Vernon Eugene Etzler

Vernon Eugene Etzler, 73, of Middle Point, passed away at 12:56 p.m. Thursday, June 16, 2016, at St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima.

He was born July 23, 1942, in Van Wert County, the son of Wilber and Mary (Knittle) Etzler, who both preceded him in death. On October 30, 1990, he married Barbara K. (Wilson) Hoghe-Etzler, who survives.

Other survivors include a sister, Bonnie (Dave) Evans of Middle Point; one brother, John (Pat) Etzler of Middle Point; three stepdaughters, Tracy (Mark) Bishop of Convoy, and Tina Eley and Tonya Hoghe, both of Middle Point; three stepgrandchildren; six stepgreat-grandchildren; three nieces; two great-nieces; and one great-nephew.

A stepson, Troy Hoghe, also preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, June 20, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, with the Rev. Al Joseph officiating. Burial will follow in Ridge Cemetery in rural Van Wert County.

Visitation is from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Sunday, June 19, at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials: Middle Point Fire Department or Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Van Wert.