Obituaries « The VW independent (2024)

Obituary Policy

Obituaries can be emailed to editor@thevwindependent.com. The Van Wert independent no longer accepts no-cost death notices. As of October 1, 2023, the cost of full obituaries will be $95 (including a photo). Local funeral homes are billed for full obituaries, while out-of-town funeral homes can also be billed, if so requested. Obituaries submitted by individuals must be paid in full prior to publication. The Van Wert independent accepts credit cards by telephone from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday at 419.238.1220.

Dora Mae Hoffman

Dora Mae Hoffman, 84, of Ohio City passed away Monday morning, June 10, 2024, at Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center.

She was born April 23, 1940, in Van Wert County, the daughter of John ‘Fred’ and Phyllis L. (Prichard) Ainsworth, who both preceded her in death. On September 6, 1959, she married John H. Hoffman, who survives.

Along with her husband, family survivors include her two sons, Todd H. Hoffman of Orland, Indiana and Travis H. (Makenzie) Hoffman of Van Wert; four daughters, Kelly J. (Jason) Parrish of Ohio City, Lisa M. (Dale) Butler of Ohio City, Sheri D. (Matt) Taylor of Van Wert, and Leslie R. (Brian) Craft of Bowling Green; grandchildren, Ryan (Katie) Parrish, Ashley Parrish, Lauren Parrish, Whitney (Steve) Sealscott, Danielle (Andy) Parrish, Tisha Parrish, Chloe (Nathan) Butler, Livia (Kale) DeVoe, Claire (Mark) Butler, Ella (Ryan) Butler, Jayden (Ellen) Taylor, Brandt (Toni) Taylor, Harper (Mitch) Cromley, Trevor Craft, Tucker Craft, Kendall Hoffman and Ainsley Hoffman; 14 great-grandchildren; one brother Mike (Connie) Ainsworth of Ohio City, and one sister, Barbara Mager of Danbury, Texas.

She worked third shift at Teleflex for over 30 years. She was an extremely hard worker. During this time she developed several lifelong friendships.

Raising her six children was first and foremost the most important thing in her life. She made sure they wanted for nothing. She was a beautiful seamstress, excellent cook, loved classic country music and was a very creative decorator.

She was a huge fan of basketball, especially Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans. She lived for March Madness. During this month we knew there was no time for small talk, only intense conversations about the games and the coaching. She and dad were always very competitive when their teams played, the Spartans and the Hoosiers often staying up all night just to watch them battle it out.

She enjoyed the opportunities to travel. Her adventures included a beautiful trip to Paris with her good friend Emi, an anniversary trip with dad to beautiful Hawaii with several other ornery couples, time spent at the lake, and of course many years at her beloved Sanibel Island with her family and good friends Jim and Janet Chick.

She had few words but huge actions of her love for her family and friends. She will be greatly missed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Donald Ainsworth.

A private celebration of life for her family will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, preferred memorials: Defiance Inpatient Hospice Center or the Ohio City Fire & E.M.S.

Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.

James (Jimmy) Wayne Lee Vibbert

James (Jimmy) Wayne Lee Vibbert passed away at his residence on Friday, June 7, 2024.

He was born on January 15, 1963 in Green Castle, Indiana, to Wanda (Judy) York who survives, and Marion Harold Vibbert, who preceded him in death May 2, 2017.

He is also survived by his siblings, William (Ted) Vibbert of Venice, Florida, Wanda Hammons of Jamestown, Kentucky, Rodney “Charlie” (Myrna) Vibbert, Frank (Carrieann) Vibbert of Convoy, Sue (Mark) Pugsley of Van Wert, and Donald Vibbert of Van Wert.

His children where his life, Kara (Corey) Brotherwood plus their three grandkids, Robert (Alison) and four grandkids, Micheal (Jennifer) plus two grandkids, Kylie (Chuck) McConahy plus four grandkids, Lorissa (Corbin) plus two grandkids, Daniel (Courtney) and seven grandkids, Keith (Destinee) Hough plus five grandkids, William (Steph) plus three grandkids, James plus two grandkids, Johnny (Michaela) plus three grandkids, and several nieces and nephews.

Also preceding him in death was his best friend, Rick (Ricky) Stemen.

His passion was masonry work where he was a “Master” Mason with the Fort Wayne Bricklayers Union No. #4. There wasn’t a brick he couldn’t lay. He loved tinkering around and was a “jack” of all trades. If you needed it done he would figure it out. His mother and grandkids meant the world to him. When his siblings needed him he was there. Family meant everything to him. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 13, at the Legacy Barn at Lincoln Ridge Farms, 6237 Lincoln Highway, Convoy. Please bring a photo and memory of your favorite story to share together along with a toast to Jim at 7 p.m.

Online condolence may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.

Clarice J. Baker

Clarice J. Baker, 92, of Haviland, went to be with Jesus at 6:49 p.m. Saturday, June 8, 2024, under the care of CHP Hospice of Van Wert.

She was born on January 25, 1932, in Butler, Indiana to Merton Alonzo Bell and MaDonna J. (Franks) Bell, who both preceded her in death.

Clarice graduated from Antwerp High School. She married the love of her life, John M. Baker, on February 17, 1951, and he preceded her in death on May 6, 2003. They were married for 52 years. She went on to have three children. Faith and family were everything to her. She loved being a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and great-great-grandmother.

She loved Ohio State football and basketball, NASCAR, bingo, the Young and the Restless, Daniel O’ Donnell’s music, George Jones music and reading all kinds of Christian books. She had a strong faith and lived by example. She was always the voice of reason and gave the best advice; which will be terribly missed.

Clarice is survived by her two daughters, Vicki Coomer (Kevin Collins) of Fort Wayne, and Kathy Knittle of Van Wert; a daughter-in-law, Cathy (Jeff) Gerdes of Wichita, Kansas; six grandchildren, James (Tammy) Coomer of Titusville, Florida, Angela (Clark) Merkle of Ohio City, Andy Knittle (Susie) of Van Wert, Danny (Carey) Gerdes of Wichita, Kansas, Craig Gerdes of Witchita, Kansas and Christa (Travis) Doolittle of Phafftown, North Carolina; seven great-grandchildren, Justin (Kayla) Coomer of Titusville, Florida, Kyle Coomer of Titusville, Florida, Jetta Merkle of Ohio City, Emiree Knittle of Rockford, Creeden Knittle of Rockford, Natalie Gerdes of Wichita, Kansas, and Ben and family of Wichita, Kansas; one great-great- grandson, Waylan James Robert Coomer of Titusville, Florida.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son, John Daniel Baker; a great grandson, Gage P. Miller; three brothers, Merton J. Bell, Richard W. Bell and Harold L. Bell, and four sisters, Helen L. Hunter, Delores M. Stultz, Gladys M. Stultz and Donna L. Laney.

Visitation will be from 12-2 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024 at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with a funeral service at 2 p.m. with Rev. P. Moquin of St. John Lutheran Church of Sherwood officiating. Interment will take place at Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland.

Preferred memorials: Community Health Professionals.

Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.

Ricky “Rick” L. Clay

Ricky “Rick” L. Clay, 69, of Van Wert, passed away on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at his residence.

He was born September 8, 1954, in Van Wert, to Wilmer and Margaret (Mosier) Clay, who both preceded him in death. On June 7, 1974, he married Debra (Baker) Clay, who survives.

He is also survived by his children, Chad Clay, LeAnn (James) Hill and Shaun (Beth) Clay, all of Van Wert; six grandchildren, Hanna (Jesus) Luna, Lucas Clay, MaeLynn Clay, Grayden Clay and Alexzander Clay; and his siblings, James Clay, Scott (Christopher Johnsen) Clay, Audrey Snyder, Rita (Kevin) Whittington and Pauline (Josh) Ferguson.

He enjoyed playing Santa at the Children’s Garden in Van Wert, spending time with his grandchildren, performing magic tricks and taking pictures.

In addition to his parents, he was prededed in death by a sister, Carole McGillvary; brothers in law, Montie McGillvary and Stephan Snyder; and brothers, Donny Zolman, Jerry Ferris and Richard Clay.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 11, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor Steve Drake, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family to help with expenses.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Georgene “Jean” Emily Waltz

Georgene “Jean” Emily Waltz, 94, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Homestead at Towne Center.

She was born October 19, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Roy and Mae (Malon) Mattson, who both preceded her in death. On March 6, 1948, she married Cloyd P. Waltz, who passed away on September 2, 2016.

Jean is survived by her children, Betsy Mott of Ossian, Indiana, Timothy (Lori) Waltz of Van Wert, Jody (Bradley) Lichtenberger of Van Wert and daughter-in-law Deborah Waltz of Van Wert; seven grandchildren, Abraham (Kari) Wallis, Amber Waltz, Darby (Eric) Schwieterman, Benjamin Waltz (Rob Bame), Hayley Waltz, Emily Lichtenberger and Mikhaila (Brok) Sailor; nine great-grandchildren, Luke, Owen, Perry, Isaiah, Ashley, Beau, Paislee, Everlie and Bennett; several nieces and nephews, and several great-nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Jean was preceded in death by her son, Carey, brothers and sisters-in-law; Leroy (Dorothy) Mattson, Robert (Marian) Mattson and Kenneth (Hazel) Mattson.

Jean graduated from Van Wert High School in 1947 and was a homemaker on the family farm. She was a member of Pleasant Chapel United Methodist Church, active with the United Methodist Women and a member of Van Wert County Farm Bureau.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, June 7, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Pastor Tim Owens officiating. Interment will follow at Van Wert Woodland Cemetery. Calling hours will be held from 12-2 p.m. Friday prior to the service.

Preferred memorials: the Crestview Heritage Board (Bible House), or Pleasant Chapel UMC.

Dottie Kay (Murphy) Bowers

Dottie Kay (Murphy) Bowers entered into Jesus arms at 12:52 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, 2024. She was surrounded by her family and loved ones.

She was born on July 21, 1952 in Van Wert, to Clarence Lewis “Bud” Murphy and Ruby Marie (Johnson) Murphy, who both preceded her in death.

Dottie was also preceded in death by her three brothers, Danny Murphy, Harold E. Murphy and Stephen Murphy, stillborn; and her sister, Mary (Jim) Agler.

Dottie’s love of her life were her children and grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Even though she didn’t know their names at times, they were known as rappy, crappy, scrappy or whatever came out of her mouth. She taught her children and grandchildren how to dance, how to play different card games, how to swim and most important how to live life to the fullest. She also loved all her nieces and nephews, along with the stories of Cedar Point even when it took Carole eight hours to get home, the beach or the drive-in are ones she loved to re-tell. All the stories were near and dear to her heart.

Dottie is survived by her husband, Keith W. Bowers; her children, Mindy Bowers, Camille (Nick) Wade, Brian (Nikki) Bowers, and Brock Bowers; stepdaughter, Holly Dipple; a brother, Bob (Jill) Murphy; sisters-in-law, Helen Murphy and Dottie Ann Murphy. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m., Thursday, June 6, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert. There will be calling hours from 2-4 p.m. prior to the service.

Preferred memorials: the Convoy Methodist Church Choir Fund.

Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.

Wilma Ann Solsman

Wilma Ann Solsman, 70, of rural Grover Hill, passed away at 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Van Crest Nursing Home.

She was born November 20, 1953, in Cincinnati. a daughter of Emitt and Carma Jean (Ward) Hammons, both of whom are deceased.

She is survived by her spouse, Christopher Solsman; three daughters, Rose (Billy) Fields, Jamie (Derek) Fields, and Christy Solsman, all of Van Wert; a son, Troy Waldron of Convoy; grandchildren, Brandon Fields, Caleb Boyd, Cameron Sword, Cambria Sword, Cora Hodge, James Boyd, Ethan Boyd, Alexis Boyd, Robert Boyd, Brantley Sword, Lukas Bailey, Gavin Bailey, Adrian Bailey, and Dylan Bailey; six great-grandchildren; a brother, David Hammons, of Ossian, Indiana, and four sisters, Donna York of Van Wert, Janell McKinney of Columbia City, Indiana, Carol Brown of Clayton, Ohio, and Linda Stinson of Fort Wayne. She is also survived by special family friends, Johnny Nunemaker, Teresa Rogers and Nicki Fields.

She was preceded in death by a son, Edward Fields; sisters, Bonnie York, Patty Fields, Clarice Pruit, Peggy Taylor, and brothers: J.C. Hammons, and Jeff Hammons.

She had always been very involved in her family life and had been a babysitter for any who needed her. She was an avid bingo player and followed as many television soaps as she could. She had also been employed by Teleflex Corp for a number of years,

There will be visitation at Brickner Funeral Home from 2-5 p.m. Monday, June 3, followed by a service at 5p.m. With Rev. Bill Watson officiating. Following the service there will be a meal for family and friends.

Condolences may be left at www.bricknerfuneralhome.com or emailed to bricknerfuneralhome@yahoo.com.

Roger W. Neville

Roger W. Neville, a man of unwavering dedication and boundless curiosity, took his final flight on September 17, 2023, at the age of 82.

Born on May 5, 1941, in Fall River, Massachusetts, to William H. and Edith G. (Grime) Neville, Roger’s life was a tapestry of cherished memories and remarkable achievements that continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

During Roger’s teenage years, his sister Marilyn R. Neville passed away. This event had a profound impact on him, shaping and instilling in him a sense of devotion to his parents. His commitment to their well-being was unwavering, illuminating the selfless nature that defined him throughout his life.

As a young boy, Roger’s family moved to Minoa, New York, where he spent most of his childhood and attended primary school. Education played a pivotal role in Roger’s life as he pursued degrees in engineering and physics from Syracuse University where he was in the ROTC program. His thirst for knowledge and exploration led him to excel academically and set the foundation for a successful career ahead.

A significant chapter in Roger’s life unfolded during his military service as a First Lieutenant and artillery officer in the Army. His time stationed in Alaska not only fueled his love for adventure but also forged lifelong friendships that brought him immense joy. The stories he shared about Alaska reflected the beauty of the state and the camaraderie he cherished.

Roger shared countless adventures with his cousin Ron — fishing in the Taunton River, exploring the woods while hunting, and indulging their mutual interest in cars and computers. These two were indeed ahead of their time as original computer “nerds,” long before it became fashionable.

In his visits to Rhode Island, Roger found solace in the company of Ron, his wife, Louise and their child, Bryan. Their culinary escapades together became legendary – from Portuguese delicacies to Italian feasts, Roger embraced each experience with an open mind and an adventurous spirit. His visits always involved discovering new restaurants and engaging in what they fondly referred to as the “Roger palate challenge.” Despite being English with rather bland tastes, he graciously indulged in their culinary extravaganzas with good humor.

An annual tradition that brought immense joy to Roger was embarking on fall foliage tours with his mother across New Hampshire and Vermont. These “leaf-peeping” expeditions were more than just drives through scenic landscapes; they were cherished moments spent bonding over tea breaks at quaint town shops and relishing homemade desserts — a testament to their shared love for nature’s beauty.

Roger’s legacy is woven with the threads of friendship that he cultivated over the years. His bond with a fellow aviation and astronomy enthusiast, Richard Eberly Sr., blossomed into a deep companionship that lasted an impressive 33 years. He was not just a friend but a confidant who stood by through thick and thin, sharing moments of joy and sorrow alike. In the realms of cherished memories, Roger’s presence illuminated many gatherings — from Sunday dinners to game nights, major holidays to cookouts. His absence due to illness was keenly felt by all who knew him. Despite facing his own battles in his final years, Roger remained a pillar of strength and support for those around him.

One of Roger’s greatest passions was his deep-rooted love for flying and airplanes. Owning two planes as an adult symbolized his enduring love for aviation that brought him unparalleled joy throughout his life.

Roger was also a longtime faithful member of First Presbyterian Church where he volunteered countless hours serving on several boards, including Session and Deacons. Roger’s friendship with Dewaine Johnson and Ann Ayres blossomed into lifelong companionships that brought joy and shared experiences. Beyond personal connections, he dedicated his technical expertise to building the church’s VHS duplication system and serving on the Audio/Video Committee. His skills in equipment repairs, computer knowledge, budgeting, and report-writing were indispensable. His bond with those at the church transcended technical duties. Monthly social gatherings and shared meals became a testament to Roger’s ability to enrich the lives of others with his wisdom and kindness.

Roger will be dearly missed by his surviving family, Louise House and Bryan House, as well as by friends who shared in his zest for life.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 15, at the First Presbyterian Church in Van Wert, where military honors will follow. A time of further fellowship will immediately follow the memorial service at Roger’s favorite restaurant, Orchard Tree. Live Streaming may be viewed athttps://videoroost.com/v?r=VWPC.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Roger’s name be made to First Presbyterian Church Audio/Video; to a charity of the donor’s choice, or plant a tree in his memory.

To share in Roger’s online memorial, visitwww.alspachgearhart.com/obituaries/roger-neville.

Janet E. Winkler

Janet E. Winkler, 85, of Wapakoneta, passed away at 6:55 a.m. Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Wapakoneta Manor.

She was born on February 25, 1939, in Van Wert County, to James and Frances (Caywood) Williams, who preceded her in death.

Survivors include three children, Leigh Karbowiak of Dublin, Larry (Vicki) Winkler, and Linda (Bob) Bryan, both of Wapakoneta; six grandchildren, Eric (Adriane) Winkler, Stephanie (Jason Hutchison) Unrue, Rachel (Aaron) Vorhees, Heather (Danny) Choe, Stevie Karbowiak, and Allen (Katelyn) Winkler; three step-grandchildren, Royce (Cassie) Bryan, Candace Bryan, and Erica (T.J.) Cross; 11 great-grandchildren, Baily Waitman, Reed Waitman, Gregory Winkler, Brayden Winkler, Mackenzie Choe, Xander Vorhees, Alexander Winkler, Evelyn Vanderpool, Cooper Vorhees, Uriah Robert Choe, and Collins Tyler Vorhees; seven stepgreat-grandchildren, Krew Coleman, Raegan Hutchison, Keaton Hutchison, Amelia Bryan, Lennon LeDeaux, Harley Bryan, and Theo Elwood Cross; two brothers, Wayne (Betty) Williams, and Elvin (Cathy) Williams, and a sister-in-law, Barbara Williams.

Janet was preceded in death by a great-grandson, Thomas Winkler; one stepgreat-grandson, Ryker Bryan, and two brothers, Robert and Royce Williams.

Janet was 1957 graduate of Ohio City-Liberty High School.She then attended Wright State University-Lake Campus and Miami University.She was auditor for both Auglaize County and theCity of Wapakoneta, from which she retired.She served as the secretary at Salem United Methodist Church for many years and was a member of St. Paul U.C.C.She loved music, enjoyed playing the piano, trombone, and played the organ for many area churches.She also enjoyed needlecrafts and spending time with her family.

Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m. Friday, May 31, at Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Wapakoneta with Rev. Bob Waitman officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Resthaven Cemetery, Moulton. Family and friends may visit from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, May 30, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials: the Cancer Association of Auglaize County.

Online condolences may be expressed atwww.schlosserfuneralhome.com.

Joan Marie Jones

Joan Marie Jones, 93, of rural Ohio City, passed away Sunday evening, May 26, 2024, at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital.

She was born on October 14, 1930, in Union Township, Van Wert County the daughter of Lewis Edward and Naomi Almeda (Thatcher) Clark, who both preceded her in death. On September 3, 1950, she married Howard Dailey Jones who also preceded her in death on June 1, 2014.

Family survivors include her four sons, Brent L. (Deb) Jones of Van Wert, Douglas C. Jones of Ohio City, Keith H. (Marilyn) Jones of Atlanta, Michigan, and David C. (Rose) Jones of Van Wert; seven grandchildren, Shawn M. Jones of Mansfield, Ben (Nikki) Jones of Convoy, Nicole Jones of Convoy, Jessica (Prabhu) Dondapati of Atlanta, Michigan, Justin Jones of Denver, Colorado, Juli (Curt) Brennan of Atlanta, Michigan, and Janessa Jones (Sam Berens) of Grand Haven, Michigan; six great grandchildren; a sister, Imogene (Jim) Dick of Chesterfield, Missouri; and two brothers, James (Martha) Clark of Van Wert and Bill (Teresa) Clark of Findlay.

Joan was a 1948 graduate of Union High School and was a member of the Grace Bible Church where he was active in the Merry Widows. She was also a member of the Wren Garden Club, She retired from Sonoco in Van Wert. Joan loved to bake and sew and was an avid Crestview Knights basketball supporter. Each fall she enjoyed meeting friends and making new friends as she assisted with the Jones Orchard.

Services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, June 3, at Grace Bible Church in Van Wert with Pastor Lance Hostetler and Joan’s son, Keith officiating. Interment will follow at Ohio City Woodland Cemetery. Calling hours will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, June 2, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert and one hour prior to the services Monday at the Church.

Preferred memorials are to the Wren E.M.S. or Grace Bible Church.

Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.