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
Katurah Joy “Katie” (Beukema) Schweikle, 57, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne on Thursday, June 4, 2026.
Born Holly Hosler on 27 January 1969 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to William Carl and Margaret Ann (Coil) Hosler, she was raised in Huntertown and Churubusco, Indiana, attended Churubusco Jr.-Sr. High School (Class of 1986), Ivy Tech (1992-93), and majored in nursing at Purdue University, Fort Wayne.
Katie worked as an EMT and an STNA, a cake decorator, a cab driver, and also at various retail and manufacturing jobs and as a cook at Balyeat’s Coffee Shop. She took pride in her cooking and crochet work, was a skilled seamstress, and had a green thumb. Her medical training often proved useful at home as well as at work, as she cared for family and friends.
On June 12, 2006, she married Paul D. Schweikle, who survives. Katie and Paul met at a singles’ game night at Katie’s church in Fort Wayne. Their first date was attending an Easter Vigil service at the Cathedral. (Paul likes to learn and experience first-hand how others celebrate their spirituality.) When Bishop D’Arcy walked by throwing holy water on the congregation from his aspergillum, the parishioners raised their hands. Katie ducked. Paul told her, “Well, so much for them not knowing we’re not Catholic!” Other dates were equally quirky, many involving exploring cemeteries, a favorite genealogical pastime of hers. They enjoyed attending services at Temple Achduth Vesholom in Fort Wayne on more than one occasion. Paul and Katie would have celebrated their 20th anniversary eight days after her death.
Katie’s interests were many. Recognizing the importance of our civic and Christian responsibilities, she took a keen interest in politics, fighting hard for the ‘least of these’ – the poor, the hungry, the homeless, those needing access to health care, the refugee, and the ‘other’ – those marginalized for their race, religion, sexual orientation, or disabilities. She smiled through constant pain from MS, which instilled in her empathy for others’ struggles. That being the case, she was a fervent progressive Democrat, boldly displaying as her Facebook profile picture ‘Proud To Be Everything The Right Wing Hates.’
Though Katie had a heart of gold, she had no tolerance for willfully ignorant people. Raised Mennonite, she adopted her husband’s closely-aligned spirituality, and they were both lay Quaker ministers as members of Ohio Valley Yearly Meeting, The Religious Society of Friends (Hicksite). Katie always helped anyone in need, no questions asked, no matter how little she had herself.
Katie was a lover of books (heaven help you if you got her near a bookshop) and had a flair for writing. She was a woman of sharp wit, a loving nature, and was an ‘old soul,’ traits which bonded her to her husband as truly best friends and soulmates. Though years younger than Paul, her knowledge of events and culture of the sixties and seventies was as if she had lived through those times. Also uniting them was the intense interest both had in politics, history, genealogy (she was a relative of the Cadburys and was excited about her descent from British royals and her relationship to literary figures), and the preservation of historical architecture. Both were also Anglophiles – she a tea connoisseur and a fan of Britcoms, especially As Time Goes By – and were fortunate to be able to visit the U.K. on their honeymoon, including a stay in Katie’s ancestral hometown of Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, where a local character during an historical reenactment replied, “A pox on your ancestors!” when she told him they were Lancastrians during The Wars of the Roses.
Her favorites in the entertainment industry were George Michael, BTS, Elton John, Hugh Grant, and the M*A*S*H TV series, and she appreciated any Scotsman in a kilt.
Preceding her in death were her parents; both of her siblings, Bill and Bob, and a stillborn son, Charles Douglas Schweikle.
She leaves behind, devastated by her loss, her husband; her two children, Ashleigh Lela Christine (Andrew) Parsons and Samuel Elliott (Brandy Sloan) Schweikle; her beloved granddaughters, Ashlyne Hosler, Eden Hosler, Victoria “Teddy” Parsons, Charlotte Schweikle, and Amelia “Zuzu” Schweikle; her bonus daughter, Michelle Spangler; her longtime friends, Liam Andrews and LaLeasha Frank, all of Van Wert, her adoptive mother, Karen (Beukema) (Dave) Haire of New Carlisle, Indiana; numerous nephews and nieces, and her cat, Jack.
Katie’s children and grandchildren each meant the world to her. She was always there to listen and give sage counsel, cherishing every moment together, and insisted on sacrificing to shower them with gifts at Christmas. But her most important gift was the love she poured out on them, and they loved their Mom and Grammy in return.
Woozle always looked after and fought for her Pooh. She was his partner, his greatest love, and he will love her for all eternity.
A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 20, at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, with visitation one hour prior to the service.
Preferred donations in her memory may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation.
POSTED: 06/15/26 at 8:14 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Paul D. Ross, 79, of Convoy, passed away on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Lutheran Hospital of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He was born on May 16, 1947, in Decatur, Indiana, the son of Lee Ross and Beatrice Lulu (Krugh) Ross, who both preceded him in death. On September 11, 1971, Paul married Emma P. (Lautzenheiser) Ross who passed away on January 10, 2012.
Paul is survived by one son, Andrew Ross of Convoy; one brother, Lanny (Mary Ellen) Ross of Fort Wayne, Indiana and one sister, Rosemary Charleston of Van Wert; many nieces and nephews, and many great nieces and great nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; his daughter, Amy Marie Ross; three brothers, Lowell J. Ross, Kenneth Ross and Keith Ross, and one sister, Irene Tumbleson.
Paul was a 1965 graduate of Rockford High School and worked at the General Dynamics Plant in Lima. He was a member of the Bible Fellowship Church in Paulding, and was avid RCA Airplane operator. Paul proudly served in the U.S. Air Force.
Funeral services for Paul will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, June 18, at at Cowan & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Van Wert, with Pastor Brent Roth officiating. There will be visitation for family and friends from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials: Bible Fellowship Church of Paulding.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 06/15/26 at 10:29 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Roger D. Youtsey, 88, of rural Ohio City, passed away Sunday morning, June 14, 2026, surrounded by his family following a brief illness.
He was born on July 31, 1937, in Van Wert the son of Hanklin and Velmah (Vance) Youtsey. On September 4, 1964, he married the former Suzanne (Spray) Youtsey who survives. Also surviving is one son, Rodney Youtsey and daughter-in-law Lisa of rural Ohio City and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by several brothers and sisters.
Roger worked for G.V. Wyandt Construction as a carpenter, then later worked and retired from Aeroquip Corp. in Van Wert after 25 years of faithful service. Following retirement, he and Suzanne owned and operated R&S Tack for over 20 years.
He enjoyed training and showing horses for many years. He spent many happy hours taking care of his yard, playing cards and watching vintage western movies. He also enjoyed his many pets. Roger was a loving husband and father and will be deeply missed.
The family wishes to express a sincere “thank you” to the Wren EMS and the nurses and doctors at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital.
No services will be held at this time.
Preferred memorials: Wren Fire & EMS.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 06/15/26 at 8:08 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Malcolm J. (Mal) Banta, 77, of Englewood, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 7, 2026, while in the care of Tidewell Hospice in Venice, Florida.
Malcolm was born November 17, 1948, to Robert Malcolm and Julia Waneeta Banta of Geneva, Indiana.
Malcolm is survived by his wife of 55 years Betty Jo (Allison) Banta of Englewood, Florida; a daughter, Dawn (David) Knezic of Bridgman, Michigan; a son, Travis (Megan) and three granddaughters Addison, Avery, and Harper Banta of Naples, Florida.
Malcolm was a 1966 graduate of Geneva High School in Geneva. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1968 and was part of the 101st Airborne Division. He proudly served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1970. He received the Bronze Star Medal and was also a Purple Heart recipient. He returned home in 1970 and returned to work at General Electric in Decatur, Indiana. While at General Electric, he held various positions. He was a foreman when the plant closed in 1989. Prior to the plant closing he received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Indiana University. After General Electric closed its operations in Decatur, Malcolm was hired as the vice-president of operations for Pemco Die-Casting in Bridgman, Michigan, where he was employed for 10 years until he and Betty moved to Holland, Michigan, and he became vice-president of operations for Gallant Inc. in Zeeland, Michigan, until he retired in 2006.
After retirement in 2007, Malcolm and Betty moved to Rotonda, Florida, then to Englewood.
Malcolm loved God, his country that he fought for, and his family most of all. Malcolm enjoyed reading the Bible, studying history, was an avid Chicago Bears fan and enjoyed fishing, boating, and working outdoors.
Malcolm was a member of several organizations — Masons, Scottish Rite, Shriners, American Legion, Moose, and the Elks.
He was preceeded in death by his father and mother; a brother, (Gregory) Mark Banta of Geneva; two sisters-in-law, Linda (Allison) Baer of Convoy and Beckie (Werling) Allison of Fremont, Indiana. Also surviving are a sister-in-law, Beverly Allison of Convoy; three brothers-in-law, Robert (Kay) Allison, of Norfolk, Virginia, Paul Allison of Fremont, Indiana, and Charles Baer of Convoy, and many nieces and nephews and their families.
Interment with a military service will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to Tidewell Hospice in Venice, Florida.
To plant trees in memory, visit the Sympathy Store.
POSTED: 06/14/26 at 6:44 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Louise C. Showalter, 96, of Ohio City, passed away Wednesday evening, June 10, 2026, at Hearth & Home in Van Wert.
She was born at home on November 21, 1929, in rural Pleasant Township, the daughter of George Hofmann and Edna (Dietrich) Hofmann, who both preceded her in death. On November 4, 1950, she married Byron Wayne Showalter, who preceded her in death on January 28, 2020. They were married for 69 years.
Louise is survived by her three children, Anita (Larry) Gentry, Bruce (Beth) Showalter, and Christina (Michael) Heldwein; seven grandchildren, Stephanie Showalter, Ashley (Chris) Day, Bea Smith, Ben (Ashley) Showalter, Laura Gentry, Joshua (Amber) Heldwein and Grace Heldwein; six great-grandchildren, Kaileigh Gentry, Mackenzie Morgan, Will (Kasey) Sharpe, Mason (Ariana) Doster, Alex Showalter and Fallan Schisler, and a great-great-grandchild, William Eddie Sharpe.
In addition to her parents, Louise was preceded in death by her sisters; Elsie Selking, Ella Jackson and Delores Whitcraft, and a brother, Oscar Hofmann.
Louise was a 1947 graduate of Van Wert High School. She was a lifelong member of St. Thomas Lutheran Church serving in various roles through the years in Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, Sunday school, weekday school, Ladies Aid, the choir and quilting. Having previously worked at Central Insurance and The Marsh Foundation, she then worked for many years at Freund’s Nursery where she lived out her love for gardening. Louise was also a proud member of the Wren Garden Club. In her spare time she enjoyed sewing, traveling, baking, and playing cards with friends.
The family is very appreciative to a special caregiver, Cherie, who faithfully continued to visit Louise even after she moved to Hearth and Home.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, June 15, at St. Thomas Lutheran Church with Rev. Roger Peters officiating. Internment will follow at Evangelical Protestant Cemetery. There will be visitation at Cowan & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, June 14, and from 10 a.m. until time of service on Monday at the church.
Preferred memorials: St. Thomas Lutheran Church, Worship Anew and Ohio City Fire & EMS.
Online condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 06/12/26 at 8:43 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Stephen Dean Snyder, of Oxford, Ohio, a deeply devoted father, husband, civic leader, and one of Miami University’s most dedicated servant-leaders, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 9, 2026. He was 75 years old.
Born in Van Wert, Ohio, on January 29, 1951, to Dewane and Kathryn Snyder, Steve grew up in the tight-knit community of Middle Point, Ohio. He graduated from Lincolnview High School in Van Wert County before embarking on a lifelong journey that would forever intertwine his legacy with Miami University in Oxford.
Steve earned both his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and his Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from Miami University, establishing a profound attachment to the institution that defined his professional and personal life. Steve’s remarkable 41-year career at Miami University epitomized dedication as he rose from an undergraduate student to administrative leader of the institution.
He began his career in 1970 as a student dishwasher at the Shriver Center. Through his acumen and an enduring love for the university, Steve steadily advanced through numerous key roles, including graduate assistant in the Department of Management, night manager/associate program director, assistant director, and director of the Shriver Center. His versatile leadership was further utilized as director of conference services and community relations, then as executive assistant to the president and secretary to the Miami Board of Trustees, leaving an indelible mark on the university’s governance. Also, on two distinct occasions, Steve stepped forward to serve the university as interim athletic director. Steve ultimately retired from Miami University, but continued to contribute to the university as the president of the Miami Alumni Association.
Beyond Miami University, Steve was exceptionally devoted to the broader Oxford community, devoting decades of service to local government and civic organizations. He served with distinction on the Oxford City Council and later as mayor of Oxford. His civic footprint included roles as the Miami University Liaison to the Oxford Chamber of Commerce board of directors, a member of the Coalition for a Healthy Community, and a dedicated member of the Lions Club. Deeply committed to regional philanthropy and healthcare, Steve served as a member and president of the Oxford Community Foundation Board of Directors, and as a trustee and chair of the McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital Foundation Board of Trustees. Upon stepping down from the hospital foundation board, his transformative impact was beautifully summarized by his peers: “His leadership, vision, and commitment were instrumental in the successful expansion of the Foundation throughout the past decade.”
Steve’s greatest joy came from the relationships he cherished with his family and friends, and nothing brought him greater happiness than traveling alongside those he held dear. He found peace and joy on the Carolina beaches, spent many content hours on the golf course, and cherished every moment spent in Oxford and his beloved Miami University. Those who knew him well will fondly remember his vibrant spirit and his enthusiastic appreciation for good craft beer.
Steve’s legacy of love, leadership, and laughter lives on through his family.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Deb Snyder; his devoted daughters, Erica Morris (husband Jay Morris) of Greenville, North Carolina, and Lora Snyder (husband René Sejas Aramayo) of Washington, D.C., and his three adored granddaughters, Katie Morris, Cara Morris, and Lita Sejas Snyder, who brought immense light to his life. He also leaves behind a wide circle of longtime friends, former colleagues, and a community immeasurably bettered by his service.
Visitation will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 13, at Paul R. Young Funeral Home, 5086 College Corner Pike, Oxford. A memorial service will immediately follow at 12 p.m. at the same location. A celebration of life will be held from 1:30-4 p.m. the same day at the Oxford Country Club, 6200 Contreras Rd.
In lieu of flowers, online memorial contributions may be made to Oxford Community Foundation, McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital Foundation or Miami University Inside Washington.
Online condolences may be shared on the Tribute Wall at www.paulyoungfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 06/11/26 at 1:14 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Kent Joseph “Smokey” Myers, 70, of Convoy, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Vancrest of Delphos.
Born on September 30, 1955, in Decatur, Indiana, Kent was the son of Cleva Jane (Weaver) Myers and Joseph “Toby” Myers.
A graduate of Crestview High School, he retired from CCT after many years of dedicated work. He was also a proud member of the Convoy Fox Hunters Club and served on the Edgewood Park Board.
Kent was known for his larger-than-life personality, strong opinions, and unwavering devotion to his family. It was a running family joke that he was always willing to “help” with a project. Usually sitting nearby, enthusiastically directing everyone else on exactly how it should be done. He loved being in charge and was never shy about sharing his advice.
He was also famous for always knowing what was going on. Thanks to his police scanner and close eye on the weather, he was often the first person to know about a storm, an accident, or the latest news around town, and he made sure everyone else knew, too. Everything he did came from a place of love and concern for the people he cared about.
Kent enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, and spending time with family. More than anything, his greatest accomplishment and source of pride was his family. His daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly the light of his life.
He is survived by his daughter, Sommer Lynn Myers; grandchildren, Derek (Marissa) Coil and Gracie Sue Morgan; great-grandchildren, Jonah, Gemma, and Marina Coil; siblings, Jeff (Darlene) Myers and Juli (Steve) Dietrich, and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Kent will be remembered for his fierce love, generous heart, stubborn determination, and the countless phone calls just checking in. His family will forever miss the comfort of knowing someone was always looking out for them.
Visitation will be held from 2-7 p.m. Thursday, June 11, and from 9-10 a.m. Friday, June 12, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, June 12, at the funeral home, with Pastor Steve Drake, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Though Kent’s voice may be quiet now, those who loved him will hear it in every act of love done in service to who he cared about.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Convoy Fox Hunters Club or Edgewood Park.
POSTED: 06/09/26 at 3:20 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Don T. Carter, 84, of Van Wert, Ohio died June 3, 2026 at his home.
He was born September 14, 1941, in New Boston, Ohio and he was the son of Don and Maxine (Pickens) Carter, who both preceded her in death. On May 27, 1967, Don married the former Linda “Ann” Evans, who preceded him in death on January 11, 2017.
Don moved to the Van Wert area in 1970. He worked for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources as a game warden, then a wildlife investigator, until retirement. Don was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert. He was also a member of the Van Wert Elks Lodge 1197, and the Van Wert Loyal Order of Moose 1320. Don was a PAL league football coach for many years. He was an avid golfer, who loved every opportunity to spend time outdoors. But most of all, Don dearly loved his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He loved spending time with his family and friends, especially time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Surviving are Don’s children, Samuel L. (Mary) Carter of Beloit, Wisconsin, Karen L. (Todd) Wise of Chillicothe, Gail M. (Greg) Eibling of Van Wert, and Matthew D. (Ashli) Carter of London, Ohio; 13 grandchildren, Noah Carter, Annie Carter, Jacob D’Amico, Zachary D’Amico, Isaac D’Amico, Tylor Pruden, Morgan (Wes) Collins, Peyton Eibling, Andrew Carter, Samuel Carter, Jack Carter, Benjamin Carter, and Bobby Champion; and seven-great-grandchildren, Ella, Adalynn, Liam, Sophia, Brixton, Jett, and Wrenlee.
In addition to his wife, Ann, and his parents, Don was preceded in death by his siblings and multiple in-law family members.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, June 10, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, with Father Chris Bohnsack officiating. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.
Visitation will be held from 2-7 p.m. Tuesday, June 9, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 South Washington Street, Van Wert. A Rosary service will be held at 6:45 p.m. Tuesday evening at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 06/04/26 at 5:28 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Marjorie “Marge” Kathyrn Eschbach, 100, of Van Wert passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.
She was born October 9, 1925, in Oceanside, San Diego, California the daughter of Scott Walter Wheeler and Bessie M. Potter Wheeler.
In addition to her parents, Marge was preceded in death by her brothers, Walter, Marcella, and Charles; and her sisters, Florence, Ona, Melissa and Margaret.
While living in Oceanside, California, Marge loved dressing up in the latest fashions with her twin sister Margaret. During World War II, Marge joined the USO at Camp Pendleton and enjoyed learning the newest dances to show servicemen who were shipping out to war. It was here she met her husband, Robert “Bob” Eschbach. She promised to wait for him while he served in the Pacific Theater. After he returned from Iwo Jima, they were married on June 20, 1946, and then moved back to Van Wert where Bob’s family was from.
A lifelong homemaker, Marge was a devoted reader. She was a frequent patron at the Brumback Library and instilled a deep love of reading in her children and grandchildren. Marge loved being outside and could often be seen walking around Van Wert. She also enjoyed traveling, spending time with her family, and talking about current events. Her laugh was infectious and she loved a good story.
Marge is survived by four daughters, Sandra (Robert) Dyer of Oroville, California, Maggie (Glen) Kill of Landeck, Melody (Phil) Akerman of Van Wert and Rosalinda (Tony) Decurtins of Ontario, California; a son, Jason Eschbach of Van Wert; eight grandchildren, Charles Dyer, Eric Dyer, Kitty Kill, Kody (Trista) Kill, Kandi (Tony) Graham, Ashley (Krisha) Akerman, Tara (Ryan) Fox, and Austin (Jess) Eschbach; and eight great-grandchildren, Levon, Delainey, Wells, Goldie, Birdie, Waylin, Bowen and Wytton.
Private services will be held at a later date at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 06/04/26 at 5:20 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Dorcas G. Merkle, 88, of Ohio City, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at her home surrounded by family.
She was born on February 10, 1938, the daughter of Paul W. Troyer and Luella (Hooley) Troyer, who both preceded her in death. She was married on March 10, 2001, to John Merkle who survives.
Dorcas was a member of Calvary Evangelical Church where she was a part of the Builders Sunday School class. She loved doing many activities such as gardening, baking, reading and sending out greeting cards. After retirement as a relator in Arizona, she dedicated her life to service. She joined Youth With A Mission (YWAM), and began missionary work. Later she became a part of Mercy Ships, where she met John and continued to serve along the western coast of Africa.
She is survived by her two children, Doug Yoder and Melissa (Jon) Nachtigal; step-children, Audrey (Mark) Luebkemann, Darryl (Brooke) Merkle, Clark (Angie) Merkle, Victoria (Charles) Carpenter and Becky (Dean) Siler; 12 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sister, Eunice Chupp; brothers, Paul Troyer, David Troyer, Walter Troyer and Burl Troyer, along with many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Dorcas was preceded in death by her brother, Delton Troyer.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Preferred memorials: Mercy Ships and CHP Hospice.
Online condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 06/04/26 at 5:14 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
