Victor ‘Gene’ Giessler

Victor “Gene” Giessler, 84, of Van Wert, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, January 20, 2018, at the Van Wert Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

He was born October, 18 1933, in Harrison Township, the son of the late Victor A. and Hazel (Markley) Giessler, who both preceded him in death.

Gene is survived by his wife of 64 years, Shirley C. (Shaw) Giessler of Van Wert.  Other survivors include his children, Gina (Mike) Carrier of Van Wert, Pamela Jo (Mike) Staude of Lancaster, and Gregg (Jane) Giessler of Kalida. Eight grandchildren, Laura (Anson) Moody, Jenn (Jeff) Farmer, Bethany (Nathan) Clem, Matt (Cherry) Staude, Brian (Jenni) Staude, Eric (Alex) Giessler, Sara (Chad) Pugh, Stacy (Greg) Russo; 13 great-grandchildren, Ryan and Landon Moody, Graham and Jonas Farmer, Cora and Everett Clem, Raphael Victor Staude, Macy and Veda Staude, Hazel Giessler, Kayden and Kale Pugh, and a baby on the way. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Joan Giessler and Leah Shaw; and several nieces and nephews.

Gene started his career at Gunsett Hardware Company at the age of 18. He also worked at Pollock Furniture and retired from Marc-Hill Furniture. After retirement, he worked at Brickner Funeral Home for several years.

Gene’s family was his pride and joy. He had a passion for sports, especially softball, which he spent much of his life playing and coaching. He coached youth leagues and men and women’s leagues. He was a big fan of his Cincinnati Reds and the Ohio State Buckeyes.

Gene was a very active member of North Union United Methodist Church, where he served on numerous boards and committees. He truly loved his church family and he never knew a stranger.

Gene was preceded in death by his brother, Elmer L. Giessler.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 24, at North Union United Methodist Church near Van Wert, with the Rev. Greg Wack officiating.  Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, January 23, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, and an hour prior to services Wednesday at the church.

Preferred memorials: North Union United Methodist Church or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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