Classmate Memorial Tribute
Van Wert High School Class of 1974
Van Wert, Van Wert County, Ohio 45891  U.S.A.

245 was the Number of Candidates for Graduation for the 103rd Annual Commencement Program,
Sunday Evening, June 2, 1974, 6:30 P.M., Van Wert High School, Eggerss Stadium
Class Flower = Red Rose, Class Colors = Scarlet and Gray,
Class Motto, "I have always known that at last I would take this road,
but yesterday I did not know that it would be today." Ariwara no Narihira
Never forgotten . . . A candle of remembrance for our lost classmates
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.    Psalm 116:15

Music is Elton John's live performance of  'Candle in the Wind' at the funeral of
Diana, Princess of Wales, Westminster Abbey in 1997.

                                                        Classmates' obituaries are in chronological order - Starting at July 10, 1964 through most recent, July 29, 2023
     

Mary Eliza Boaz-McGuire
July 29, 2023
            
             Facebook photo                                              Senior Photo - Page 151, 1974 Excalibur

Mary Eliza (Boaz) McGuire, age 67, of Decatur, Indiana, died at 9:35 p.m., Saturday, July 29, 2023, at Adams Woodcrest Health Center in Decatur. She was born September 27, 1955, in Lexington, Kentucky, the daughter of Franklin C. and Vivian A. (Mosley) Boaz.

Survivors include a sister, Sandra Reynolds of Van Wert and five brothers: Michael (Tina) Boaz, Peter (Nichole) Boaz, and Robert Gay of Van Wert, John (Danielle) Boaz of Hudson, FL, Matthew (Angie) Boaz of Powell, OH; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and her adopted son Iassca Jackson of Indianapolis, Indiana. She was preceded in death by three brothers: Mark Boaz, Colonel Boaz, and Edward Gay.

Mary worked as a long haul truck driver, a welder, a corrections administrator, a small business owner, a leader with the Boy Scouts of America and above all else a servant of God on numerous church boards in cities where she lived during her life. (She was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.)

A celebration of Mary’s life is being planned at a later date. Brickner Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
The obituary appeared on Brickner Funeral Home’s website on Tuesday a.m., August 1, 2023

Karen Marie Jones
July 24, 2023

 

 Senior Photo Excalibur Yearbook, page 157   Grand Canyon, Glamour Photo, circa 1983 - 1997              Karen with a favorite car


                          
Grand Canyon National Park, Early 1980s     Color Senior Photo - Courtesy David Boroff

Phoenix, Arizona – It is with grief and sadness that we share the news of the recent and unexpected death of Karen M. Jones, 67, of Phoenix, Arizona.
Karen was born April 4,1956, in Port Huron, Michigan, to Thomas R. and Lucille Jones. She was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School, where she was active in choir, sports, and GAA (Girls Athletic Association). She attended St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church In Van Wert and after graduation she worked at Teleflex in Van Wert.

In her early 20’s, Karen was drawn to the beauty of the Western United States. She worked for Signal Mountain Lodge in Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming) before relocating to Arizona in the early 1980’s. Karen spent nearly all of her next 45 years living and working in Arizona.
She worked, lived life to the fullest and thrived at the Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) and the village of Tusayan, Arizona until late 1999, where she established lifelong friendships, memories and land baroness status, owning her “beloved ranch” south of Tusayan, Arizona. She then relocated to Phoenix and Scottsdale.

In all her years in Arizona, she was employed in some aspect of the hospitality or travel industry – Grand Canyon Airlines, South Rim Travel, Grand Canyon National Park Lodges (Fred Harvey/Amfac), several helicopter companies and many global corporate travel companies including Carlson Wagonlit.
At the time of her passing, Karen was employed by Direct Travel, as a product support analyst, working remotely in a job she loved and thrived at. Karen was extremely proud of her time serving as an EMT at the Grand Canyon Airport, earning her paralegal certificate, continuing her education with online college courses and the many awards she had bestowed on her during her travel industry career.

Karen loved animals, she enjoyed her independent lifestyle and loved her family and friends.
Karen and her dog, April, were found deceased in their apartment on July 24, 2023. A non-functioning air conditioning unit led to her death of heat exposure.
A tragic and senseless death, we continue to seek answers and mourn our loss.

Karen was predeceased by her parents, a sister, Janet (Jones) Wyandt and brother-in -law, Philip Ramsey.
She is survived by siblings, T. Lindsay (Amy) Jones of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, Retired Major James (Laura) Jones of Van Wert, and Jacqueline “Jackie” (Jones) Ramsey of Bullhead City, Arizona; a brother-in-law, Richard Wyandt; nieces and nephews, Heidi Jones, Tommie (Christa) Jones, Shannon Jones, Preston (Tammi) Ramsey, Ashley (Josh Smidt) Jones, Derek (Rebeka) Jones, Mackenzie Jones and Melissa Bloomfield; grand-nieces and nephews, Bryton and Jayden Smidt, Bobby and Reese Jones, Shalane and Matthew Ramsey, along with many cousins and extended family members, Christy (Schoenlein) Martin and family and Jonathon and family.
Karen also leaves behind many friends and coworkers, especially David and Jackie.

She will be missed by all and was taken too soon. The family will have a private memorial at a later date.

The family has set up a GoFundMe account organized by Jacqueline Ramsey:

https:www.gofundme.com/karen-jones-19562023
Karen Jones 1956-2023, organized by Jacqueline Ramsey

Photo in the original obituary above

1) The above obituary was posted 9-18-2023 at 3:13 pm, in the Obituaries section of the vwindependent.com, an online newspaper, Van Wert, Ohio.
2) The above obituary was published October 3, 2023, in the Van Wert Times Bulletin, a local Van Wert print newspaper every Wednesday only, and an online daily e-Edition.
3) A different version of the above obituary was originally published: October 11, 2023, 3:06 p.m., in the Williams - Grand Canyon News & the Grand Canyon News, Trusted local news leader for Williams, AZ,
and the Grand Canyon area. This version of the obituary is shorter, absent of information in the above obituary, includes new information, and appears to only have been published for the western news
company. If you would like to read the second version of the obituary, it is located at the following URL, working as of October 17, 2023:  https://www.williamsnews.com/news/2023/oct/11/obituary-karen-m-jones/  
4) The above obituary will remain to be used for the VWHS Class of 1974 Classmate Obituary & Memorial Tribute webpage, as it is the version published in the Van Wert local media companies, as of October 17, 2023.


David W. Stiles
July 13, 2023
   
                Obituary Photo                             VWHS 1974 Senior Photo          L --> R: Greg Glander's Sister, Nancy Gallet; Greg Glander; Dave Stiles; Greg Glander's Brother, Blace Glander;
                                                                                                                                           Beverly Coil Grimes; Diane M. (Buncy) Stiles; Brent Stripe; Callie (Jacobs) Stripe, year = 2021

FREEDOM, NEW YORK - David W. Stiles of Freedom, NY passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at his residence at the age of 67.
(The following obituary was edited to include some additional information and his time in Van Wert, Ohio, approximately 1971 – 1974.)

He was born on Thursday, December 8, 1955 in Warsaw, NY and was the son of the late Harvey and Lucille "Sally" (Miller) Gorsky. He enjoyed camping, NASCAR and attending family sporting events. He was also a past member of the Chaffee-Sardinia Fire Company, enjoyed bowling and was a baseball coach for many years. He also cared for many children with his wife, Diane, for over 27 years as foster parents.
He was a supervisor for Ashton Potter in Williamsville, New York.

He moved to Van Wert with his mother and step-father, entering Van Wert High School for his sophomore year, 1971-1972. After graduating with the Class of 1974, he returned to Western New York and married his wife in 1975. A 1974 classmate, Greg Glander, remained life-time best friends with David Stiles and his family.

His wife, Diane Marie (Buncy) Stiles, whom he married on May 10, 1975 at the Chaffee Baptist Church, Hamlet of Chaffee, Town of Sardinia, Erie County, New York, passed away on May 28, 2022, at the age of 65. She was born September 17, 1956.
He is survived by his children: Dawn (Leon Szweda) Stiles of Arcade, Christopher (Bridget) Stiles of Arcade, Jordan (Sammantha) Stiles of Franklinville, Olivia Buncy of Freedom and Ezekiel Stiles of Freedom; his brother, Ron (Carol) Stiles of Florida; his sister-in-law, Sharon Stiles of Florida; his grandchildren: Bridggette (Corry), Ashden, Trevor (Abby), Brady, Aubry, Easton and Hudson; his great-grandchildren: Aryia, Kiyrra, Elijah and Aurora. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and his wife, he is preceded in death by his brother, Larry Stiles.

Friends may call on Sunday, July 16, 2023, from 2 – 4 pm and 6 – 8 pm at the W.S. Davis Funeral Home, 358 Main Street, Arcade, N.Y., where a Funeral Service will be held Monday, July 17, 2023 at 11 am.
Memorials may be offered to The Pediatric Foundation at Roswell Research Hospital, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo, NY 14240.

Comment by Greg Glander, Class of 1974, “Dave was my best friend and I am sure going to miss him and our summer get-togethers. He would bring his motor home to Ohio and would park in our yard

Charles “Charlie" Duane Custer
March 4, 2023

     

                     Obituary Photo                                          Senior Photo, 1974 VWHS Excalibur, page 153

VAN WERT, Ohio — Charles “Charlie” D. Custer, 67, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 5:12 p.m., Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Lima Memorial Hospital, Lima, Ohio. He was born on November 20, 1955, in Van Wert, to Allen “Whitey” and Joan (Welker) Custer, who both preceded him in death.

Charles was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. He owned and operated Custer Dump Trucking & Excavating Inc. west of Van Wert, and was co-owner of Hat Creek Arena on Richey Road, northwest of Van Wert. A lifelong equestrian, Charlie owned and managed Bridge Creek Stables and raised cutting horses.
He also participated in team penning events.

Charlie attended Lifehouse Church in Van Wert. He was an Ohio State Buckeye fan and was often found at Van Wert High School football games. An excellent line dancer, Charlie competed in several dance competitions.

Survivors include his son, Adam (Liz) Custer of Van Wert; brother, Gordon “Gordy” (Malynda) Custer of Van Wert; sisters: Pam Waltmire of Van Wert; Vicki (Scott) Vonderembse of Delphos; granddaughter, Laramie Custer, whom he loved dearly, as well as two nieces and two nephews. In addition to his parents, Charlie was preceded in death by his niece, Brandy Hartmen.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 11, at St. Paul’s Reformed Church, Ohio City, with Pastor Steve Drake officiating. Interment will follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Family and friends will be received from 2-8 p.m., Friday, March 10, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and again at the church one hour prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorial is the American Heart Association. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com
(This obituary was posted online at 12:18 pm, March 7, 2023, in the vwindependent.com online newspaper, Van Wert, Ohio. It was also posted online in the Van Wert Times Bulletin e-Edition, on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 2:51 pm )
Bobbie Sue (Shinabery) Poe
October 4, 2022
               Senior Picture, VWHS 1974 Excalibur, page 169

Bobbie Sue (Shinabery) Poe, 66, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 10:07 PM on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at Meadows of Delphos, Ohio. She was born on December 4, 1955, in St Marys, Ohio, to the late Robert and Ethel (Sink) Shinabery.
Bobbie was a manager at Gordons Food Service, Lima, Ohio.
She enjoyed crafting, making hairbows, watching Ohio State University football and, most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren and family.
She was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.

Surviving are her children, William (Brittany) Poe, II of Van Wert and Lisa (Jill) Poe of Ottoville, Ohio; grandchildren, Markee Rase, Drake Sosenheimer, Hunter Sosenheimer, Kedrick Sosenheimer, Gibson Poe, Teagan Poe and Canaan Poe; 4 great grandchildren with one on the way; a brother, Dave Shinabery of Van Wert; and sisters, Jill (Bob) Hufford of Van Wert, Cathy Bellar of Springboro, Ohio and Nicki (James) Fields of Harold, Kentucky.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Heather Poe; a brother, Mike Shinabery; and a sister, Jan Beougher.

A memorial visitation will be held 2:00-5:00 PM on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bobbie`s memory may be directed to: Breast Cancer Awareness. To share in Bobbie's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

The following comment is from Rose (Felger) Elston, VWHS Class of 1974: “ . . . she loved her children and grandchildren with her entire heart. She worship the ground they walked on. I will tell that she has battled with cancer for 9 years. What was unique about her she never complained about it. She was thankful for every day that God gave her.”

(This obituary appeared Wednesday, October 5, 2022, on the Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Obituary website, https://www.alspachgearhart.com/obituary/Bobbie-Spoe. The local online newspaper, vwindependent.com, posted: 10/05/2022 at 12:54 pm., https://thevwindependent.com/news/2022/10/05/bobbie-s-poe/. The local online and print newspaper posted Wednesday, October 5, 2022, at 12:37 PM.  https://timesbulletin.com/Content/Obituaries/Obituaries/Article/Bobbie-S-Poe/4/7/234207.)

Dana Alan Pollock
September 9, 2022

                    
                                                                                                          Excalibur 1971, Freshman 1970-1971 photo, pages 120 / 126                  Excalibur 1974, Senior 1973-1974 photo, page 162

VAN WERT - Dana Alan Pollock, age 67, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 12:13 PM on Friday, September 09, 2022 at Van Wert Health ER. He was born on October 02, 1954, in Van Wert, to the late Lee Wayne and Anna Louise (Shaffer) Pollock. On October 02, 1985, he married the love of his life, Ronda Rhodes.
Dana graduated from Van Wert High School Class of 1974, and worked at Kennedy Kit Manufacturing in Van Wert for many years before disability forced his retirement. He enjoyed woodworking, carpentry and watching football, especially the Seattle Seahawks.
Dana was patient man who dearly loved his family and cherished the time he spent with his grand kids.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Ronda Pollock of rural Van Wert; son, Kyle (Nicole) Pollock of Defiance; daughter, Kierstin (John) Ruffner of Delphos; grandchildren: Logan and Jason Pollock; Chloe and Scott Schrader; brothers: Rick Pollock of Galion, and Kevin Pollock of Hilliard; brothers-in-law: Robert (Brenda) Rhodes of Marysville; Roger (Teresa) Rhodes of Ft. Myers, FL; Randy Rhodes of Van Wert; as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Dana was preceded in death by his brothers, Larry and Randy Pollock

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, 722 S. Washington St. Van Wert, OH 45891.
Interment will follow in Ridge Cemetery, 18294 Lincoln Hwy, Middle Point, Ohio.
Family and friends will be received from 2 to 6 PM on Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert.
For those who prefer, memorial contributions in Dana`s memory may be sent to a charity of the donor's choice.
To share in Dana's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S Washington Street, Van Wert, OH 45891.

Obituary was listed on Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory’s obituary listing Saturday, September 10, 2022, located at https://www.alspachgearhart.com/obituary/Dana-Pollock#obituary .
The vwindependent.com local online newspaper posted the full obituary on Sept.12, 2022, 7:57 pm. The Van Wert Times Bulletin posted online a death and funeral notice on September 13, 2022 8:28 AM

Vicky Lynne (Lippi) Richardson
March 11, 2022

 One of Vicky's favorite Facebook photos      Senior Photo, 1974 Excalibur, page 159

Vicky (Lippi) Richardson passed away on Friday, March 11, 2022, at Englewood Hospital, Englewood, Florida. She had a mini-stroke two years earlier that lead to kidney failure, her cause of death. Per Vicky’s desire, there was no public service or obituary published. She was cremated locally. Her affairs were handled by her father, Bob Lippi. Vicky would have been 66 or 67 years of age at her death.

Vicky had been a paralegal for about 20 - 25 years until approximately 60 years old. It appeared her passion and hobby was music, especially bands of all types. She played guitar.
She resided in Florida for many years.

She is survived by her father, Robert “Bob” Lawrence Lippi, of Frankfort, Indiana. He graduated Van Wert High School with the Class of 1954. Also surviving is her only child, daughter Alexia Richardson, of Utah.

Vicky’s elementary school years were at Franklin Elementary in Van Wert, (at least for a number of years). Vicky graduated with the VWHS Class of 1974. Some of Vicky's favorite Facebook photos are included below.

(Vicky’s death was first mentioned in 2022 by Brenda Cannon, who spoke with Bob Lippi, to Julie Wise Youtsey. Details were further confirmed with Bob Lippi. Vicky had numerous local Van Wert friends commenting on her Facebook posts in the recent years. If anyone can add information about Vicky, verify or correct the information above, or have memories of Vicky that could be posted here, please make a comment. The many photos posted here were taken from Vicky’s Facebook postings. They are photos she posted or liked.)

 
 

 

 

Renee Kim (Wise) Cryer
January 12, 2022

 
   Senior photo, page 168, Van Wert High School 1974 Excalibur Yearbook
Van Wert, Ohio: Renee Kim (Wise) Cryer, 66, of Van Wert, passed away at 1:02 p.m. Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at the Van Wert Manor.
She was born on January 7, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of Thomas A. and Juanita J. (Wurster) Wise and was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.

Renee retired from the Eaton Corporation in Van Wert, after 47 years of service. She enjoyed reading and crafts.

Surviving are her parents in Van Wert; a sister, Michele (Steven) Mendenhall of Van Wert; a niece, Tracy (Mike) Tempio of Columbus, Ohio; a nephew, Scott Mendenhall of Fort Wayne, Indiana; a great niece, Tori Blumer, and a great nephew, Kristopher Mendenhall.

Funeral services will be conducted at 5 p.m. Monday, January 17, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert with Rev. Chris Farmer, Van Wert First United Methodist Church, officiating. Private burial will take place Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials: Donate Life America.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
(Published in the online newspaper, vwindependent.com on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, at 1:40 pm. Published in the online version of the Van Wert Times Bulletin Thursday, January 13, 2022, 7:09 PM)
Randy Lee Hartman
September 20, 2021
      Freshman Photo, 1971 Excalibur Yearbook, page 118

VAN WERT, Ohio — Randy Lee Hartman, 66, of Van Wert, passed away Monday evening, September 20, 2021, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert following a short illness.
He was born on July 17, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of the late Charles and Alberta (Drake) Hartman, who both preceded him in death. On February 16, 1984, he married the former Brenda Sue Amweg, who survives.
He is also survived by a grandson, Hunter Burton; a step-son, Mark Pate of Payne, Ohio; close family friend, Pam (Custer) Waltmire of Van Wert; two brothers-in-law, John Winters of Van Wert and Eugene Eash of Wisconsin; a sister-in-law, Renee Hartman of Van Wert; and several nieces and nephews, Amy, Tracey, John-John, Michael, CJ, Robert, and Philip.

Randy was preceded in death by a daughter, Brandy Sue (Hartman) Burton; a grandson, Fisher Burton; and four siblings, Charles Hartman, Kathy Eash, Shelia Winters, and Mike Hartman. Randy was a longtime friend and employee of Jerry Custer’s Produce in Van Wert. He also was an independent trash hauler and worked for National Serv-All. He was an active member of the Convoy Fox Hunters’ Club and past member of the Willshire Sportman's Club.
The family will have private services as Randy’s ashes are interred at Convoy IOOF Cemetery, Ohio.
Condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at www.cowanfuneralhome.com.
Randy is listed with the Class of 1974, as "Not Pictured" in the Sophomore 1972 Excalibur, page 171, Junior 1973 Excalibur, page 140, and Senior 1974 Excalibur, page 169.
Obituary Published in the Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Thursday, September 23, 2021 6:58 PM and the vwindependent.com, Van Wert, Ohio, September 23, 2021 at 10:51 AM.
Karen Kay (Keirns) Grubb
September 1, 2021
 Obituary Photo    Junior, 1973 Excalibur, pg. 136.    Senior, 1974 Excalibur, pg. 169.
ATHENS, OHO - Karen Kay (Keirns) Grubb, age 65, of Athens, Ohio, formerly of Van Wert, Ohio, died Wednesday morning, Sept. 1, 2021, at Marietta Memorial Hospital, Marietta, Ohio. Born July 3, 1956, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, she is the daughter of Mary E. (Boley) Keirns of Van Wert and the late William H. Keirns.
A 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School, she was formerly employed as a press operator at Federal - Mogul, National Seal (Tenneco Van Wert, Federal Mogul Sealing Systems) in Van Wert. She had been a resident of Athens for the past year. She enjoyed her computer, iPhone, and the Internet.
Karen is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Jason Grubb and Sarah Grow-Grubb of Langsville, Ohio, (a short distance south of Athens); two grandchildren, Garak and Kira Grubb; two brothers, Daniel Keirns and Richard (Julie) Keirns, both of Van Wert; a special friend, Connie Ford of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; and a friend, Danny Chertiza of Staten Island, New York.
A memorial service may be had at a later date. Arrangements are with Jagers & Sons Funeral Home, Athens. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
This obituary appears on the Jagers & Sons Funeral Home website at jagersfuneralhome.com/obituary/karen-grubb.
Karen Kay Keirns is listed as a graduate in the Van Wert High School 103rd Annual Commencement, Candidates for Graduation, Commencement Program, June 2, 1974.
Classmate Karen (Hasty) Jellison had been in contact with Karen Grubb during the later years of Karen's life and furnished the obituary information for Karen.
Marcia (Shellabarger) Diltz
July 27, 2021
Obituary Photo    Van Wert High School 1971 Excalibur Yearbook, page 121, Freshman Year, 1970-1971

VAN WERT - Marcia A. (Shellabarger) Diltz, 65, of Van Wert, passed away at 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at Ohio State University Wexner, Columbus, Ohio.

She was born March 24, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to John and Mary Lou (Bigham) Shellabarger, who both preceded her in death. She was united in marriage on April 16, 1975, to Justin Diltz, and he survives in Van Wert.

Marcia is also survived by her sons, Jon (Maria) Diltz of Delphos and Chad Diltz of Van Wert; her daughters, Kristina and April Diltz, both of Van Wert; five grandchildren, Ryan Diltz, Kierra Diltz, Jordan Diltz, Waylon, and Whitlee Diltz; two great-grandchildren, Amari and Amiah Diltz; a sister, Linda (Jon) Lewis; two brothers, Terry (Melinda) Shellabarger and Dennis Shellabarger; and many nieces and nephews.
She attended Van Wert City Schools at Washington Elementary - 3rd Ward, Lincoln Junior High School and Van Wert High School through her sophomore year, 1971-1972. She then attended Lincolnview High School and graduated with the Lincolnview Class of 1974.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed keeping in touch with friends on Facebook. She liked to play Bingo, make people laugh, and spend time with her dogs, Iggy and Haze. She was an avid Michigan Wolverines fan. Marcia was a member of American Legion Women’s Auxiliary Unit 268 in Delphos.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, August 2, at Harter and Schier Funeral Home in Delphos, Ohio. Burial will be held at a later date.
Visitation is from noon to 2 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To the family. 

Marcia is not listed and does not have a photo in the Van Wert High School 1972 Excalibur Yearbook, Sophomore year 1971-1972.
Obituary with photo was posted July 28, 2021 at 8:16 pm on the online newspaper, thevwindependent.com
Barbara Lou "Bobbie" (Thomas) Sterrett
September 24, 2020 
          
                 Obituary Photo                       Van Wert High School Class of 1973, Senior Picure, 1973 Excalibur

VAN WERT - Barbara Lou Sterrett, 64, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 5:43 a.m. Thursday, September 24, 2020, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert. She was born January 13, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of James Eugene and Elba Rose (Garver) Thomas, who both preceded her in death.

As an animal lover, Barbara never knew a stray and had a special place in her heart for cats. She volunteered her time with the Van Wert County Humane Society and would always help family and friends in any way she could. She enjoyed Blues music and often attended St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert.

She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca Weisner of Athens, Georgia; one brother, Dave Thomas of Van Wert; her significant other, Mark Bohnlein of Van Wert; as well as her niece, Sheena, and nephew, Kyle. Her husband, John Sterrett, also preceded her in death.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Preferred memorials in Barbara`s memory may be sent to The RSD/CRPS Foundation, https://rsds.org/donate/. Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.
(Obituary was published on September 25, 2020, online at thevwindependent.com, and a shorter obituary version on September 28, 2020, in the online version of the Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, and the print version of the Times Bulletin newspaper on September 30, 2020.)
Barbara entered high school from the Van Wert City School system with the Van Wert High School Class of 1974. She was in this class through their freshman year, 1970 - 1971, and sophomore year, 1971 - 1972. She graduated high school in three years, a school year early, 1972 - 1973, as a senior with the Van Wert High School Class of 1973.
Brenda A. (Eber) Fackler
July 4, 2020
  
                              Obituary Photo                                                        Find-A-Grave Photo

Van Wert - Brenda Fackler of Van Wert, Ohio passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2020, at age 64. She was born April 8, 1956 in Van Wert. On July 28, 1973 she was united in marriage with Ronald Fackler and together they shared almost 47 years of marriage.
Brenda is survived by her husband, Ronald Fackler. Brenda is survived by her daughter, Kylie (Cory) Cira, her grandchildren, Mason and Avery Cira. She is also survived by her brothers, Larry Eber and Mark Harman.

Brenda is preceded in death by her parents, Wallace "Wally" Harman and Carolyn "Sue" Dempsey. She is also preceded in death by her brother, Terry Eber, her niece, Tina Smith, her stepfather, Jack Dempsey and her stepsister Sallie Roberts.
Brenda loved life and lived everyday to the fullest. Brenda was a social butterfly, who never knew a stranger. She was an avid gardener who loved to be outside, tending to her flowers.
Brenda loved anything involving outdoor activities; swimming, gardening, and bird watching were some of her favorite things to do.

She shared many memories with her grandchildren, especially watching and waiting for dragonflies, birds (especially cardinals) and making their fairy garden. Brenda loved her grandchildren more than words. She loved to have cookouts, sleepovers, campfires with the grand-kids. Watching her grandson play sports was something that brought her so much joy. She enjoyed shooting her BB gun with her grandson and trying to chase squirrels away. (Brenda was a Van Wert High School 1974 graduate and her husband, Ron Fackler, a 1970 graduate.)
Brenda loved to shop and go to garage sales with her daughter. She loved to go out to dinner with her husband in her ruby red car. Brenda was a woman with a kind and open heart, and she will be missed by many.
The family will receive friends from 10 A.M. to 12 noon on Friday, July 10, 2020 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, 722 S. Washington Street, Van Wert. A private, family only memorial service will be held.      Brenda Fackler's Find-A-Grave Listing

Although family and friends are invited to attend Brenda's visitation, we continue to be cautious and concerned for those who are most vulnerable, the elderly and those with serious health issues. We strongly urge everyone to remain vigilant and respect the well-being of the members of Brenda's family and friends who are at risk. Attendees are asked to observe social distancing, refrain from close physical contact, and wear facial coverings as able.
Preferred memorials may be sent to the family. To share in Brenda's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.
This obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper on Tuesday, July 7, 2020.
Bryan "Jay" Hoverman
May 21, 2020
Obituary Photo   Funeral Memorial Photo


FORT WAYNE, IN - Bryan "Jay" Hoverman, 64, passed away Thursday, May 21, 2020 at his home. He was born in Van Wert, Ohio to the late Vernon and Pollyanna Hoverman. Jay was the president and owner/operator of JADAC III INC (Fedex delivery). He is leaving behind the love of his life of 32 years, Andrea Hoverman of Fort Wayne; children, David (Brooke) Hoverman, and Chelsea Hoverman both of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Rosalie and Theo; siblings, Kim (Bonnie) Hoverman of Van Wert, OH and Toni (Chuck) Bair of Hamilton, IN.

Jay was preceded in death by his brother, William Hoverman. A memorial service is 7:00 pm, Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at Central Ministries, 5801 Schwartz Rd, with calling 4 hours prior beginning at 3:00 pm until 6:45 pm. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions the family is asking those attending to be respectful in keeping social distancing along with keeping the visit timely, allowing more people to attend. Memorials may be made to MD Anderson Lung Cancer Research. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com.

Posted in the online version of the Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, the timesbulletin.com, on Friday, May 22, 2020 4:30 PM. Published in the Fort Wayne Newspapers on May 23, 2020.
Mark R. Riggenbach
January 11, 2020
    
                Obituary Photo                                         High School Senior Photo                                     Circa 1969                                               30th cllass reunion 2004
VAN WERT, OHIO - Mark R. Riggenbach, age 63, of Van Wert, passed away at 3:14 p.m., Saturday, January 11, 2020, at Lima Memorial Hospital, Lima, Ohio.
He was born February 29, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of Richard Riggenbach and Laura (Williamson) Riggenbach, who both preceded him in death.

Mark was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. He retired from the Van Wert County Department of Job and Family Services and was a member of Moose Lodge 1320 in Van Wert.
Mark enjoyed listening to music, especially Country and Bluegrass, and was an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan. He was also an accomplished pool player and loved to play cards.
Surviving are two children, Callie Riggenbach and Nick Riggenbach, both of Athens; a granddaughter, Riviera Faith Carlin; and one brother, Stan (Nancy) Riggenbach of Huntersville, North Carolina.

A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, February 29, at Van Wert Moose Lodge 1320, 740 W. Ervin Road in Van Wert.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mark`s memory may be sent to Van Wert County Children’s Services.
Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.  Funeral arrangements are being handled by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.
This obituary appeared on vwindependent.com and in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Tuesday, January 14, 2020.

The Riggenbach family home where Mark grew-up was at 114 East First Street in Van Wert. He went to school at Horace Mann Elementary School, the First Ward elementary school.
He attended the Lincoln Junior High School and graduated from Van Wert High School in 1974.
Behind Mark's home and lot, at the south edge was the "Riggenbach Lot." It ran to the east to the edge of the mid-block, north-south alley. It was the gathering spot for kids from the surrounding area. Kickball, football, baseball and good-times of arguing who should be on what team and what would be played could happen anytime kids were not in school.
One of Mark's desires in his last two months of life was to move and live somewhere else. Mark was very peaceful and happy when he discussed where he might live.
Randy Smith
April 20, 2019

Cumming, GA - Randy Leo Smith, native of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at the age of 63 on the morning of Saturday, April 20, 2019, at home in Cumming, Georgia, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born in Van Wert, October 24, 1955.

Randy was preceded in death by his wife Jenny McWilliams Smith (dec. January 26, 2005), both of his parents, Leo W. and Romaine E. Smith, and his oldest brother Larry Smith. He is survived by his siblings Joy and Jack, his wife of five years, Tiffany, his children Andrea and Austin J., and his three grand-children.

Randy graduated Van Wert High School in 1974 and received his Bachelor of Science from Bowling Green State University, Ohio, in 1978, before beginning a forty-year career in general contracting. He was an avid and passionate golfer, even making a trip in 2008 to play at the Old Course at St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland, in 2008. Randy was a generous and caring father, a patient and loving grandfather, and his smile lit up the lives of his friends and loved ones.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Randy at Windermere Golf Club, Cumming, GA, on Wednesday, April 24 at 3 o’clock in the afternoon. Arrangements are by Byars Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Cumming, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Randy’s honor to the Melanoma Research Foundation.
(Notice published in Forsyth County News on April 24, 2019. Obituary obtained from the Byars Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 155 Professional Park Drive, Cumming, GA 30040)


Pruda Richie Dunno
April 4, 2019
 
             Obituary Photo                  1971 Excalibur-Pg 120 name listing-Pg 126 Photo             1972 Excalibur Photo Pg 164                        1973 Excalibur Photo Pg 138

Fort Wayne, IN. – Pruda Richie Dunno, 64, of Fort Wayne, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2019. She was a loving mother and grandmother who loved spending time with her family. She was a home health aid for several years. It was her passion to care for everyone around her, especially her son, who was her pride and joy. She is survived by her children, Melissa Dunno of Fort Wayne, Trisha (Adam) Madison of Waynedale, IN., Elisha (Fred) Bartz of Auburn, IN, Daniel Dunno of Waynedale; and her eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by grandson, Devan Dunno ; sister, Regina Risner; and parents. Service is 3 p.m. Saturday, April 13, 2019, at Midwest Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 4602 Newaygo Road, Fort Wayne, IN., with visitation one hour prior to the service, 2 pm – 3 pm.
Information added to her obituary for the VWHS Classmate Memorial Tribute Obituary Listing:
Pruda attended Van Wert City Schools in the Class of 1974 for at least her High School Years of Freshman 1970-1971, Sophomore 1971-1972, and Junior, 1972-1973. The Senior Year, 1973-1974, she did not have a Senior photo and was not listed as having no photo. The Class of 1974 Commencement Program does not list her as a participant.
Pruda's middle name may be Jean. She was born November 1954. Her parents are both deceased: J.B. Richie & Beatrice Cole Richie.
Listing of Pruda's siblings:  Brothers: Larry Richie, deceased; Gary Richie, deceased; and Dan Richie. Sisters: Melissa Richie Frain, Barb Richie Mitchener, Lillian Richie Small, and deceased is Regina Richie Risner. Pruda was one of 8 total children.
Pruda's address in Fort Wayne at the time of her death may have been at: 1606 N. Harrison St., Fort Wayne, IN  46808.
Published by Fort Wayne Indiana Newspapers on Apr. 7, 2019.

Brenda Jean (Rison) Williams
 April 15, 2018
Photo is from the 1971-1972 school year, her sophomore photo in the 1972 Excalibur Yearbook.
VAN WERT - Jean (Rison) Williams, 63, passed away Sunday evening, April 15, 2018, at her residence in Van Wert, Ohio.
She was born November 18, 1954, in Van Wert, the daughter of Franklin Earl and Lou Ann (Emery) Rison, who both preceded her in death. On December 27, 1996, she married Michael L. Williams, who died February 20, 2017. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Franklin Earl Rison Jr.

Survivors include her four children, Gordon (Kim) Youtsey of Van Wert, Travis (Brandy) Youtsey of Scott, Ohio, and Nicky (Bob) Gonzalez and Kerri R. (Jason) Krugh, both of Van Wert; 11 grandchildren, Katelyn Kroeger, Skylar Senters, Ciarra Gonzalez, Madison Kroeger, Robbie Gonzalez, Logan Senters, Gage Thomas, Harley Youtsey, Kiera Youtsey, Lilly Serna, and Isabella Krugh; three sisters, Ruth (Michael) Bell of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Cheryl Dunken and Julie (Larry) Panning, both of Van Wert; and a brother, Jimmy (Becky) Rison of Ohio City, Ohio.
Brenda retired from Greif Bros. in Van Wert.
In accordance with Brenda’s request, there will be no services.
Condolences may be expressed at www.cowanfuneralhome.com.
Obituary appeared in the vwindependent.com on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, and the Van Wert Times Bulletin, Wednesday, April 18, 2018.
Jean Rison is pictured with the Class of 1974 as a freshman in the 1971 Excalibur Yearbook on page 120 & 126, and as a sophomore in the 1972 Excalibur Yearbook on page 164. She is not pictured with the class as a junior in the 1973 Excalibur or as a senior in the 1974 Excalibur, nor lsited as not having a picture shown. She attended VWHS at least through the near end of the junior year, 1972-1973. 


Classmate Memorial Tribute
Van Wert High School Class of 1974
Van Wert, Van Wert County, Ohio 45891  U.S.A.

245 was the Number of Candidates for Graduation for the 103rd Annual Commencement Program,
Sunday Evening, June 2, 1974, 6:30 P.M., Van Wert High School, Eggerss Stadium
Class Flower = Red Rose, Class Colors = Scarlet and Gray,
Class Motto, "I have always known that at last I would take this road,
but yesterday I did not know that it would be today." Ariwara no Narihira
Never forgotten . . . A candle of remembrance for our lost classmates
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.    Psalm 116:15

Music is Elton John's live performance of  'Candle in the Wind' at the funeral of
Diana, Princess of Wales, Westminster Abbey in 1997.

                                                        Classmates' obituaries are in chronological order - Starting at July 10, 1964 through most recent, July 29, 2023
     

Mary Eliza Boaz-McGuire
July 29, 2023
            
             Facebook photo                                              Senior Photo - Page 151, 1974 Excalibur

Mary Eliza (Boaz) McGuire, age 67, of Decatur, Indiana, died at 9:35 p.m., Saturday, July 29, 2023, at Adams Woodcrest Health Center in Decatur. She was born September 27, 1955, in Lexington, Kentucky, the daughter of Franklin C. and Vivian A. (Mosley) Boaz.

Survivors include a sister, Sandra Reynolds of Van Wert and five brothers: Michael (Tina) Boaz, Peter (Nichole) Boaz, and Robert Gay of Van Wert, John (Danielle) Boaz of Hudson, FL, Matthew (Angie) Boaz of Powell, OH; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and her adopted son Iassca Jackson of Indianapolis, Indiana. She was preceded in death by three brothers: Mark Boaz, Colonel Boaz, and Edward Gay.

Mary worked as a long haul truck driver, a welder, a corrections administrator, a small business owner, a leader with the Boy Scouts of America and above all else a servant of God on numerous church boards in cities where she lived during her life. (She was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.)

A celebration of Mary’s life is being planned at a later date. Brickner Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
The obituary appeared on Brickner Funeral Home’s website on Tuesday a.m., August 1, 2023

Karen Marie Jones
July 24, 2023

 

 Senior Photo Excalibur Yearbook, page 157   Grand Canyon, Glamour Photo, circa 1983 - 1997              Karen with a favorite car


                          
Grand Canyon National Park, Early 1980s     Color Senior Photo - Courtesy David Boroff

Phoenix, Arizona – It is with grief and sadness that we share the news of the recent and unexpected death of Karen M. Jones, 67, of Phoenix, Arizona.
Karen was born April 4,1956, in Port Huron, Michigan, to Thomas R. and Lucille Jones. She was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School, where she was active in choir, sports, and GAA (Girls Athletic Association). She attended St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church In Van Wert and after graduation she worked at Teleflex in Van Wert.

In her early 20’s, Karen was drawn to the beauty of the Western United States. She worked for Signal Mountain Lodge in Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming) before relocating to Arizona in the early 1980’s. Karen spent nearly all of her next 45 years living and working in Arizona.
She worked, lived life to the fullest and thrived at the Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) and the village of Tusayan, Arizona until late 1999, where she established lifelong friendships, memories and land baroness status, owning her “beloved ranch” south of Tusayan, Arizona. She then relocated to Phoenix and Scottsdale.

In all her years in Arizona, she was employed in some aspect of the hospitality or travel industry – Grand Canyon Airlines, South Rim Travel, Grand Canyon National Park Lodges (Fred Harvey/Amfac), several helicopter companies and many global corporate travel companies including Carlson Wagonlit.
At the time of her passing, Karen was employed by Direct Travel, as a product support analyst, working remotely in a job she loved and thrived at. Karen was extremely proud of her time serving as an EMT at the Grand Canyon Airport, earning her paralegal certificate, continuing her education with online college courses and the many awards she had bestowed on her during her travel industry career.

Karen loved animals, she enjoyed her independent lifestyle and loved her family and friends.
Karen and her dog, April, were found deceased in their apartment on July 24, 2023. A non-functioning air conditioning unit led to her death of heat exposure.
A tragic and senseless death, we continue to seek answers and mourn our loss.

Karen was predeceased by her parents, a sister, Janet (Jones) Wyandt and brother-in -law, Philip Ramsey.
She is survived by siblings, T. Lindsay (Amy) Jones of Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, Retired Major James (Laura) Jones of Van Wert, and Jacqueline “Jackie” (Jones) Ramsey of Bullhead City, Arizona; a brother-in-law, Richard Wyandt; nieces and nephews, Heidi Jones, Tommie (Christa) Jones, Shannon Jones, Preston (Tammi) Ramsey, Ashley (Josh Smidt) Jones, Derek (Rebeka) Jones, Mackenzie Jones and Melissa Bloomfield; grand-nieces and nephews, Bryton and Jayden Smidt, Bobby and Reese Jones, Shalane and Matthew Ramsey, along with many cousins and extended family members, Christy (Schoenlein) Martin and family and Jonathon and family.
Karen also leaves behind many friends and coworkers, especially David and Jackie.

She will be missed by all and was taken too soon. The family will have a private memorial at a later date.

The family has set up a GoFundMe account organized by Jacqueline Ramsey:

https:www.gofundme.com/karen-jones-19562023
Karen Jones 1956-2023, organized by Jacqueline Ramsey

Photo in the original obituary above

1) The above obituary was posted 9-18-2023 at 3:13 pm, in the Obituaries section of the vwindependent.com, an online newspaper, Van Wert, Ohio.
2) The above obituary was published October 3, 2023, in the Van Wert Times Bulletin, a local Van Wert print newspaper every Wednesday only, and an online daily e-Edition.
3) A different version of the above obituary was originally published: October 11, 2023, 3:06 p.m., in the Williams - Grand Canyon News & the Grand Canyon News, Trusted local news leader for Williams, AZ,
and the Grand Canyon area. This version of the obituary is shorter, absent of information in the above obituary, includes new information, and appears to only have been published for the western news
company. If you would like to read the second version of the obituary, it is located at the following URL, working as of October 17, 2023:  https://www.williamsnews.com/news/2023/oct/11/obituary-karen-m-jones/  
4) The above obituary will remain to be used for the VWHS Class of 1974 Classmate Obituary & Memorial Tribute webpage, as it is the version published in the Van Wert local media companies, as of October 17, 2023.


David W. Stiles
July 13, 2023
   
                Obituary Photo                             VWHS 1974 Senior Photo          L --> R: Greg Glander's Sister, Nancy Gallet; Greg Glander; Dave Stiles; Greg Glander's Brother, Blace Glander;
                                                                                                                                           Beverly Coil Grimes; Diane M. (Buncy) Stiles; Brent Stripe; Callie (Jacobs) Stripe, year = 2021

FREEDOM, NEW YORK - David W. Stiles of Freedom, NY passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at his residence at the age of 67.
(The following obituary was edited to include some additional information and his time in Van Wert, Ohio, approximately 1971 – 1974.)

He was born on Thursday, December 8, 1955 in Warsaw, NY and was the son of the late Harvey and Lucille "Sally" (Miller) Gorsky. He enjoyed camping, NASCAR and attending family sporting events. He was also a past member of the Chaffee-Sardinia Fire Company, enjoyed bowling and was a baseball coach for many years. He also cared for many children with his wife, Diane, for over 27 years as foster parents.
He was a supervisor for Ashton Potter in Williamsville, New York.

He moved to Van Wert with his mother and step-father, entering Van Wert High School for his sophomore year, 1971-1972. After graduating with the Class of 1974, he returned to Western New York and married his wife in 1975. A 1974 classmate, Greg Glander, remained life-time best friends with David Stiles and his family.

His wife, Diane Marie (Buncy) Stiles, whom he married on May 10, 1975 at the Chaffee Baptist Church, Hamlet of Chaffee, Town of Sardinia, Erie County, New York, passed away on May 28, 2022, at the age of 65. She was born September 17, 1956.
He is survived by his children: Dawn (Leon Szweda) Stiles of Arcade, Christopher (Bridget) Stiles of Arcade, Jordan (Sammantha) Stiles of Franklinville, Olivia Buncy of Freedom and Ezekiel Stiles of Freedom; his brother, Ron (Carol) Stiles of Florida; his sister-in-law, Sharon Stiles of Florida; his grandchildren: Bridggette (Corry), Ashden, Trevor (Abby), Brady, Aubry, Easton and Hudson; his great-grandchildren: Aryia, Kiyrra, Elijah and Aurora. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and his wife, he is preceded in death by his brother, Larry Stiles.

Friends may call on Sunday, July 16, 2023, from 2 – 4 pm and 6 – 8 pm at the W.S. Davis Funeral Home, 358 Main Street, Arcade, N.Y., where a Funeral Service will be held Monday, July 17, 2023 at 11 am.
Memorials may be offered to The Pediatric Foundation at Roswell Research Hospital, P.O. Box 631, Buffalo, NY 14240.

Comment by Greg Glander, Class of 1974, “Dave was my best friend and I am sure going to miss him and our summer get-togethers. He would bring his motor home to Ohio and would park in our yard

Charles “Charlie" Duane Custer
March 4, 2023

     

                     Obituary Photo                                          Senior Photo, 1974 VWHS Excalibur, page 153

VAN WERT, Ohio — Charles “Charlie” D. Custer, 67, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 5:12 p.m., Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Lima Memorial Hospital, Lima, Ohio. He was born on November 20, 1955, in Van Wert, to Allen “Whitey” and Joan (Welker) Custer, who both preceded him in death.

Charles was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. He owned and operated Custer Dump Trucking & Excavating Inc. west of Van Wert, and was co-owner of Hat Creek Arena on Richey Road, northwest of Van Wert. A lifelong equestrian, Charlie owned and managed Bridge Creek Stables and raised cutting horses.
He also participated in team penning events.

Charlie attended Lifehouse Church in Van Wert. He was an Ohio State Buckeye fan and was often found at Van Wert High School football games. An excellent line dancer, Charlie competed in several dance competitions.

Survivors include his son, Adam (Liz) Custer of Van Wert; brother, Gordon “Gordy” (Malynda) Custer of Van Wert; sisters: Pam Waltmire of Van Wert; Vicki (Scott) Vonderembse of Delphos; granddaughter, Laramie Custer, whom he loved dearly, as well as two nieces and two nephews. In addition to his parents, Charlie was preceded in death by his niece, Brandy Hartmen.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, March 11, at St. Paul’s Reformed Church, Ohio City, with Pastor Steve Drake officiating. Interment will follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Family and friends will be received from 2-8 p.m., Friday, March 10, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and again at the church one hour prior to the funeral. In lieu of flowers, preferred memorial is the American Heart Association. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com
(This obituary was posted online at 12:18 pm, March 7, 2023, in the vwindependent.com online newspaper, Van Wert, Ohio. It was also posted online in the Van Wert Times Bulletin e-Edition, on Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at 2:51 pm )
Bobbie Sue (Shinabery) Poe
October 4, 2022
               Senior Picture, VWHS 1974 Excalibur, page 169

Bobbie Sue (Shinabery) Poe, 66, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 10:07 PM on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at Meadows of Delphos, Ohio. She was born on December 4, 1955, in St Marys, Ohio, to the late Robert and Ethel (Sink) Shinabery.
Bobbie was a manager at Gordons Food Service, Lima, Ohio.
She enjoyed crafting, making hairbows, watching Ohio State University football and, most importantly, spending time with her grandchildren and family.
She was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.

Surviving are her children, William (Brittany) Poe, II of Van Wert and Lisa (Jill) Poe of Ottoville, Ohio; grandchildren, Markee Rase, Drake Sosenheimer, Hunter Sosenheimer, Kedrick Sosenheimer, Gibson Poe, Teagan Poe and Canaan Poe; 4 great grandchildren with one on the way; a brother, Dave Shinabery of Van Wert; and sisters, Jill (Bob) Hufford of Van Wert, Cathy Bellar of Springboro, Ohio and Nicki (James) Fields of Harold, Kentucky.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Heather Poe; a brother, Mike Shinabery; and a sister, Jan Beougher.

A memorial visitation will be held 2:00-5:00 PM on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bobbie`s memory may be directed to: Breast Cancer Awareness. To share in Bobbie's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

The following comment is from Rose (Felger) Elston, VWHS Class of 1974: “ . . . she loved her children and grandchildren with her entire heart. She worship the ground they walked on. I will tell that she has battled with cancer for 9 years. What was unique about her she never complained about it. She was thankful for every day that God gave her.”

(This obituary appeared Wednesday, October 5, 2022, on the Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Obituary website, https://www.alspachgearhart.com/obituary/Bobbie-Spoe. The local online newspaper, vwindependent.com, posted: 10/05/2022 at 12:54 pm., https://thevwindependent.com/news/2022/10/05/bobbie-s-poe/. The local online and print newspaper posted Wednesday, October 5, 2022, at 12:37 PM.  https://timesbulletin.com/Content/Obituaries/Obituaries/Article/Bobbie-S-Poe/4/7/234207.)

Dana Alan Pollock
September 9, 2022

                    
                                                                                                          Excalibur 1971, Freshman 1970-1971 photo, pages 120 / 126                  Excalibur 1974, Senior 1973-1974 photo, page 162

VAN WERT - Dana Alan Pollock, age 67, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 12:13 PM on Friday, September 09, 2022 at Van Wert Health ER. He was born on October 02, 1954, in Van Wert, to the late Lee Wayne and Anna Louise (Shaffer) Pollock. On October 02, 1985, he married the love of his life, Ronda Rhodes.
Dana graduated from Van Wert High School Class of 1974, and worked at Kennedy Kit Manufacturing in Van Wert for many years before disability forced his retirement. He enjoyed woodworking, carpentry and watching football, especially the Seattle Seahawks.
Dana was patient man who dearly loved his family and cherished the time he spent with his grand kids.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Ronda Pollock of rural Van Wert; son, Kyle (Nicole) Pollock of Defiance; daughter, Kierstin (John) Ruffner of Delphos; grandchildren: Logan and Jason Pollock; Chloe and Scott Schrader; brothers: Rick Pollock of Galion, and Kevin Pollock of Hilliard; brothers-in-law: Robert (Brenda) Rhodes of Marysville; Roger (Teresa) Rhodes of Ft. Myers, FL; Randy Rhodes of Van Wert; as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Dana was preceded in death by his brothers, Larry and Randy Pollock

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, 722 S. Washington St. Van Wert, OH 45891.
Interment will follow in Ridge Cemetery, 18294 Lincoln Hwy, Middle Point, Ohio.
Family and friends will be received from 2 to 6 PM on Tuesday, September 13, 2022, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert.
For those who prefer, memorial contributions in Dana`s memory may be sent to a charity of the donor's choice.
To share in Dana's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S Washington Street, Van Wert, OH 45891.

Obituary was listed on Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory’s obituary listing Saturday, September 10, 2022, located at https://www.alspachgearhart.com/obituary/Dana-Pollock#obituary .
The vwindependent.com local online newspaper posted the full obituary on Sept.12, 2022, 7:57 pm. The Van Wert Times Bulletin posted online a death and funeral notice on September 13, 2022 8:28 AM

Vicky Lynne (Lippi) Richardson
March 11, 2022

 One of Vicky's favorite Facebook photos      Senior Photo, 1974 Excalibur, page 159

Vicky (Lippi) Richardson passed away on Friday, March 11, 2022, at Englewood Hospital, Englewood, Florida. She had a mini-stroke two years earlier that lead to kidney failure, her cause of death. Per Vicky’s desire, there was no public service or obituary published. She was cremated locally. Her affairs were handled by her father, Bob Lippi. Vicky would have been 66 or 67 years of age at her death.

Vicky had been a paralegal for about 20 - 25 years until approximately 60 years old. It appeared her passion and hobby was music, especially bands of all types. She played guitar.
She resided in Florida for many years.

She is survived by her father, Robert “Bob” Lawrence Lippi, of Frankfort, Indiana. He graduated Van Wert High School with the Class of 1954. Also surviving is her only child, daughter Alexia Richardson, of Utah.

Vicky’s elementary school years were at Franklin Elementary in Van Wert, (at least for a number of years). Vicky graduated with the VWHS Class of 1974. Some of Vicky's favorite Facebook photos are included below.

(Vicky’s death was first mentioned in 2022 by Brenda Cannon, who spoke with Bob Lippi, to Julie Wise Youtsey. Details were further confirmed with Bob Lippi. Vicky had numerous local Van Wert friends commenting on her Facebook posts in the recent years. If anyone can add information about Vicky, verify or correct the information above, or have memories of Vicky that could be posted here, please make a comment. The many photos posted here were taken from Vicky’s Facebook postings. They are photos she posted or liked.)

 
 

 

 

Renee Kim (Wise) Cryer
January 12, 2022

 
   Senior photo, page 168, Van Wert High School 1974 Excalibur Yearbook
Van Wert, Ohio: Renee Kim (Wise) Cryer, 66, of Van Wert, passed away at 1:02 p.m. Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at the Van Wert Manor.
She was born on January 7, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of Thomas A. and Juanita J. (Wurster) Wise and was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.

Renee retired from the Eaton Corporation in Van Wert, after 47 years of service. She enjoyed reading and crafts.

Surviving are her parents in Van Wert; a sister, Michele (Steven) Mendenhall of Van Wert; a niece, Tracy (Mike) Tempio of Columbus, Ohio; a nephew, Scott Mendenhall of Fort Wayne, Indiana; a great niece, Tori Blumer, and a great nephew, Kristopher Mendenhall.

Funeral services will be conducted at 5 p.m. Monday, January 17, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert with Rev. Chris Farmer, Van Wert First United Methodist Church, officiating. Private burial will take place Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials: Donate Life America.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
(Published in the online newspaper, vwindependent.com on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, at 1:40 pm. Published in the online version of the Van Wert Times Bulletin Thursday, January 13, 2022, 7:09 PM)
Randy Lee Hartman
September 20, 2021
      Freshman Photo, 1971 Excalibur Yearbook, page 118

VAN WERT, Ohio — Randy Lee Hartman, 66, of Van Wert, passed away Monday evening, September 20, 2021, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert following a short illness.
He was born on July 17, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of the late Charles and Alberta (Drake) Hartman, who both preceded him in death. On February 16, 1984, he married the former Brenda Sue Amweg, who survives.
He is also survived by a grandson, Hunter Burton; a step-son, Mark Pate of Payne, Ohio; close family friend, Pam (Custer) Waltmire of Van Wert; two brothers-in-law, John Winters of Van Wert and Eugene Eash of Wisconsin; a sister-in-law, Renee Hartman of Van Wert; and several nieces and nephews, Amy, Tracey, John-John, Michael, CJ, Robert, and Philip.

Randy was preceded in death by a daughter, Brandy Sue (Hartman) Burton; a grandson, Fisher Burton; and four siblings, Charles Hartman, Kathy Eash, Shelia Winters, and Mike Hartman. Randy was a longtime friend and employee of Jerry Custer’s Produce in Van Wert. He also was an independent trash hauler and worked for National Serv-All. He was an active member of the Convoy Fox Hunters’ Club and past member of the Willshire Sportman's Club.
The family will have private services as Randy’s ashes are interred at Convoy IOOF Cemetery, Ohio.
Condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at www.cowanfuneralhome.com.
Randy is listed with the Class of 1974, as "Not Pictured" in the Sophomore 1972 Excalibur, page 171, Junior 1973 Excalibur, page 140, and Senior 1974 Excalibur, page 169.
Obituary Published in the Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Thursday, September 23, 2021 6:58 PM and the vwindependent.com, Van Wert, Ohio, September 23, 2021 at 10:51 AM.
Karen Kay (Keirns) Grubb
September 1, 2021
 Obituary Photo    Junior, 1973 Excalibur, pg. 136.    Senior, 1974 Excalibur, pg. 169.
ATHENS, OHO - Karen Kay (Keirns) Grubb, age 65, of Athens, Ohio, formerly of Van Wert, Ohio, died Wednesday morning, Sept. 1, 2021, at Marietta Memorial Hospital, Marietta, Ohio. Born July 3, 1956, in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, she is the daughter of Mary E. (Boley) Keirns of Van Wert and the late William H. Keirns.
A 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School, she was formerly employed as a press operator at Federal - Mogul, National Seal (Tenneco Van Wert, Federal Mogul Sealing Systems) in Van Wert. She had been a resident of Athens for the past year. She enjoyed her computer, iPhone, and the Internet.
Karen is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Jason Grubb and Sarah Grow-Grubb of Langsville, Ohio, (a short distance south of Athens); two grandchildren, Garak and Kira Grubb; two brothers, Daniel Keirns and Richard (Julie) Keirns, both of Van Wert; a special friend, Connie Ford of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; and a friend, Danny Chertiza of Staten Island, New York.
A memorial service may be had at a later date. Arrangements are with Jagers & Sons Funeral Home, Athens. Please share a memory, a note of condolence or sign the online register at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.
This obituary appears on the Jagers & Sons Funeral Home website at jagersfuneralhome.com/obituary/karen-grubb.
Karen Kay Keirns is listed as a graduate in the Van Wert High School 103rd Annual Commencement, Candidates for Graduation, Commencement Program, June 2, 1974.
Classmate Karen (Hasty) Jellison had been in contact with Karen Grubb during the later years of Karen's life and furnished the obituary information for Karen.
Marcia (Shellabarger) Diltz
July 27, 2021
Obituary Photo    Van Wert High School 1971 Excalibur Yearbook, page 121, Freshman Year, 1970-1971

VAN WERT - Marcia A. (Shellabarger) Diltz, 65, of Van Wert, passed away at 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at Ohio State University Wexner, Columbus, Ohio.

She was born March 24, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to John and Mary Lou (Bigham) Shellabarger, who both preceded her in death. She was united in marriage on April 16, 1975, to Justin Diltz, and he survives in Van Wert.

Marcia is also survived by her sons, Jon (Maria) Diltz of Delphos and Chad Diltz of Van Wert; her daughters, Kristina and April Diltz, both of Van Wert; five grandchildren, Ryan Diltz, Kierra Diltz, Jordan Diltz, Waylon, and Whitlee Diltz; two great-grandchildren, Amari and Amiah Diltz; a sister, Linda (Jon) Lewis; two brothers, Terry (Melinda) Shellabarger and Dennis Shellabarger; and many nieces and nephews.
She attended Van Wert City Schools at Washington Elementary - 3rd Ward, Lincoln Junior High School and Van Wert High School through her sophomore year, 1971-1972. She then attended Lincolnview High School and graduated with the Lincolnview Class of 1974.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed keeping in touch with friends on Facebook. She liked to play Bingo, make people laugh, and spend time with her dogs, Iggy and Haze. She was an avid Michigan Wolverines fan. Marcia was a member of American Legion Women’s Auxiliary Unit 268 in Delphos.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, August 2, at Harter and Schier Funeral Home in Delphos, Ohio. Burial will be held at a later date.
Visitation is from noon to 2 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To the family. 

Marcia is not listed and does not have a photo in the Van Wert High School 1972 Excalibur Yearbook, Sophomore year 1971-1972.
Obituary with photo was posted July 28, 2021 at 8:16 pm on the online newspaper, thevwindependent.com
Barbara Lou "Bobbie" (Thomas) Sterrett
September 24, 2020 
          
                 Obituary Photo                       Van Wert High School Class of 1973, Senior Picure, 1973 Excalibur

VAN WERT - Barbara Lou Sterrett, 64, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 5:43 a.m. Thursday, September 24, 2020, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert. She was born January 13, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of James Eugene and Elba Rose (Garver) Thomas, who both preceded her in death.

As an animal lover, Barbara never knew a stray and had a special place in her heart for cats. She volunteered her time with the Van Wert County Humane Society and would always help family and friends in any way she could. She enjoyed Blues music and often attended St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert.

She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca Weisner of Athens, Georgia; one brother, Dave Thomas of Van Wert; her significant other, Mark Bohnlein of Van Wert; as well as her niece, Sheena, and nephew, Kyle. Her husband, John Sterrett, also preceded her in death.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Preferred memorials in Barbara`s memory may be sent to The RSD/CRPS Foundation, https://rsds.org/donate/. Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.
(Obituary was published on September 25, 2020, online at thevwindependent.com, and a shorter obituary version on September 28, 2020, in the online version of the Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, and the print version of the Times Bulletin newspaper on September 30, 2020.)
Barbara entered high school from the Van Wert City School system with the Van Wert High School Class of 1974. She was in this class through their freshman year, 1970 - 1971, and sophomore year, 1971 - 1972. She graduated high school in three years, a school year early, 1972 - 1973, as a senior with the Van Wert High School Class of 1973.
Brenda A. (Eber) Fackler
July 4, 2020
  
                              Obituary Photo                                                        Find-A-Grave Photo

Van Wert - Brenda Fackler of Van Wert, Ohio passed away on Saturday, July 4, 2020, at age 64. She was born April 8, 1956 in Van Wert. On July 28, 1973 she was united in marriage with Ronald Fackler and together they shared almost 47 years of marriage.
Brenda is survived by her husband, Ronald Fackler. Brenda is survived by her daughter, Kylie (Cory) Cira, her grandchildren, Mason and Avery Cira. She is also survived by her brothers, Larry Eber and Mark Harman.

Brenda is preceded in death by her parents, Wallace "Wally" Harman and Carolyn "Sue" Dempsey. She is also preceded in death by her brother, Terry Eber, her niece, Tina Smith, her stepfather, Jack Dempsey and her stepsister Sallie Roberts.
Brenda loved life and lived everyday to the fullest. Brenda was a social butterfly, who never knew a stranger. She was an avid gardener who loved to be outside, tending to her flowers.
Brenda loved anything involving outdoor activities; swimming, gardening, and bird watching were some of her favorite things to do.

She shared many memories with her grandchildren, especially watching and waiting for dragonflies, birds (especially cardinals) and making their fairy garden. Brenda loved her grandchildren more than words. She loved to have cookouts, sleepovers, campfires with the grand-kids. Watching her grandson play sports was something that brought her so much joy. She enjoyed shooting her BB gun with her grandson and trying to chase squirrels away. (Brenda was a Van Wert High School 1974 graduate and her husband, Ron Fackler, a 1970 graduate.)
Brenda loved to shop and go to garage sales with her daughter. She loved to go out to dinner with her husband in her ruby red car. Brenda was a woman with a kind and open heart, and she will be missed by many.
The family will receive friends from 10 A.M. to 12 noon on Friday, July 10, 2020 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, 722 S. Washington Street, Van Wert. A private, family only memorial service will be held.      Brenda Fackler's Find-A-Grave Listing

Although family and friends are invited to attend Brenda's visitation, we continue to be cautious and concerned for those who are most vulnerable, the elderly and those with serious health issues. We strongly urge everyone to remain vigilant and respect the well-being of the members of Brenda's family and friends who are at risk. Attendees are asked to observe social distancing, refrain from close physical contact, and wear facial coverings as able.
Preferred memorials may be sent to the family. To share in Brenda's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.
This obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper on Tuesday, July 7, 2020.
Bryan "Jay" Hoverman
May 21, 2020
Obituary Photo   Funeral Memorial Photo


FORT WAYNE, IN - Bryan "Jay" Hoverman, 64, passed away Thursday, May 21, 2020 at his home. He was born in Van Wert, Ohio to the late Vernon and Pollyanna Hoverman. Jay was the president and owner/operator of JADAC III INC (Fedex delivery). He is leaving behind the love of his life of 32 years, Andrea Hoverman of Fort Wayne; children, David (Brooke) Hoverman, and Chelsea Hoverman both of Fort Wayne; grandchildren, Rosalie and Theo; siblings, Kim (Bonnie) Hoverman of Van Wert, OH and Toni (Chuck) Bair of Hamilton, IN.

Jay was preceded in death by his brother, William Hoverman. A memorial service is 7:00 pm, Tuesday, May 26, 2020 at Central Ministries, 5801 Schwartz Rd, with calling 4 hours prior beginning at 3:00 pm until 6:45 pm. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions the family is asking those attending to be respectful in keeping social distancing along with keeping the visit timely, allowing more people to attend. Memorials may be made to MD Anderson Lung Cancer Research. To sign the online guestbook, go to www.fairhavenfortwayne.com.

Posted in the online version of the Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, the timesbulletin.com, on Friday, May 22, 2020 4:30 PM. Published in the Fort Wayne Newspapers on May 23, 2020.
Mark R. Riggenbach
January 11, 2020
    
                Obituary Photo                                         High School Senior Photo                                     Circa 1969                                               30th cllass reunion 2004
VAN WERT, OHIO - Mark R. Riggenbach, age 63, of Van Wert, passed away at 3:14 p.m., Saturday, January 11, 2020, at Lima Memorial Hospital, Lima, Ohio.
He was born February 29, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of Richard Riggenbach and Laura (Williamson) Riggenbach, who both preceded him in death.

Mark was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. He retired from the Van Wert County Department of Job and Family Services and was a member of Moose Lodge 1320 in Van Wert.
Mark enjoyed listening to music, especially Country and Bluegrass, and was an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan. He was also an accomplished pool player and loved to play cards.
Surviving are two children, Callie Riggenbach and Nick Riggenbach, both of Athens; a granddaughter, Riviera Faith Carlin; and one brother, Stan (Nancy) Riggenbach of Huntersville, North Carolina.

A celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, February 29, at Van Wert Moose Lodge 1320, 740 W. Ervin Road in Van Wert.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mark`s memory may be sent to Van Wert County Children’s Services.
Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.  Funeral arrangements are being handled by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.
This obituary appeared on vwindependent.com and in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Tuesday, January 14, 2020.

The Riggenbach family home where Mark grew-up was at 114 East First Street in Van Wert. He went to school at Horace Mann Elementary School, the First Ward elementary school.
He attended the Lincoln Junior High School and graduated from Van Wert High School in 1974.
Behind Mark's home and lot, at the south edge was the "Riggenbach Lot." It ran to the east to the edge of the mid-block, north-south alley. It was the gathering spot for kids from the surrounding area. Kickball, football, baseball and good-times of arguing who should be on what team and what would be played could happen anytime kids were not in school.
One of Mark's desires in his last two months of life was to move and live somewhere else. Mark was very peaceful and happy when he discussed where he might live.
Randy Smith
April 20, 2019

Cumming, GA - Randy Leo Smith, native of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at the age of 63 on the morning of Saturday, April 20, 2019, at home in Cumming, Georgia, surrounded by his beloved family. He was born in Van Wert, October 24, 1955.

Randy was preceded in death by his wife Jenny McWilliams Smith (dec. January 26, 2005), both of his parents, Leo W. and Romaine E. Smith, and his oldest brother Larry Smith. He is survived by his siblings Joy and Jack, his wife of five years, Tiffany, his children Andrea and Austin J., and his three grand-children.

Randy graduated Van Wert High School in 1974 and received his Bachelor of Science from Bowling Green State University, Ohio, in 1978, before beginning a forty-year career in general contracting. He was an avid and passionate golfer, even making a trip in 2008 to play at the Old Course at St. Andrews, Fife, Scotland, in 2008. Randy was a generous and caring father, a patient and loving grandfather, and his smile lit up the lives of his friends and loved ones.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Randy at Windermere Golf Club, Cumming, GA, on Wednesday, April 24 at 3 o’clock in the afternoon. Arrangements are by Byars Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Cumming, GA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Randy’s honor to the Melanoma Research Foundation.
(Notice published in Forsyth County News on April 24, 2019. Obituary obtained from the Byars Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 155 Professional Park Drive, Cumming, GA 30040)


Pruda Richie Dunno
April 4, 2019
 
             Obituary Photo                  1971 Excalibur-Pg 120 name listing-Pg 126 Photo             1972 Excalibur Photo Pg 164                        1973 Excalibur Photo Pg 138

Fort Wayne, IN. – Pruda Richie Dunno, 64, of Fort Wayne, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2019. She was a loving mother and grandmother who loved spending time with her family. She was a home health aid for several years. It was her passion to care for everyone around her, especially her son, who was her pride and joy. She is survived by her children, Melissa Dunno of Fort Wayne, Trisha (Adam) Madison of Waynedale, IN., Elisha (Fred) Bartz of Auburn, IN, Daniel Dunno of Waynedale; and her eight grandchildren. She was preceded in death by grandson, Devan Dunno ; sister, Regina Risner; and parents. Service is 3 p.m. Saturday, April 13, 2019, at Midwest Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 4602 Newaygo Road, Fort Wayne, IN., with visitation one hour prior to the service, 2 pm – 3 pm.
Information added to her obituary for the VWHS Classmate Memorial Tribute Obituary Listing:
Pruda attended Van Wert City Schools in the Class of 1974 for at least her High School Years of Freshman 1970-1971, Sophomore 1971-1972, and Junior, 1972-1973. The Senior Year, 1973-1974, she did not have a Senior photo and was not listed as having no photo. The Class of 1974 Commencement Program does not list her as a participant.
Pruda's middle name may be Jean. She was born November 1954. Her parents are both deceased: J.B. Richie & Beatrice Cole Richie.
Listing of Pruda's siblings:  Brothers: Larry Richie, deceased; Gary Richie, deceased; and Dan Richie. Sisters: Melissa Richie Frain, Barb Richie Mitchener, Lillian Richie Small, and deceased is Regina Richie Risner. Pruda was one of 8 total children.
Pruda's address in Fort Wayne at the time of her death may have been at: 1606 N. Harrison St., Fort Wayne, IN  46808.
Published by Fort Wayne Indiana Newspapers on Apr. 7, 2019.

Brenda Jean (Rison) Williams
 April 15, 2018
Photo is from the 1971-1972 school year, her sophomore photo in the 1972 Excalibur Yearbook.
VAN WERT - Jean (Rison) Williams, 63, passed away Sunday evening, April 15, 2018, at her residence in Van Wert, Ohio.
She was born November 18, 1954, in Van Wert, the daughter of Franklin Earl and Lou Ann (Emery) Rison, who both preceded her in death. On December 27, 1996, she married Michael L. Williams, who died February 20, 2017. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Franklin Earl Rison Jr.

Survivors include her four children, Gordon (Kim) Youtsey of Van Wert, Travis (Brandy) Youtsey of Scott, Ohio, and Nicky (Bob) Gonzalez and Kerri R. (Jason) Krugh, both of Van Wert; 11 grandchildren, Katelyn Kroeger, Skylar Senters, Ciarra Gonzalez, Madison Kroeger, Robbie Gonzalez, Logan Senters, Gage Thomas, Harley Youtsey, Kiera Youtsey, Lilly Serna, and Isabella Krugh; three sisters, Ruth (Michael) Bell of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Cheryl Dunken and Julie (Larry) Panning, both of Van Wert; and a brother, Jimmy (Becky) Rison of Ohio City, Ohio.
Brenda retired from Greif Bros. in Van Wert.
In accordance with Brenda’s request, there will be no services.
Condolences may be expressed at www.cowanfuneralhome.com.
Obituary appeared in the vwindependent.com on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, and the Van Wert Times Bulletin, Wednesday, April 18, 2018.
Jean Rison is pictured with the Class of 1974 as a freshman in the 1971 Excalibur Yearbook on page 120 & 126, and as a sophomore in the 1972 Excalibur Yearbook on page 164. She is not pictured with the class as a junior in the 1973 Excalibur or as a senior in the 1974 Excalibur, nor lsited as not having a picture shown. She attended VWHS at least through the near end of the junior year, 1972-1973. 


Charles Dixon
February 5, 2018
      (The obituary picture is Charles' senior picture in the VWHS 1974 Excalibur)
Charles E. “Chuckie” Dixon, 61, of Van Wert, passed away 1:20 a.m. Monday, February 5, 2018, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert.
He was born June 14, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of Francis L. and Margaret L. Dixon, who both preceded him in death.
Charles was a longtime member of Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert. He worked for several companies, including International Harvester and Walmart. Prior to his illness, he was an avid bowler. Charles was also huge sports fan, cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Indians, and the Fort Wayne Komets.

He is survived by his son, Taylor W. Dixon of Van Wert; four brothers, Russell Dixon, Roy Dixon, David (Cari) Dixon, and Mark Dixon, all of Van Wert; two sisters, Ruth Moore and Deb Goldfuss, both of Van Wert; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be conducted at 4 p.m. Thursday, February 8, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with the Rev. Greg Rice presiding. Private burial will be Monday, February 12, in Ridge Cemetery in rural Van Wert County.
Visitation is from 1-4 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To Charles’ son, Taylor.
Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com .
(The obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Wednesday February 7, 2018, and the vwindependent.com on Monday, February 5, 2018.)
Kim B. Snyder
May 13, 2017
    1973 - 1974 Senior Yearbook Photo
Van Wert, Ohio - Kim B. Snyder, 61, passed away Saturday evening, May 13, 2017, at his Van Wert residence. He was born Wednesday, November 30, 1955, in Van Wert, a son of Hermie and Roxie (Routt) Snyder, who both preceded him in death.
Survivors include two sons, Justin L. Snyder of Van Wert and Trinity J. (Theresa) Snyder of Convoy; a daughter, Alexis H. Snyder of Florida; three grandchildren, Hailey, Trinity Jr., and Arianna; two sisters, Marcia Dangler and Jean Ann Kline; two half-sisters, Wanda Longwell and Marlene Crissinger; two half-brothers, Ronnie and Tommie Grieshaber.
A half-brother, Tony Grieshaber, also preceded him in death.
Mr. Snyder was retired from Decatur Fleetwood Industries, Decatur, Indiana, after more than 25 years of employment.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 18, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert.
Visitation if from 1 - 3 p.m. and 5 -8 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To the family.
Condolences may be expressed at www.bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.
(Obituary appeared online in the vwindependent.com and in the Times Bulletin of Van Wert, on Monday, May 15, 2017)
Tim Taylor
March 30, 2017
         
                                                                              1972-1973 Junior Yearbook Photo
Timothy Max Taylor, 62, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away surrounded by his family at Lima Memorial Hospital, Lima, Ohio, Thursday morning, March 30, 2017, following a short illness.
He was born January 18, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of the late Max H. Taylor, who precede him in death, and Deloris M. (Ford) McMillen, who survives, along with her husband, Harvey W. McMillen, in Van Wert.
Other family members include a son, Timothy R. Taylor of Van Wert; two sisters, Valerie S. (Rev. Gerald) Baker of Beloit, Ohio, and Jacqueline (Bryce) Beckman of Van Wert; and a brother, Kenneth Taylor of Van Wert.
Tim was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. He had worked at Teleflex for 28 years and recently was employed at Cooper Foods.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2017, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Gus Christo-Baker, of First United Methodist Church, Van Wert, and Rev. Gerald Baker officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City, Ohio.
Visitation will be an hour prior to services on Saturday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: First United Methodist Church in Van Wert.
Condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.
Tim's picture did not appear in the 1974 Van Wert High School Excalibur yearbook. His picture is in the 1971, 1972 and 1973 yearbooks.
(Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Friday, March 31, 2017.and online at vwindependent.com on Thursday, March 30, 2017)

Kenneth N. “Ken” Stahl
February 10, 2017
                                                               1974 Yearbook Senior Photo

Van Wert, Ohio - Kenneth N. “Ken” Stahl, 60, of West Melbourne, Florida, and formerly of Van Wert, passed away Friday evening, February 10, 2017, in Burgaw, North Carolina, from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.
He was born February 29, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of Kenneth E. and Joan (Pate) Stahl, who both survive in Van Wert. On January 1, 2000, he married Julie Stahl, who also survives in West Melbourne.
Other survivors include five children, Jaime, Kendra, Jennifer, Heather and Matt; a stepdaughter, Wendy; two brothers, Patrick Stahl of Van Wert and Brian (Sandi) Stahl of Trimble, Tennessee; two sisters, Debbie (Ron) Klewer of Van Wert and Kathy (Mitch) Rutter of Mendon; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Ken worked in hospital security. He was a veteran of the United States Army and studied business administration at the University of Phoenix. He was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.
Funeral services will be conducted at noon Saturday, February 18, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with Pastor Randy Christian officiating. Private family burial will take place at a later date.
Visitation is from 10 a.m. until noon Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials: To the family for medical expenses.
Condolences may be expressed at alspachgearhart.com.
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Wednesday, February 15, 2017.and online at vwindependent.com on Tuesday, February 14, 2017.

Candace L. “Candy” Wills
July 28, 2016


Van Wert, Ohio - Candace L. "Candy" Wills, 60, of Van Wert, died at 10:55 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2016, at Van Wert Manor Nursing Home. She was born May 8, 1956, in Covington, Ohio, to Carolyn (Chivington) Dunmire, who survives of Van Wert, and the late John E. Wills.
Other survivors include her children, Justin Wills of Van Wert and Phil Hall of New Mexico; a brother, Steve Dunmire of Paulding, Ohio; a stepbrother, Ken Dunmire of Magnolia, Texas; and sisters Tammy (Tom) Tomlinson of Van Wert, Kim (Tom) Wyman of Columbus, Ohio, and Cheryl (Brian) Schaadt, Kerri (Collin) Thomas, and Jackie Dixon all of Van Wert. Services will begin at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 2, 2016, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Burial will  be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
Visitation is noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 2, 2016, at the funeral home. Preferred memorial is American Cancer Society or American Diabetes Association.
Condolences may be expressed at alspachgearhart.com.
Obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times-Bulletin on Friday, July 29, 2016, and on the vwindependent.com on Thursday, July 28, 2016.
Michael Jay Saam
July 1, 2016
   
Findlay, Ohio - Michael Jay Saam, 60, of Findlay and formerly of Ohio City, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, July 1, 2016.
He was born March 3, 1956. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Saam.
He will be greatly missed by his daughter, Kelly (Warren) Straley; his mother, Nancy Saam; a brother, Mitch (Cuiping) Saam; one sister, Brenda Beltz; and many others of his family.
He served in the U.S. Navy Reserves, retired from Kennedy Manufacturing Company in Van Wert, and enjoyed spending time outdoors with his beloved dog, Babe.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, July 8, at St. Paul’s Reformed Church in Ohio City, Ohio.
(Mike started with the Class of 1974 in the Van Wert City School system, attending Pleasant Elementary School, Anthony Wayne Elementary School, and Lincoln Junior High School. At the beginning of the freshmen year in Van Wert High School, 1970-1971, he moved to the Ohio City Liberty School, graduating there with their Class of 1974.)
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Friday, July 8, 2016.and online at vwindependent.com on Thursday July 7, 2016.
Joette F. (Harman) Jones
October 20, 2015


Van Wert, Ohio — Joette F. (Harman) Jones, 59, of Van Wert, died at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 20, 2015, at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.
She was born March 15, 1956, in Van Wert, to the late Edna (Dunlap) Harman and Joseph Harman.
Survivors include three children, Shawn Michael Jones of Toledo, Ohio, and Benjamin (Nikki Staten) Jones and Nicole Jones, both of Van Wert, a sister, Carol Germann of Ohio City, Ohio, and one granddaughter, Joette’s pride and joy, Briella Jones.

She retired from Federal Mogul Corporation in Van Wert, and was owner of Cuppa Jo Creations, also of Van Wert, where she was affectionately known as the “snowman” lady. Joette was an avid fan of The Ohio State University Buckeyes.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2015, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. The Rev. Clark Williman will officiate. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
Visitation is 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, October 26, 2015, at the funeral home. Those attending visitation on Monday are encouraged to wear Ohio State Buckeye attire.
Preferred memorials may be directed to the family for an account for Briella or donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at: www.alspachgearhart.com.
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin and online at vwindependent.com, on Thursday, October, 22, 2015.
Edward G. Wells
July 17, 2015
 

Edward Gene Wells, 60, of Padroni, Colorado, and formerly of Van Wert, passed away Friday, July 17, 2015, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Ed was born April 25, 1955, in Lima, Ohio, the son of Cleo E. Wells, who preceded him in death, and Jackie Wells, who survives in Van Wert.
Ed was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. After graduation, he served four years in the United States Army.
On September 30, 1991, in Van Wert, he married Cynthia A. (Buchanan) Wells, who survives in Padroni, Colorado.

Ed was a natural carpenter, as he always enjoyed working with his hands. He was a truck driver for many years and then worked for IWS in Colorado as a crane operator. He moved to Colorado in October 2001.  Ed loved grilling, working in his shop and loved his horse, Stormey.
In addition to his mother and wife, survivors include a brother, Ron (Linda) Wells of Convoy, Ohio, two sisters, Sheryl Burns of Flint, Michigan, and Jenny (Stan) Lichtenberger of Van Wert; three stepchildren, Tina (Scott) Danylchuk, Taunya (Brad) Breece, and Jonathon McMichael; 16 stepgrandchildren; six stepgreat-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends
Private family services will be held at a later date in Van Wert.

    
               Ed Wells - Senior Yearbook Photo  & High School Graduation Ceremony
Ed grew up on North Jefferson Street, between 2nd and 3rd Streets. He attended Anthony Wayne Elementary School. (2nd Ward)
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin and the vwindependent.com, on Wednesday,July 22, 2015.
James Michael Foster
April 17, 2015
      
                                                                     James Foster - Freshmen Yearbook
Van Wert, Ohio — James Michael Foster, 60, of Van Wert, died at 1:10 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2015, at St. Joseph Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He was born on March 3, 1955, the son of the late Ralph Albert and Betty Catherine (Case) Foster. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Eugene Wayne Foster and Marvin Lee Foster. Family survivors include two sisters and brothers-in-law, Helen and Jerry Roberts of Van Wert and Lori Ann and Richard Stollsteimer of Clarksville, Ohio, eight nieces, and two nephews.
Jim was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School and had worked at the American Popcorn Company in Van Wert and Odenweller’s in Ottoville, Ohio.
Private services for the family will be held later with interment in Middle Creek Cemetery near Grover Hill, Ohio.
The obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Monday, April 20, 2015.
Jim Foster appreared in the freshmen yearbook. He did not have a picture in the sophomore, junior or senior yearbooks.

Michael K. Dailey
December 28, 2014

Archbold, Ohio - Mike Dailey, age 58 years, of Archbold, passed away Sunday night December 28, 2014, at CHP Defiance Area In-Patient Hospice Center following his courageous battle with cancer. He was born January 8, 1956, at Van Wert, Ohio, the son of Thomas and Betty (Miller) Dailey and married Ana Moreno on March 24, 1984.
A resident of the Archbold area many years, he worked as an automobile Industrial Engineer at Dana Corp. He enjoyed bicycling and reading his Bible. He was a member of the West Unity Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife Ana; a daughter, Danielle Dailey of Toledo; his father, Thomas of Van Wert; two brothers, Stephen (Leilani) Dailey and Kevin (Sandra) Dailey, both of Van Wert; and a sister, Kathy Martin of Elida.  He was preceded in death by his mother.
Services will be held on Friday, January 2, 2015, at 11 AM at the West Unity Church of Christ with Preacher Bruce Goosman officiating. Interment will follow in the Archbold Cemetery. Friends may call at the Short Funeral Home in Archbold from 2-8 PM on Thursday, January 1, 2015.
Funeral arrangements are by Short Funeral Home, 500 N. Defiance St., Archbold, OH 43502. (419) 445-3556.
Published in the Toledo Blade newspaper on Dec. 30, 2014

Timothy Ray Kindell
February 21, 2014
    
                            Tim Kindell                                                  Tim Kindell, Senior Yearbook Photo

Van Wert, Ohio - Timothy Ray Kindell, age 58, of Convoy, Ohio, died at 12:40 p.m. Friday, February 21, 2014, at the Van Wert Area Inpatient Hospice Center.
He was born December 2, 1955, in Piqua, the son of Doris (Todd) Kindell and Stanley Kindell, who both survive in Van Wert.
Other survivors include a daughter, Camillia (Brian) Kline of Haviland; four brothers, Mike (Nancy) Kindell of Van Wert, Rex (Sylvia) Kindell of Tipp City, Scott Kindell of Van Wert and David Kindell of Convoy; two sisters, Nancy (Rex) Replogle of Van Wert and Elaine (Dutch) Langenderfer of Toledo; five grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 25, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with the Rev. Don Doster officiating. Burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery in Convoy. Calling hours are from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorial: To the family.
( The obituary appeared on the vwindependent.com on February 22, 2014.)
Richard Moore, Jr.
January 21, 2014

Van Wert, Ohio - Richard "Popeye" Moore, Jr., 57, of Van Wert, died Tuesday, January 21, 2014, at his residence.
He was born May 13, 1956, in Lexington, Ky., the son of Richard, Sr. and Mary (James) Moore, who both survive in Van Wert.
Other survivors include three children: Kristian Moore of  Kent and Derek and Ethan Moore, both of Van Wert; three brothers, Raymond (Sylvia) Moore of Van Wert, Michael Moore of Las Vegas, Nev., and Tyrone (Debra) Moore of Fort Wayne, Ind.; and two sisters, Mary Turner and Shari (Steven) Darnell, both of Van Wert.
A sister, Sharlene Moore, preceded him in death.
He had previously worked at General Motors in Defiance, Ohio. He was a member of Pentecostal Way Church in Van Wert.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. Monday, January 27, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with the Rev. Bill Watson officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. Calling hours are from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials: To the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.alspachgearhart.com.
(The obituary appeared on vwindependent.com on Friday, January 24, 2014, and in the Van Wert Times Bulletin, Saturday, January 25, 2014.)
Robert "Bob" M. Cahoon
January 3, 2014
  Senior Picture, VWHS 1973 - 1974
Van Wert, Ohio - Robert M. Cahoon, age 58, of Van Wert, died Friday, January 3, 2014, at his residence.
He was born December 28, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of Helen (Emmerth) Cahoon, who survives in Los Angeles, California, and the late James P. Cahoon.
Survivors include three brothers, James P. (Kimberly) Cahoon of Hopewell, N.J., William A. (Heather) Cahoon of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Thomas P. Cahoon, Ph.D., of Los Angeles; two sisters, Dr. Kathleen Cahoon of Cottonwood, Arizona, and Cynthia (Paul) Brautigam of St. Marys, Ohio; and two nieces and four nephews.
He had previously worked in the music industry. He was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, and was a graduate of Van Wert High School, Class of 1974.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert, with Father Stanley Szybka officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. Visitation is at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert from 9:30 - 10:30 am on Tuesday before the service. Preferred memorials: Westwood Behavioral Health Center in Van Wert.
Arrangements were handled by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert. Online condolences may be sent to www.alspachgearhart.com.
(The obituary appeared in vwindependent.com and the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Friday, January 10, 2014)
Bob Cahoon, 1971 - 1972 Sophomore VWHS
Brenda Louise (Brewer) Kiracofe
August 8, 2013
Brenda Louise Kiracofe, age 57, of Van Wert died at 3 p.m. Thursday, August 8, 2013, at St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, Ohio.
She was born April 24, 1956, in Van Wert, to the late George A. and Vera Kathryn (Sites) Brewer. On March 8, 1975, she married Roger Lee Kiracofe, who survives.
She is also survived by a daughter, Heather (Ron) Kroeger of Landeck; and one son, Joshua Lee Kiracofe of Van Wert. Also surviving are grandchildren who were her pride and joy: Sean Ramos, Alexis Ayers, Brendan, DJ and Quinn Kiracofe. Other survivors include her siblings, Judy (Jerry) Fisher and Darlene (Howard) Shobe, both of Van Wert, and Jerry (Patricia) Brewer of Decatur, Ind.; A son, Rodney Lee Kiracofe; and her in-laws, William and Dora May (Myers) Kiracofe, also preceded her in death.
Brenda was a homemaker and loved to play Bingo.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 13, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Paul W. Miller officiating.
Calling hours are from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, August 12, and an hour prior to services Tuesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To the family. Online condolences may be left to bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.
(The obituary appeared in vwindependent.com and the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Saturday, August 10, 2013)
Mary Anne (Reinhart) Tamsen
January 23, 2013
   Photo is her senior picture in the 1974 Excalibur Yearbook
Allen Park, Michigan - Mary Anne (Reinhart) Tamsen, age 57, passed away January 23, 2013.  Beloved wife of David; loving mother of Ashley, Derek, and Trevor Tamsen; dear daughter of Beverly and Norbert Reinhart; dear sister of Jim (Judy) Reinhart and Tony (Karen) Reinhart.
Visitation 1 to 8 p.m. Sunday, January 27, and 12 Noon to 4 p.m. Monday, January 28, at Weise Funeral Home, 7210 Park Ave., Allen Park, MI 48101, phone (313) 382-1150.  Funeral Service 4 p.m. at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to Mr. David Tamsen at the funeral home address.  Please visit the funeral home online obituary/guest book at weisefuneralhome.com.
(Obituary published in Heritage Newspapers, heritage.com, Jan. 27, 2013 and the Van Wert Times Bulletin, January 30, 2013.)
Robert Kevin Thieroff
January 18, 2013
   
Defiance, Ohio - Robert Kevin Thieroff, age 56, of Defiance, Ohio, passed away Friday, January 18, 2013, at Community Health Professionals Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.  Born on January 22, 1956, in Defiance, he was the son of Sharon (Briggs) Thieroff Elliott and the late Robert Kenneth Thieroff.
After graduating from Van Wert High School in 1974, Robert attended Bowling Green State University.  Later, he served his country in the Army National Guard for over 10 years.  A passion for antique bicycles, jazz music, fine cuisine and his grandchildren drove his zest for life.
He had been employed at Sauder Woodworking Company of Archbold, Ohio, for 18 years and at the Campbell's Soup Company in Napoleon for the past three years.
He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Virginia (Trevino) Thieroff; his mother: Sharon and stepfather, Eurie "Nib" Elliott of Greeneville, Tennessee.; stepdaughters: V. Christina Trevino of Defiance, Maria Trevino of Belton, Texas; stepsons: Pablo (Cassandra) Trevino of Colorado Springs, Colorado., Ricardo Trevino and Miguel (Danielle) Trevino, both of Defiance; sisters: Gail (Douglas) Dumire of Defiance and Laurie (Jerry) Perez of Ft. Wayne, Indiana.; stepsisters: Nikki (Scott) Niswonger and Nancy (Ken) Key, both of Greeneville, Tenn.; nieces: Jody Bender, Lisa Grubb, Erika Dumire; nephews: Matthew Dumire, Tyler Young, and 11 grandchildren.
Friends are invited to call Monday, January 21 from 2 - 7 p.m. at Lawson-Roessner Funeral Home, 1753 S. Clinton St., Defiance.  Services will be held at 7 p.m. with Deacon Don Meyer officiating.  A private burial will be Tuesday at Riverside Cemetery.  The family suggests memorials to the CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.  Condolences to the family may be shared at defiancefuneralhome.com.
(Obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Saturday, January 19, 2013)
Kelly Brent McConahay
January 11, 2013

Kelly Brent McConahay, age 57, of Ohio City, Willshire Township, Ohio, died at 5:15 p.m. Friday, January 11, 2013, at Van Wert County Hospital, Van Wert, Ohio. 
He was born October 17, 1955, in Van Wert.  His father and stepmother, Daniel J. McConahay and Sharon McConahay, survive in Van Wert.  His mother, Shirley (Speakman) Couts, also survives in Van Wert.  On August 2, 1980, he married Mickey J. (Army) McConahay, who survives in Van Wert.
Other survivors include his two sons: Martin McConahay (and fiancée Valerie Phillips) of Austin, Texas, and Casey McConahay of Van Wert; a daughter, Shea Lyn (Nathan) Crass of Fort Mill, SC; a brother, Kaury McConahay of Houston, TX; three sisters, Kimberly (William) Torok of Delta, IN, Kristine McConahay of Stroh, IN, and Kerry (Jeff) Gudakunst of Grover Hill, OH; a stepbrother, Mike (Kathy) Priest of Payne, OH; and one stepsister, Brenda (Jeff) Clark of Paulding, OH; and grandmother: Audrey Jacob of Van Wert.
Mr. McConahay had worked at the Ream Steckbeck Paint store in Van Wert.  He then owned and operated Kelly's Paint and Paper.  He currently was operating McConahay Decorating.  He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Van Wert.  He was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 15, 2013, at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, with the Rev. Gus Christo-Baker officiating.  Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. 
Calling hours are Monday, January 14, from 2-8 p.m., at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert and an hour prior to services Tuesday at the church.
Preferred memorials: Wren (Ohio) EMS Squad or the Lupus Foundation of America.
Online condolences may be left at cowanfuneralhome.com.
(The obituary appeared in vwindependent.com on Saturday, January 12, 2013, and in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Monday, January 14, 2013.)
Christina A. (Jenkins) Spoor
May 14, 2012

(Chris started with the Class of 1974 at Anthony Wayne Elementary School in Mrs. Gilland's Kindergarten Class, 1961-1962,  and Mrs. Burris' First Grade Class, 1962-1963.  During Elementary School she moved to the Class of 1975 and attended high school with the Class of 1975.)
Van Wert, Ohio - Christina A. Spoor, age 55, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 2:25 a.m. Monday, May 14, 2012, at Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana.
She was born June 24, 1956, in Van Wert, to the late Shirley (Bell) Davis and Carroll R. Jenkins.  Her stepfather, Ray Davis, survives of Van Wert.
Her husband, William E. "Bill" Spoor, III, survives of Van Wert.
Other survivors include her children: William E. "Lump" Spoor, IV, and Jerry (Chantal) Spoor, both of Van Wert, and Trisha (David) Rager of Ft. Wayne, Ind.; a brother: Greg (Becky) Jenkins of Van Wert; sisters: Cindy (Mike) Wamsley of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Sandy Eversole of Van Wert; one sister-in-law: Jan Jenkins of Van Wert, and five grandchildren: Laine, Grace and Emma Spoor; Trinity and Will Rager.  A brother, Rick Jenkins, also preceded her in death.
Mrs. Spoor was co-owner/operator of Spoor Contracting and office manager for Jerandan Portable Toilets, both of Van Wert.  In addition to her love of her grandchildren, Chris was a member of the Van Wert American Legion Auxiliary Unit 178 and Van Wert Moose Lodge 1320 Auxiliary.  She was an avid gambler, drag racing enthusiast and cook (you would never leave her house hungry.)  She truly loved feeding her family and friends.
Friends may call from 2-5 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2012, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.  Prayer services will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2012, at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, at a later date.
Preferred memorial is donor's choice.
(The obituary appeared May 15, 2012 in the Van Wert Times Bulletin and May 14, 2012, in vwindependent.com)
Kathy L. (Sterrett) Beining
October 30, 2011

Kathy L. (Sterrett) Beining, age 55, died at 6:57 p.m. Sunday, October. 30, 2011, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Ind.
She was born March 30, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, the daughter of Robert and Dorothy (Beery) Sterrett, who both survive, and most recently was a resident of Convoy, Ohio.
She is survived by her son, Brad (Angie) Beining of Van Wert; one grandson, Evan Beining of Van Wert; her sister, Vicki (Rusty) Grimm of St. Marys, Ohio; a brother, Tim Sterrett of Van Wert; one nephew, Kyle Sterrett of Van Wert and three nieces, Ginny Grimm, Brandy Sterrett and Ashley Sterrett.  She is also survived by her fiancé, George Lowther, and her former husband, Ralph Beining.
Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, November 3, 2011 at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert with funeral services following at 7 p.m. that evening.
Condolences may be left on our website, www.bricknerfuneralhome.com, or sent to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.
(The obituary appeared in the Wednesday, November 2, 2011, edition of The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio.)
Kathy L. Sterrett, Senior Photo 1973 - 1974
Graydon E. Rodman
November 11, 2010
    
Antwerp, Ohio - Graydon E. Rodman, 54, of Antwerp, died at 4:48 p.m. Thursday, November 11, 2010, at Adams Memorial Hospital, Decatur, Indiana.
He was born June 25, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Rex and Kay (Jerome) Rodman.  Both survive of Van Wert, Ohio.  His wife, Wanda (Schaadt) Rodman, survives of Antwerp.
Other survivors include his children: Allen (Vanessa) Rodman of St. Louis, Missouri, and Burton (Melissa) Rodman of St. Joe, Indiana, a sister: Brenda Price of Van Wert, Ohio, and his grandchildren: Luc, Michal, Evan, Nathan and Madelynn.
He was currently working for Lifeline Youth and Family Services as an advocate out of Fort Wayne, Indiana.  He was retired from B.F. Goodrich, Woodburn, Indiana.  He was a veteran of the Vietnam Conflict, serving in the United States Navy, a Sunday School teacher and a lead singer of the psong 96 band.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, November 15 at Wesley United Methodist Church, Van Wert.  Darrin Langford will officiate.  Burial will be held at Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.  Military graveside services will be conducted by Van Wert American Legion and VFW posts.
Calling hours are 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. Sunday, November 14. at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, and one hour prior to services Monday at Wesley United Methodist Church, Van Wert.
Preferred memorial is Lake James Christian Assembly, Angola, Indiana.
Condolences may be sent to: agfhc@embarqmail.com.
(This obituary appeared in the Saturday, November 13, 2010, edition of The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio.)


Kevin Bruce Cotterman
July 19, 2010
   
CONVOY, Ohio - Kevin Bruce Cotterman, 53, of Convoy, died at 10:20 a.m. Monday, July 19, 2010, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.  He was born Aug. 27, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to the late William G. Cotterman and JoAnn E. (Sharpe) Cotterman.
Survivors include his siblings: Rick L. (Jeanie) Cotterman of Convoy, Bobbie (Bill) Bollinger of Dayton, Ohio, Billie (Sherwood) Smith of Aurora, Colorado., nieces: Dawn Lemon, Kendra Syverstad, Kelli Thiessen, Dana Miller, Tracy Coyne, Nicki Schnieder, and nephews: Brad Bollinger, William (Darcy) Cotterman and Timothy Cotterman.
He worked at CME Manufacturing in Monroeville, Indiana, was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a member of the Van Wert American Legion Post 178.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 23, 2010, at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert.  The Rev. Jody Harr will officiate.  Burial will be in Scott Cemetery, Scott, Ohio, with graveside military rites by the combined Honors Unit of American Legion Post 178 and VFW Post 5803.
Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday, July 22, 2010, from 2-8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Friday.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Animal Protective League.
Condolences may be sent to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.  For more information visit www.bricknerfuneralhome.com.
(This obituary appeared in the Wednesday, July 21, 2010, edition of the Van Wert Times Bulletin.)
The following information about Kevin was provided by Kevin's cousin, Randy Matthews VWHS Class of 1974:
For those of you that don't know, Kevin was my cousin.  He had some health issues but I didn't know that they were that bad.  I talked to Kevin at my brothers funeral (Brent, April 2010) and he seemed ok at that time.  He did pass away from cancer.  It started as colon cancer and spread throughout his body.  I know it spread to his heart, spine, liver and lungs.  He worked at the automotive plant in Monroeville, Indiana, and the company let him use a walker until he became too ill to be at work.
We both lived in 4th Ward when we were very young, just north of the fairgrounds, south of Ervin Road.  Kevin attended Franklin School. My family moved to 3rd Ward, right next door to Washington School, just when I was starting elementary school.  As an adult Kevin lived outside Convoy where his father (deceased) and brother Rick lived.  Kevin never married and had no children.  Most of you will remember Kevin as a quiet, happy classmate.  I am proud to remember back in high school that several of us who knew Kevin stood up for him when he needed some aggression in dealing with his peers at school.  He overcame his quiet nature and became a very good leader in the Navy.

Sandra J. (Hoffman) Figley
October 24, 2009

VAN WERT, Ohio - Sandra J. Figley, 53, of Van Wert, died at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009, in her home.
She was born May 27, 1956, in Van Wert, to Frank B. and Arlene Palmer Hoffman. Her father, Frank B. and (Linda) Hoffman, and mother, Arlene Hoffman, all survive in Van Wert. On May 1, 1981, she married Keith L. Figley, who survives in Van Wert.
Mrs. Figley was a homemaker and had worked in the office at Aeroquip.
Additional survivors include two sons, Joshua (Amy) Fabian of Montrose, Colo., and Timothy "T.J." (Sumer) Figley of Van Wert; a daughter, Sherry Fabian of Convoy, Ohio; one stepson, Dustin (Julie) Figley of Van Wert; a stepdaughter, Lori Andrews of Geneva, Ind.; five grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; two brothers, Frank W. (Barbara) Hoffman of Van Wert and Rodger D. (Cathy) Hoffman of Little Torch, Fla.; two sisters, Teresa Klahn of Loveland, Co. and Lori (Rocky) McVaigh of Van Wert; and her father-in-law, LeDoyle "Farmer" Figley of Rockford, Ohio.
Private family services will be held in St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Van Wert. The Rev. Will Haggis will officiate. No public visiting hours are planned.
Memorial contributions may be given to Community Health Professional Visiting Nurses and Hospice.
Arrangements are by Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, Cridersville, Ohio.
Karen Diane Bridgman
June 25, 2009
 Obituary Photo    Van Wert High School 1971 Excalibur Yearbook, page 117, Freshmen Year, 1970-1971
VAN WERT -  Karen Bridgman, age 54, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 1:50 p.m. Thursday, June 25, 2009, at Community Health Professionals’ Inpatient Hospice Center in Van Wert, Ohio.  She was born November 5, 1954, in Hamtramck, Michigan., the daughter of the late Arthur Robert Bridgman and Joan (Cusmano) Van Metre.

She was Aunt "Ne Ne" to several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Karen will be missed by niece Brandy Leiber who was her daughter in her heart and her two grandchildren in her heart, Lexi and Preston.
Other survivors included two brothers, Kenneth Bridgman of Van Wert and G. Scott (Cindy) Van Metre of Cleveland; two sisters, Deb Harmon of Van Wert and Susan Leiendecker of Venedocia, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
She was a former bartender in Van Wert.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. Monday, June 29, 2009, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with Father Charles Obinwa officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.  The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions: Community Health Professionals Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center or the American Cancer Society.
Karen is not listed, or is not listed as "no photo available" in the sophomore, junior or senior Excalibur Yearbooks with the Class of 1974.
Obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper, Friday, June 26, 2009, 8:16 PM online version.
Find-A-Grave # 38835095
Robin L. Beams
May 25, 2009
PAYNE, Ohio - Robin L. Beams, age 53, of Payne, Ohio, died Monday evening, May 25, 2009, at his residence.
He was born May 25, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Barbara (Hines) Beams and Keith Beams, both survive of Van Wert. His fiancée, Rhonda Michaels, survives of Payne, Ohio.
Other survivors include his children, Lindsay (Jim) Mihm and Jordan (Joe) Lautzenheiser, both of Van Wert; Joshua (Rachel) Rager and Whitney (Andy) Schrader, both of Payne; and eight grandchildren, Lydia, James, Ali and Lyna Mihm, Isabel, Tyler and Jared Lautzenheiser and Keegan Rager.
He worked at Braun Corporation in Van Wert. He graduated as a licensed farrier and worked for various horsemen. He belonged to the Van Wert City Bowling League.
Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2009, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. The Rev. Paul Miller will officiate. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point, Ohio. Calling hours are 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 29 at the funeral home.
Preferred memorial is donor's choice.
Cathryn (Cathy) S. Miller
October 22, 2008
Cathy Miller, age 52, died surrounded by friends on October 22, 2008.  A lifelong optimist, Cathy seized all the joys the world had to offer and refused to let breast cancer define her life when she was diagnosed 12 years ago. Her greatest pleasures included spending time with her son Eli and her many friends, backpacking in the Cascades, traveling the world, cross-country skiing, music, cooking and reading.  As a rehabilitation nurse at Harborview Medical Center for more than 20 years, Cathy helped people with spinal cord injuries reclaim their dignity and independence.  She also served on the SEIU 1199NW executive board and was an avid paddler on a dragon boat team of women cancer survivors.  Cathy is survived by her son, Eli Ranih Nordgulen Miller of Seattle, her father Maurice Miller of Van Wert, Ohio, and brothers Doug Miller of San Antonio, Texas, and Alan Miller of Fort Wayne, Indiana.  She was preceded in death by her mother, Hildegarde Salomon Miller.  A memorial celebrating Cathy's life will be held January 10, 2009, at 4:30 PM at the Mount Baker Community Club.  Donations may be made in Cathy's memory to a scholarship fund at Harborview or the trust fund for her son: Cathy S Miller Scholarship Fund, 325 Ninth Ave, Box 359897, Seattle, WA 98104; Eli Miller Trust Fund, c/o S. Luthens, 1721- 28th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144.
A longer tribute can be found at www.lotsahelping hands.com/c/608148/  (link not working)
 (Published in The Seattle Times from January 4 to January 5, 2009, Seattle, Washington)
 Seattle, Washington - Cathryn S. Miller, 52, died at the Swedish Hospital in Seattle, Washington, on October 22, 2008, following a lengthy illness.  She was born in Van Wert, Ohio, the daughter of Maurice J. Miller of Van Wert, who survives, and the late Hildegarde Miller.
Cathryn is also survived by her son, Eli of Seattle; brothers Douglas Miller of San Antonio, Texas, and Alan D. Miller of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Cathryn graduated from Van Wert High School.  She also graduated from Beloit College in Wisconsin and the University of Massachusetts School of Nursing.  She was employed at the Harbor View Medical Center in Seattle for 21 years proceeding her death.  Private services will be held in Seattle.
(Published in The Times-Bulletin on Friday, October 24, 2008, page A2, Van Wert, Ohio)

Charles Coe “Chuck” Moysey, Jr.
January 24, 2008

Obituary Photo    Junior year photo, 1972-1973, Van Wert High School Excalibur 1973 yearbook, page 137
Ocala, Florida - Charles (Chuck) Coe Moysey, Jr., 52, of Ocala, Florida., formerly of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 4:45 a.m. EST Thursday, January 24, 2008, in Ocala.
He was a horse trainer with Winding Oaks Farm in Ocala, where he lived his dream of working with and training horses.  His passion for horses began at an early age, as he would read books on training horses all night long by flashlight under the covers so his mother would not know.

Charles is survived by his son, Charles (Cee) Coe Moysey III of Ocala; his daughter Chelsey Ellene Moysey of Anthony, Florida; his father, Charles C. Moysey Sr. of Plain City, Ohio; two sisters, Dianne M. Fisk of Van Wert, and Barbara M. Ferguson of Albany, Kentucky, and two nephews, J. Zachary Fisk of Los Angeles, California, and M. Devin Fisk, Cincinnati, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ellene Moysey-Day.
Chuck was a loving father, son, brother and uncle.  He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Memorial services will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, February 2, 2008, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert.  The Rev. Paul Miller will officiate.  There will be visitation on hour prior to the service time. The family prefers casual attire - T-shirts, jeans, and cowboy boots.  In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials may be made to the children or to the Hospice Legacy House in Ocala, Florida, 34481.
Chuck is not listed with a photo or as "photo not available" in the Van Wert High School  Excalibur 1974, with the Class of 1974.
 Published in The Times-Bulletin on Tuesday, January 29, 2008, page A2, Van Wert, Ohio
Joseph James
July 18, 2006
(Joe moved to the Class of 1975 at the start of our junior year, 1972-1973)
Joseph James, 51, of 331 N. Chestnut St., Van Wert, Ohio, died unexpectedly at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 18, 2006, at his residence.
He was born March 30, 1955, in Lexington, Ky., the son of the late Joseph and Lillie (James) Howard. On July 26, 2002, he married Donna Lynn Stocklin, who died March 7, 2003.
Mr. James attended Van Wert High School and loved to sing and loved his grandchildren.
Survivors include a special friend, Laura Brown Gunter; four daughters, Kenya (Aaron) Boyd, Nichole James and Shannon James, all of Lima, and Lillie James of Van Wert; a brother, Dwight Howard of Bellefontaine; one sister, Roslyn Howard of Van Wert; and 11 grandchildren.  A brother, Kenneth Sullivan, preceded him in death.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 22, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert, with Pastor Greg Emerick officiating. Burial will be at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.
Melody L. (Mohr) Hicks
June 9, 2006
Melody L. Hicks, 49, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, died Friday, June 9, 2006, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. 
She was born August 4, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of Byron and Janet Mohr, who survive in Van Wert. She was married and her husband, David L. Hicks, also survives in Fort Wayne.
Mrs. Hicks was a dental assistant for Dr. Gary Pulfer for 10 years.  She was a member of Covenant United Methodist Church and Smiles Unlimited; and was a Sunday school teacher. 
In addition to her parents and husband, survivors include two daughters, Megan M. Hicks of Indianapolis, Ind., and Ashley N. Hicks of Fort Wayne; two stepsons, Mark (Amy) Hicks of Chicago, Ill., and Timothy W. Hicks of Fort Wayne; a brother, Mark (Jill) Mohr of Pendleton, Ind.; nephews, Evan, Issac and Cade Mohr, Brad and Jeff Hicks and nieces, Jessica and Alexandra Lew. 
Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Tuesday at D.O. McComb & Sons, Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road in Fort Wayne. Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Matthew 25 in Fort Wayne.
Robert  B.  ‘Rob’  East
November 7, 2005
  Photo is from the 1974 VWHS Excalibur with Rob East included with the Junior class, VWHS Class of 1975, page 138.
(Rob was in the Class of 1974 at Anthony Wayne and Pleasant Schools through 4th grade.  By the Class of 1974's sophomore year he appeared in the freshman class in that year's yearbook and was in the Class of 1975 as a junior in our senior yearbook.)
VAN WERT - Robert B. "Rob" East, age 49, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7, 2005, in Washington Township, Van Wert County, Ohio.
He was born May 23, 1956, in Akron, Ohio, to the late Leonard East, who died May 16, 2002, and Marcia (Bell) Shaw of Van Wert.

Other survivors include three sons, Jeremy (Alicia) East of Delphos, Ohio, Matthew East of Van Wert and Ryan East of Delphos; four stepdaughters; a brother, Charles (Joanna) East of Van Wert; three grandchildren, Steven Suever, Alex East and Caden East, and eight step grandchildren.  Mr. East was a truck driver for TNT Trucking, Delphos.
Calling hours are 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, November 10, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert.
Preferred memorial is American Heart Association. Published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin, November 8 and November 10, 2005.
Kim Alan Jerome
June 29, 2005
  Junior class photo, VWHS 1973 Excalibur yearbook, page 136
VAN WERT - Kim Alan Jerome, age 49, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 1:32 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, 2005, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.
He was born July 13, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of Chalice M. Jerome and Jeanne A. (Parks) who survive.
Other survivors include his former wife, Brenda Jerome of Van Wert, two brothers, James (Hannah) Jerome of Phoenix, Ariz., and Terry L. Jerome of Houston, Texas, and a sister, Sandy (Chuck) Thatcher of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Mr. Jerome was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School and had attended Wesley United Methodist Church in Van Wert.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
       Kim Jerome's Find-A-Grave Listing
David Lee "Bubba" Benner
April 4, 2005
 Senior photo, VWHS 1974 Excalibur, page 150
David Lee "Bubba"  Benner, age 48, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 9:57 p.m. Monday, April 4, 2005, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.
He was born April 15, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of the late Charles John and RaeDean (Tyler) Benner.
On Feb. 23, 1980, he married Agnes Rose (Heimann) Benner. She survives in Van Wert.

Other survivors include:
Children — Curtis John Benner, Matthew Lee Benner and Jason Dean Benner, all of Van Wert.
Brothers — Phil Benner of Virginia and Doug (Robin) Benner of Van Wert.
Sisters — Bonnie (Paul) Coburn of Van Wert, Chris (Tom) Stutz of Middle Point and Deb Benner of Van Wert.
Godfather — David (Pat) King of Fort Wayne, Ind.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Sue Baucom and Elaine Pollock. He was a Van Wert High School Class of 1974 graduate.
Mr. Benner had formerly worked for the Van Wert County Weatherization Program.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Deacon Andy McMahon will officiate.
     David Benner's Find-A-Grave Listing 

 
Photo caption: Dave Benner (right) battles a big kid nicknamed T-Bone (left) from Ottawa-Glandorf High School during
Dave's junior year at Van Wert High School, 1972-1973. This is a home match in the Van Wert High School
gym located along South Jefferson Street. This photo is from the 1973 VWHS Yearbook.
Roger Lee Schwartz
January 14, 2005
  Senior photo in the 1974 VWHS Excalibur yearbook, page 169.
CADIZ, Ky. — Roger Lee Schwartz, age 50, of Cadiz, died at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, 2005, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 18, 1955, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Raymond (Viola) Schwartz of Cadiz and the late Marcella Horath Schwartz. He married Lori (Emery) Schwartz. She survives in Cadiz.
Other survivors include:
Son — Quentin Schwartz of Pittsburgh, Pa.
Brother — Don Schwartz of Ashland, Ky.
Sister — Marilyn Shoaf of Murray, Ky.
Three grandchildren, Cassidy Schwartz, Emily Schwartz and Micah Schwartz, also survive.
Mr. Schwartz was disabled.
There will be no funeral service. Burial will be in Wall Cemetery, Trigg County, Kentucky at a later date.
Visitation was held Monday at Goodwin Funeral Home, Cadiz.
Monty  B. Pratt
January 15, 2003
  Freshman class photo, 1971 VWHS Excalibur yearbook, listed on page 120 and photo is on page 126. (Monty appears in the 1971 Yearbook with our freshman class.)
Monty was born April 1, 1955.  He died (age 47) in an auto accident January 15, 2003 in Florida.  His only son, Forrest Earl Pratt age 9, also died in this crash.  Monty attended Anthony Wayne, Washington and Franklin Elementary Schools.   Monty repeated the 5th grade, becoming a member of the Class of 1974. Upon turning age 16 he left high school and became a full-time horse jockey.  He was a full-time jockey until his death.  His older brother, Paul Pratt Jr. (VWHS '70), resides in Ocala, Florida, as of 2010.

Obituary from the Ocala Star-Banner, Ocala, Florida, Saturday, January 18, 2003:
Anthony, Florida - Monty Brian Pratt, age 47, a jockey, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, in an automobile accident.
A native of Van Wert, Ohio, he moved here from Conroe, Texas, in 1987.  Mr. Pratt was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Jockey Guild.  His son, Forrest Pratt age 9, died in the same accident.  Survivors include his father, Paul Pratt, Silver Springs, Florida; brother, Paul Pratt Jr., Silver Springs; and companion, Sheree Clark, Anthony.  The Florida Cremation Society, Ocala, provided information.
Click here to read a newspaper article about Monty Pratt and his family.  It was published the day after the auto accident.
Bradley Kenneth "Brad" Boroff
February 1, 2001

Brad K. Boroff, age 44, 730 South Shannon Street, Van Wert, died at 3:34 a.m. Thursday, February 1, 2001, at the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, after an extended illness.  He was born June 6, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of the late Kenneth and Flossie (Garrard) Boroff.  On December 27, 1983, in Van Wert, he married Michelle Ross, who survives at their residence.
Mr. Boroff was employed at Greif Brothers in Van Wert for 16 years.
He is survived by three daughters, Deanna (Randy) Grandstaff of Van Wert; and Sara and Rachel Boroff, both at home; and two grandchildren, Mycah and Dylan Grandstaff of Van Wert.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Edward H. Beck officiating, Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City.  Friends may call from 2-5 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.  Preferred memorials at to the family.  (Published in The Times-Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Saturday, February 3, 2001, page 2A.)
The following comments are from David Boroff (VWHS '74 on Jan. 29, 2010), Brad's first cousin:
Brad died from a rare cancer, one that might have been put into remission had the doctors been made aware of Mick Boroff (cousin) sooner. Brad's dad, Kenneth, and Mick's dad, Herb, were brothers and they married sisters, Flossie and Delores Girrard.  That gave Brad and Mick an identical DNA.  The odds of this were astronomical.  By the time the doctors figured out what Brad had and knew of Mick's DNA, the icy cold fingers of death already had a firm grip on Brad.
A few months before he passed away, I stopped in and visited with Brad. The effects of Chemo were apparent with the loss of hair and he was very afraid to get close to me at first.  I convinced him that I wasn't sick with a cold, flu, or any illness. He told me that his cancer was much like Leukemia, located in the blood and bone marrow. That was the last time I was able to talk with my first cousin. It hurt to leave him and not be able to give him a hug, or even shake his hand. Brad is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City, Ohio.
Susan Lynn (Yoh) Peters
November 22, 1997
 Sophomore Class Photo, 1972 Excalibur yearbook, page 165
VAN WERT - Susan Lynn Peters, age 41, 117½ Keplar Street, Van Wert, Ohio, died suddenly at 9:40 a.m. Saturday, November 22, 1997, at Van Wert County Hospital.
She was born October 22, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of Joshua Yoh and Margaret (Blanke) Yoh.
She is survived by a stepmother, Treva Yoh of Van Wert; two daughters, Christina M. Horn and Amber J. Horn, both of Van Wert; three brothers, Greggory L. Yoh of Florida and Jay B. (Jennifer) Yoh and Kenneth K. Yoh, both of Van Wert; and four sisters, Penelope A. Yoh of Florida, Vivian C. (Rick) Beebe of Defiance, Constance J.A. Yoh of Van Wert and Johna L. Yoh of Bellefontaine, Ohio.  One sister, Jodie Lee Yoh, preceded her death.
Mrs. Peters was a retired certified medical assistant and had worked in medical records offices in California.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. today at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, The Rev. Paul Miller officiating.  Burial will follow in Woodland Cemetery.  Friends may call after 1 p.m. today at the funeral home.  Susan appears in the 1971 and 1972 Excalibur yearbooks but not the 1973 or 1974, nor is listed as "without photo".
 (Published in The Times Bulletin on Monday, November 24, 1997, page 2A, Van Wert, Ohio)
Stephanie Lynn (Felger) Peterson
September 7, 1992
    
Mothers Day, May 10, 1992, Stephanie with her family, in the flower garden of their church.
Captain Stephanie (Felger) Peterson, R.N., died the following Labor Day, Sept. 7, 1992.
DeRidder, Louisiana - Stephanie Lynn Peterson, age 36, of DeRidder, Louisiana, died at 3:30 p.m., Monday, September 7, 1992, in the Beauregard Memorial Hospital, DeRidder.
She was born October 10, 1955, in Van Wert, Ohio, the daughter of Richard Felger of Dallas, Texas, and Josephine Chavarria Felger of Convoy, Ohio.  On June 10, 1979, she married Rodney C. Peterson who also survives.
Other survivors include one son, Joseph Earl Davis Peterson, at home; two daughters, Storie Lynn and Sonnett Ree Peterson, both at home; three brothers, Richard Felger Jr. of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Timothy Felger of Aldergrove, British Columbia, Canada, and Milo Felger of Roanoke, Indiana; three sisters, Christina Davis of Syracuse, Indiana, Josephine Venanzi of Fort Polk, Louisiana, and Maria Carlton of Salisbury, South Carolina.
Mrs. Peterson served at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Nursing as a registered nurse for the army for three years with the rank of captain.  She was later certified as an oncology nurse at Huston University and employed as a supervisor at Lake Charles Hospital in the oncology department.  She worked with the American Cancer Society as a hospice coordinator and was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
A Memorial Service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, DeRidder, Louisiana, with the Rev. Alan Williams officiating.  No calling hours were listed.
 (Published in The Times-Bulletin on Saturday, September 12, 1992, page A2, Van Wert, Ohio)
Donna J. (Baer) Mohr
March 25, 1983
  Junior Class Photo, 1973 Excalibur yearbook, page 133 Freshmen Class Photo, 1971 yearbook, page 116
Scott, Ohio - Donna J. (Baer) Mohr, age 26, died on Friday, March 25, 1983, in Scott, Ohio.  She was born June 15, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio.  She was a daughter of Walter E. "Bud" and Harriet Jean (Steele) Baer of 736 South Harrison Street, Van Wert.
Surviving besides her parents are her four children: a son, Joseph A. Mohr Jr., 6 at home; three daughters, April Jo, 9, Amanda Jean, 2, and Tara Jo Mohr, 1, all at home.  Other family survivors are two brothers, Walter E Baer Jr. of Paulding, Ohio, and Steven L Baer at home; two sisters, Mrs. Dana (Brenda) Rager of Route 1, Ohio City, Ohio, and Angela Sue Baer, at home; and a paternal grandmother, Mrs. Annetta Baer of 1013 Pearson Street, Van Wert.
Mrs. Mohr attended Van Wert High School (a member of the Class of 1974.)  She married Joseph A. Mohr on March 19, 1973.  Mr. Mohr also died on the same day as Mrs. Mohr, March 25, 1983.  He was age 32.  He had attended Lincolnview High School, Van Wert County, and finished his education in the U.S. Army, where he served in Vietnam.  He was owner of Mohr's Body Shop in Scott.
There will be a double funeral for the Mohrs at 2 p.m. Monday, March 28, 1983, at Alspach Funeral Home in Van Wert.  Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery with the Rev. Paul Miller officiating.  Friends may call at the funeral home after 4 p.m. Sunday.  Preferred memorials are to the couple's children.
Click here to view the newspaper article regarding the death of Donna J. (Baer) Mohr.
(Published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper on Saturday, March 26, 1983, page 1.)
Donna appears in the 1971, 1972 and 1973 Excalibur yearbooks but not the 1974, nor is listed as "without photo".
Glenn Hughes
June 20, 1981
 Post graduation photos.

Michael William Geisman
May 14, 1980

Mike at home attending school over the intercom
Mike Geisman, age 24, died in Lima, Ohio, on Wednesday, May 14, 1980.  He was found fatally beaten to death in his apartment at 208 1/2 North West Street, Lima, on Friday, May 16, 1980.  He was born April 13, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio.  Surviving are his parents, Richard E. "Dick" (died September 30, 2008) and Gemma (Marquis) Geisman of  632 Center Street, Van Wert (died April 23, 2020) paternal grandmother Ivy Geisman of 115 Hawthorne Street, Van Wert; maternal grandmother, Adele Marquis of Van Buren, Maine; a brother, Richard C. "Rick" Geisman at home (later married to Rose Geisman, 2010 in Connecticut); and two sisters, Cathy (Geisman) Bowen of 240 West Third Street, Van Wert (lived in Sebastian, Florida, approximately 2006 through July 2010.  Cathy then moved to New Hampshire at the end of July 2010, to be near her family); and Cindy Geisman of Las Cruces, New Mexico (later Mrs. Jay Williams. 2010 lives in Austin, Texas.)
Michael, who suffered from a rare bone disease, osteogenesis imperfecta, was confined to a wheelchair his entire life.  Mr. Geisman had been working part-time at the Census Bureau in Lima.  He formerly attended Lima Technical College.
He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, Van Wert.
Private graveside services will be held.  Mass of the Resurrection will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, 1980, in St. Marys Catholic Church, Van Wert, with the Rev. John Schreiner, celebrant.  Alspach Funeral Home, Van Wert, is in charge of funeral arrangements.  There will be no calling hours.  Preferred memorials are to the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation (as of 2010 access at www.oif.org )  (This information and obituary was published in The Times Bulletin, Monday, May 19, 1980; Tuesday, May 20, 1980; Wednesday, May 21, 1980; Friday, May 23, 1980.)

Mike's high school senior picture
In 1970 Michael's mother, Gemma Geisman, co-founded the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation, a national organization that sponsors research and provides information to families affected by the "brittle bone" disease.  She has published a book as a memoir of her life with Michael and her involvement in the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation.  Details of the book are:
"From the Seeds of Sadness" a Memoir by Gemma M. Geisman.  Copyright 2009.  199 numbered pages.
ISBN: Hardcover  978-1-4415-2612-0          ISBN: Softcover   978-1-4415-2611-3
Publisher:  Xlibris Corporation, 1-888-795-4274     www.Xlibris.com
The book is also available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble online book stores (as of 2010.)
Mrs. Geisman may be contacted at her website: www.gemmageisman.com .
(2010 note: I encourage all Class of 1974 Classmates to order the book from Mrs. Geisman's website  (update: She died April 23, 2020). She would very much like to hear from anyone who knew Michael as well as anyone with comments on the book.  I had the pleasure of exchanging numerous emails with Mrs. Geisman.  When I asked her for several of her favorite pictures of Michael, she furnished the pictures shown here.  The following is from one of Mrs. Geisman's emails . . . Gary Showalter)
" . . .  I am now hearing from readers in Scotland, Australia, China and Canada.  A professor at the University of Cincinnati has included it in her course work for Juniors studying to be teachers.  Just thought I'd share a few of these things with you because I really appreciated your comments about your experiences and feelings while reading my book.  I am hearing the same thing from so many guys your age - some who didn't even know Mike or our family!  That is another nice surprise.  I will try to send two pictures (of Michael) as attachments.  Again, thanks for getting in touch with me. 
Regards,
Gemma M. Geisman"
Sue Ann Conley
October 31, 1979

Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  Graveside services were held Saturday, Nov. 3, 1979, in Sevierville, Tenn., for Sue Ann Conley, 23, of Gatlinburg, Tenn., formerly of Van Wert.  Miss Conley died in a recent fire in Gatlinburg.
She was born Aug. 4, 1956, in Van Wert, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Conley.
Survivors include her father of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and her mother, Mrs. Billy (Wanda) Phillips of Charleston, S.C.  Two brothers, Jody of Convoy, Ohio, and Robert S. Conley, Jr., of Gatlinburg, a sister Mrs. S. (Debbie) Snyder of Convoy, paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Conley of Florida, and a grandfather, Graydon Dougal of Van Wert.
Miss Conley was an employee of Ruby Tuesday's Restaurant, Gatlinburg.
Atchley Funeral Home, Sevierville, was in charge of arrangements.
(Published in The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Monday, November, 5, 1979)
 Sue Conley, June 1976
Gregory S. Miller
January 1, 1976

Van Wert, Ohio - Gregory Scott Miller, age 19, died Thursday, January 1, 1976, in a single-engine airplane crash in Mercer County, Ohio, two miles southeast of Rockford on Lombard Road.
Mr. Miller was the son of Ernest K. and Carolyn (Atha) Miller, of 441 South Avenue, Van Wert.  He was born February 4, 1956, in Van Wert.
Survivors in addition to his parents include a brother, Douglas K. at home; two sisters, Mrs. Brent (Cyndi) Bauer of 456 Gordon Avenue, Van Wert, and Susan, also at home; the maternal grandmother, Mrs. Rachael DeMoss of Van Wert and the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Clifford E. Miller of 211 S. Harrison St., Van Wert.
Mr. Miller was a graduate of Spartan Aeronautics School, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.
He attended Trinity United Methodist Church in Van Wert.
Funeral services for Mr. Miller are to be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 4, 1976, with the Rev. Lowell Nelson officiating.  Burial is to be in Woodland Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home after 2 p.m. today.  Preferred memorials are to the Cancer Society.
(Published in The Times Bulletin, Friday, January 2, 1976; Saturday, January 3, 1976; Tuesday, January 6, 1976; Thursday, January 8, 1976.)
  

David Allen Snyder
August 28, 1972
 1972 - 1973 Junior Yearbook, Class of 1974, Memorial Photo, page 141
Van Wert, Ohio - David Allen Snyder, 16, son of Willard and Sondra (Kilgore) Snyder of 609 E. Central Ave., Van Wert, Ohio, was found dead on arrival at the Van Wert football stadium (Eggerss Stadium) by the Van Wert Police Department and Fire Department emergency squad shortly before 11 p.m., Monday, August 28, 1972.
He was born April 17, 1956, in Van Wert, and would have been a member of the junior class this year (1972 - 1973) at the Van Wert High School. He attended Van Wert City Schools for 11 years, kindergarten through his sophomore year at Van Wert High School, and was a member of the VWHS Class of 1974.
He attended the Calvary Evangelical Church in Pleasant Township, Van Wert County.
Surviving besides the parents are two brothers, Steven and Randall, both at home, and a sister, Linda, also at home.
David was a part-time employee of Penquin Point, 786 W. Ervin Road, Van Wert, for one year.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 30, 1972, at the Alspach Funeral Home, the Rev. Howard W. McCracken to officiate. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Wednesday.
(Published in The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Tuesday, August 29, 1972, page 2.
Janet Haynes
April 2, 1966
(Photos furnished by Janet's brother, Michael, in Nov. 2019. The 1966 obituary did not include a photo.)

Van Wert - Janet Haynes, nine year and five month-old daughter of Jerald "Jerry" and Illi (Lenz) Haynes of 1124 S. Walnut St, Van Wert, Ohio, died Saturday, April 2, 1966, at the Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She had been ill about one year. She was born November 10, 1956.
The child, besides her parents, is survived by a brother, Michael, 7; two sisters, Patty, 11, and Carol, 6, all at home; the maternal grandmother, Mrs. Ottilie Lenz of Hamburg, Germany, and the paternal grandparents, Ronald R. and Catherine E. (Bechtel) Haynes of Hastings, Michigan.
(Added 2022: And survived by her father's only brother: Ronald John M. Haynes (DOB 12-15-1925, DOD 2-17-2011) and his wife, Clara Teresa (Zimmerman) Haynes (dec. 2009, married 1950~), Long Lake, Cloverdale and Hastings, Michigan. As of February 2011, Janet's three siblings' status: Patty, deceased, Michael (& Jean) Haynes of Louisville, Colorado, and Carol (& Greg) Peterson, Loveland, Colorado.)

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 5, at the St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Rev. Russell Gillig to officiate. Burial will be in Woodland Union Cemetery, Van Wert.
Funeral arrangements are by Alspach Funeral Home, Van Wert. The Altar and Rosary Society will recite the Rosary at 7:30 p.m. tonight, Monday, April 4, at the funeral home.
( Published in the Van Wert Times-Bulletin, Monday, April 4, 1966)
The following information was "discovered" in 2020 after being forgotten for many decades:
Janet attended Van Wert City Schools and would have been in the graduating class of 1974. She attended Kindergarten through 4th grade in the Van Wert City Schools. She attended Pleasant Elementary and then moved to Van Wert and attended Jefferson Elementary. She was in the 4th grade at Jefferson Elementary at the time of her death. She died of Leukemia. The 4th Grade Class held a fund-raiser in her honor and purchased a painting that was hung on the hallway wall outside the 4th Grade classroom. The painting was a long, narrow landscape painting as remembered by several classmates in 2020.

Her father was transferred to Colorado a few years after her death and the family moved to Colorado. Both her parents are deceased. Her sister Patty is deceased. Information about Janet Haynes was furnished after the 45th Reunion of the VWHS Class of 1974, held August 3, 2019, by Randy Stemen. Deb (Kruse) Dull then provided details about Janet as they were childhood friends. Deb's parents and Janet's parents were close friends. Deb obtained the photos of Janet from Janet's brother Michael Haynes. Janet was buried in Woodland Union Cemetery, section 48. She is buried alone as her family never returned to Van Wert. Her headstone sits just to the left of Deb Dull's parents' headstone (Russell Kruse, her father is deceased).
Janet's listing on the Find a Grave website does not include a photo of her headstone --> Janet Haynes On Find A Grave.
A photo Deb Dull has of her parents' headstone shows the right side of Janet's on the far left of the photo. Janet is not forgotten in Van Wert or by the VWHS Class of 1974.

Brent Allan Boley
July 10, 1964
 Click on picture for larger view
                                                                         (Photo furnished by Alice Boley, February 2010, as her favorite photo of her son Brent.)

Van Wert - Brent Allan Boley, age 8, died in the summer of 1964 before his third grade year at Anthony Wayne Elementary School in Van Wert.  His family lived at 634 N. Jefferson Street across from the school.  As of February 2010, his mother, Alice M. (Baker) Boley still resides at their home.  She has fond memories of Brent's frequent playmates and classmates, Mike Warden and Greg Brown. The Boley's also lost a baby daughter, Susan Elaine Boley, about one year after Brent died.  Susan survived for only 21 days.  Steve (& Chris) Boley is their surviving child, VWHS Class of 1969.  Alice's husband, R. Lee Boley, is deceased, on Dec. 28, 1996. They were married Aug. 20, 1946.  Alice would have graduated VWHS with the Class of 1945, but had to leave school in her junior year to help support her family.  She was able to secure work at Essex Wire in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  Anyone familiar with the work ethic of the members of the VWHS Class of 1945 will not be surprised to know Alice returned to school and earned her G.E.D. in 2006.  At the time, she was the oldest person to earn their G.E.D in Van Wert. .Alice remains a stalwart of 2nd Ward - a 50 year neighbor of Anthony Wayne School. (In later years Anthony Wayne School was used for city school system administrative offices.  It was abandoned and sold by the school system in 2004. The school is privately owned through the last update to Brent Boley's obituary on July 29, 2020.)
(December 15, 2019 update: Alice M. (Baker) Boley passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2019, at age 91. She was born March 4, 1928.)
See Brent's obituary below as it appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper, July 1964.
Friday = July 10, 1964
A single rose can be my garden... a single friend, my world.
 by: Leo Buscaglia            Felice Leonardo Buscaglia (March 31, 1924 - June 12, 1998, age 74)
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Charles Dixon
February 5, 2018
      (The obituary picture is Charles' senior picture in the VWHS 1974 Excalibur)
Charles E. “Chuckie” Dixon, 61, of Van Wert, passed away 1:20 a.m. Monday, February 5, 2018, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert.
He was born June 14, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of Francis L. and Margaret L. Dixon, who both preceded him in death.
Charles was a longtime member of Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert. He worked for several companies, including International Harvester and Walmart. Prior to his illness, he was an avid bowler. Charles was also huge sports fan, cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cleveland Indians, and the Fort Wayne Komets.

He is survived by his son, Taylor W. Dixon of Van Wert; four brothers, Russell Dixon, Roy Dixon, David (Cari) Dixon, and Mark Dixon, all of Van Wert; two sisters, Ruth Moore and Deb Goldfuss, both of Van Wert; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be conducted at 4 p.m. Thursday, February 8, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with the Rev. Greg Rice presiding. Private burial will be Monday, February 12, in Ridge Cemetery in rural Van Wert County.
Visitation is from 1-4 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To Charles’ son, Taylor.
Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com .
(The obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Wednesday February 7, 2018, and the vwindependent.com on Monday, February 5, 2018.)
Kim B. Snyder
May 13, 2017
    1973 - 1974 Senior Yearbook Photo
Van Wert, Ohio - Kim B. Snyder, 61, passed away Saturday evening, May 13, 2017, at his Van Wert residence. He was born Wednesday, November 30, 1955, in Van Wert, a son of Hermie and Roxie (Routt) Snyder, who both preceded him in death.
Survivors include two sons, Justin L. Snyder of Van Wert and Trinity J. (Theresa) Snyder of Convoy; a daughter, Alexis H. Snyder of Florida; three grandchildren, Hailey, Trinity Jr., and Arianna; two sisters, Marcia Dangler and Jean Ann Kline; two half-sisters, Wanda Longwell and Marlene Crissinger; two half-brothers, Ronnie and Tommie Grieshaber.
A half-brother, Tony Grieshaber, also preceded him in death.
Mr. Snyder was retired from Decatur Fleetwood Industries, Decatur, Indiana, after more than 25 years of employment.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 18, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert.
Visitation if from 1 - 3 p.m. and 5 -8 p.m. Wednesday, May 17, at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To the family.
Condolences may be expressed at www.bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.
(Obituary appeared online in the vwindependent.com and in the Times Bulletin of Van Wert, on Monday, May 15, 2017)
Tim Taylor
March 30, 2017
         
                                                                              1972-1973 Junior Yearbook Photo
Timothy Max Taylor, 62, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away surrounded by his family at Lima Memorial Hospital, Lima, Ohio, Thursday morning, March 30, 2017, following a short illness.
He was born January 18, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of the late Max H. Taylor, who precede him in death, and Deloris M. (Ford) McMillen, who survives, along with her husband, Harvey W. McMillen, in Van Wert.
Other family members include a son, Timothy R. Taylor of Van Wert; two sisters, Valerie S. (Rev. Gerald) Baker of Beloit, Ohio, and Jacqueline (Bryce) Beckman of Van Wert; and a brother, Kenneth Taylor of Van Wert.
Tim was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. He had worked at Teleflex for 28 years and recently was employed at Cooper Foods.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2017, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Gus Christo-Baker, of First United Methodist Church, Van Wert, and Rev. Gerald Baker officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City, Ohio.
Visitation will be an hour prior to services on Saturday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: First United Methodist Church in Van Wert.
Condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.
Tim's picture did not appear in the 1974 Van Wert High School Excalibur yearbook. His picture is in the 1971, 1972 and 1973 yearbooks.
(Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Friday, March 31, 2017.and online at vwindependent.com on Thursday, March 30, 2017)

Kenneth N. “Ken” Stahl
February 10, 2017
                                                               1974 Yearbook Senior Photo

Van Wert, Ohio - Kenneth N. “Ken” Stahl, 60, of West Melbourne, Florida, and formerly of Van Wert, passed away Friday evening, February 10, 2017, in Burgaw, North Carolina, from injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident.
He was born February 29, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of Kenneth E. and Joan (Pate) Stahl, who both survive in Van Wert. On January 1, 2000, he married Julie Stahl, who also survives in West Melbourne.
Other survivors include five children, Jaime, Kendra, Jennifer, Heather and Matt; a stepdaughter, Wendy; two brothers, Patrick Stahl of Van Wert and Brian (Sandi) Stahl of Trimble, Tennessee; two sisters, Debbie (Ron) Klewer of Van Wert and Kathy (Mitch) Rutter of Mendon; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Ken worked in hospital security. He was a veteran of the United States Army and studied business administration at the University of Phoenix. He was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.
Funeral services will be conducted at noon Saturday, February 18, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with Pastor Randy Christian officiating. Private family burial will take place at a later date.
Visitation is from 10 a.m. until noon Saturday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials: To the family for medical expenses.
Condolences may be expressed at alspachgearhart.com.
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Wednesday, February 15, 2017.and online at vwindependent.com on Tuesday, February 14, 2017.

Candace L. “Candy” Wills
July 28, 2016


Van Wert, Ohio - Candace L. "Candy" Wills, 60, of Van Wert, died at 10:55 a.m. Thursday, July 28, 2016, at Van Wert Manor Nursing Home. She was born May 8, 1956, in Covington, Ohio, to Carolyn (Chivington) Dunmire, who survives of Van Wert, and the late John E. Wills.
Other survivors include her children, Justin Wills of Van Wert and Phil Hall of New Mexico; a brother, Steve Dunmire of Paulding, Ohio; a stepbrother, Ken Dunmire of Magnolia, Texas; and sisters Tammy (Tom) Tomlinson of Van Wert, Kim (Tom) Wyman of Columbus, Ohio, and Cheryl (Brian) Schaadt, Kerri (Collin) Thomas, and Jackie Dixon all of Van Wert. Services will begin at 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 2, 2016, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Burial will  be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
Visitation is noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, August 2, 2016, at the funeral home. Preferred memorial is American Cancer Society or American Diabetes Association.
Condolences may be expressed at alspachgearhart.com.
Obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times-Bulletin on Friday, July 29, 2016, and on the vwindependent.com on Thursday, July 28, 2016.
Michael Jay Saam
July 1, 2016
   
Findlay, Ohio - Michael Jay Saam, 60, of Findlay and formerly of Ohio City, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, July 1, 2016.
He was born March 3, 1956. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Saam.
He will be greatly missed by his daughter, Kelly (Warren) Straley; his mother, Nancy Saam; a brother, Mitch (Cuiping) Saam; one sister, Brenda Beltz; and many others of his family.
He served in the U.S. Navy Reserves, retired from Kennedy Manufacturing Company in Van Wert, and enjoyed spending time outdoors with his beloved dog, Babe.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday, July 8, at St. Paul’s Reformed Church in Ohio City, Ohio.
(Mike started with the Class of 1974 in the Van Wert City School system, attending Pleasant Elementary School, Anthony Wayne Elementary School, and Lincoln Junior High School. At the beginning of the freshmen year in Van Wert High School, 1970-1971, he moved to the Ohio City Liberty School, graduating there with their Class of 1974.)
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Friday, July 8, 2016.and online at vwindependent.com on Thursday July 7, 2016.
Joette F. (Harman) Jones
October 20, 2015


Van Wert, Ohio — Joette F. (Harman) Jones, 59, of Van Wert, died at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 20, 2015, at St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.
She was born March 15, 1956, in Van Wert, to the late Edna (Dunlap) Harman and Joseph Harman.
Survivors include three children, Shawn Michael Jones of Toledo, Ohio, and Benjamin (Nikki Staten) Jones and Nicole Jones, both of Van Wert, a sister, Carol Germann of Ohio City, Ohio, and one granddaughter, Joette’s pride and joy, Briella Jones.

She retired from Federal Mogul Corporation in Van Wert, and was owner of Cuppa Jo Creations, also of Van Wert, where she was affectionately known as the “snowman” lady. Joette was an avid fan of The Ohio State University Buckeyes.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2015, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. The Rev. Clark Williman will officiate. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
Visitation is 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, October 26, 2015, at the funeral home. Those attending visitation on Monday are encouraged to wear Ohio State Buckeye attire.
Preferred memorials may be directed to the family for an account for Briella or donor’s choice.
Condolences may be expressed at: www.alspachgearhart.com.
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin and online at vwindependent.com, on Thursday, October, 22, 2015.
Edward G. Wells
July 17, 2015
 

Edward Gene Wells, 60, of Padroni, Colorado, and formerly of Van Wert, passed away Friday, July 17, 2015, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Ed was born April 25, 1955, in Lima, Ohio, the son of Cleo E. Wells, who preceded him in death, and Jackie Wells, who survives in Van Wert.
Ed was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School. After graduation, he served four years in the United States Army.
On September 30, 1991, in Van Wert, he married Cynthia A. (Buchanan) Wells, who survives in Padroni, Colorado.

Ed was a natural carpenter, as he always enjoyed working with his hands. He was a truck driver for many years and then worked for IWS in Colorado as a crane operator. He moved to Colorado in October 2001.  Ed loved grilling, working in his shop and loved his horse, Stormey.
In addition to his mother and wife, survivors include a brother, Ron (Linda) Wells of Convoy, Ohio, two sisters, Sheryl Burns of Flint, Michigan, and Jenny (Stan) Lichtenberger of Van Wert; three stepchildren, Tina (Scott) Danylchuk, Taunya (Brad) Breece, and Jonathon McMichael; 16 stepgrandchildren; six stepgreat-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends
Private family services will be held at a later date in Van Wert.

    
               Ed Wells - Senior Yearbook Photo  & High School Graduation Ceremony
Ed grew up on North Jefferson Street, between 2nd and 3rd Streets. He attended Anthony Wayne Elementary School. (2nd Ward)
Obituary published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin and the vwindependent.com, on Wednesday,July 22, 2015.
James Michael Foster
April 17, 2015
      
                                                                     James Foster - Freshmen Yearbook
Van Wert, Ohio — James Michael Foster, 60, of Van Wert, died at 1:10 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2015, at St. Joseph Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He was born on March 3, 1955, the son of the late Ralph Albert and Betty Catherine (Case) Foster. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Eugene Wayne Foster and Marvin Lee Foster. Family survivors include two sisters and brothers-in-law, Helen and Jerry Roberts of Van Wert and Lori Ann and Richard Stollsteimer of Clarksville, Ohio, eight nieces, and two nephews.
Jim was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School and had worked at the American Popcorn Company in Van Wert and Odenweller’s in Ottoville, Ohio.
Private services for the family will be held later with interment in Middle Creek Cemetery near Grover Hill, Ohio.
The obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Monday, April 20, 2015.
Jim Foster appreared in the freshmen yearbook. He did not have a picture in the sophomore, junior or senior yearbooks.

Michael K. Dailey
December 28, 2014

Archbold, Ohio - Mike Dailey, age 58 years, of Archbold, passed away Sunday night December 28, 2014, at CHP Defiance Area In-Patient Hospice Center following his courageous battle with cancer. He was born January 8, 1956, at Van Wert, Ohio, the son of Thomas and Betty (Miller) Dailey and married Ana Moreno on March 24, 1984.
A resident of the Archbold area many years, he worked as an automobile Industrial Engineer at Dana Corp. He enjoyed bicycling and reading his Bible. He was a member of the West Unity Church of Christ.
He is survived by his wife Ana; a daughter, Danielle Dailey of Toledo; his father, Thomas of Van Wert; two brothers, Stephen (Leilani) Dailey and Kevin (Sandra) Dailey, both of Van Wert; and a sister, Kathy Martin of Elida.  He was preceded in death by his mother.
Services will be held on Friday, January 2, 2015, at 11 AM at the West Unity Church of Christ with Preacher Bruce Goosman officiating. Interment will follow in the Archbold Cemetery. Friends may call at the Short Funeral Home in Archbold from 2-8 PM on Thursday, January 1, 2015.
Funeral arrangements are by Short Funeral Home, 500 N. Defiance St., Archbold, OH 43502. (419) 445-3556.
Published in the Toledo Blade newspaper on Dec. 30, 2014

Timothy Ray Kindell
February 21, 2014
    
                            Tim Kindell                                                  Tim Kindell, Senior Yearbook Photo

Van Wert, Ohio - Timothy Ray Kindell, age 58, of Convoy, Ohio, died at 12:40 p.m. Friday, February 21, 2014, at the Van Wert Area Inpatient Hospice Center.
He was born December 2, 1955, in Piqua, the son of Doris (Todd) Kindell and Stanley Kindell, who both survive in Van Wert.
Other survivors include a daughter, Camillia (Brian) Kline of Haviland; four brothers, Mike (Nancy) Kindell of Van Wert, Rex (Sylvia) Kindell of Tipp City, Scott Kindell of Van Wert and David Kindell of Convoy; two sisters, Nancy (Rex) Replogle of Van Wert and Elaine (Dutch) Langenderfer of Toledo; five grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 25, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with the Rev. Don Doster officiating. Burial will be in the IOOF Cemetery in Convoy. Calling hours are from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Preferred memorial: To the family.
( The obituary appeared on the vwindependent.com on February 22, 2014.)
Richard Moore, Jr.
January 21, 2014

Van Wert, Ohio - Richard "Popeye" Moore, Jr., 57, of Van Wert, died Tuesday, January 21, 2014, at his residence.
He was born May 13, 1956, in Lexington, Ky., the son of Richard, Sr. and Mary (James) Moore, who both survive in Van Wert.
Other survivors include three children: Kristian Moore of  Kent and Derek and Ethan Moore, both of Van Wert; three brothers, Raymond (Sylvia) Moore of Van Wert, Michael Moore of Las Vegas, Nev., and Tyrone (Debra) Moore of Fort Wayne, Ind.; and two sisters, Mary Turner and Shari (Steven) Darnell, both of Van Wert.
A sister, Sharlene Moore, preceded him in death.
He had previously worked at General Motors in Defiance, Ohio. He was a member of Pentecostal Way Church in Van Wert.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. Monday, January 27, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with the Rev. Bill Watson officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. Calling hours are from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Monday at the funeral home. Preferred memorials: To the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.alspachgearhart.com.
(The obituary appeared on vwindependent.com on Friday, January 24, 2014, and in the Van Wert Times Bulletin, Saturday, January 25, 2014.)
Robert "Bob" M. Cahoon
January 3, 2014
  Senior Picture, VWHS 1973 - 1974
Van Wert, Ohio - Robert M. Cahoon, age 58, of Van Wert, died Friday, January 3, 2014, at his residence.
He was born December 28, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of Helen (Emmerth) Cahoon, who survives in Los Angeles, California, and the late James P. Cahoon.
Survivors include three brothers, James P. (Kimberly) Cahoon of Hopewell, N.J., William A. (Heather) Cahoon of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Thomas P. Cahoon, Ph.D., of Los Angeles; two sisters, Dr. Kathleen Cahoon of Cottonwood, Arizona, and Cynthia (Paul) Brautigam of St. Marys, Ohio; and two nieces and four nephews.
He had previously worked in the music industry. He was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, and was a graduate of Van Wert High School, Class of 1974.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert, with Father Stanley Szybka officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. Visitation is at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert from 9:30 - 10:30 am on Tuesday before the service. Preferred memorials: Westwood Behavioral Health Center in Van Wert.
Arrangements were handled by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert. Online condolences may be sent to www.alspachgearhart.com.
(The obituary appeared in vwindependent.com and the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Friday, January 10, 2014)
Bob Cahoon, 1971 - 1972 Sophomore VWHS
Brenda Louise (Brewer) Kiracofe
August 8, 2013
Brenda Louise Kiracofe, age 57, of Van Wert died at 3 p.m. Thursday, August 8, 2013, at St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, Ohio.
She was born April 24, 1956, in Van Wert, to the late George A. and Vera Kathryn (Sites) Brewer. On March 8, 1975, she married Roger Lee Kiracofe, who survives.
She is also survived by a daughter, Heather (Ron) Kroeger of Landeck; and one son, Joshua Lee Kiracofe of Van Wert. Also surviving are grandchildren who were her pride and joy: Sean Ramos, Alexis Ayers, Brendan, DJ and Quinn Kiracofe. Other survivors include her siblings, Judy (Jerry) Fisher and Darlene (Howard) Shobe, both of Van Wert, and Jerry (Patricia) Brewer of Decatur, Ind.; A son, Rodney Lee Kiracofe; and her in-laws, William and Dora May (Myers) Kiracofe, also preceded her in death.
Brenda was a homemaker and loved to play Bingo.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 13, at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Paul W. Miller officiating.
Calling hours are from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Monday, August 12, and an hour prior to services Tuesday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: To the family. Online condolences may be left to bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.
(The obituary appeared in vwindependent.com and the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Saturday, August 10, 2013)
Mary Anne (Reinhart) Tamsen
January 23, 2013
   Photo is her senior picture in the 1974 Excalibur Yearbook
Allen Park, Michigan - Mary Anne (Reinhart) Tamsen, age 57, passed away January 23, 2013.  Beloved wife of David; loving mother of Ashley, Derek, and Trevor Tamsen; dear daughter of Beverly and Norbert Reinhart; dear sister of Jim (Judy) Reinhart and Tony (Karen) Reinhart.
Visitation 1 to 8 p.m. Sunday, January 27, and 12 Noon to 4 p.m. Monday, January 28, at Weise Funeral Home, 7210 Park Ave., Allen Park, MI 48101, phone (313) 382-1150.  Funeral Service 4 p.m. at the funeral home.  Memorials may be directed to Mr. David Tamsen at the funeral home address.  Please visit the funeral home online obituary/guest book at weisefuneralhome.com.
(Obituary published in Heritage Newspapers, heritage.com, Jan. 27, 2013 and the Van Wert Times Bulletin, January 30, 2013.)
Robert Kevin Thieroff
January 18, 2013
   
Defiance, Ohio - Robert Kevin Thieroff, age 56, of Defiance, Ohio, passed away Friday, January 18, 2013, at Community Health Professionals Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.  Born on January 22, 1956, in Defiance, he was the son of Sharon (Briggs) Thieroff Elliott and the late Robert Kenneth Thieroff.
After graduating from Van Wert High School in 1974, Robert attended Bowling Green State University.  Later, he served his country in the Army National Guard for over 10 years.  A passion for antique bicycles, jazz music, fine cuisine and his grandchildren drove his zest for life.
He had been employed at Sauder Woodworking Company of Archbold, Ohio, for 18 years and at the Campbell's Soup Company in Napoleon for the past three years.
He will be greatly missed by his loving wife, Virginia (Trevino) Thieroff; his mother: Sharon and stepfather, Eurie "Nib" Elliott of Greeneville, Tennessee.; stepdaughters: V. Christina Trevino of Defiance, Maria Trevino of Belton, Texas; stepsons: Pablo (Cassandra) Trevino of Colorado Springs, Colorado., Ricardo Trevino and Miguel (Danielle) Trevino, both of Defiance; sisters: Gail (Douglas) Dumire of Defiance and Laurie (Jerry) Perez of Ft. Wayne, Indiana.; stepsisters: Nikki (Scott) Niswonger and Nancy (Ken) Key, both of Greeneville, Tenn.; nieces: Jody Bender, Lisa Grubb, Erika Dumire; nephews: Matthew Dumire, Tyler Young, and 11 grandchildren.
Friends are invited to call Monday, January 21 from 2 - 7 p.m. at Lawson-Roessner Funeral Home, 1753 S. Clinton St., Defiance.  Services will be held at 7 p.m. with Deacon Don Meyer officiating.  A private burial will be Tuesday at Riverside Cemetery.  The family suggests memorials to the CHP Defiance Area Inpatient Hospice Center.  Condolences to the family may be shared at defiancefuneralhome.com.
(Obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Saturday, January 19, 2013)
Kelly Brent McConahay
January 11, 2013

Kelly Brent McConahay, age 57, of Ohio City, Willshire Township, Ohio, died at 5:15 p.m. Friday, January 11, 2013, at Van Wert County Hospital, Van Wert, Ohio. 
He was born October 17, 1955, in Van Wert.  His father and stepmother, Daniel J. McConahay and Sharon McConahay, survive in Van Wert.  His mother, Shirley (Speakman) Couts, also survives in Van Wert.  On August 2, 1980, he married Mickey J. (Army) McConahay, who survives in Van Wert.
Other survivors include his two sons: Martin McConahay (and fiancée Valerie Phillips) of Austin, Texas, and Casey McConahay of Van Wert; a daughter, Shea Lyn (Nathan) Crass of Fort Mill, SC; a brother, Kaury McConahay of Houston, TX; three sisters, Kimberly (William) Torok of Delta, IN, Kristine McConahay of Stroh, IN, and Kerry (Jeff) Gudakunst of Grover Hill, OH; a stepbrother, Mike (Kathy) Priest of Payne, OH; and one stepsister, Brenda (Jeff) Clark of Paulding, OH; and grandmother: Audrey Jacob of Van Wert.
Mr. McConahay had worked at the Ream Steckbeck Paint store in Van Wert.  He then owned and operated Kelly's Paint and Paper.  He currently was operating McConahay Decorating.  He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Van Wert.  He was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 15, 2013, at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, with the Rev. Gus Christo-Baker officiating.  Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. 
Calling hours are Monday, January 14, from 2-8 p.m., at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert and an hour prior to services Tuesday at the church.
Preferred memorials: Wren (Ohio) EMS Squad or the Lupus Foundation of America.
Online condolences may be left at cowanfuneralhome.com.
(The obituary appeared in vwindependent.com on Saturday, January 12, 2013, and in the Van Wert Times Bulletin on Monday, January 14, 2013.)
Christina A. (Jenkins) Spoor
May 14, 2012

(Chris started with the Class of 1974 at Anthony Wayne Elementary School in Mrs. Gilland's Kindergarten Class, 1961-1962,  and Mrs. Burris' First Grade Class, 1962-1963.  During Elementary School she moved to the Class of 1975 and attended high school with the Class of 1975.)
Van Wert, Ohio - Christina A. Spoor, age 55, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 2:25 a.m. Monday, May 14, 2012, at Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, Indiana.
She was born June 24, 1956, in Van Wert, to the late Shirley (Bell) Davis and Carroll R. Jenkins.  Her stepfather, Ray Davis, survives of Van Wert.
Her husband, William E. "Bill" Spoor, III, survives of Van Wert.
Other survivors include her children: William E. "Lump" Spoor, IV, and Jerry (Chantal) Spoor, both of Van Wert, and Trisha (David) Rager of Ft. Wayne, Ind.; a brother: Greg (Becky) Jenkins of Van Wert; sisters: Cindy (Mike) Wamsley of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Sandy Eversole of Van Wert; one sister-in-law: Jan Jenkins of Van Wert, and five grandchildren: Laine, Grace and Emma Spoor; Trinity and Will Rager.  A brother, Rick Jenkins, also preceded her in death.
Mrs. Spoor was co-owner/operator of Spoor Contracting and office manager for Jerandan Portable Toilets, both of Van Wert.  In addition to her love of her grandchildren, Chris was a member of the Van Wert American Legion Auxiliary Unit 178 and Van Wert Moose Lodge 1320 Auxiliary.  She was an avid gambler, drag racing enthusiast and cook (you would never leave her house hungry.)  She truly loved feeding her family and friends.
Friends may call from 2-5 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2012, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.  Prayer services will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 17, 2012, at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, at a later date.
Preferred memorial is donor's choice.
(The obituary appeared May 15, 2012 in the Van Wert Times Bulletin and May 14, 2012, in vwindependent.com)
Kathy L. (Sterrett) Beining
October 30, 2011

Kathy L. (Sterrett) Beining, age 55, died at 6:57 p.m. Sunday, October. 30, 2011, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne, Ind.
She was born March 30, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, the daughter of Robert and Dorothy (Beery) Sterrett, who both survive, and most recently was a resident of Convoy, Ohio.
She is survived by her son, Brad (Angie) Beining of Van Wert; one grandson, Evan Beining of Van Wert; her sister, Vicki (Rusty) Grimm of St. Marys, Ohio; a brother, Tim Sterrett of Van Wert; one nephew, Kyle Sterrett of Van Wert and three nieces, Ginny Grimm, Brandy Sterrett and Ashley Sterrett.  She is also survived by her fiancé, George Lowther, and her former husband, Ralph Beining.
Visitation will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, November 3, 2011 at Brickner Funeral Home in Van Wert with funeral services following at 7 p.m. that evening.
Condolences may be left on our website, www.bricknerfuneralhome.com, or sent to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.
(The obituary appeared in the Wednesday, November 2, 2011, edition of The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio.)
Kathy L. Sterrett, Senior Photo 1973 - 1974
Graydon E. Rodman
November 11, 2010
    
Antwerp, Ohio - Graydon E. Rodman, 54, of Antwerp, died at 4:48 p.m. Thursday, November 11, 2010, at Adams Memorial Hospital, Decatur, Indiana.
He was born June 25, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Rex and Kay (Jerome) Rodman.  Both survive of Van Wert, Ohio.  His wife, Wanda (Schaadt) Rodman, survives of Antwerp.
Other survivors include his children: Allen (Vanessa) Rodman of St. Louis, Missouri, and Burton (Melissa) Rodman of St. Joe, Indiana, a sister: Brenda Price of Van Wert, Ohio, and his grandchildren: Luc, Michal, Evan, Nathan and Madelynn.
He was currently working for Lifeline Youth and Family Services as an advocate out of Fort Wayne, Indiana.  He was retired from B.F. Goodrich, Woodburn, Indiana.  He was a veteran of the Vietnam Conflict, serving in the United States Navy, a Sunday School teacher and a lead singer of the psong 96 band.
Services will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, November 15 at Wesley United Methodist Church, Van Wert.  Darrin Langford will officiate.  Burial will be held at Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.  Military graveside services will be conducted by Van Wert American Legion and VFW posts.
Calling hours are 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 p.m. Sunday, November 14. at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, and one hour prior to services Monday at Wesley United Methodist Church, Van Wert.
Preferred memorial is Lake James Christian Assembly, Angola, Indiana.
Condolences may be sent to: agfhc@embarqmail.com.
(This obituary appeared in the Saturday, November 13, 2010, edition of The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio.)


Kevin Bruce Cotterman
July 19, 2010
   
CONVOY, Ohio - Kevin Bruce Cotterman, 53, of Convoy, died at 10:20 a.m. Monday, July 19, 2010, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.  He was born Aug. 27, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to the late William G. Cotterman and JoAnn E. (Sharpe) Cotterman.
Survivors include his siblings: Rick L. (Jeanie) Cotterman of Convoy, Bobbie (Bill) Bollinger of Dayton, Ohio, Billie (Sherwood) Smith of Aurora, Colorado., nieces: Dawn Lemon, Kendra Syverstad, Kelli Thiessen, Dana Miller, Tracy Coyne, Nicki Schnieder, and nephews: Brad Bollinger, William (Darcy) Cotterman and Timothy Cotterman.
He worked at CME Manufacturing in Monroeville, Indiana, was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a member of the Van Wert American Legion Post 178.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, July 23, 2010, at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert.  The Rev. Jody Harr will officiate.  Burial will be in Scott Cemetery, Scott, Ohio, with graveside military rites by the combined Honors Unit of American Legion Post 178 and VFW Post 5803.
Visitation will be at the funeral home on Thursday, July 22, 2010, from 2-8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service on Friday.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider the Animal Protective League.
Condolences may be sent to bricknerfuneralhome@bright.net.  For more information visit www.bricknerfuneralhome.com.
(This obituary appeared in the Wednesday, July 21, 2010, edition of the Van Wert Times Bulletin.)
The following information about Kevin was provided by Kevin's cousin, Randy Matthews VWHS Class of 1974:
For those of you that don't know, Kevin was my cousin.  He had some health issues but I didn't know that they were that bad.  I talked to Kevin at my brothers funeral (Brent, April 2010) and he seemed ok at that time.  He did pass away from cancer.  It started as colon cancer and spread throughout his body.  I know it spread to his heart, spine, liver and lungs.  He worked at the automotive plant in Monroeville, Indiana, and the company let him use a walker until he became too ill to be at work.
We both lived in 4th Ward when we were very young, just north of the fairgrounds, south of Ervin Road.  Kevin attended Franklin School. My family moved to 3rd Ward, right next door to Washington School, just when I was starting elementary school.  As an adult Kevin lived outside Convoy where his father (deceased) and brother Rick lived.  Kevin never married and had no children.  Most of you will remember Kevin as a quiet, happy classmate.  I am proud to remember back in high school that several of us who knew Kevin stood up for him when he needed some aggression in dealing with his peers at school.  He overcame his quiet nature and became a very good leader in the Navy.

Sandra J. (Hoffman) Figley
October 24, 2009

VAN WERT, Ohio - Sandra J. Figley, 53, of Van Wert, died at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, 2009, in her home.
She was born May 27, 1956, in Van Wert, to Frank B. and Arlene Palmer Hoffman. Her father, Frank B. and (Linda) Hoffman, and mother, Arlene Hoffman, all survive in Van Wert. On May 1, 1981, she married Keith L. Figley, who survives in Van Wert.
Mrs. Figley was a homemaker and had worked in the office at Aeroquip.
Additional survivors include two sons, Joshua (Amy) Fabian of Montrose, Colo., and Timothy "T.J." (Sumer) Figley of Van Wert; a daughter, Sherry Fabian of Convoy, Ohio; one stepson, Dustin (Julie) Figley of Van Wert; a stepdaughter, Lori Andrews of Geneva, Ind.; five grandchildren; five step-grandchildren; two brothers, Frank W. (Barbara) Hoffman of Van Wert and Rodger D. (Cathy) Hoffman of Little Torch, Fla.; two sisters, Teresa Klahn of Loveland, Co. and Lori (Rocky) McVaigh of Van Wert; and her father-in-law, LeDoyle "Farmer" Figley of Rockford, Ohio.
Private family services will be held in St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Van Wert. The Rev. Will Haggis will officiate. No public visiting hours are planned.
Memorial contributions may be given to Community Health Professional Visiting Nurses and Hospice.
Arrangements are by Bayliff & Son Funeral Home, Cridersville, Ohio.
Karen Diane Bridgman
June 25, 2009
 Obituary Photo    Van Wert High School 1971 Excalibur Yearbook, page 117, Freshmen Year, 1970-1971
VAN WERT -  Karen Bridgman, age 54, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 1:50 p.m. Thursday, June 25, 2009, at Community Health Professionals’ Inpatient Hospice Center in Van Wert, Ohio.  She was born November 5, 1954, in Hamtramck, Michigan., the daughter of the late Arthur Robert Bridgman and Joan (Cusmano) Van Metre.

She was Aunt "Ne Ne" to several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Karen will be missed by niece Brandy Leiber who was her daughter in her heart and her two grandchildren in her heart, Lexi and Preston.
Other survivors included two brothers, Kenneth Bridgman of Van Wert and G. Scott (Cindy) Van Metre of Cleveland; two sisters, Deb Harmon of Van Wert and Susan Leiendecker of Venedocia, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
She was a former bartender in Van Wert.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. Monday, June 29, 2009, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with Father Charles Obinwa officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.  The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions: Community Health Professionals Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center or the American Cancer Society.
Karen is not listed, or is not listed as "no photo available" in the sophomore, junior or senior Excalibur Yearbooks with the Class of 1974.
Obituary appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper, Friday, June 26, 2009, 8:16 PM online version.
Find-A-Grave # 38835095
Robin L. Beams
May 25, 2009
PAYNE, Ohio - Robin L. Beams, age 53, of Payne, Ohio, died Monday evening, May 25, 2009, at his residence.
He was born May 25, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Barbara (Hines) Beams and Keith Beams, both survive of Van Wert. His fiancée, Rhonda Michaels, survives of Payne, Ohio.
Other survivors include his children, Lindsay (Jim) Mihm and Jordan (Joe) Lautzenheiser, both of Van Wert; Joshua (Rachel) Rager and Whitney (Andy) Schrader, both of Payne; and eight grandchildren, Lydia, James, Ali and Lyna Mihm, Isabel, Tyler and Jared Lautzenheiser and Keegan Rager.
He worked at Braun Corporation in Van Wert. He graduated as a licensed farrier and worked for various horsemen. He belonged to the Van Wert City Bowling League.
Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2009, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. The Rev. Paul Miller will officiate. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point, Ohio. Calling hours are 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, May 29 at the funeral home.
Preferred memorial is donor's choice.
Cathryn (Cathy) S. Miller
October 22, 2008
Cathy Miller, age 52, died surrounded by friends on October 22, 2008.  A lifelong optimist, Cathy seized all the joys the world had to offer and refused to let breast cancer define her life when she was diagnosed 12 years ago. Her greatest pleasures included spending time with her son Eli and her many friends, backpacking in the Cascades, traveling the world, cross-country skiing, music, cooking and reading.  As a rehabilitation nurse at Harborview Medical Center for more than 20 years, Cathy helped people with spinal cord injuries reclaim their dignity and independence.  She also served on the SEIU 1199NW executive board and was an avid paddler on a dragon boat team of women cancer survivors.  Cathy is survived by her son, Eli Ranih Nordgulen Miller of Seattle, her father Maurice Miller of Van Wert, Ohio, and brothers Doug Miller of San Antonio, Texas, and Alan Miller of Fort Wayne, Indiana.  She was preceded in death by her mother, Hildegarde Salomon Miller.  A memorial celebrating Cathy's life will be held January 10, 2009, at 4:30 PM at the Mount Baker Community Club.  Donations may be made in Cathy's memory to a scholarship fund at Harborview or the trust fund for her son: Cathy S Miller Scholarship Fund, 325 Ninth Ave, Box 359897, Seattle, WA 98104; Eli Miller Trust Fund, c/o S. Luthens, 1721- 28th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144.
A longer tribute can be found at www.lotsahelping hands.com/c/608148/  (link not working)
 (Published in The Seattle Times from January 4 to January 5, 2009, Seattle, Washington)
 Seattle, Washington - Cathryn S. Miller, 52, died at the Swedish Hospital in Seattle, Washington, on October 22, 2008, following a lengthy illness.  She was born in Van Wert, Ohio, the daughter of Maurice J. Miller of Van Wert, who survives, and the late Hildegarde Miller.
Cathryn is also survived by her son, Eli of Seattle; brothers Douglas Miller of San Antonio, Texas, and Alan D. Miller of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Cathryn graduated from Van Wert High School.  She also graduated from Beloit College in Wisconsin and the University of Massachusetts School of Nursing.  She was employed at the Harbor View Medical Center in Seattle for 21 years proceeding her death.  Private services will be held in Seattle.
(Published in The Times-Bulletin on Friday, October 24, 2008, page A2, Van Wert, Ohio)

Charles Coe “Chuck” Moysey, Jr.
January 24, 2008

Obituary Photo    Junior year photo, 1972-1973, Van Wert High School Excalibur 1973 yearbook, page 137
Ocala, Florida - Charles (Chuck) Coe Moysey, Jr., 52, of Ocala, Florida., formerly of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away at 4:45 a.m. EST Thursday, January 24, 2008, in Ocala.
He was a horse trainer with Winding Oaks Farm in Ocala, where he lived his dream of working with and training horses.  His passion for horses began at an early age, as he would read books on training horses all night long by flashlight under the covers so his mother would not know.

Charles is survived by his son, Charles (Cee) Coe Moysey III of Ocala; his daughter Chelsey Ellene Moysey of Anthony, Florida; his father, Charles C. Moysey Sr. of Plain City, Ohio; two sisters, Dianne M. Fisk of Van Wert, and Barbara M. Ferguson of Albany, Kentucky, and two nephews, J. Zachary Fisk of Los Angeles, California, and M. Devin Fisk, Cincinnati, Ohio.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ellene Moysey-Day.
Chuck was a loving father, son, brother and uncle.  He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Memorial services will be held at 5 p.m. Saturday, February 2, 2008, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert.  The Rev. Paul Miller will officiate.  There will be visitation on hour prior to the service time. The family prefers casual attire - T-shirts, jeans, and cowboy boots.  In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials may be made to the children or to the Hospice Legacy House in Ocala, Florida, 34481.
Chuck is not listed with a photo or as "photo not available" in the Van Wert High School  Excalibur 1974, with the Class of 1974.
 Published in The Times-Bulletin on Tuesday, January 29, 2008, page A2, Van Wert, Ohio
Joseph James
July 18, 2006
(Joe moved to the Class of 1975 at the start of our junior year, 1972-1973)
Joseph James, 51, of 331 N. Chestnut St., Van Wert, Ohio, died unexpectedly at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 18, 2006, at his residence.
He was born March 30, 1955, in Lexington, Ky., the son of the late Joseph and Lillie (James) Howard. On July 26, 2002, he married Donna Lynn Stocklin, who died March 7, 2003.
Mr. James attended Van Wert High School and loved to sing and loved his grandchildren.
Survivors include a special friend, Laura Brown Gunter; four daughters, Kenya (Aaron) Boyd, Nichole James and Shannon James, all of Lima, and Lillie James of Van Wert; a brother, Dwight Howard of Bellefontaine; one sister, Roslyn Howard of Van Wert; and 11 grandchildren.  A brother, Kenneth Sullivan, preceded him in death.
Funeral services will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday, July 22, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert, with Pastor Greg Emerick officiating. Burial will be at a later date.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the family.
Melody L. (Mohr) Hicks
June 9, 2006
Melody L. Hicks, 49, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, died Friday, June 9, 2006, at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne. 
She was born August 4, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of Byron and Janet Mohr, who survive in Van Wert. She was married and her husband, David L. Hicks, also survives in Fort Wayne.
Mrs. Hicks was a dental assistant for Dr. Gary Pulfer for 10 years.  She was a member of Covenant United Methodist Church and Smiles Unlimited; and was a Sunday school teacher. 
In addition to her parents and husband, survivors include two daughters, Megan M. Hicks of Indianapolis, Ind., and Ashley N. Hicks of Fort Wayne; two stepsons, Mark (Amy) Hicks of Chicago, Ill., and Timothy W. Hicks of Fort Wayne; a brother, Mark (Jill) Mohr of Pendleton, Ind.; nephews, Evan, Issac and Cade Mohr, Brad and Jeff Hicks and nieces, Jessica and Alexandra Lew. 
Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Tuesday at D.O. McComb & Sons, Pine Valley Park Funeral Home, 1320 E. Dupont Road in Fort Wayne. Burial in Greenlawn Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Matthew 25 in Fort Wayne.
Robert  B.  ‘Rob’  East
November 7, 2005
  Photo is from the 1974 VWHS Excalibur with Rob East included with the Junior class, VWHS Class of 1975, page 138.
(Rob was in the Class of 1974 at Anthony Wayne and Pleasant Schools through 4th grade.  By the Class of 1974's sophomore year he appeared in the freshman class in that year's yearbook and was in the Class of 1975 as a junior in our senior yearbook.)
VAN WERT - Robert B. "Rob" East, age 49, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 7, 2005, in Washington Township, Van Wert County, Ohio.
He was born May 23, 1956, in Akron, Ohio, to the late Leonard East, who died May 16, 2002, and Marcia (Bell) Shaw of Van Wert.

Other survivors include three sons, Jeremy (Alicia) East of Delphos, Ohio, Matthew East of Van Wert and Ryan East of Delphos; four stepdaughters; a brother, Charles (Joanna) East of Van Wert; three grandchildren, Steven Suever, Alex East and Caden East, and eight step grandchildren.  Mr. East was a truck driver for TNT Trucking, Delphos.
Calling hours are 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday, November 10, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert.
Preferred memorial is American Heart Association. Published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin, November 8 and November 10, 2005.
Kim Alan Jerome
June 29, 2005
  Junior class photo, VWHS 1973 Excalibur yearbook, page 136
VAN WERT - Kim Alan Jerome, age 49, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 1:32 a.m. Wednesday, June 29, 2005, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.
He was born July 13, 1955, in Van Wert, the son of Chalice M. Jerome and Jeanne A. (Parks) who survive.
Other survivors include his former wife, Brenda Jerome of Van Wert, two brothers, James (Hannah) Jerome of Phoenix, Ariz., and Terry L. Jerome of Houston, Texas, and a sister, Sandy (Chuck) Thatcher of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Mr. Jerome was a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School and had attended Wesley United Methodist Church in Van Wert.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
       Kim Jerome's Find-A-Grave Listing
David Lee "Bubba" Benner
April 4, 2005
 Senior photo, VWHS 1974 Excalibur, page 150
David Lee "Bubba"  Benner, age 48, of Van Wert, Ohio, died at 9:57 p.m. Monday, April 4, 2005, at St. Rita's Medical Center, Lima, Ohio.
He was born April 15, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of the late Charles John and RaeDean (Tyler) Benner.
On Feb. 23, 1980, he married Agnes Rose (Heimann) Benner. She survives in Van Wert.

Other survivors include:
Children — Curtis John Benner, Matthew Lee Benner and Jason Dean Benner, all of Van Wert.
Brothers — Phil Benner of Virginia and Doug (Robin) Benner of Van Wert.
Sisters — Bonnie (Paul) Coburn of Van Wert, Chris (Tom) Stutz of Middle Point and Deb Benner of Van Wert.
Godfather — David (Pat) King of Fort Wayne, Ind.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Sue Baucom and Elaine Pollock. He was a Van Wert High School Class of 1974 graduate.
Mr. Benner had formerly worked for the Van Wert County Weatherization Program.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. Deacon Andy McMahon will officiate.
     David Benner's Find-A-Grave Listing 

 
Photo caption: Dave Benner (right) battles a big kid nicknamed T-Bone (left) from Ottawa-Glandorf High School during
Dave's junior year at Van Wert High School, 1972-1973. This is a home match in the Van Wert High School
gym located along South Jefferson Street. This photo is from the 1973 VWHS Yearbook.
Roger Lee Schwartz
January 14, 2005
  Senior photo in the 1974 VWHS Excalibur yearbook, page 169.
CADIZ, Ky. — Roger Lee Schwartz, age 50, of Cadiz, died at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, 2005, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 18, 1955, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Raymond (Viola) Schwartz of Cadiz and the late Marcella Horath Schwartz. He married Lori (Emery) Schwartz. She survives in Cadiz.
Other survivors include:
Son — Quentin Schwartz of Pittsburgh, Pa.
Brother — Don Schwartz of Ashland, Ky.
Sister — Marilyn Shoaf of Murray, Ky.
Three grandchildren, Cassidy Schwartz, Emily Schwartz and Micah Schwartz, also survive.
Mr. Schwartz was disabled.
There will be no funeral service. Burial will be in Wall Cemetery, Trigg County, Kentucky at a later date.
Visitation was held Monday at Goodwin Funeral Home, Cadiz.
Monty  B. Pratt
January 15, 2003
  Freshman class photo, 1971 VWHS Excalibur yearbook, listed on page 120 and photo is on page 126. (Monty appears in the 1971 Yearbook with our freshman class.)
Monty was born April 1, 1955.  He died (age 47) in an auto accident January 15, 2003 in Florida.  His only son, Forrest Earl Pratt age 9, also died in this crash.  Monty attended Anthony Wayne, Washington and Franklin Elementary Schools.   Monty repeated the 5th grade, becoming a member of the Class of 1974. Upon turning age 16 he left high school and became a full-time horse jockey.  He was a full-time jockey until his death.  His older brother, Paul Pratt Jr. (VWHS '70), resides in Ocala, Florida, as of 2010.

Obituary from the Ocala Star-Banner, Ocala, Florida, Saturday, January 18, 2003:
Anthony, Florida - Monty Brian Pratt, age 47, a jockey, died Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2003, in an automobile accident.
A native of Van Wert, Ohio, he moved here from Conroe, Texas, in 1987.  Mr. Pratt was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Jockey Guild.  His son, Forrest Pratt age 9, died in the same accident.  Survivors include his father, Paul Pratt, Silver Springs, Florida; brother, Paul Pratt Jr., Silver Springs; and companion, Sheree Clark, Anthony.  The Florida Cremation Society, Ocala, provided information.
Click here to read a newspaper article about Monty Pratt and his family.  It was published the day after the auto accident.
Bradley Kenneth "Brad" Boroff
February 1, 2001

Brad K. Boroff, age 44, 730 South Shannon Street, Van Wert, died at 3:34 a.m. Thursday, February 1, 2001, at the Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, after an extended illness.  He was born June 6, 1956, in Van Wert, the son of the late Kenneth and Flossie (Garrard) Boroff.  On December 27, 1983, in Van Wert, he married Michelle Ross, who survives at their residence.
Mr. Boroff was employed at Greif Brothers in Van Wert for 16 years.
He is survived by three daughters, Deanna (Randy) Grandstaff of Van Wert; and Sara and Rachel Boroff, both at home; and two grandchildren, Mycah and Dylan Grandstaff of Van Wert.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home in Van Wert, with the Rev. Edward H. Beck officiating, Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City.  Friends may call from 2-5 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home.  Preferred memorials at to the family.  (Published in The Times-Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Saturday, February 3, 2001, page 2A.)
The following comments are from David Boroff (VWHS '74 on Jan. 29, 2010), Brad's first cousin:
Brad died from a rare cancer, one that might have been put into remission had the doctors been made aware of Mick Boroff (cousin) sooner. Brad's dad, Kenneth, and Mick's dad, Herb, were brothers and they married sisters, Flossie and Delores Girrard.  That gave Brad and Mick an identical DNA.  The odds of this were astronomical.  By the time the doctors figured out what Brad had and knew of Mick's DNA, the icy cold fingers of death already had a firm grip on Brad.
A few months before he passed away, I stopped in and visited with Brad. The effects of Chemo were apparent with the loss of hair and he was very afraid to get close to me at first.  I convinced him that I wasn't sick with a cold, flu, or any illness. He told me that his cancer was much like Leukemia, located in the blood and bone marrow. That was the last time I was able to talk with my first cousin. It hurt to leave him and not be able to give him a hug, or even shake his hand. Brad is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City, Ohio.
Susan Lynn (Yoh) Peters
November 22, 1997
 Sophomore Class Photo, 1972 Excalibur yearbook, page 165
VAN WERT - Susan Lynn Peters, age 41, 117½ Keplar Street, Van Wert, Ohio, died suddenly at 9:40 a.m. Saturday, November 22, 1997, at Van Wert County Hospital.
She was born October 22, 1956, in Van Wert, the daughter of Joshua Yoh and Margaret (Blanke) Yoh.
She is survived by a stepmother, Treva Yoh of Van Wert; two daughters, Christina M. Horn and Amber J. Horn, both of Van Wert; three brothers, Greggory L. Yoh of Florida and Jay B. (Jennifer) Yoh and Kenneth K. Yoh, both of Van Wert; and four sisters, Penelope A. Yoh of Florida, Vivian C. (Rick) Beebe of Defiance, Constance J.A. Yoh of Van Wert and Johna L. Yoh of Bellefontaine, Ohio.  One sister, Jodie Lee Yoh, preceded her death.
Mrs. Peters was a retired certified medical assistant and had worked in medical records offices in California.
Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. today at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, The Rev. Paul Miller officiating.  Burial will follow in Woodland Cemetery.  Friends may call after 1 p.m. today at the funeral home.  Susan appears in the 1971 and 1972 Excalibur yearbooks but not the 1973 or 1974, nor is listed as "without photo".
 (Published in The Times Bulletin on Monday, November 24, 1997, page 2A, Van Wert, Ohio)
Stephanie Lynn (Felger) Peterson
September 7, 1992
    
Mothers Day, May 10, 1992, Stephanie with her family, in the flower garden of their church.
Captain Stephanie (Felger) Peterson, R.N., died the following Labor Day, Sept. 7, 1992.
DeRidder, Louisiana - Stephanie Lynn Peterson, age 36, of DeRidder, Louisiana, died at 3:30 p.m., Monday, September 7, 1992, in the Beauregard Memorial Hospital, DeRidder.
She was born October 10, 1955, in Van Wert, Ohio, the daughter of Richard Felger of Dallas, Texas, and Josephine Chavarria Felger of Convoy, Ohio.  On June 10, 1979, she married Rodney C. Peterson who also survives.
Other survivors include one son, Joseph Earl Davis Peterson, at home; two daughters, Storie Lynn and Sonnett Ree Peterson, both at home; three brothers, Richard Felger Jr. of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Timothy Felger of Aldergrove, British Columbia, Canada, and Milo Felger of Roanoke, Indiana; three sisters, Christina Davis of Syracuse, Indiana, Josephine Venanzi of Fort Polk, Louisiana, and Maria Carlton of Salisbury, South Carolina.
Mrs. Peterson served at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Nursing as a registered nurse for the army for three years with the rank of captain.  She was later certified as an oncology nurse at Huston University and employed as a supervisor at Lake Charles Hospital in the oncology department.  She worked with the American Cancer Society as a hospice coordinator and was a member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
A Memorial Service will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, DeRidder, Louisiana, with the Rev. Alan Williams officiating.  No calling hours were listed.
 (Published in The Times-Bulletin on Saturday, September 12, 1992, page A2, Van Wert, Ohio)
Donna J. (Baer) Mohr
March 25, 1983
  Junior Class Photo, 1973 Excalibur yearbook, page 133 Freshmen Class Photo, 1971 yearbook, page 116
Scott, Ohio - Donna J. (Baer) Mohr, age 26, died on Friday, March 25, 1983, in Scott, Ohio.  She was born June 15, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio.  She was a daughter of Walter E. "Bud" and Harriet Jean (Steele) Baer of 736 South Harrison Street, Van Wert.
Surviving besides her parents are her four children: a son, Joseph A. Mohr Jr., 6 at home; three daughters, April Jo, 9, Amanda Jean, 2, and Tara Jo Mohr, 1, all at home.  Other family survivors are two brothers, Walter E Baer Jr. of Paulding, Ohio, and Steven L Baer at home; two sisters, Mrs. Dana (Brenda) Rager of Route 1, Ohio City, Ohio, and Angela Sue Baer, at home; and a paternal grandmother, Mrs. Annetta Baer of 1013 Pearson Street, Van Wert.
Mrs. Mohr attended Van Wert High School (a member of the Class of 1974.)  She married Joseph A. Mohr on March 19, 1973.  Mr. Mohr also died on the same day as Mrs. Mohr, March 25, 1983.  He was age 32.  He had attended Lincolnview High School, Van Wert County, and finished his education in the U.S. Army, where he served in Vietnam.  He was owner of Mohr's Body Shop in Scott.
There will be a double funeral for the Mohrs at 2 p.m. Monday, March 28, 1983, at Alspach Funeral Home in Van Wert.  Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery with the Rev. Paul Miller officiating.  Friends may call at the funeral home after 4 p.m. Sunday.  Preferred memorials are to the couple's children.
Click here to view the newspaper article regarding the death of Donna J. (Baer) Mohr.
(Published in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper on Saturday, March 26, 1983, page 1.)
Donna appears in the 1971, 1972 and 1973 Excalibur yearbooks but not the 1974, nor is listed as "without photo".
Glenn Hughes
June 20, 1981
 Post graduation photos.

Michael William Geisman
May 14, 1980

Mike at home attending school over the intercom
Mike Geisman, age 24, died in Lima, Ohio, on Wednesday, May 14, 1980.  He was found fatally beaten to death in his apartment at 208 1/2 North West Street, Lima, on Friday, May 16, 1980.  He was born April 13, 1956, in Van Wert, Ohio.  Surviving are his parents, Richard E. "Dick" (died September 30, 2008) and Gemma (Marquis) Geisman of  632 Center Street, Van Wert (died April 23, 2020) paternal grandmother Ivy Geisman of 115 Hawthorne Street, Van Wert; maternal grandmother, Adele Marquis of Van Buren, Maine; a brother, Richard C. "Rick" Geisman at home (later married to Rose Geisman, 2010 in Connecticut); and two sisters, Cathy (Geisman) Bowen of 240 West Third Street, Van Wert (lived in Sebastian, Florida, approximately 2006 through July 2010.  Cathy then moved to New Hampshire at the end of July 2010, to be near her family); and Cindy Geisman of Las Cruces, New Mexico (later Mrs. Jay Williams. 2010 lives in Austin, Texas.)
Michael, who suffered from a rare bone disease, osteogenesis imperfecta, was confined to a wheelchair his entire life.  Mr. Geisman had been working part-time at the Census Bureau in Lima.  He formerly attended Lima Technical College.
He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus, Van Wert.
Private graveside services will be held.  Mass of the Resurrection will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 20, 1980, in St. Marys Catholic Church, Van Wert, with the Rev. John Schreiner, celebrant.  Alspach Funeral Home, Van Wert, is in charge of funeral arrangements.  There will be no calling hours.  Preferred memorials are to the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation (as of 2010 access at www.oif.org )  (This information and obituary was published in The Times Bulletin, Monday, May 19, 1980; Tuesday, May 20, 1980; Wednesday, May 21, 1980; Friday, May 23, 1980.)

Mike's high school senior picture
In 1970 Michael's mother, Gemma Geisman, co-founded the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation, a national organization that sponsors research and provides information to families affected by the "brittle bone" disease.  She has published a book as a memoir of her life with Michael and her involvement in the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation.  Details of the book are:
"From the Seeds of Sadness" a Memoir by Gemma M. Geisman.  Copyright 2009.  199 numbered pages.
ISBN: Hardcover  978-1-4415-2612-0          ISBN: Softcover   978-1-4415-2611-3
Publisher:  Xlibris Corporation, 1-888-795-4274     www.Xlibris.com
The book is also available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble online book stores (as of 2010.)
Mrs. Geisman may be contacted at her website: www.gemmageisman.com .
(2010 note: I encourage all Class of 1974 Classmates to order the book from Mrs. Geisman's website  (update: She died April 23, 2020). She would very much like to hear from anyone who knew Michael as well as anyone with comments on the book.  I had the pleasure of exchanging numerous emails with Mrs. Geisman.  When I asked her for several of her favorite pictures of Michael, she furnished the pictures shown here.  The following is from one of Mrs. Geisman's emails . . . Gary Showalter)
" . . .  I am now hearing from readers in Scotland, Australia, China and Canada.  A professor at the University of Cincinnati has included it in her course work for Juniors studying to be teachers.  Just thought I'd share a few of these things with you because I really appreciated your comments about your experiences and feelings while reading my book.  I am hearing the same thing from so many guys your age - some who didn't even know Mike or our family!  That is another nice surprise.  I will try to send two pictures (of Michael) as attachments.  Again, thanks for getting in touch with me. 
Regards,
Gemma M. Geisman"
Sue Ann Conley
October 31, 1979

Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  Graveside services were held Saturday, Nov. 3, 1979, in Sevierville, Tenn., for Sue Ann Conley, 23, of Gatlinburg, Tenn., formerly of Van Wert.  Miss Conley died in a recent fire in Gatlinburg.
She was born Aug. 4, 1956, in Van Wert, a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Conley.
Survivors include her father of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and her mother, Mrs. Billy (Wanda) Phillips of Charleston, S.C.  Two brothers, Jody of Convoy, Ohio, and Robert S. Conley, Jr., of Gatlinburg, a sister Mrs. S. (Debbie) Snyder of Convoy, paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Conley of Florida, and a grandfather, Graydon Dougal of Van Wert.
Miss Conley was an employee of Ruby Tuesday's Restaurant, Gatlinburg.
Atchley Funeral Home, Sevierville, was in charge of arrangements.
(Published in The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Monday, November, 5, 1979)
 Sue Conley, June 1976
Gregory S. Miller
January 1, 1976

Van Wert, Ohio - Gregory Scott Miller, age 19, died Thursday, January 1, 1976, in a single-engine airplane crash in Mercer County, Ohio, two miles southeast of Rockford on Lombard Road.
Mr. Miller was the son of Ernest K. and Carolyn (Atha) Miller, of 441 South Avenue, Van Wert.  He was born February 4, 1956, in Van Wert.
Survivors in addition to his parents include a brother, Douglas K. at home; two sisters, Mrs. Brent (Cyndi) Bauer of 456 Gordon Avenue, Van Wert, and Susan, also at home; the maternal grandmother, Mrs. Rachael DeMoss of Van Wert and the paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Clifford E. Miller of 211 S. Harrison St., Van Wert.
Mr. Miller was a graduate of Spartan Aeronautics School, Tulsa, Oklahoma, and a 1974 graduate of Van Wert High School.
He attended Trinity United Methodist Church in Van Wert.
Funeral services for Mr. Miller are to be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, January 4, 1976, with the Rev. Lowell Nelson officiating.  Burial is to be in Woodland Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home after 2 p.m. today.  Preferred memorials are to the Cancer Society.
(Published in The Times Bulletin, Friday, January 2, 1976; Saturday, January 3, 1976; Tuesday, January 6, 1976; Thursday, January 8, 1976.)
  

David Allen Snyder
August 28, 1972
 1972 - 1973 Junior Yearbook, Class of 1974, Memorial Photo, page 141
Van Wert, Ohio - David Allen Snyder, 16, son of Willard and Sondra (Kilgore) Snyder of 609 E. Central Ave., Van Wert, Ohio, was found dead on arrival at the Van Wert football stadium (Eggerss Stadium) by the Van Wert Police Department and Fire Department emergency squad shortly before 11 p.m., Monday, August 28, 1972.
He was born April 17, 1956, in Van Wert, and would have been a member of the junior class this year (1972 - 1973) at the Van Wert High School. He attended Van Wert City Schools for 11 years, kindergarten through his sophomore year at Van Wert High School, and was a member of the VWHS Class of 1974.
He attended the Calvary Evangelical Church in Pleasant Township, Van Wert County.
Surviving besides the parents are two brothers, Steven and Randall, both at home, and a sister, Linda, also at home.
David was a part-time employee of Penquin Point, 786 W. Ervin Road, Van Wert, for one year.
Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 30, 1972, at the Alspach Funeral Home, the Rev. Howard W. McCracken to officiate. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery.  Friends may call at the funeral home after 10 a.m. Wednesday.
(Published in The Times Bulletin, Van Wert, Ohio, Tuesday, August 29, 1972, page 2.
Janet Haynes
April 2, 1966
(Photos furnished by Janet's brother, Michael, in Nov. 2019. The 1966 obituary did not include a photo.)

Van Wert - Janet Haynes, nine year and five month-old daughter of Jerald "Jerry" and Illi (Lenz) Haynes of 1124 S. Walnut St, Van Wert, Ohio, died Saturday, April 2, 1966, at the Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. She had been ill about one year. She was born November 10, 1956.
The child, besides her parents, is survived by a brother, Michael, 7; two sisters, Patty, 11, and Carol, 6, all at home; the maternal grandmother, Mrs. Ottilie Lenz of Hamburg, Germany, and the paternal grandparents, Ronald R. and Catherine E. (Bechtel) Haynes of Hastings, Michigan.
(Added 2022: And survived by her father's only brother: Ronald John M. Haynes (DOB 12-15-1925, DOD 2-17-2011) and his wife, Clara Teresa (Zimmerman) Haynes (dec. 2009, married 1950~), Long Lake, Cloverdale and Hastings, Michigan. As of February 2011, Janet's three siblings' status: Patty, deceased, Michael (& Jean) Haynes of Louisville, Colorado, and Carol (& Greg) Peterson, Loveland, Colorado.)

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 5, at the St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Rev. Russell Gillig to officiate. Burial will be in Woodland Union Cemetery, Van Wert.
Funeral arrangements are by Alspach Funeral Home, Van Wert. The Altar and Rosary Society will recite the Rosary at 7:30 p.m. tonight, Monday, April 4, at the funeral home.
( Published in the Van Wert Times-Bulletin, Monday, April 4, 1966)
The following information was "discovered" in 2020 after being forgotten for many decades:
Janet attended Van Wert City Schools and would have been in the graduating class of 1974. She attended Kindergarten through 4th grade in the Van Wert City Schools. She attended Pleasant Elementary and then moved to Van Wert and attended Jefferson Elementary. She was in the 4th grade at Jefferson Elementary at the time of her death. She died of Leukemia. The 4th Grade Class held a fund-raiser in her honor and purchased a painting that was hung on the hallway wall outside the 4th Grade classroom. The painting was a long, narrow landscape painting as remembered by several classmates in 2020.

Her father was transferred to Colorado a few years after her death and the family moved to Colorado. Both her parents are deceased. Her sister Patty is deceased. Information about Janet Haynes was furnished after the 45th Reunion of the VWHS Class of 1974, held August 3, 2019, by Randy Stemen. Deb (Kruse) Dull then provided details about Janet as they were childhood friends. Deb's parents and Janet's parents were close friends. Deb obtained the photos of Janet from Janet's brother Michael Haynes. Janet was buried in Woodland Union Cemetery, section 48. She is buried alone as her family never returned to Van Wert. Her headstone sits just to the left of Deb Dull's parents' headstone (Russell Kruse, her father is deceased).
Janet's listing on the Find a Grave website does not include a photo of her headstone --> Janet Haynes On Find A Grave.
A photo Deb Dull has of her parents' headstone shows the right side of Janet's on the far left of the photo. Janet is not forgotten in Van Wert or by the VWHS Class of 1974.

Brent Allan Boley
July 10, 1964
 Click on picture for larger view
                                                                         (Photo furnished by Alice Boley, February 2010, as her favorite photo of her son Brent.)

Van Wert - Brent Allan Boley, age 8, died in the summer of 1964 before his third grade year at Anthony Wayne Elementary School in Van Wert.  His family lived at 634 N. Jefferson Street across from the school.  As of February 2010, his mother, Alice M. (Baker) Boley still resides at their home.  She has fond memories of Brent's frequent playmates and classmates, Mike Warden and Greg Brown. The Boley's also lost a baby daughter, Susan Elaine Boley, about one year after Brent died.  Susan survived for only 21 days.  Steve (& Chris) Boley is their surviving child, VWHS Class of 1969.  Alice's husband, R. Lee Boley, is deceased, on Dec. 28, 1996. They were married Aug. 20, 1946.  Alice would have graduated VWHS with the Class of 1945, but had to leave school in her junior year to help support her family.  She was able to secure work at Essex Wire in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  Anyone familiar with the work ethic of the members of the VWHS Class of 1945 will not be surprised to know Alice returned to school and earned her G.E.D. in 2006.  At the time, she was the oldest person to earn their G.E.D in Van Wert. .Alice remains a stalwart of 2nd Ward - a 50 year neighbor of Anthony Wayne School. (In later years Anthony Wayne School was used for city school system administrative offices.  It was abandoned and sold by the school system in 2004. The school is privately owned through the last update to Brent Boley's obituary on July 29, 2020.)
(December 15, 2019 update: Alice M. (Baker) Boley passed away on Thursday, October 31, 2019, at age 91. She was born March 4, 1928.)
See Brent's obituary below as it appeared in the Van Wert Times Bulletin newspaper, July 1964.
Friday = July 10, 1964
A single rose can be my garden... a single friend, my world.
 by: Leo Buscaglia            Felice Leonardo Buscaglia (March 31, 1924 - June 12, 1998, age 74)
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