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
Donald J. “Don” Johnson, 87, of Convoy, passed away at his home on Sunday, March 8, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He had been under hospice care since February 13, 2026.
Don was born on November 17, 1938, in Bernie, Missouri.
Over the course of his life he was known for his strong character, dedication to family, a deep commitment to faith, strong belief in grace, laughter and hard work. Those who knew Don remember him as a thoughtful mentor, a man who led by example, and an enthusiastic storyteller who loved sharing memories and laughter with those around him.
Throughout his life, Don took great pride in his family and community. He enjoyed many hobbies and interests including dancing with his wife, golf, reading, playing cards, traveling, and spending time outdoors. Whether working with his hands, sharing stories, or offering guidance to younger generations, Don found joy in helping others and building lasting relationships.
Above all else, Don cherished his family. Together with his beloved wife of 66 years, Nancy. He instilled in their children and grandchildren the importance of faith, grace, hard work, laughter, the importance of education, and the value of family. The lessons they have passed down will continue to guide future generations
Don is survived by his wife Nancy, and four daughters, Susan (Marty) Burchfield of Van Wert, Sherry (Brad) Dwelle of Charleston, South Carolina, Shelly (Tim) Bolenbaugh of Convoy, and Stephanie (Shaun) Kitchen of Dunnellon, Florida. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Christopher (Jennifer) Bolenbaugh, parents of Ivy, Ella and Oliver; Will (Allison) Burchfield, parents of Theo and Ben; Alex (Matt) Lickenbrock, parents of Lucy and Henry; Stacia Dwelle, Tyson Bolenbaugh, and Kelsie, Kacie and Kyle Kitchen.
A memorial service in Don’s honor will be held at 2 p.m. April 7, in the Common Pleas Courtroom on the third floor of the Van Wert County Courthouse. The service, organized by the Van Wert County Bar Association, is open to the public. A private interment at the Memory Garden of New Covenant Methodist Church in The Villages, Florida, will be held later.
In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials: the Convoy Lion’s Club or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Don will be remembered for his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering devotion to his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and thevalues he passed down to those who loved him
POSTED: 03/22/26 at 7:01 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Leona Bissonette, 90, of Van Wert, passed away on Friday, March 20, 2026, at Vancrest of Van Wert.
She was born January 1, 1936, in Standish, Michigan, to Frank and Josephine (Gadowski) Korytoski, who both preceded her in death. On September 11, 1954, Leona married Charles Bissonette in Standish. Together they raised four children.
She retired from Van Wert City Schools, where she worked for many years as a lunch lady at Washington School. Leona enjoyed crafting, gardening, and caring for her family. She was a longtime member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church.
Leona is survived by her sons, Ken Bissonette of Sealy, Texas, Pete (Linda) Bissonette of Van Wert, Scott (Tressa Jo) Bissonette of Van Wert, and Jeff Bissonette of Ohio City; grandchildren, Jacob (Mikki) Bissonette of Chillicothe, Rachel Bissonette of Danville, Kentucky, Arryn Bissonette of Katy, Texas, Allison Bissonette of Richmond, Texas, Kim (Clyde) Jordan of Van Wert, Joshua Bissonette of Scott, and Derek (Anna) Bissonette of Decatur, Indiana; eight great‑grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; sister, Helen; brothers, Stan and Victor, and a great‑grandson, Kaine.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 03/22/26 at 6:45 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Carolyn Joanne Grubb, 71, of Van Wert, passed away Thursday evening, March 19, 2026, at her residence.
She was born July 1, 1954, in Oak Hill, Ohio, to Willis and Marjorie (Rawlins) Hall. She married Gary Grubb.
Carolyn retired from Federal Mogul, in Van Wert, after many years of service. She loved fishing, working with flowers, bird watching, playing with her grandchildren and card nights with friends.
Carolyn is survived by her husband of 49 years, Gary; her children, Robert (Leslie) Moser of Paulding, James Grubb of Convoy and Jessica (Mircea) Anghelescu of Atlanta; her grandchildren, Ashley Moser, Seth Moser, Bailey (Tyler) Bowen, Corban Grubb, Chandler (Hannah) Grubb, Caitlin Grubb, Cylee Grubb, Alison (Jake) Geeslin, Rebecca Geiser, Savanna Grubb, Adrian Anghelescu and Rodica Anghelescu; her great-grandchildren, Hadley Burns, Briar Bowen, Jensen Bowen, Augustine Grubb, Everleigh Grubb, Lucy Geeslin and Mirce Anghelescu, and a sister, Linda Reno of Convoy.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and siblings, William Oscar Hall, Shirley Lippi, Calvin Hall, Rachael Klaus and Dennis Hall.
Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor Steve Haddix, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 03/22/26 at 6:37 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Robert Michael Klim, 70, of Van Wert, passed away Saturday morning, March 14, 2026, at VanCrest of Van Wert.
He was born on August 16, 1955, in Youngstown, the son of Paul Klim of Springfield, Ohio and Alice Colleen (O’Connell) Klim, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his wife Vicki Lynn (Amweg) Klim on November 3, 2009.
Family survivors include his care giver, Rebecca Brotherwood of Bainbridge, Georgia and her daughter, Emily Brotherwood of Van Wert; one brother, Paul David (Susie) Klim of Lexington, Kentucky; one sister, Jane Louise (Samuel) Osborne of Louisville, Kentucky, and several nephews and nieces.
He graduated high school and worked several years as maintenance for Haviland Drainage Tile Company. Bob loved the outdoors, fishing, and being around friends sharing good times.
At this time there will be no viewing or services, burial will take place at I. O. O. F. Cemetery of Convoy at a later date.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 03/19/26 at 2:04 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Ann Marie Sinn, 92, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Country Inn Enhanced Living Center.
She was born on May 15, 1933, to Elmer and Rose (Beer) Haab, who both preceded her in death. On October 18, 1959 she was joined in marriage to Ray Sinn in Milford, IN. He preceded her in death on January 29, 2016. Born to this union were three daughters and six sons: Suzanne (Earl) Beery, Gary (Paulette), Philip, Jane (Jim) Linder, Mark (Diane), Steven (Joy), Duane (Carrie), Karen and Kurt (Lisa).
Also surviving are 36 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; two sisters, Irma Stoller and Nettie Haab; two brothers Paul Haab and Don (Martha), and four sisters-in-law, Minnie (Nelson) Beer, Renee Sinn, Paula Haab, and Marcy Haab.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer and Rose Haab; husband, Ray; sisters, Dorothy Steffen and Phyllis Wuethrich; brothers, Ray and Steven Haab, and in-laws, Walter Steffen, Robert Wuethrich, Kathy Haab, Carl and Bertha Sinn, Walter Sinn.
At the age of 17, she gave her heart to the Lord and was baptized. She faithfully served Him for 75 years. Ann graduated from Milford High School in 1951. One of her greatest joys was being a mother and grandmother, and spending time with her family. She loved sewing and was a seamstress for several companies. She also supported HarvestCall with her sewing. Ann volunteered with the American Red Cross and at Van Wert County Hospital. She was a devoted member of Latty Apostolic Christian Church.
Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 25, at Latty Apostolic Christian Church with church clergymen officiating. Burial will follow in Latty Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 24, at Latty Apostolic Christian Church Fellowship Hall. There will also be visitation from 9-10 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made in Ann’s memory to Country Inn Enhanced Living Center or CHP Hospice.
Online condolences may be shared at www.denherderfh.com.
POSTED: 03/19/26 at 1:17 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Josephine R. Wenninger, affectionally known to many as “Grandma Jo” of Paulding, and formerly of Haviland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, on hospice at the Paulding County Hospital, after a lingering illness.
She was born in Latty, on May 1, 1928, the daughter of Otto and Lydia Stoller Schlatter. Josephine graduated from Latty High School in 1946.
In January of 1948, she turned her heart to the Lord and was baptized at the Latty Apostolic Christian Church on April 18, 1948. On May 22, 1949, she was united in marriage to Donald R. Wenninger, who passed away on October 13, 2020, allowing them to enjoy 71-plus years of life together. To this union were born six sons and three daughters, all of whom survive. Larry (Joyce) of Paulding, David (Deborah) of Van Wert, Edwin (Alice) of Van Wert, Cheryl (Ed) Schlatter of Paulding, Charlotte of Paulding, Brenda (Bill) McClure of Haviland, Dennis (Beth) of Defiance, Kevin (Della) of Haviland, and Randall (Joni) of Payne. She is also survived by 25 grandchildren, 69 great grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; four brothers, Joseph, John, Benjamin, and Herman, and four sisters, Elizabeth Wieland, Laura Dunham, Emma, and Esther. She also mourned the loss of a great grandson, John Wenninger.
She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother, enjoyed cooking and serving many delicious meals over the years entertaining family and friends. She also enjoyed growing flowers, gardening, quilting and sending cards to encourage others. She loved music and singing hymns, and her greatest enjoyment was spending time with God and her family and prayed often that they could all be in heaven someday.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, March 23, at Latty Apostolic Christian Church with church clergymen officiating. Burial will follow in Latty Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery, Latty. Visitation will be held from 1:30-7 p.m. Sunday, March 22, at Latty Apostolic Christian Church Fellowship Hall. There will also be visitation from 9-10 a.m. Monday at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made in Josephine’s memory to Country Inn Enhanced Living Center or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
POSTED: 03/19/26 at 8:59 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Betty Jane (Lockhart) Cox, 86, of Ohio city was welcomed peacefully into her heavenly home on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 and is now rejoicing in the presence of our savior.
Betty was born on May 24, 1939, to Dale and Rhea Lockhart. On June 29, 1957, she married the love of her life, Walter Cox who survives. Together they celebrated 68 years of marriage, bringing four children, nine grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren together as family.
Betty graduated from Ohio City-Liberty High School with the Class of 1957 and worked at the Van Wert County Hospital, local doctor’s offices, and the Photo Star, although her most prized titles were mom, grandma, sister and farm wife. Betty spent many years helping Walter Farm and was a constant piece to her kids and grandkids. She attended Wesley United Methodist Church and remained a faithful servant of the Lord spending a lot of time, volunteering and serving, and always doing her best to lead her family towards the Lord.
Surviving are her husband, Walter along with their children, Mark (Sally) Cox of Van Wert, and Cindy (Kelly) Legendre of Rockford; a daughter-in-law, Cheri Cox of Billings Montana; nine grandchildren, Joshua (Kandace) of Billings, Montana, Alisha (Bobby) Hunsaker of Dayton, Trevor (Emily) Sill of Willshire, Lawson of Billings, Montana, Derek of Ohio City, Cassandra (Doug) Thees of Celina, Rachel (Kayne) Stillaway of Fort Wayne, Robert (Julie) Richey of Washington and Derek Legendre of Decatur, Indiana. Also surviving are her siblings, a special sister, Vicky Clifton of Van Wert who helped care for her the past few months; brothers, Gary (Kathy) Lockhart of Columbus, Rick (Dorothy) Lockhart of Columbus, Jim VanFleet of Convoy and John Cox of Van Wert and numerous nieces and nephews.
Betty was greeted at the gates of heaven by those who went before her – her sons, Randy and Steven; her parents, Dale and Rhea; her in-laws, Ervin and Helen Cox; brother, Jim and his wife Joan; her sister, Wanda; her sister-in-law, Eva VanFleet; her brother-in-law, Ervin, and sister in-law Nancy.
We rejoice in having no doubts that her heart is whole again as she deeply missed her sons and her body made new by the hands of the Lord.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 21, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Randy Christian officiating. Burial will follow services at Woodlawn Cemetery, Ohio City. Visitation will also held on Saturday starting at 10 a.m.
Preferred memorials: Everheart Hospice Group or the Ohio City Fire & EMS Department.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at: cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 03/17/26 at 6:36 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Stephen K. Bagley, 70, previously of Van Wert, passed away on Monday, March 9, 2026.
He was born on November 1, 1955, in Van Wert to Eugene and Joanne (Edwards) Bagley, who preceded him in death.
Stephen is survived by his wife, Nina, whom he married on November 28, 1998 and two brothers, Dave (Suz) Bagley of Antwerp and Ric (Deb) Bagley of Cincinnati.
Steve graduated from Van Wert High School in 1974 and from Bowling Green State University in 1978.
There will be a private service at a later time.
POSTED: 03/16/26 at 10:10 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
James A. Rhoades, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026, at the age of 69.
Born on January 11, 1957, to Dusty and Betty Lou (Lininger) Rhoades, Jim lived a full life in Van Wert, where he made an indelible mark as a beloved insurance agent and community member. A proud owner/operator of Rhoades Insurance Agency for over 40 years, Jim worked tirelessly to support his clients and connect with those around him.
He was a devoted husband to Elaine (Schaberg) Rhoades, who he married June 10, 1978, and a loving father to his children, Erika (Travis Ricker) Berner of West Milton, Brian Rhoades of Van Wert, and Jen (Trey Courtney) Biberstine of Van Wert. Jim’s brother, Tom (Brenda) Rhoades, also survives him in Van Wert, along with his grandchildren, Carter, Cason and Campbell Berner and Jordyn and Drew Biberstine, and his beloved beagles, Annie and Evelyn. They will all miss his infectious smile and generous spirit.
Jim was an active life member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, where he not only took part in church activities but also served on the church council, A.J. Disciples and countless other committees, always eager to lend a hand. He was a member of the Van Wert Elks and the Sons of the American Legion, and he previously served with the former Van Wert Sertoma Club and was a founding board member of Main Street Van Wert.
Away from his commitments to family and community, Jim enjoyed a variety of hobbies. He was a devoted “parrott head” who loved Jimmy Buffett’s music and never turned down a good time on the golf course, despite his self-proclaimed mediocre skills. A true thrill-seeker, he reveled in roller coasters and made a point to ensure that Gibson’s Barnyard BBQ served up quality eats every Thursday night in Convoy. Jim was a licensed pilot who soared through the skies and embraced the depths of the ocean as a scuba diving enthusiast. With stories of swimming with sharks and skydiving adventures, he certainly lived life on his own terms.
A proud alumnus of Lincolnview High School, class of 1975, Jim would tell you he wasn’t the valedictorian, but he ended up marrying one. He had an unwavering loyalty to the Green Bay Packers, Ohio State Buckeyes, Cincinnati Reds and Ohio Bobcats, and probably had a few tales of playing for the Oakland Raiders, something he was just never able to prove. He was also a dedicated resident of his basement man-cave, choosing to surround himself with everything that made him happy and a place for him to host the annual “Goliath” pool tournament for family and friends for many years.
Jim’s zest for life extended to traveling, with Grand Cayman holding a special place in his heart.
Through all his adventures and accomplishments, Jim’s family was always at the top of his list. He was a faithful supporter of his kids and grandkids, never missing an opportunity to show up and support them in any way. Jim also loved taking his kids and grandkids to baseball games, from the Ft Wayne Tincaps to the Dayton Dragons, and most importantly, the Cincinnati Reds.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Bob Rhoades.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 21, at St Marks Lutheran Church, Van Wert, with Rev. Will Haggis, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. Friday, March 20, at St Marks Lutheran Church, and one hour prior to services Saturday.
Jim Rhoades leaves behind a rich legacy of love, laughter, and countless memories. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to HOUND Rescue and Sanctuary in Findlay. (www.houndrescueandsanctuary.com).
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 03/15/26 at 1:25 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Paul F. Koenig, 95, of Wapakoneta, passed away at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Cridersville Healthcare Center.
He was born December 17, 1930, in Wapakoneta, the son of the late William C. and Catherine (Frankenburg) Koenig. On August 3, 1955, he married Kathleen M. Steinke, and she survives.
Other survivors include six children, Michael (Cindy) Koenig of Conover, Ohio, Marcia (Denny) Maas of Wapakoneta, Mark ( Mary) Koenig of Copley, Marlene (Steve) Steinke of Anna, Marge (John) Greve of Delphos, and Matthew (Carol-dec) Koenig of Middle Point; 18 grandchildren; 38 great- grandchildren; a sister, Sister Dorothy Koenig, C.P.P.S. of Dayton; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Don-dec (Anna Marie) Steinke, Judy (Tony-dec) Yahl, Tommy (Jan) Steinke, and Rudy Steinke, Jr., numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings and spouses, Bill (Lucille) Koenig, Julian Koenig, Adrian (Marie) Koenig, Omar (Dee) Koenig, Sister Gemma Koenig, C.PP.S., infant Cyril Koenig, Bernard (Pat) Koenig, Virgil (Sharon) Koenig, Viola Koenig and infant Angela Koenig.
Paul was a welder and farmer who later retired as a pipefitter from BP Oil in Lima. He earned an associate degree in steam engineering from NBC in Lima and also worked as a welder at Unisteel in Wapakoneta. Paul proudly served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany.
He was a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wapakoneta, where he served at Mass for more than 60 years. Paul was also a member of the Holy Name Society, the Knights of Columbus Council #1272, and the Gasper del Bufalo 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.
An avid fisherman, Paul belonged to the Brands Lake Fishing Club. He enjoyed woodworking and camping, and as a gifted welder, he had the ability to fix almost anything. Above all, Paul cherished spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, March 16, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Wapakoneta, with Fr. Sean Wilson officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Joseph Cemetery, where military rites will be conducted by the Wapakoneta V.F.W. Post. #8445. The family will receive friends from 2-7 p.m. Sunday, March 15, and from 9-9:45 a.m. Monday at the Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, Ohio 501, Wapakoneta.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
The family would lie to thank Paul’s caregivers who such loving care of him, Jeni, Sherry, Angie, Sandy, Brenda, and Beth.
POSTED: 03/12/26 at 2:36 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
