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
Nancy Ann Smith, 63, of Lima, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Mercy Health in Lima.
She was born on April 30, 1962, to Paul and Mary Lou (Ringwald) Butler, who both preceded her in death.
Nancy is survived by her close friend, Rick Cira of Lima; her children, Kyle (Anita) Smith of Van Wert, Ian Smith, of Van Wert, Jared Smith of Findlay, and Kirbi (Dustin) Glossett of Van Wert. She was a grandmother to eight grandchildren: Sophie, Jaxson, Hazel, Harrison, Harvey, and Hartford Smith, and Chad and Willow Glossett. She is also survived by her siblings, Bob (Julie) Gamble of Van Wert, John (Beth) Gamble of Van Wert, Dale (Lisa) Butler of Ohio City, Barbara (Mark) McDonald of Van Wert, and Paula Butler of Youngstown.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Terry Gamble, and her grandson, Cameron Smith.
Chiles-Laman Funeral Home, Shawnee Chapel, is entrusted with funeral arrangements.
POSTED: 12/18/25 at 1:47 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Jerome E. Blankemeyer, of Van Wert, a devoted husband, son, father, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the age of 54.
Born on May 21, 1971, to Eugene and Joan (Schaadt) Blankemeyer, Jerome lived a life full of laughter, service, and love. On October 24, 2020, he married the former Erica Runyon.
He dedicated over 35 years to Danfoss, in Van Wert, and was known for his cheerful spirit, often making others laugh with his playful and ornery nature. Jerome was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether in the fields, his garage, or within the community. In addition to his work, Jerome had enjoyed woodworking, camping, and attending local sporting events.
He cherished the time spent with his family and friends, but above all, he treasured the moments shared with his beloved wife, mother and his four children. Jerome took great pride and immeasurable joy in being a grandfather.
Jerome is survived by his wife, Erica Blankemeyer of Van Wert; his mother, Joan Blankemeyer of Van Wert; his children, Caleb (Olivia) Blankemeyer of Paulding, Hunter (Morgan) Blankemeyer of Van Wert, McKayla Blankemeyer of Van Wert, and Emmett Blankemeyer of Van Wert; his grandchildren, Conrad, Aubrey and Owen; and siblings, Samuel Blankemeyer of Van Wert; Angela (Tracey) Myers of Centerburg, Elaine Leffel of Hilliard, and Maureen Blankemeyer of Cuyahoga Falls.
He was preceded in death by his father; a sister, Celeste Blankemeyer, and a brother-in-law, Jack Leffel.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 20, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, with Father Chris Bohnsack, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Mohr Cemetery, Van Wert County. Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, December 19, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 12/17/25 at 8:28 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Richard “Dick” Atwood, 87, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and daughter.
Born on April 11, 1938, in Mt. Pleasant, Ohio, Richard was the son of Howard and Bertha Atwood.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother William Atwood, and his sister Nancy Briggs.
Richard shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Reha (Elston) Atwood, who remained devotedly by his side throughout their life together. He is also survived by his daughter, Renee (Atwood) Long, and her husband, Robert, of Indianapolis, Indiana. From a previous marriage, he leaves behind his son, James Atwood (wife JoAnne), grandson Ethan Atwood, and daughter Deb Atwood, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Richard retired from the Van Wert Common Pleas Court, where he was valued for his integrity, dedication, and steady presence. Beyond his professional life, he poured his time and energy into his community. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Van Wert, volunteering at the food pantry, helping with church building upkeep, and serving as a representative to the church conference. Committed to preserving local history and fostering community life, Richard was also a member of the Van Wert Historical Society, Wassenberg Art Center, Kiwanis, and the Elks. An avid golfer, he was a longtime member of Willow Bend Golf Club. He also found deep joy in the outdoors-especially camping and fly fishing in Montana and Wyoming, where he often said he felt closest to God.
A funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Monday, December 29, at First United Methodist Church of Van Wert with Rev. Christian Taylor presiding. Visitation will be prior to the funeral from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the church. Private interment will be at Woodland Cemetery.
Richard will be remembered for his unwavering love for family, his generosity of spirit, and the kindness he extended to everyone around him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First United Methodist Church of Van Wert or to cancer research organizations of your choice.
To share in Richard’s online memorial, visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.
POSTED: 12/17/25 at 3:29 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Doris R. Evans, 92, of Venedocia, was greeted by her loved ones at the golden gates early Sunday morning, December 14, 2025. She now rests alongside her beloved husband, William “Bill” Evans, son, Richard “Dick” Evans, and grandson Thad Reed.
She was born on June 11, 1933, in Abernathy, Texas, to J.J. and Uma Mae Vineyard, who both preceded her in death. She was raised alongside four brothers and three sisters, all of whom preceded her in death, except for her beloved sister, Dorothy Manley, who continues to reside in Texas.
Doris was a woman of many traits, including homemaker, farm wife, nursing aide, and most importantly, mother.
Surviving are her three children, Dixie (John) Painter, Bill (Ruth) Evans, and Diane (Ken) Linger. She gained her most precious and important title of Mamma through her grandchildren, Mike (Erin) Reed, Torrey (Scott) Walker, Wendy (Jason) Frank, Stacy (Joe) Elling, Megan (Brett) Ryan, Shana (Pat) Mosier, Ross (Alyssa) Evans, Daniel (Caitlin) Linger, Jessica (Jordan) Doherty, and Micah (Kayla McGinnis) Linger. Her loved deepened with her great-grandchildren, Gia, Wren and Booker Reed; Thad, Zada (Reide Jackson), Emerson and Quinlyn Walker; Autumn and Willow Frank; Evan and Ella Elling; Landon, Ashlyn and Holden Price; Alyssa, Saxon, Cruz and Hayes Ryan; Corbin Evans; Chance (Kassidy) Mosier; Maeleigh, Haven and Everly Evans; Tate Linger; and Josie and Remi Doherty.
Doris was a member of the Salem Presbyterian Church in Venedocia.
Services will be held at 4 p.m., Monday, December 22, 2025, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home. There will be calling hours 1-4 p.m. prior to the service.
Preferred memorials are to the Ohio City E.M.S. or to the Family to direct for Recovery Services.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/15/25 at 9:03 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Hugh William Jones, son of Hugh F. and Naomi Jones passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025, one month from his 90th birthday. He will be sadly missed by his wife of 65 years, Darlene (Baker) Jones.
Hugh worked at Aeroquip Corp. for 40 years, but his real love was farming ground that has belonged to his family for over 100 years. He also raised Holstein calves for many years. Reading, especially American history was a favorite pastime and he could tell you many facts about battles fought by heart. He loved being out in the woods and cut the winter supply for heating. He eagerly anticipated a yearly week-long hunting trip with a highly regarded group of friends.
Hugh was a member of Olive Branch Church of God and loved his church family. He had attended Salem Presbyterian Church and had many friends there. Family get togethers with children and grand children were treasured events.
Hugh is survived by his two daughters, Laura (Mark) Shultz of Huntington, Indiana and Cathy Lehman of Cicero, Indiana; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren, who as a nod to his Welsh heritage lovingly call him “Tadcu”.
He was preceded in death by his son, Hugh Edward “Eddie” Jones, who passed away just one month ago. He was also preceded in death by his two brothers, Gordon and Edward Jones.
Services will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, December 19, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Pastor Tyler Watson officiating. There will be calling hours from 1-3 p.m. prior to the service.
Preferred memorials: Olive Branch Church of God.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/15/25 at 8:56 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Lynn L. “Peach” Parrish, 73, of Van Wert, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025, at VanCrest Nursing Home in Van Wert.
He was born September 27, 1952, to Howard and Dorothy (Corwin) Parrish, and was a 1970 graduate of Oakwood High School. On October 19, 2013, he married the love of his life, Teresa (Alexander) Staude who survives in Van Wert.
Lynn retired from Alexander-Bebout in March 2021 after a lifetime in construction. He was a member of Moose Lodge #1320, Elks Lodge #1197, and American Legion Post #178, all in Van Wert. He and Teresa had enjoyed traveling and Lynn had been the resident fireworks technician at Hamilton Lake. Always the quintessential storyteller, his stories were funnier each time he told them.
Lynn is survived by his loving wife, Teresa; his son, David (Ann) Parrish of Defiance; daughters, Melissa Parrish-Valle of Austin, Texas, Sarah (Eric) Schier of Delphos, and Tracy (Brian) Mitchener; his grandchildren Kelsea (Chris) Ballard, Joey, Wes, and Grace Schier, Zach Parrish, Katie (Adam) Niese, Lauren and Ava Mitchener, and Elijah Staude; a great-granddaughter, Parker Gerenscer; his much older twin sister, Linda Fisher, and brothers, Joe (Joanna) Parrish and Denny (Karen) Parrish all of Defiance.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law, Tom and Sylvia Alexander; a son, John Clinton Parrish; a daughter, Angela “Angel” Staude; brothers, Jack and Allen Parrish, and half-brothers, Howard Parrish, Jr., J. William Parrish, and James Parrish; and grandson, Hunter Alan Parrish.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 20, with services following at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
POSTED: 12/14/25 at 11:43 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Steven “Steve” Waterman, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, received the ultimate victory on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, after a short battle with an unexpected illness. Surrounded by his loving family, angels gently lifted his spirit into the waiting arms of his Savior Jesus Christ.
He was born on January 28, 1958, to Byron “Bud” Waterman and Joanne (Rickard) Waterman, with his father preceding him in death and his mother surviving in Ohio City. The younger of two sons, Steve is survived by his brother, Gregory “Greg” (Ellen) Waterman. He is also preceded in death by his nephew, Brian Waterman, whose memory remained dear to him.
A proud graduate of Ohio City High School, Class of 1976, Steve pursued his education with purpose and dedication, earning associate degrees in accounting and business management from Wright State University. Feeling a call to ministry, he later earned his bachelor’s degree in religion from the University of Findlay and a master of divinity from Winebrenner Theological Seminary.
On March 4, 1989, Steve married the love of his life, Gloria Waterman (Johnson), who survives in Fort Wayne. Together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering support. Their daughters, Jolynn “Jo” Simson (Waterman), married to Nate, with children Owen (8) and Ivy (6), and Jenna Dunham (Waterman), married to Joel, with children Beckham (4) and Briar (7 months), were the treasures of his life and a source of immeasurable pride.
For 29 years, Steve served faithfully as pastor of Olive Branch Church of God in Rockford, and Sugar Ridge Church of God in Convoy before retiring in 2018. His ministry touched countless lives through sermons, baptisms, weddings, prayers, and moments of quiet support—always offered with humility and a sincere heart. After retiring, he continued serving at C.A.L.L. Ministries Food Pantry in Celina, where he volunteered regularly and joyfully. During this time, he also attended Trinity Global Methodist Church in Van Wert, where he found ongoing fellowship and spiritual community.
Steve’s greatest joy was simply being wherever his grandchildren were. Whether settling into his favorite chair with a little one on his lap or cheering them on at their activities, he showed up for them in every way a grandfather could. Christmas held a special place in his heart—not only for the celebration of Jesus’ birth, which guided his life, but also for the magic and fun he created. He delighted in the candlelight, the traditions, and especially in donning his red velvet Santa suit, bringing wonder to those he loved most.
He cherished long bike rides, camping trips at Huggy Bear Campground, and quiet moments with his beloved dog, AJ, who was a constant source of comfort and companionship. After retirement, Steve found unexpected joy in pickleball — not just in playing, but in the friendships he formed on the court. He rarely missed a day, drawn as much to the people as to the game itself. Known for his lively spirit and loud, infectious laugh, Steve brought warmth, energy, and genuine joy wherever he went. He touched others simply by being present, and his love continues to echo in the lives of those he cherished. We find peace and joy in knowing that God has welcomed Steve home with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Visitation will be held from 1-6 p.m. Sunday, December 14, at Cowan Funeral Home in Van Wert. A one-hour visitation will also take place at 9 a.m. Monday, December 15, prior to the 10:00 a.m. funeral service at Olive Branch Church of God in Rockford, with Pastor Randy Bevington officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City.
Preferred memorials: C.A.L.L. Ministries Food Pantry in Celina.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/11/25 at 9:43 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
David Eddy, age 68, of Toledo and formerly of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at The University of Toledo Medical Center.
He was born on November 1, 1957, in Van Wert, to Lloyd E. and Lois I. (Wilmore) Eddy, who both preceded him in death.
David participated in the Special Olympics and found fulfillment in his work at Thomas Edison Closed Workshop and PC Workshop in Paulding. He enjoyed fishing and had a lifelong love of farming, especially riding alongside his father on the family farm.
He is survived by his siblings: Kent (Pam) Eddy of Grover Hill; Marcia (John) Laukhuf of Payne, and Mark (Karen) Eddy of Grover Hill. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews, Scott, Steven, Sarah, Stuart, Christopher, Tara, Melissa, Benjamin, and Aaron, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews who will cherish his memory.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Eddy, and a nephew, Matthew.
Private funeral services will be held. Interment will be in Middle Creek Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made in David’s name to LifeWise of Grover Hill.
To share memories or condolences, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 12/10/25 at 5:57 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Susan Elaine Coil, age 69, of Van Wert, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, surrounded by her family at Saint Rita’s Medical Center in Lima.
Sue was born on December 29, 1955, to Robert and Betty Wright in Decatur, Indiana. She graduated from Van Wert High School. She worked with various companies such as Borden Foods, KMI Mfg, Ohio City Mfg, and Eaton.
During a weekend outing with girlfriends in the summer of 1985, she met her future husband, Kevin Dean Coil, at a Firemen’s dance in Middle Point, Ohio. On November 25, 1987, they eloped in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Sue was a devoted fan of THE Ohio State University and Chicago Cubs. She drove her boys all over the state to countless football and baseball practices, games, and tournaments. During football season, you would always find her in the stands at all the Van Wert Cougar games, cheering on her boys and their teammates. She was also passionate about the arts and helped encourage some of her children and grandchildren to pursue career paths in the creative arts.
Every day of her life was shaped by the love for her family. They were her greatest joy and purpose. She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Kevin; her boys, Chris (Janelle) Fisher and B.J. (Kendra) Fisher; and daughter, Shelby Coil; her grandsons, Gabriel, Cole, and Ethan Fisher, and granddaughters, Aiyana and Savannah Coil.
In addition to her parents, Sue was preceded in death by her brother, William Wright; sister, Pamela Baird; brother-in-law, Rick Baird, and nieces Candy Beagle and Tina Subler.
Cremation has taken place according to her wishes, and a private family gathering to celebrate her life will be held at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Sue’s name to the Van Wert Humane Society, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 12/10/25 at 5:49 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Steven W. Leiter, 79, of Fairfield, Ohio, passed away December 5, 2025.
He was born September 26, 1946, in Van Wert, the son of Frederic Leiter and Charlotte Geherlich Leiter, who both preceded him in death. On August 22, 1969, he married Janet Wisniewski and together they built a loving home for 56 years.
Steve was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force and spent many years working in the financial banking industry, always providing for his family with dedication and purpose. Steve’s life was defined by service – to his faith, his family, and his community.
A devoted member of Fairfield Church of Christ, he found great joy in serving Jesus. Through the church, he discovered a passion for the prison ministry of Kairos, and he could often be found greeting members with a warm smile or driving the church van for those with special needs. He loved spending time with his family doing anything from watching movies to traveling on vacations across the country. If his girls or grandkids were involved in an activity, Steve was there – proudly, faithfully, and without hesitation.
In April 2011, Steve received an extraordinary gift — his brother Paul selflessly donated a kidney, blessing Steve with 14 additional years of life. Steve’s gratitude for this gift was immeasurable. He used those years to pour even more love into his family, friends, and community. As a proud member of the Fairfield Optimist Club, Steve served for many years on the board and as president. He was an enthusiastic participant in a variety of service projects including their high school scholarship fund, the annual MASC soccer tournament, the turkey shoot fundraisers, mowing soccer fields for the youth leagues, and fishing derbies for the special needs community. There was so much more to Steve than just a list of accomplishments could capture.
He loved golf, movies, ice cream, and most of all time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Janet Leiter; three children Jodi (Rickey) Strother, Kimberly (Robert) Jerger, and Stephanie (Jason) Brown; grandchildren Sarah (John) Manovich, Nathan Strother, Roman (Katey) Jerger, Julia Jerger, Joseph Strother, Ashley Brown, Emily Brown and the late Joshua Brown; great-grandson Rodrick Jerger, and his siblings Patricia (John) Bigelow, Rebecca (Edward) Weingartner, and Paul (Laura) Leiter.
Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, December 15, at Fairfield Church of Christ, 745 Symmes Road, Fairfield. A funeral service will follow at 12 p.m., officiated by Brian Schrieber. Full military honors will precede the service at the church. Burial will take place on a later date in Van Wert. The family wishes to invite all to gather at the Fairfield Optimist Club, 194 Joe Nuxhall Way, Fairfield, immediately following the funeral to continue to celebrate Steve.
In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials to Fairfield Church of Christ, a portion of which will go to their local Kairos ministry.
POSTED: 12/09/25 at 7:33 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
