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.
POSTED: 12/28/10 at 3:42 pm. FILED UNDER: Info
Raymond Leroy Foster, 82, passed away peacefully at the Van Wert Manor Nursing Home Thursday morning, January 8, 2026.
He was born on July 31, 1943, in Van Wert to Arthur Harold Foster and Mary Margaret (Lautzenheiser) Foster, who both preceded him in death. Raymond married Frances R. (Rife) Foster on June 1, 1979, and she survives.
Survivors also include three children, Rodney Foster of Troy, Rhonda (Mark) VanMetre of Ohio City and Scott (Lorie) Foster of Scott; three stepchildren, Chuck (Chris) Murphy of Michigan, Timothy (Debbie) Murphy of New Haven and Pam Murphy of Van Wert; nine grandchildren; 11 great grandchildren; three sisters, Martha (John) Anderson of Springfield, Ohio, Judy Liggett of Lima, and Ellen LeMaster of Convoy; and numerous nephews and nieces.
In addition to his parents, Raymond was preceded in death by one brother, John W. Foster and one sister, Joan M. Rorick.
Ray retired from Aeroquip/Eaton in 2001 after 22 years of service. He enjoyed Bluegrass music, camping, riding motorcycles and snow mobiles. He had a extensive collection of John Deere memorabilia.
Raymond’s funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. Monday, January 12, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Van Wert, with Pastor Mike Kaufman officiating. Visitation will be held 12 p.m. until time of services on Monday. Interment will take place at later date at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.
Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.
POSTED: 01/09/26 at 10:29 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Lori Ann Webster, 64, of Grover Hill, passed away on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital.
Born April 28, 1961, in Van Wert to Franklin and Myrtle (Whittredge) Wyandt, who both preceded her in death, Lori grew up with a gentle spirit that carried through every chapter of her life. Her life was shaped by simple joys, quiet creativity, and the people she held closest to her heart.
Lori built a meaningful career as a dental hygienist after earning her associate degree from UNOH, offering comfort and kindness to countless patients over the years. Though she loved her work deeply, her career was ultimately cut short by her disability and illness. Even so, she continued to find joy in the small, personal rituals that made her feel most like herself-creating Diamond Dotz art, treating herself to fresh nails and hair, and enjoying the simple pleasure of shopping. Animals held a special place in her heart, but nothing brought her more joy than time spent with her grandchildren, whose presence lit up her days.
She leaves behind her loving husband, Clarence “Chet” Webster III; her daughter, Crystal (Arturo) Lucius; her stepdaughter, Codi (Cody) Feasby; grandsons, Ayden Bolenbaugh and Arturo Lucius Jr.; and step‑grandchildren, Chase and Callie Feasby. Lori is also survived by four sisters and one brother.
Lori will be cremated and her family will honor her life privately in the quiet way she would have appreciated.
To share in Lori’s online memorial, visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 01/08/26 at 1:41 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
On Wednesday, December 31, 2025, Stephen G. Cobb went to be with his Lord and Savior.
Steve was born in Van Wert on December 22, 1944, to Delmar and Mildred (Rolston) Cobb. He graduated from Van Wert High School in 1962 and from Bowling Green State University in 1967.
Steve was married to the late Carol (Helman) Cobb until her death. Together they raised three sons, Gregg (Shelli) Cobb, Brett (Chelsea) Cobb and Clintt (Anne) Cobb. He later married Connie (Bagley) Walters and they resided in Fort Myers, Florida.
Steve worked for Dana Corporation for 20 years and held numerous manager positions, the last of which was manager of Diamond Truck System Division. Upon his departure, he joined Weaver Popcorn as Vice President of Operations. In 1990 he started his own company, G & C Industries and formed partnerships engaged in manufacturing of truck parts and distribution. His clients during this time were numerous facilities of Caterpillar, Visteon, a division of Ford, UPS and Dana Corporation.
While managing his business was very important to him, his real passion was coaching youth baseball, helping young men develop their baseball skill and preparing them for the life ahead. He always made time to do this and did it exceptionally well.
Preceding him in death were his parents; his first wife, Carol; his brother, Gary, and his stepmother, Avanelle Cobb.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Connie; his three sons, Gregg (Shelli) Cobb, Brett (Chelsea) Cobb, Clintt (Anne) Cobb; stepdaughters, Lisa (Jim Uncapher) Agler and Lori Agler; grandchildren, Peyton (Mark) Meredith, Quinn Cobb, Ashton Cobb, Hailee Cobb, Ryan Cobb, Reese Cobb; step-grandchildren, Stephen Straman, Briana (Andrew) Platt, Mackenzie (Collin Wadman) Agler, Zack (Lynsay) Agler, Taylor (Mike) Klein, along with 16 step-great-grandchildren.
A family graveside service will be held later.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to American Heart Association or IU Cancer Center.
POSTED: 01/07/26 at 1:02 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Maria Louisa Martinez, 82, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, January 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on March 16, 1943, in Hondo, Texas, to Dionicia Morales, who preceded her in death. Maria lived a life defined by hard work, devotion, and unconditional love for those around her.
On April 2, 1963, Maria married the love of her life, Rito Martinez. Together they shared many years of marriage until his passing on August 29, 2020. Their bond was one of deep love and partnership that remained strong throughout their lives.
Maria is survived by her brother, Santos Morales, and his wife, Carolina from Hondo, Texas; three sons, Joe Benny Martinez and his wife Julie, Tony Martinez and his wife Angie, and Chris Martinez and his wife Kimberly. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Cassandra Martinez, Bethany Martinez, Elijah Martinez, Logan Martinez, Jackson Martinez, Josephine Martinez, Kierstynn Baker, Drew Shaffer, Adilynn Shaffer and Jason Anderson.
Also preceding her in death are a brother, Jose Rodriguez; a daughter, Paula Rose Martinez, and a granddaughter, Belinda Martinez.
Maria was a loving wife, sister, mother, and grandmother who always put the needs of others before her own. Her heart was generous, her love unwavering, and her presence a source of comfort and strength to her family.
Earlier in life, Maria worked as a migrant worker, traveling to many states before eventually settling in Van Wert. She later worked at North American Philips, where she formed lifelong friendships that she deeply cherished. A dedicated and hardworking woman, Maria labored tirelessly to provide for her family while remaining constant in her duties at home.
In her free time, Maria found joy in the simple things she loved most: caring for plants and flowers, Mexican music, cheering for THE Ohio State Buckeyes, wearing rings on her fingers, cats and watching her favorite WWE superstar, John Cena.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, January 8, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with Rev. Roger Peugh, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Visitation will be held two hours prior to services on Thursday, at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
Maria Louisa Martinez will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but her legacy of love, strength, and selflessness will live on through her family for generations to come.
POSTED: 01/05/26 at 8:25 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Gary Louis Unterbrink, 73, of Van Wert, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2025, in his home in Feldkirch, Austria.
Born August 11, 1952, he was preceded in death by his parents, Alphonse C. “Al” Unterbrink and Joann B. Unterbrink (Becker).
After graduating from Ohio State University College of Dentistry, he was stationed on a military base in Germany. He fell in love with the region and his wife, Christine, and lived in central Europe since.
A renowned lecturer, researcher and mentor in dentistry, he had the opportunity to travel extensively, he was proud to have visited more than 180 countries.
Survivors include his wife, Christine Unterbrink-Felkel of Feldkirch, Austria; his daughters, Jennifer Unterbrink of Bonn, Germany, and Nathalie Unterbrink of Innsbruck, Austria; his siblings, Michael W. Unterbrink of Lewiston, California, Jeffrey C. Unterbrink of Etna Green, Indiana, Brent J. Unterbrink of Van Wert, and Catherine J. Unterbrink of Van Wert.
Internment at the Forest Cemetery will be in a private ceremony in Tyrol, Austria.
Preferred memorials: Community Health Professionals or Visiting Nurses.
POSTED: 01/05/26 at 4:15 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Donna M. Foehl, 97, of Convoy, passed away Saturday morning, January 3, 2026, at Hearth and Home of Van Wert.
She was born April 9, 1928, in Blue Creek Township, Paulding County, to Fred and S. Leona (Zartman) Schoenauer. She married Robert E. Foehl. Donna was a homemaker and the ultimate farm wife.
She was always there to haul grain and help in any other way she could. Donna could also be found baking cookies and mowing her lawn well into her 90s. She was a long-time member of Convoy Methodist Church and the church women’s group. Donna was also very active in the Crestview Farm Wives, Convoy Homemakers and the Japonica Garden Club.
Donna is survived by her children, Ken (Robin) Foehl of Convoy and Barbara Fant of Cincinnati; grandchildren, Charles (Shawnee), Alicia (Josh), Matt, Christopher (Meaghan), Kyle (Emma), and Jodi (Brian); great grandchildren, Avery, Megan, Shooter, Branch, Copper, Creek, Miriam, Leah, Landon and Oliver; a great great grandchild, Atlas, and a sister, Betty Gloor of Hicksville.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob, and brothers, Norman, Gene and Ron Schoenauer.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 7, at Convoy Methodist Church with Rev. Bill Thomas, Officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services Wednesday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangments were entrusted to Gearhart-Sauer Funeral Home, Convoy.
POSTED: 01/04/26 at 2:07 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Martha Wilma (Overholser) Lichtenberger, 94, of Wren, passed peacefully into heaven Monday morning, December 29, 2025, at VanCrest of Van Wert.
Martha “Wilma” was born on May 30, 1931, in Huntington, Indiana. She married John S. Lichtenberger on September 10, 1950. Last September they celebrated 75 years of marriage. What a great honor of love and devotion.
Martha had worked many jobs throughout her life. Mom and dad enjoyed camping, traveling and enjoyed the great outdoors. She was an avid read and she loved to read all kinds of books and all the daily newspapers.
Martha is survived by her loving husband, John Lichtenberger and her children, Sherman (Virginia) Lichtenberger of Berne, Indiana, Beverly (Alan) Lichtensteiger of Ohio City, Joyce (Jim) Grafmiller of Ossian, Indiana, and Stanley (Jenny) Lichtenberger of Van Wert. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren.
Martha was preceded in death by one daughter, Deloris Lichtenberger who passed away in October of 2013; a grandson, Jon Lichtenberger and two great-grandsons, Nicholas and William Lichtenberger.
Services will be held at 12 p.m. Monday, January 5, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home of Van Wert with Pastor Dan York officiating. Interment will take place at Fletcher Cemetery, near Wren. Calling hours are 10 a.m. until time of services on Monday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions in memory of Martha can be made to the Wren Fire & EMS Department.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/30/25 at 6:59 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Carolyn Sue Priddy, 79, passed away peacefully Monday evening surround by her loving family on Monday, December 29, 2025, at VanCrest of Van Wert.
She was born on September 22, 1946, in Van Wert, the daughter of Edwin J. Pierce and Margaret E. (Schwartz) Pierce, who both preceded her in death. On June 8, 1985, she married Max L. Priddy who survives of Van Wert.
Other family survivors include her daughter, Diana L. Swander of Van Wert; one brother, David J. (Karen) Pierce of Avon, Indiana; two grandchildren, Michelle (Ted) Tate of Convoy and Stephanie (Austin) Thomas of Maumee; seven great-grandchildren, Kaedyn Swander, Kallie Swander, Kole Swander, Lyla Thomas, Connor Thomas, Pierce Tate and Rebel Tate, and one great great-grandson, Stetson Swander.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her two children, Mary and Barry McHugh and one sister, Nancy Sheets.
Carolyn worked at the Huffy’s Bicycle plant in Celina for 27 years, until it closed in 1998, then she worked for CME in Monroeville, Indiana. She continue working for a few years at Crestview Local Schools in the cafeteria and she attended the Pleasant Chapel United Methodist Church with Max.
A memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, January 3, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home of Van Wert. Interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery, Ohio City. Calling hours are at 10 a.m. until time of services on Saturday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials are to the Van Wert Hospice-CHP.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/30/25 at 6:50 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Jane Ann (Good) DeMoss, 89, of Van Wert, passed away at 11:35 a.m. Sunday, December 28, 2025, at VanCrest Healthcare Center of Van Wert.
She was born December 10, 1936, in Van Wert, the daughter of Bernard Earl Good and Norma Louise (Eddy) Good, who both preceded her in death. On November 26, 1971, she married Michael Murray DeMoss, who preceded her in death on November 30, 2022.
Survivors include five daughters, Robin White of Van Wert, Shelbyan (Scott) Clyde of Van Wert, Michelle (Travis) Dickson of Van Wert, Kassi DeMoss (Jason Crone) of Van Wert and Lorna Cotterman of Celina; 14 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren, six great-great grandchildren; a sister, Janet (Good) Bolton, and one sister-in-law, Margaret Wearly.
She was also preceded in death by her son, Jeremy Jay “Jake” DeMoss on September 19, 2022; her brother-in-law, Jerry Bolton on December 27, 2025 and a brother, Neil A. Good.
She was a 1954 graduate of Van Wert High School. Jane enjoyed going to lunches with her friends from high school and was a stay-at-home mom and babysat until 1997, when she went to work at Community Health Professionals until age 71 (2007). She loved to garden and grow flowers and had a “Green Thumb”. Jane was an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan in both football and basketball, Cincinnati Reds fan and was an avid bowler in her younger years. Her favorite pasttime was working with her flowers, reading, and spending time with her family.
Jane’s memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, January 10, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Van Wert. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the service.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Health Professional Hospice of Van Wert..
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/30/25 at 1:33 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Jerry Dean Bolton, 85, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, December 27, 2025, following an extended illness.
Jerry was born on November 6, 1940, in Van Wert, to Edwin and Eva Jean (Davis) Bolton. He was a 1958 graduate of York High School. On September 22, 1963, he married Janet (Good) Bolton, who survives.
Jerry was the proud father of two children, a son, Jay (Betty) Bolton of Van Wert, Ohio, and a daughter, Jill (Marc) Mohr of Lapel, Indiana. He was a devoted grandfather to Clay (Bethany) Bolton of Lancaster, Damon Bolton (Jacque) of Grand Junction, Colorado, Lauren (Rod) Powers of Fruita, Colorado, Evan (Kait) Mohr of Georgetown, Kentucky, and Isaac Mohr and Cade Mohr of Pendleton, Indiana. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Hayes Bolton, Luke and Madison Bolton, Aubree Beebe, Natalie Powers, and Brooks and Berkley Mohr. He is survived by his brother, Robert (Dot) Bolton of Van Wert.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Bonnie Bolton, and a brother, Richard Bolton.
Jerry’s strong work ethic defined much of his life. He was employed by Aeroquip Corporation before co-founding ER Bolton and Sons Oil Company with his father and two brothers. For many years, Jerry delivered oil products to customers throughout Van Wert, Mercer, and Auglaize counties. The family also owned and operated the Motor Inn Truck Stop in Mercer. In addition, Jerry drove school buses for Van Wert City Schools, faithfully serving a daily route and transporting numerous Cougar athletic teams.
A lifelong supporter of Van Wert Cougar athletics, Jerry was an avid fan and spent many years keeping the scorebook for the boys’ basketball team-an experience he especially treasured was keeping the scorebook when the Cougars advanced to the state basketball tournament. Sports were always a central part of Jerry’s life. He umpired high school baseball games, was a devoted Cincinnati Reds fan, and spent countless fall Saturdays cheering on the Ohio State Buckeyes.
He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, where he sang in the choir and enjoyed fellowship with his church family.
Jerry proudly served his country for six years in the Fort Wayne Air National Guard.
Jerry will be remembered for his dedication to family, his love of sports, his strong work ethic, and his larger than life laugh.
Visitation will be held from 2-6 p.m. Friday, January 2, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert. A funeral sersvice will take place at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 3, at First United Methodist Church, Van Wert. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery.
Preferred memorials: the Van Wert Cougars Booster Club or to First United Methodist Church of Van Wert.
To share in Jerry’s online memorial visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 12/28/25 at 10:16 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
