, teasing his
grandchildren and playing SCRABBLE and euchre.
Survivors also include two sons, Kenneth (JoAnn) Hoersten, of Fremont, Mich., and Thomas (Lisa) Hoersten,
of Oregon, Ohio; three daughters, Jane (Leroy) Wittler, of Fort Jennings, Irene Calvelage, of Delphos, and
Evelyn (Gerald) Martin, of Fort Jennings; 11 grandchildren, Greg Wittler, Paul (Lyn) Hoersten, Jill Hoersten,
Anthony Calvelage, Laura Calvelage, Michelle (Ken) Porr, Louise (Ron) Crawford, Jeffrey Martin, Nicholas
Hoersten, Natalie Hoersten and Matthew Hoersten; and eight greatgrandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son-in-law, P. Charles “Chuck” Calvelage; a greatgrandson, Sage Porr; a
brother, Rudolph “Rudy” Hoersten; two sisters, Alma Lauf and Mildred Wieging; his stepmother, Helen Schmitz
Hoersten; and two half brothers, Harry F. and Othmer “Pete” Hoersten.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Friday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. The
Rev. James Wieging, his nephew, will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military rites by the
Delphos Veterans Council.
Friends may call from 2 to 5 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where an
American Legion service will be held at 6 p.m. and a wake service at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Van Wert County Foundation for the Hoersten Memorial
Scholarship or the charity of the donor’s choice.
8-1-2007
Aggie E. Ellerbrock
Aggie E. Ellerbrock, 54, died Aug. 1, 2007, on Putnam County Road 9K, Ottawa.
She was born Feb. 9, 1953, in Lima to Leona and Rita Miller Turnwald. Her father preceded her in death.
Her mother survives in Ottoville. On Feb. 16, 1974, she married Jim Ellerbrock, who survives in Ottawa.
Mrs. Ellerbrock was semiretired as an office manager from Orthodontic Associates, Lima. She was a member
of SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa, where she was a member of its Altar Rosary Society and had
served as treasurer. She was a member of the Red Hat Society. She had attended OSU-Lima. She was a
seamstress, an avid golfer and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.
Survivors also include two sons, Brad (Mandi) Ellerbrock, of Ottawa, and Roger Ellerbrock, of Fort Wayne,
Ind.; two daughters, Kimberly (Brian Hunt) Ellerbrock and Reneé (Chad) Inkrott, both of Ottawa; three
grandchildren, Will and Mya Inkrott, and Cambrie Ellerbrock; a brother, Steve (Ann) Turnwald, of Fort Wayne,
Ind.; and four sisters, Dorothy (Jose) Flores, of Ottoville, Jeanette (Ken) Hazelton, of Ada, Irene (Roger) Helms,
of Ottoville, and Nancy (Larry) Suer, of Cincinnati.
She was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Alexis Inkrott.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Ottawa. Father
Tom Hemm will officiate. Burial will be at 1 p.m. Monday in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a Scripture service will be held
at 2:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Multiple Sclerosis or the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
8-2-2007
Eleanora C. Grothouse
Eleanora C. Grothouse, 96, died at 3 a.m. Aug. 2, 2007, at Springview Manor Nursing Home, Lima.
She was born Jan. 23, 1911, in Ottoville to George and Elizabeth Hoffman Martin, who preceded her in
death. She married Leo Grothouse, who preceded her in death.
Mrs. Grothouse was a homemaker. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos.
She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. She loved to sew, work puzzles, read and play bingo.
Survivors include three sons, Paul (Carol) Grothouse, of Lima, Dave (Carol) Grothouse, of Waterville, and
Denny Grothouse, of Delphos; two daughters, Ethel (Richard) Crede, of Florida, and Lois Miller, of Lima; five
sisters, Irene Kill, of Delphos, Catherine Miller, of Landeck, Marie Etzkorn, of Delphos, Leona (Bill) Adams, of
Grover Hill, and Helen Cross, of Delphos; and 15 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a son, Merlin Grothouse; three sisters, Viola Studenka, Frances Kroeger and
Jane Young; a brother, Albert Martin; and a daughter-in-law, Theresa Grothouse.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos.
Father Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos, where a
wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Rita’s Hospice, the American Heart Association, the Cancer
Society or the Diabetes Association.
8-2-2007
Ken J. Weber
Ken J. Weber, 63, of Deerfield Drive in Greenville, a writer and nature lover, died unexpectedly Thursday,
August 2, 2007, at Fatima Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Bettie J. (Hoorman) Weber. They had been
married for forty-two years.
Born in Ottoville, Ohio, a son of the late Francis and Mary (Honigford) Weber, he was a resident of
Greenville since 1971 and had previously lived in Bluffton, Indiana.
He worked for the Providence Journal since 1971 and retired as Section Editor in 1997. He continued writing
for the Journal as a feature columnist. He was a member of the RI Audubon Society. He played softball on the RI
Senior Softball League and was a former coach for boys and girls SYBA, Smithfield Little League, St. Philip’s
Girls’ CYO Basketball and SYSA. He was a charter and former member of the Smithfield Land Trust.
He is also survived by his children, Suzy Zuffoletti and husband, Jim of Wakefield, RI, Sandy Swope of
Greenville, Steve and wife, Nikki Weber of South Jordan, UT, Scott and wife, Jen Weber of West Greenwich, RI;
nine grandchildren, Zachary, Alexandria, Ysabelle, Tyler, Elijah, Katherine, Rebecca, William and Abigail; his
siblings, Mildred (Mike) Rahrig of Wolcottville, IN, Sr. Helen Weber of Dayton, OH, Lucy (Frank) Fuchs of
Brandon, FL, Don (Audrey) Weber of Estes Park, CO, Celeste (Roger) Geise of Delphos, OH, Art (Connie)
Weber of Van Wert, OH, Dolly (Jim) Spieles of Wauseon, OH, Len (Margie)Weber of Detroit, MI, Larry (Fran)
Weber of Barnum, MN, Fr. Herb Weber of Perrysburg, OH, Judy (Vern) Fischer of Delphos, OH. He was the
brother of the late Gene Weber.
A Mass of Christian Burial to which relatives and friends are invited will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am in St.
Philip Church, 622 Putnam Pike, Greenville. Burial will be private. Visitation Monday 4-7pm in the *ANDERSON-
WINFIELD Funeral Home, Route 44 at Greenville Common, Greenville. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory
may be made to the Audubon Society of RI, 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI 02917. If you are in need of a
ride for visitation or funeral, please call Anderson-Winfield Chauffeured Services at 401 949 5557.
8-11-2007
Valeta F. Stallkamp
Valeta F. Stallkamp, 83, died at 11:55 a.m. Aug. 11, 2007, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
She was born June 7, 1924, in Ottoville to John and Josephine Schimmoeller Thines, who preceded her in
death. On June 7, 1945, she married Joseph S. Stallkamp, who survives in Delphos.
Mrs. Stallkamp enjoyed flowers, gardening and her family and friends. She truly appreciated all the cards,
visits and support during her illness. She was a graduate of Ottoville High School and a member of St. John the
Evangelist Catholic Church. She was a homemaker and co-owner of the Frontier Flower Shop. She worked in the
floral industry for 50 years with her husband.
Survivors also include a son, Daniel “Chopper” (Betsy) Stallkamp, of Delphos; two daughters, Diana (Jerry)
Carder, of Charlotte, N.C., and Susan Stallkamp, of Boulder, Colo.; a brother, Dennis Thines, of Lima; a sister,
Jan (Robert) Fisher, of Boynton Beach, Fla.; and three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and several
wonderful nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Armella Martz and Dolores Hempfling.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos.
Father Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Harter and Schier Funeral Home, where a parish wake will be held
at 7:30 p.m. Monday.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church or the American Heart
Association.
8-13-2007
Gerald C. Holdgreve
Gerald C. Holdgreve, 100, died Monday, August 13, 2007 at The Cedars.
Born in Cloverdale, OH, he was a model maker with General Electric Company for 40 years, retiring in 1967.
He was a 1925 graduate of Ottoville High School, Cloverdale, OH and member of the GE Quarter Century Club
and the Fort Wayne, conservation Club. He loved his family, bowling and fishing.
Survivors include sons, Eugene A. Holdgreve of Colorado Springs, CO, Kenneth A. (Gwendolyn) Holdgreve
of Fort Wayne; 5 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in
death by his wife, Edna M. (Last) Holdgreve in 1997 and a sister, Coletta Scharf.
Service is 10 a.m. Saturday at D.O. McComb & Sons Maplewood Park Funeral Home, 4017 Maplecrest Rd.
Calling 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Interment at Greenlawn Memorial Park Memorials to Salvation
Army.
8-14-2007
Charles J. Schweller
Charles J. Schweller, 85, died at 2:24 p.m. Aug. 14, 2007, at St. Rita’s Medical Center.
He was born Aug. 18, 1921, in Ottoville to Julian and Regina Hilvers Schweller, who preceded him in death.
On June 14, 1947, he married Mary Helen Klima, who died Jan. 1, 1960. On Sept. 28, 1963, he married Jane
Lewis, who survives in Ottoville.
Mr. Schweller retired in 1983 from Teledyne Steel, Lima. He was a member of Immaculate Conception
Catholic Church, Ottoville. He was a member of the Catholic Knights of Ohio. He enjoyed farming, gardening and
watching birds. He especially enjoyed time with his family and grandchildren.
Survivors also include four sons, Ron (Mary Jean) Schweller, of Fort Jennings, Dennis (Vicky) Schweller, of
Union Mills, Ind., Paul (Sherry) Schweller, of Orofino, Idaho, and Jim (Bev) Schweller, of Ottoville; four daughters,
Linda (Tom) Thompson, of Hamilton, Phyllis (Maury) Quillen, of Shingle Springs, Calif., Mary (Dave) Lengerich, of
Preble, Ind., and Tina (Joe) Gallmeier, of Delphos; 16 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; four brothers,
Walter (Leona) Schweller, of Glandorf, Henry (Jeanette) Schweller and John Schweller, both of Ottoville, and
Donald (Jean) Schweller, of Paulding; and three sisters, Marie Ernst and Anna Allersmeyer, both of Mojave,
Calif., and Frances (Don) Grothouse, of Delphos.
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. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a
Scripture service will be held at 8 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
8-27-2007
Mildred C. Rampe
Mildred C. Rampe, 84, died at 11:10 a.m. Aug. 27, 2007, at The Meadows of Kalida.
She was born May 20, 1923, in Ottoville to Joseph and Anna Pohl Sanders, who preceded her in death. On
June 18, 1946, she m a r r i e d Harold S. R ampe, who died Jan. 25, 1989.
Mrs. Rampe retired as a cafeteria cook from Kalida High School. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic
Church, Kalida, and its Altar Rosary Society. She enjoyed cooking, watching sporting events and reading. She
loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
Survivors include two sons, Donald (Connie) Rampe and Thomas (Nancy) Rampe, both of Kalida; two
daughters, Jennifer (Keith Vennekotter) Jeffers, of Glandorf, and Mary (Marion) Brickner, of Kalida; 11
grandchildren, Melissa Allen, James Jeffers, Stephanie Jeffers, Steven Jeffers, Eric Rampe, Jeff Rampe, Neil
Rampe, Joel Rampe, Jill Rampe, Lindsay Brickner and Brandon Brickner; 12 greatgrandchildren, Vanessa Allen,
Percel Allen, Alexis Allen, Austin Allen, Paige Jeffers, Anthony Jeffers, Alec Rampe, Baylie Rampe, Trey Rampe,
Will Rampe, Carlie Rampe and Hanna Rampe; and a stepgreat-grandchild, Haley Jerwers.
She was preceded in death by four brothers, Joseph, Sylvester, Gilbert and Gerald Sanders; and three
sisters, Sister Mary Sylvina Sanders, Lucinda Ellerbrock and Mary Ann Schimmoeller.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Michael Catholic Church, Kalida. Father Ken
Alt will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. today at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, where a
Scripture service will be held at 3 p.m. and an Altar Rosary service at 7 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kalida EMS or the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
8-29-2007
Margaret C. Kill
Margaret C. Kill, 89, formerly of Wapakoneta, died at 8:15 p.m. Aug. 29, 2007, at VanCrest Healthcare
Center, Delphos. She was born Sept. 28, 1917, in Ottoville, to John and Mary Kieffer Klima, who preceded her in
death. On Nov. 24, 1935, she married Victor A. Kill, who died Nov. 10, 1957.
Mrs. Kill retired from Superior Tube, Wapakoneta, after 27 years. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic
Church, Wapakoneta, and attended St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. She was a member of
Fraternal Order of Eagles Aerie 471, Delphos. She enjoyed working puzzles and gardening and liked to watch
western movies.
Survivors include two sons, Donald (Alice) Kill, of Wapakoneta, and Leroy Kill, of Pleasant Lake, Ind.; four
daughters, Patricia Cox (John) Holdgreve, of Delphos, Arlene (Clyde) Byer and Janet Adams, both of
Wapakoneta, and Carol (Ron) Storer, of New Knoxville; a sister, Gertrude Klima Freund Hempfling, of Delphos;
and 23 grandchildren, 43 greatgrandchildren and two greatgreat-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by a son, Charles Kill; two sons-inlaw, Joe M. Cox and Daniel L. Adams; a
daughter-in-law, Doris C. Kill; five brothers, Alphonse, George, Gilbert, Sylvester and Edward Klima; and four
sisters, Martha Klima, Edna Gray, Armella Brinkman and Mary Helen Schweller.
A memorial Mass will begin at noon Sept. 8, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, Delphos. Father Melvin
Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in will be at a later date in the church cemetery. Her body has been donated to
The Ohio State University Medical Center, Columbus.
Friends may call one hour prior to services Sept. 8, at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to Delphos Hospice & Visiting Nurses or the charity of the donor’s
choice.
Arrangements are by Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos.
8-30-2007
John D. “Dag” Herman
John D. “Dag” Herman, 82, died at 9:17 p.m. Aug. 30, 2007, at his daughter’s residence in Van Wert.
He was born Aug. 21, 1925, in Putnam County to Henry and Salome Byrne Herman, who preceded him in death.
On Aug. 19, 1950, he married Marjorie Ann Eggeman, who died May 13, 2007.
Mr. Herman had been a welder for the Ohio Department of Transportation, a distributor for Meadow Gold
milk and a manager of CW Service, Van Wert. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville, and its Holy Name Society. He was a member of the Lions Club and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post
3740, both in Ottoville, and American Legion Post 715, Fort Jennings. He was co-founder of the Ottoville Park,
where he was an umpire and a volunteer coach for all ages and sports. He served on the Ottoville village council
and Buckeye State 8 of the Disabled American Veterans. He was a member of the Delphos Country Club, where
he was on the board of directors and won several golf championships. He was an Army veteran of World War II,
where he was awarded the Purple Heart. He was an avid golfer, a loyal Chicago Cubs fan and a supporter of all
Ottoville sports. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Survivors include a son, William (Debbie) Herman, of Medina; two daughters, Pat (Ted) Elliott, of Glandorf,
and Jean (Thomas) Gemmer, of Van Wert; eight grandchildren, Joy Miller-Martz, Jared Miller, Kelsey Elliott,
William Herman Jr., Michael Herman, John Gemmer, Christopher Gemmer and Jill Gemmer; eight
greatgrandchildren, Austin Mc-Neilan, Tyler McNeilan, Brooke Gemmer, Erin Gemmer, Alix Gemmer, Johan
Gemmer, Gwyneth Martz and Michael Herman; a brother, Louis Herman, of Defiance; a sister, Luella Huff, of
Oakwood; and his mother-in-law, Esther Eggeman, of Glandorf.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Eugene Herman.
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, with military rites by VFW
3740 and American Legion 715.
Friends may call from noon to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson
Township.
Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.
8-30-2007
Melvin F. Sroufe Sr.
Melvin F. Sroufe Sr., 70, of Manchester, passed away Aug. 30, 2007 at home under the loving care of his
family.
He was born July 14, 1937 in Ottoville, Ohio the son of Paul and Barbara (Bendele) Sroufe. He married
Joyce Dresselhouse on Sept. 19, 1971 in Manchester and she survives.
Besides his loving wife of 36 years, Mr. Srouffe is also survived by his children: Barbara (Allan) Sheppard,
Thomas Pratt (Linda Kensler), Paul (Michelle) Sroufe, Jeffrey (Tracy) Pratt, Lori (Trenton) Withrow and Michael
Sroufe (Bess Latier); grandchildren: Chad Sheppard, Crystal (Erik Pope) Cronin, Nicole Helfrich, Danielle
Helfrich, Justin Pratt, Tara Withrow, Cody Sroufe, Chad Barth and Steven Handley; great grandchildren: Chase,
Devin, Grace and Erik Jr.; siblings: Larry (Betty Lou) Sroufe, Jim (Kate) Sroufe, Robert (Nancy) Sroufe, Mildred
Parker, Betty Ann Gauze, Pat (Jerry) Robinson and Ethel Bates as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins
and longtime friend Gale Koebbe.
Besides his parents, Mr. Sroufe was preceded in death by his brother Dick Sroufe and sister Doris Sroufe.
Mr. Sroufe served our country in the Army, was one of the founding members of the Manchester Men's Club and
a member of the American Legion. He was an avid race fan and former racecar driver winning the Manchester
Track Champion trophy in 1974.
A memorial service to celebrate his life will take place on Saturday at the Manchester United Methodist
Church beginning at 11 a.m. with Pastor Larry Wik officiating. Memorial contributions may be given to Great
Lakes Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to Borek Jennings Funeral Home, Jenter Chapel, Manchester. Please
sign Mr. Sroufe's guest book at www.BorekJennings.com.
8-30-2007
Joan E. Bleim
Joan E. Bleim, 71, of Toledo, formerly of Ottoville, died at 1:15 a.m. at Leesburg Regional Medical Center,
Leesburg, Fla. She was born Jan. 2, 1936, in Hamler, to Glenn and Kathryn (Metz) Gordon, who preceded her in
death.
Ms. Bleim was a graduate of Ottoville High School and Defiance College. She was an avid fisherman, boater
and golfer. She attended St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Sylvania. She suffered a stroke in November of 2003
which left her with many challenges, but she worked extremely hard and was very determined to overcome her
disabilities, which helped her to remain independent. During her rehabilitation and throughout her life, she was
always a proud and independent person. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends who are forever
grateful for her time spent with them.
Survivors include two sons, Mark (Lisa) Vorst, and Dan (Mary) Vorst, both of Ottoville; two daughters,
Catherine (Don Kenney) Vorst, of Whitehouse, and Diane (Bill) Sturt, of Waterville; 11 grandchildren, Michelle
Vorst, Shannon Vorst, Josh Vorst, Brian Vorst, Chad Vorst, Jessica Vorst, Alyeska Sturt, Sierra Sturt, Erica Vorst,
Andrea Vorst and Nicole Vorst; three brothers, Glenn Gordon, Bob Gordon, both of Port Gamble, Washington,
and Tom (Le Ann) Gordon, of Convoy; and her ex-husband and true friend, Roger Bleim.
She was preceded in death by a son, Douglas Vorst; a brother, Donald Gordon; and a sister, Carole
McNamara.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Friday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ottoville.
Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township, which is
located at the corner of state Route 224 and 634.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 1701 Woodlands Dr., Suite 200,
Maumee, OH 43537.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.
10-6-2007
Jeffrey Alan Wurst
Jeffrey Alan Wurst, 45, of Columbus, formerly of Ottoville, died at 10:10 a.m. Oct. 6, 2007, at his residence.
He was born Jan. 30, 1962, in Lima to Richard J. and Deloris J. Hall Wurst. His father survives in Ottoville. His
mother died Dec. 4, 2006.
Mr. Wurst worked for the State of Ohio Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. He was a 1980
graduate of Ottoville High School. He fought a long and courageous battle with neurofibromatosis (NF).
Throughout it all, he maintained his independence and his wonderful sense of humor. He always managed to
make the best of his situation. He was an avid reader and loved to watch movies and chat on line with friends. His
cat, Bink, was his loyal and constant companion.
Survivors also include two sisters, Jaylene Ryan and Nanette (Tom Sarno) Weaver, both of Lima; three
nieces, Stephanie Weaver, of Columbus, and Tara Ryan and Alyssa Weaver, both of Lima; and a nephew, Adam
Ryan, of Columbus.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church,
Ottoville. Father John Stites will officiate. Burial will be in St. Mary Cemetery, Ottoville.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. today at Love-Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Jackson Township.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Children’s Tumor Foundation (National NF Foundation) or the
charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneral home.com.
10-31-2007
Oscar A. Rellinger
Oscar A. Rellinger, 88, of Fremont, formerly of Ottoville, died Oct. 31, 2007, at Bethesda Care Center.
He was born June 17, 1919, in Ottoville to August and Pauline Flatz Rellinger, who preceded him in death.
On Oct. 17, 1953, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Gibsonburg, he married Mary C. Sneider, who survives in
Fremont.
Mr. Rellinger owned and operated Helena Machine Co., from 1952 to 1979, after which he became an
independent manufacturing representative. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fremont. He was a
life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2947, Fremont. He was a 1937 graduate of Ottoville High School,
where he was a member of the 1937 state finals basketball team. He was an Army veteran of World War II,
serving as a provost sergeant on an Aircraft Repair Floating Unit in the Western Pacific. He received the
American Theater Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon with two bronze stars, the WWII Victory Medal, the
Meritorious Unit Award and the Good Conduct Medal.
Survivors also include seven children, Michael (Marcia) Rellinger, of Toledo, Adele (Gary) Geller and Ellen
(Scott) Ickes, both of Fremont, Karen (Terry) Fravel, of Sunbury, Marcia (Brad) Copley, of Gibsonburg, and Allan
(Carolyn) Rellinger and Ray (Stacy) Rellinger, both of Fremont; a brother, Paul Rellinger, of Kalida; two sisters,
Lucina (Russell) Donaldson, of Fort Jennings, and Isabelle (Don) Markward, of Delphos; and 10 grandchildren,
three stepgrandchildren and two stepgreat-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Ferdinand, John, Karl and Art Rellinger; and three sisters,
Adelaide Smith, Mary Metzger and Imelda Stechschulte.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fremont. Father David
Bruning will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday and 2 to 8 p.m. Friday at Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home
& Crematory, Fremont, where a vigil service will be held at 7:30 p.m. today.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Schools or VFW Post 2947.
Condolences may be expressed at www.wonderlyhorvath.com.
11-25-2007
Hildegard E. Pohl
Hildegard E. Pohl, 97, formerly of Fort Jennings, died at 6:45 p.m. Nov. 25, 2007, at the Sarah Jane Living
Center, Delphos.
She was born June 28, 1910, in Ottoville to Gerhard and Anna Kehres Utrup, who preceded her in death. On
Feb. 2, 1932, she married John W. Pohl, who died April 2, 1990.
Mrs. Pohl had been a cook for Jennings Local School District and had worked at St. Mary’s Foods. She was
a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings, and its Altar Rosary Society. She was a member of
Catholic Ladies of Columbia Council 84. She was a 1928 graduate of Ottoville High School. She cherished her
children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include three children, Clarence (Dolores) Pohl, of Ottawa, Esther (Dennis) Siefker, of Delphos,
and Doris (Don) Honigford, of Ottoville; 12 grandchildren, Barbara (Jim) Rutkowski, Joyce Meyer, Randy (Jan)
Pohl, Kathy (Ray) Schmersal, Carol (Steve) Hoersten, Dave (Lisa) Siefker, Linda (Dale) Shough, Bill (Brenda)
Honigford, Craig Honigford, Michael Honigford, Maria (Dan) Lange and Gina (Cliff) Towner; 17
greatgrandchildren, Sarah and Grace Rutkowski, Kyle and Ian Meyer, Brad and Jennifer Schmersal, Stephanie
and Brent Hoersten, Kristy, Jeff and Justin Siefker, Makayla and Dillon Shough, Alyssa and Ross Honigford,
Owen Lange and Laura Towner; and Gilbert (Mary) Pohl, of Coldwater, Mich., and Ruth Pohl Wegesin, of
Delphos, whom she and her husband helped raise.
She was preceded in death by seven siblings, August, Albert, Anthony, Louis, Helen and Veronica Utrup,
and Lucy Wiechart; William Klima, who was raised with her; and Robert Wegesin.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Fort Jennings.
Father Joe Przybysz will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Siferd-Orians Funeral Home, Lima, where a parish wake
service will be held at 3 p.m., and one hour prior to services Thursday at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Masses, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Alzheimer’s
Association or the charity of the donor’s choice.
11-28-2007
Marjorie E. Dunlap
Marjorie “Midge” E. Dunlap, 87, of Ottoville, died 9:30 am Wednesday November 28, 2007 at her residence.
Mrs. Dunlap was born April 3, 1920 in Ottoville to the late Stephen and Adeline (Miehls) Looser. On June 25,
1942 she married Robert Shilling and he died June 15, 1957. Later she married David Dunlap who died May 5,
1981.
She is survived by her 2 sons; Stephen (Virginia) Shilling of New Richmond, OH and Lawrence Dunlap of
Cloverdale, a son-in-law; Joseph Klima of Ottoville, 2 sisters; Virginia Hoffman of Columbus Grove and Joanne
Nichols of Ft. Jennings, 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Mrs. Dunlap was preceded in death by her daughter; Susan Klima, a sister; Elinor Swint and 2 brothers;
George and John Looser.
She was a homemaker and member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Ottoville and its Altar
Rosary and Catholic Ladies of Columbia Societies. She was also a member of the Ottoville VFW Auxiliary.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 am Saturday December 1, 2007 at Immaculate Conception Church
in Ottoville with Fr. John Stites officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Ottoville.
Visitation will be from 2 to 8 pm Friday at LOVE-HEITMEYER FUNERAL HOME in Jackson Township (corner
of St Rts 224 & 634) where there will be a VFW Auxiliary service at 6:30 pm and a scripture service at 7:30 pm.
Memorials can be made to St. Rita’s Hospice or to the charity of the donor’s choice.
Condolences can be sent to:lovefuneralhome.com
12-6-2007
Walter H. Schweller
Walter H. Schweller, 88, died at 11 p.m. Dec. 6, 2007, at Hilty Memorial Home, Pandora.
He was born July 15, 1919, in Ottoville to Julian H. and Regina Hilvers Schweller, who preceded him in death.
On Oct. 25, 1941, he married Leona U n v e r f e r t h , who survives in Glandorf.
Mr. Schweller had worked at GTE Sylvania, where he was a member of its Quarter Century Club. He was a
member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Glandorf. He was a life member of American Legion Post 63 and
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9142, both in Ottawa. He was a member of the Disabled American Veterans and
the Glandorf Men’s Society. He had been an auxiliary highway patrolman. He was an Army veteran of World War
II, serving as a military policeman. He enjoyed polka dancing, traveling with his wife, playing solo with friends and
spending time with family.
Survivors also include a son, Larry (Jan) Schweller, of Glandorf; a daughter, Nancy (Keith) Bolyard, of
Columbus Grove; five grandchildren, Dana Schweller, Leah Schweller, Jordan (Jess) Schweller, Wes (Beth)
Bolyard and Matt Bolyard; two great-grandsons, Nate and Ben Bolyard; three brothers, John Schweller and
Henry (Jeanette) Schweller, both of Ottoville, and Donald (Jeannie) Schweller, of Paulding; three sisters, Marie
Ernst and Anna Allersmeyer, both of California, and Frances (Don) Grothouse, of Delphos; and a sister-in-law,
Jane Schweller, of Ottoville.
He was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Schweller.
Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:30 a.m. Monday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Glandorf.
Father Harold Brown will officiate. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military rites by American Legion Post
63 and VFW Post 9142.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. Sunday at Love Funeral Home, Ottawa, where a VFW service will be held
at 7 p.m. and a parish rosary service at 7:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hilty Memorial Home.
Condolences may be expressed at www.lovefuneralhome.com.Mary C. Rott
12-21-2007
Mary C. Rott
Mary C. Rott, 86, died at 9:20 a.m. Dec. 21, 2007, at Roselawn Manor in Spencerville.
She was born Jan. 22, 1921, in Ottoville to John and Lucy Schimmoeller Rayman, who preceded her in
death. On Nov. 6, 1948, she married Joseph L. Rott, who died March 19, 1996.
Mrs. Rott was retired from I&K. She was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. She enjoyed
spending time with her granddaughters and greatgranddaughters. She also enjoyed reading, embroidering and
gardening.
Survivors include two sons, David (Rebeca) Rott, of Lima, and Richard Rott, of Lima; a daughter, Janice
(Dennis) Schimmoeller, of Delphos; three brothers, Stanley (Doris) Rayman, of Vaughnsville, Robert (Alice)
Rayman, of Romeoville, Ill., and Eugene (Alice) Rayman, of Lima; two granddaughters, Cheryl (Brian) Hemker, of
Marysville, and Kelly (Jason) Dickman, of Fort Jennings; four great-granddaughters, Abigail and Larissa Hemker,
and Maddison and Lydia Dickman.
She was preceded in death by two brothers, Glen and Paul Rayman; and a sister, Maxine Crowe.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in
Delphos. The Rev. Melvin Verhoff will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.
Friends may call from 2 to 8 p.m. at Harter and Schier Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.