Recent Obituaries

Obituary Archives


Pamela Sue Ufferman Toney, age 52, of Mount Gilead and formerly of Columbus, passed away early Thursday morning, July 29, 2010, following a courageous two year battle with cancer at home with her family and friends at her bedside.
       
On August 25, 1957, Pamela was born in Mount Gilead, Ohio, the daughter of the late Harry and Cary (Hawk) Ufferman.  Raised in Morrow County, Pam graduated from Highland High School in Sparta, in the Class of 1975.  After working for several years, she returned to school and graduated from the Knox County Career Center School of Practical Nursing in October of 1991, and shortly thereafter received her Nursing license.
       
Having a heart of gold, Pam loved working with and caring for the elderly throughout her years.  For many years, she was employed by Wesley Glen Retirement Community on High Street in Columbus, as their Clinic Nurse Manager, where she oversaw the health and wellness of Independent Living Residents.  Her love for the elderly brightened her life and gave her strength with their stories and experiences they shared.

For Pam, her grandchildren were her world and the light of her life.  She loved watching them play sports and rarely missed a game.
       
With a love for the ocean, Pam loved going to the beach and most especially to Dayton Beach in Florida.  You could often find her walking along the beach before sunrise collecting shells and watching the sun come up.  She even recently experienced the thrill of parasailing with her daughter.
       
Pamela will be dearly missed by her son and daughter-in-law, Gabe and Karrie Horlacher of Mount Gilead, and their children: Courtney, Dylan and Evan; her daughter, Liz Price of Mount Gilead, and her son, Caleb; three brothers: Randy (Pam) Ufferman of Fredericktown, Terry (Wanda) Ufferman of Marengo, and Dave (Liz) Ufferman of Cardington; a sister, Barb (Bob) Castner of North Carolina; several nephews, great nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and very dear and special friends: Kim, Laura, Crissy, Brenda, Stefani, Bonnie and Donna; all her friends and extended family from Wesley Glen; and her former husband and friend, Clarence Keckler.
       
Many thanks are extended for the multitude of cards, love and support from Wesley Glen residents and staff.  Also, thanks to her physicians: Dr. Matyas, Dr. Gastoldo, Dr. Duff, Dr. Lippert, and Dr. Hofmeister, who worked hard to allow her to live longer with treatments.  Lastly, thanks to Hospice of Morrow County for their special care and patience in her last weeks.
       
Her family will greet friends from 2 – 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 1, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 N. Main St., Mount Gilead.  Memorial services celebrating her life will immediately follow at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Don Lockwood officiating.  Burial will take place at a later date.
       
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Morrow County, 228 South St., Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Pam’s family you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Thomas G. “Tom” Neviska, age 76, of Mount Gilead and formerly of Columbus, died early Wednesday morning, July 28, 2010, at his residence surrounded by his family following a courageous five year battle with cancer.
         
On June 5, 1934, Tom was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, the son of the late Thomas and Etta (Pouliot) Neviska.
         
A proud veteran, Tom enlisted in the U. S. Navy serving four years as a cook during the Korean Conflict with Construction Battalion 20.  He later transferred to the U.S. Air Force to serve another four years as a gas generation plant operator, and was a part of their reserve program for eighteen more years.  For over thirty four years, Tom worked for the Federal Government in the Newark Air Force Station, and later he transferred to the Defense Supply Center in Columbus to work as an equipment specialist.  He retired in 1989.  Tom was a life member of the AmVets, Seabee Veterans of America, V.F.W. and American Legion.
         
For the past twenty three years, Tom has been with the love of his life, Pamela Wise-Neviska of Mount Gilead.  They were married on August 18, 2005, by their son-in-law, Pastor Russ Nelson.
         
With a love for traveling, Tom and Pam took twelve wonderful trips to Cancun and many fun trips to Las Vegas together.  An avid golfer, Tom enjoyed being a member and playing at Pine Lakes Golf Course for many years.  Casting a line “anywhere there were fish”, Tom especially loved to fish at Lake Erie.

Beating all odds, Tom was given three months to live nearly five years ago.  He has fought his cancer with every ounce of his being, to spend more time with his beloved wife and family.
         
He will be dearly missed by his wife, Pam Neviska of Mount Gilead; son, Timothy (Mary) Neviska of Marengo, and their children: Samantha, Tristan, Reagan, and Cassidy; daughter, Tammie Neviska of Columbus, and her daughter, Ashley Gordon; step daughter, Delisa (Pastor Russ) Nelson of Fostoria, and their daughters: Paige and Makenzie; brother, Leo Neviska of Phoenix City, Alabama.
         
Including his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Thomas Neviska III; and a sister, Kay Neviska.
         
Tom’s family will greet friends from 5 – 7 p.m. on Friday, July 30, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 N. Main St., Mount Gilead.  A memorial service celebrating his life will be held there on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. with Pastors Russ Nelson and John Shirley and Father Jerry Stulka officiating.  Military honors provided by the V.F.W. Post 8054 and AmVets Post 87 will follow in Rivercliff Cemetery.
         
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Morrow County or to the American Cancer Society and they may be sent in care of the funeral home.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Tom’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.

 


DONNA RUTH GREEN BOYCE
1941 – 2010

Survived by loving husband of 52 years, Burgess Boyce.

Preceded in death by:  Parents, Donald and Edith Green; Infant twin sons, Larry and Gary Boyce; and Sister, Carol Donaldson.

Survived by:  Son, Michael Alan Boyce and wife Rosie of Ashley, Ohio; Son, Mark Anthony Boyce and wife Gina of Johnstown, OH; Daughter, Michelle Annette Elfrink and husband Ed of Hilliard, OH; and Son, Matthew Adam Boyce of Marengo, OH.

Seven grandchildren:  Jason Boyce, Amber Boyce (Scott) Prine, Alisha Boyce (Shon) Partin, Rachel Boyce, Mark Boyce, Jr., Erin Elfrink, and Nicholas Elfrink.

And six great grandchildren:  Hunter Boyce, Delayne Boyce, Hailey Boyce, Gage Partin, Jada Partin, and Liam Prine.

Also survived by:  Brothers: Allen Green of Logan, OH; Larry (Charlotte) Green of Columbus, OH;  Gary Green of Westerville, OH; Sisters: Dorothy (Pete) Howard of Grove City, OH;   Sharon (Gary) Robertson of Columbus, OH;  Karen (Bill) Sharp of Bremen, OH.

Friends may call Friday from 1-3:00 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury where services will follow at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Chris Mason officiating, interment Cheshire Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


F. Ray Tolbert, age 81, of Mount Gilead died Monday, July 26, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center.
     
He was born on March 7, 1929 in Carrier Mills, Illinois, the son of the late Esco and Nora (Radford) Tolbert.
     
After graduating from high school in Illinois, Ray continued his education at Carnegie Institute in Cleveland where he received his certification as a medical lab technician.  He used his new found skills at Bucyrus Community Hospital, Morrow County Hospital, and was retired from Doctor’s North in Columbus.  Even after retirement Ray could not sit still.  He began working as a clerk at the Mount Gilead, Kroger where he was employed for 10 years.  Ray also proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean War as a medic.  He was a member of the V.F.W. and the American Legion.  A man of great faith, Ray was a member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Mount Gilead for over 30 years.
     
On September 20, 1958 he married Patricia Atkinson at the United Brethren Church in Bucyrus.  They lived there in Bucyrus for over 30 years before moving to Mount Gilead.  Ray and Pat’s friendship and devotion have spanned over 50 years!
     
While Ray’s on call schedule kept him busy with work, he found time to read and enjoy his county music.  He especially loved reading Western’s and he and Pat would go to concerts together in West Virginia.  Ray’s favorite country music star was George Jones.  Ray was a true cat lover and he had a special fondness for a black cat named Ellie.

He will be missed by his wife Patricia of Cardington; their two sons Randall Ray and his wife Susan of Greenfield, Massachusetts and Michael W. of Kissimmee, Florida; 5 grandchildren Andrew, Shane, Evan, Emily, and Meghan; nephews William Jones and his wife Janet of El Dorado, Illinois and Steven Tolbert and his wife Diane of New Albany, Ohio; and nieces Lynda Nelson and her husband Terry of White Fish, Montana, Sheila Cline and her husband Lee of South Gate, Michigan, and Nancy Hepe and her husband John of Westland, Michigan.
     
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son Jeffrey L. in 2003 and his twin sister Dana Faye; twin sisters Aileen Jones and Pauline Craig; sister Dorothy Keller; and his brother Esco Tolbert.
     
A Memorial service will be held on Friday, July 30, 2010 at 11:00 AM at Trinity United Methodist Church, 75 East High Street, Mount Gilead, with Pastor Charles Graham officiating.  Burial with full military honors conducted by the V.F.W. Post #8054 and AmVets Post #87 will take place at Rivercliff Cemetery.  Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the church.

Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead have been entrusted with the arrangements.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Ray’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.
 


Donald L. Hedrick, age 77, of Mount Gilead, died early Tuesday morning, July 20, 2010, at Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus following a brief illness.
       
On November 20, 1932, Don was born in Edison, Ohio, the son of the late Everett and Iva Mae (Harden) Hedrick.  He graduated from Edison High School in the Class of 1950.
       
Shortly following graduation, Don enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp. to help protect his fellow soldiers and his country during the Korean Conflict.  He served from 1951 to 1954, and had been stationed in Japan, earning the rank of Sergeant and several medals.  After his honorable discharge from the Marines, Don returned to Morrow County and began working as a fabrication welder for North Electric in Galion.  Later, he worked for ITT and lastly for PECO II, from where he retired in 1997.  He was a member of the Galion Moose Lodge.
       
One evening, while attending a dance at a family members home, Don’s life was forever changed after one dance, the Tennessee Waltz, with Nancy Lou Chubb.  They were married soon thereafter in Winchester, Virginia, on April 24, 1965.  They would share over thirty-three wonderful years of marriage together.  She preceded him in death on December 10, 1998.
       
With a deep love for music that began at an early age, Don often “lost track of time” when he was playing his guitar into the early hours of the morning with his friends.  A great singer, his bass singing voice went best with the music of his favorite singer, Johnny Cash.  He enjoyed playing “all the time” and was proud to help his nephew, Rick Watkins, get started learning to play the guitar so they could continue playing together.  Back in the 1960’s, Don and his brother, Doug, “got the itch” and purchased their first motorcycles.  He shared a love for the open road, first with Nancy, and later with his daughter, Connie, who will forever be proud to have been able to ride motorcycles with her father.  Aboard his “dressed up” motorcycle, Don was best at finding an ice cream store to ride to, and he managed to find an ice cream store “every time”.  An avid woodworker, Don could help make most any craft Nancy would want.  Together they enjoyed making things, such as white reindeer, pumpkins, sleighs and so much more to help decorate their and others yards.  Later, he shared his love for woodworking with his nephew, Michael Watkins, and they often teased they started their own “Amish garage” because of all they were able to make.  Always sitting on his front porch, Don loved being a part of the neighborhood and being able to save a few pennies by not using his electricity.  Having a bright mind, Don was able to retain even the most minute details of most anything he read.  Further, he greatly enjoyed sharing all of those details to his family and friends, and they would emphasize that he did share all of the details.  With his love for details, Don enjoyed putting together model semis and most any puzzle.  With the “sons he never had”, Don looked forward to his daily trips to Ryan’s Steakhouse in Marion.  He went so often that his young granddaughters even figured out that it was the “place you go to eat with Grandpa and get tired”.  He was also grateful for his niece, Linda Jenkins, who always looked after him and brought him food when he didn’t go to Ryan’s.  “Simple” and “laid back” were words that aptly described Don, though the words that best described him were “loving” and “supportive” as he was the best father and grandfather his family could have ever asked for.  A proud patriot, Don was an avid supporter of most veteran organizations and he continued to feel honored to have served his beloved country.
       
Don will be dearly missed by his two daughters: Connie (fiancé Jason Medenwald) Jeffries of Mount Gilead, and her three children: Nathan (Rachelle) Newson of Mount Gilead, Aimee (Kevin) Case of Delaware, and Colton Carter of Mount Gilead; and Michelle (Mark) Hamet of Hilliard, and her two daughters: Michaela and Maddie Hamet; two great-grandchildren: Abram and Amelia Newson; and several nieces and nephews.
       
Including his wife and parents, Don was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas Hedrick; two sisters: Orpha Watkins and Marilyn Seitz; and a special friend, Beverly Walsh Johnson.
       
His family will greet friends from 4 - 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 22, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 N. Main St., Mount Gilead. Memorial services celebrating his life will be held there on Friday at 11:00 a.m. with Don Kelley ministering.  Burial with military honors provided by V.F.W. Post 8054 and Am Vets Post 87 will follow in Rivercliff Cemetery.
       
Memorial contributions may be made to the Morrow County Veterans Service Office or to the Disabled American Veterans, and they may be sent in care of the funeral home.
       
For those wishing to express their condolences to Donald's family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Pauline Ruth Shultz Culver, age 94 of Sunbury passed away Monday, July 19, 2010 at Country View of Sunbury.

She was born in Waynesfield on July 13, 1916 to the late Bernard Leroy and Elsie Paulena (Bailey) Shultz, but spent the majority of her life in the Galena/ Sunbury area. Mrs. Culver was a 1934 graduate of Galena High School and a 1937 graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University, where she majored in education. During her time at Ohio Wesleyan University she participated in Kappa Delta Phi, Bible Club, Women’s Athletic Assoc., Orchesis, as well as the Debate and Oratory Club. She studied further at The Ohio State University, Utah State, and the University of Nevada.

Pauline taught school at the Centerburg, Tipp City, Sunbury, Galena, Big Walnut, Buckeye Valley and East Knox Schools, where she was designated teacher of the year.  She was a life member of the Ohio Retired Teachers Association.

A woman of faith, she enjoyed teaching Sunday school and directing the junior choir at the Galena United Methodist Church, where she was a member for 82 years.  She also enjoyed gospel music, was an avid sports enthusiast, and devoted fan of The Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds. She believed love and kindness to be the most essential parts of life and possessed those qualities to the very end.  She dearly loved  her family and friends.

She is survived by children: Carol (E. Clark) Wood of Galena, Anita (Thomas O.) Wolverton of Columbus, Brent (Marge) Culver of Delaware, Grandchildren: Curtis (Donna) Lohr, Dwight (Terri) Lohr, Deanna (Pascal) Wolverton-Paeseler, Clinton and Andrew Wolverton, Bryce and Kelsey Culver, numerous Great-grandchildren, sister: Florence (Nash) of Florida, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Pauline was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years: Arthur Moore Culver Jr., who died on May 4, 2001, brother John W. (Esther) Shultz, sisters: Hetty (Glenn) Harroun, Dorothy (Dr. Leo) Stone, and brother-in-law: Howard Nash.

Special thanks to friend and caregiver Cathy Vorus and the caring staff at Country View Care Center.

Her family will welcome friends Thursday 5-8 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury.  A service celebrating the life of Pauline will be held Friday 10:30 a.m. at the Galena United Methodist Church, 2777 Sunbury Rd., Galena, Ohio 43021 with Rev. Jeff Croft officiating.  Burial will follow in Sunbury Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions can be made to Galena United Methodist Church.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Robert Eugene Arnett, age 77 of Marengo passed away Saturday,  July 17, 2010 at his home.

He was born in Raven, Virginia on November 21, 1932 to the late Garrett Arnett and Edith (Hughes) Childress.  Robert was a decorated Korean War veteran, who proudly served his nation as a Sergeant in the US Army in the 27th Regiment, 25th Infantry 506th Battalion of the 101st Airborne Division. He was an longtime member of VFW Post #8054, serving in the color guard for many years.  He retired from the Kroger Bakery in Columbus, Ohio after 25 years.

A member of Chester Masonic Lodge No 238, his hobbies included fishing, horse racing, gardening, camping, and debating politics.  He was a fan of the Cincinnati Reds, Bengals, and classic movies. As one who read the encyclopedia, he possessed a vast knowledge of numerous subjects.

He was a good cook who believed in doing things the right way. Forthright, intelligent, and always honest, he was a good generous person, who will be remembered for his love of family.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 49 years Ann (Damron), daughters Angie Arnett of New York, Amy (Aaron) Arnett-Tomasek of Wooster, son Gary (Barbara) Dryden of Alabama, 6 Grandchildren: Keoana, Bella, Izzy, Tycho, Chris, Belinda, and 4 Great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by brothers: Garrett Jr. and Barney Arnett, and a sister Maxine Tuttle.

Friends may call Tuesday 6-8 p.m. with Masonic Services 8:00 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury, where a service celebrating the life of Robert Arnett will be held Wednesday 11:00 a.m.. Burial with full military honors will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery near Chesterville.

Memorial contributions can be made to Morrow County Hospice, 228 South St., Mt. Gilead, Ohio 43338.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com

 


Opal J. Lawless, age 89 of Centerburg passed away Saturday, July 17, 2010 surrounded by her family at Heartland of Centerburg.

She was born on April 24, 1921 in Greenville, SC to the late Joseph J. and Martha J. (Ellison) Sparks. She moved to Centerburg in 1974 from Russell Springs, KY and had worked in the textile mills of Greenville, South Carolina. Opal retired from the Salyer’s Nursing Home, now Heartland of Centerburg, where she worked in the laundry department and as a cook.

A member of the First Baptist Church of Russell Spring’s, KY, she enjoyed crocheting, flower gardening, and collecting owls and hummingbirds. A wonderful cook, her table was always open and she was known for her southern cooking and homemade biscuit’s. Known as a “People Person”, she dearly loved her husband, children, and grandchildren.

Beginning as a WW II romance, she married Roy Lawless, who was her husband and the love of her life for 28 years; he proceeded in death on Sept. 30, 1973. Two brothers, five sisters, and a great-grandson also precede her in death.

She is survived by children: David (Lillian) Lawless of Mt. Vernon, Nancy Lawless, Becky (Donnie) Ramey, Phil (Linda) Lawless all of Centerburg, Larry (Janette) Lawless of Howard, Jean (Roger) McConnell of Mt. Vernon, adopted daughter: Ella Mae (John) Rainey of Greenville, SC, 14 Grandchildren: Jeff, April, Nathan, Jason (Faith), Kelley (John), Traci (Rob), Gretchen, Travis (Sheena), Kendra, Casey (Mandy), Jordan (Kendra), Faith, Nickolas, Trisha, numerous Great-Grandchildren and Brother: Rev. Earnest (Ethel) Sparks of Beach Island, SC.

Friends may call Monday from 4:00-7:30 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR 3 at 61, Sunbury, where services will follow at 7:30 p.m.  Graveside funeral services will be Wednesday 2:00 p.m. at the Russell Springs Cemetery in Russell Springs, KY.

Memorial contributions can be made to Acclaim Hospice, 2800 Corporate Exchange Dr., Columbus, OH 43231.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Margaret L. Sanborn, age 82 of Marengo, passed away Wednesday evening, July 14, 2010 at Bennington Glen Care Center in Marengo.

She was born near Brilliant on August 19, 1927 to the late Raymond and Ora (Woode) Schaeffer. A graduate of Athens High School in 1946, she was once employed at the Columbus Blank Book Manufacturing Company. Coming from Columbus, she had resided in Morrow County since 1970.   A member of the Marengo United Methodist Church, she sang in the church choir and participated in the United Methodist Women’s Club. For 30 years she helped the American Red Cross with the Bloodmobile and Disaster Services. Because of her dedicated service to the Red Cross, she received the Clara Barton Award.

Her labor of love was sending beautifully hand decorated greeting cards for all occasions to her family members and friends. Devoted to every endeavor, she was a people person. A wonderful cook who’s table was always open, she will be remembered for her famous potato salad and Swiss steak. Margaret collected bells and was fan of the OSU Buckeye football and basketball teams. She also enjoyed bowling, playing cards, and was a fan of Tweety Bird.

She leaves to cherish her memory son: Frank (Denise) Sanborn of Woodstock; daughter: Teara (Kevin) Potter of Cardington; grandchildren: Christopher and Ashley Sanborn, brother Robert (Sandy) Schaeffer of Gahanna, sister Roberta Schaeffer of Columbus, nephew Kenneth Schaeffer and niece Kelly Keith.

She was preceded by her beloved husband of 59 years Franklin on August 18, 2007, brother Raymond Schaeffer, and sister Lucille Ries.

Friends may call Sunday from 2-5 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, 73 W. Walnut Street, Marengo. Funeral services will be held Monday 11 a.m. at the Marengo United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 8 N. Main St., Marengo, OH 43334 with Rev. Sue Antolik officiating. Graveside committal service will follow 2:30 p.m. in the Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Red Cross, Mt. Gilead Chapter, 37 W. Center Street, Mt. Gilead, Ohio 43338 or her church.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Willamine F. “Willy” Taylor, age 80, of Galion, died early Tuesday morning, July 13, 2010, at the MedCentral Hospital in Mansfield following a brief and unexpectedly illness.
         
On April 13, 1930, Willamine was born in Mount Gilead, the daughter of the late Weldon and Olive (George) Burns.
         
While growing up, Willy quickly found she had a special friend in her neighbor, Howard Taylor, whom she could even count to ride the school bus with.  Shortly after graduating from Mount Gilead High School with the Class of 1949, Willy and Howard were quickly married in Richmond, Indiana, on February 10, 1950, even before he graduated.  Together they have shared a deep love and respect for one another and their four children for over sixty years.
         
After working for a brief time, Willy lovingly stayed home to care for their children and home for several years until Howard was in an accident that left him unable to work.  As “the backbone of the family”, Willy did not think twice and found work at ITT in Galion where she worked for over fifteen years in the wiring department.  With her family, whenever trips were mentioned about either Lake Erie or Amish Country they knew “Willy would be in the car and ready” to go.  With a love for all animals, Willy always looked forward to when she could dog sit for her neighbor, whom she gladly spoiled.  Also, she had a firm belief in doing her part to make sure there was not an overpopulation of pets, so she would take all cats she could find to S.T.O.P., which stands for Stop the Overpopulation of Pets, Inc. in Lexington to have them spayed and neutered.  She also had two dear friends in her own cats, Blacky boy and Tiger.  Having a green thumb, Willy cared for and tended to a beautiful flower garden.  Whenever traveling with her daughter, they never missed an opportunity to stop at a flower shop because she knew she could find something her flower garden needed.  An avid reader, Willy could not wait to get her hands on the newspapers every day, especially the Morrow County Sentinel, or a good autobiography. 

For over the past ten years, Willy has been fighting many illnesses and her strength and courage has been an inspiration to all who knew her.  “She never complained” no matter how bad things were.
         
Willy will be dearly missed by her husband, Howard Taylor of Galion; four beloved children: Barbara Taylor of Columbus, Peggy Taylor of Pomona, California, Rick Taylor, and Kevin Taylor, both of Galion; three brothers: Dale (Sandy) Burns of Caledonia, Elton (Nancy) Burns of Mount Gilead, and Larry Burns of Cardington; and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and close friends.
         
Including her parents, Willy was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law: Bernadine and Earl Brubaker; and her brother, Martin Burns.
         
The Taylor family will greet friends from 2 – 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 18, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 N. Main St., Mount Gilead.  Services celebrating her life will be held there on Monday at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place at a later date in Iberia Cemetery.
         
Rather than flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mount Gilead Public Library or to S.T.O.P. (Stop the Overpopulation of Pets), and they may be sent in care of the funeral home.
         
For those wishing to express their condolences to Willy’s family online, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Cathryn W. Wilson, age 86 of Sunbury passed away Monday evening, July 12, 2010 at Friendship Village of Columbus.
She was born on September 2, 1923 in Amesville, Ohio to the late T.J. and Nellie (Byers) White. After graduating from Ohio University, she worked as a home economics school teacher.

On July 28, 1946 she married her husband of 63 years, Henry D. Wilson Jr. For 60 years they operated a farm near Sunbury, working  side by side and sharing in all activities. He died on August 11,2009.

Cathryn was a longtime member of Sunbury United Methodist Church and Sunbury Searchlight Club.  In 1966 she served as Worthy Grand Matron of the Grand Chapter of Ohio for the Eastern Star. She was a 65 year member and past Matron of Columbia Chapter No 33 O.E.S. and served as the committee chairperson of ESTARL. Cathryn was a woman dedicated to the principals of the Eastern Star, always doing what was right for the Order. A woman of elegance and presence, she was beautiful on the floor of Grand Chapter. Her eloquent personality always allowed her to be in command of every situation.  A longtime 4-H judge, she was a wonderful cook, known for her home baked pies and vegetables from her garden, Known for her wonderful dinners, she was quite the entertainer and her home was always open to family or visitors.

She will be remembered for her guidance, always being by her husband's side and warm, genuine smile.

Cathryn is survived by her brother, J. Weber (Martha) White of Hamilton; nieces Louanna (Roy) Locke of Bartow, Florida, Gernelda Meyers of Cincinnati, and Linda Lovelace of Hamilton; nephew Richard (Jeannine) White of Hamilton; her late nephew’s wife Alene King of The Plains; special caregiver Brigitta Lambert of Sunbury, and a host of other dear friends.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by brother Jasper White, sisters Louise King and Julia Starlin, and a nephew, Robert King.
Friends may call Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, S.R. 3 at 61, Sunbury, OH 43074, with Eastern Star service at 8:00.  Services will be held Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at Sunbury United Methodist Church, 100 W. Cherry St, Sunbury, with Rev. Brian Smith officiating, interment Sunbury Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sunbury United Methodist Church or Columbia Chapter No. 33 O.E.S., 4139 Old State Rd., Lewis Center, Ohio 43035.
Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Frederick “Ted” Disterdick, age 63, of Cardington was called home on July 12, 2010.  He was born in Marion October 18, 1946 to the late Forrest G. “Bud” and Rhea (Hinton) Disterdick.

Ted was a 1965 graduated of Cardington-Lincoln High School.  He served in the US Army during the Viet Nam War.  He was a member of Marion Local 574 Laborers Union and VFW Post 8054.  Ted loved Friday night Cardington Football.  He was an Indians and Brown’s fan, enjoyed watching his grandchildren’s sports and fishing.

Survivors include his sons and their wives, Eric and Melissa Disterdick of Mount Gilead, and Chad and Kelly Disterdick of Lexington, KY; grandchildren, Devan and Mason Disterdick, Max Disterdick and Jake Fresca; and two brothers and sister-in-laws, William and Mary Kay Disterdick of Cardington, and George and Marcella Disterdick of Delaware.

Friends may call Thursday, July 15, 2010 at Gompf Funeral Home from 2:00 to 4:00 and 6:00 to 8:00PM where funeral services will be held Friday, July 16th at 11:00AM.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompfh.com

Denver “Charlie” Bradley passed away on Monday evening July 12, 2010 at his home, surrounded by his family, on County Road 24 in Cardington.

Charlie was born September 27, 1927 to the late Suel and Opal (Thornsburry) Bradley in Wheelersburg, Ohio.  After the death of his mother, Charlie went to live with his grandparents, Katherine and John Anderson Bradley.  He lived with his younger brothers George and John, who preceded him in death.

On August 25, 1947, Charlie married the love of his life Lora Conley, who passed away on July 31, 1998.

Charlie was a coal miner for many years. He worked very hard to bring up three daughters, Pauline Evans of Canton, GA, and Patty Conant and Connie Bradley both of Cardington.  As if being an amazing father wasn’t enough, he really outdid himself when he became a grandfather to Sandy (Steve) Smith of Canton, GA, Lori (Max) Whitehead of Fulton, Kimberly (Aaron) Grayson of Galion and Holly Conant of Canal Winchester. Charlie also adored his great-grandchildren Becca, Cody, Trevor, Caleb, Cameron, Taylor, Malorie and Josh.

Charlie enjoyed Christian music, working in the garden, watching baseball, fishing, reading the Bible and spending time with his family, who already miss him dearly.

Calling hours will be Tuesday, July 13, 2010 from 6:00 to 8:00PM at Gompf’s Funeral Home in Cardington where funeral services will be at 11:00AM Wednesday, July 14, 2010. Charlie will be laid to rest beside Lora in the Fulton Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to Hospice of Morrow County 228 South Street, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43315. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


Mindy Weiler, age 46, of Mount Gilead, died early Monday morning, July 12, 2010, at the Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus following an extended illness that she fought for over fifteen years.
       
On June 1, 1964, Mindy was born in Delaware, Ohio, the daughter of Robert Jr. and Marilyn (Brown) Weiler.  She graduated from Highland High School in the Class of 1982.  Furthering her education at the Ohio State University, she received her bachelor’s of science degree in human ecology in 1986.
       
A home economics teacher, Mindy first worked at the Jamestown Middle School until she was transferred to her home school.  While at Highland High School, she taught for over ten years and she diligently instilled as many useful lessons as she could to her students.  Her family as been told by many of her former students, they “were very grateful to have her as a teacher.”  Known for being “particular” about how things should be done in the kitchen, Mindy truly had a way of preparing the best food!  Her family insists that she “made the best beef stroganoff you will ever eat”, and she was an excellent baker with one of their favorites being her monkey bread.  Before becoming a teacher, Mindy worked for Silver Threads Decorating Company where she was a designer and sewer of all things.  She had a knack as a seamstress and could make most anything she put her mind to, and had made things such as costumes and bridesmaid dresses.  She also enjoyed cross-stitching in her down time.  Having been active in the 4-H and the junior fair board as a child, Mindy continued her dedication to the Morrow County Fair by serving as the treasurer of the Morrow County Senior Fair Board for nearly ten years.  She had also attended the Harmony Chapel United Methodist Church. 

For over the past fifteen years, Mindy has “courageously fought for her life”.  She used her strong will and independence to “always look on the bright side”, even when times were tough.
       
Mindy will be dearly missed by her parents, Bob and Marilyn Weiler of Mount Gilead; brother and sister-in-law, Tim and Mary Weiler of Mount Gilead; a nephew, Matt Eagon; and her maternal grandmother, Geneva Brown of Mount Gilead.
       
Mindy was preceded in death by her maternal grandfather, Lester Brown; paternal grandparents: Bob and Elsie Weiler; and three uncles: Warren Brown, and Steve and Tom Weiler.
       
The Weiler family will greet friends from 4 - 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 15, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 S. Main St., Mount Gilead. Memorial services celebrating her life will be held there on Friday at 10:00 a.m. with Pastors Jeannie Winters and Jeff Deel officiating. Inurnment will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Chesterville.
       
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to 4-H of Morrow County, to assist with scholarships for future campers. They may be sent in care of the funeral home.


       
To express your condolences to Mindy's family online, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Bobby Joe Housley, age 72 of Marengo died unexpectedly Thursday, July 8, 2010 at his home.

With twelve siblings, he was born in LaFollette, TN on May 15, 1938 the eighth child of the late Jim and Ethel (Shepherd) Housley.  Originally from Columbus, he had been a Marengo resident for the last 32 years.  Before retiring, he worked in the concrete trade with several companies.

An outdoorsman at heart, he treasured time spent fishing and camping.  He possessed a vast knowledge of nature.  Bobby enjoyed whittling, making sling shots and hand carved walking sticks.

He was a simple man who required nothing fancy and was a country boy at heart. Bobby would do anything for those in need, even giving the shirt off his back.

Survived by children: Robert (Treena) Smith of Galena, Larry Ramey of Sunbury, Diane (Glenn) Tigner of Logan, 12 Grandchildren, numerous Great-grandchildren, sisters: Esther Owen, Azalle McCullah , and Yvonia Morell all of Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years: Mary Carol (Jones) Housley on April 15, 2010, and 4 brothers and sisters.

Friends may call one hour prior to the Wednesday 7 p.m. memorial services at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


James C. “Jim” Richardson, age 77, of Mount Gilead, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, afternoon, July 3, 2010, at his residence surrounded by his family following an extended illness.
       
On October 24, 1932, Jim was born in Teetersville, Kentucky, the son of the late Henry and Flora (Marlow) Richardson.  When he was a child, he experienced the loss of his mother, and he found loving care from his step mother, the late Gladys Richardson.
       
Before turning 20 years old, he and his brother, Bill, moved first to Detroit, Michigan, and a short time later to Morrow County to find work wanting to avoid the coal mines of Kentucky.  Soon after moving to Morrow County, Jim asked a young lady, Betty Lou Rogers, to join him for a ride in his Packard Convertible.  He and the car were difficult for her to turn down, and after that ride Jim knew he found the love of his life.  They would be married on October 3, 1953, after dating for several months.  Together they have shared nearly fifty seven wonderful years of marriage.  Despite being a man who enjoyed being on the move, Jim also was a loyal employee with General Motors, working as a machinist and drill press operator for over thirty four years after he started working there in 1957.  After several injuries, he retired in 1991.  He was a member of the United Auto Workers Association.  The son of a Baptist minister, Jim had a deep faith in the Lord and he had attended the Gilead Friends Church.  Also, he was a member of the Masonic Lodge of Mount Gilead.  With a love for the outdoors, Jim always looked forward to spending time on any one of the boats they had on Lake Erie with his family.  They enjoyed fishing there together, and also at Cumberland Lake and in Florida.  Putting his family first, Jim would drive back and forth from the Lake to work in Ontario every day of the summer if he could, so his family could spend more time there.  He also loved to spend time with his grandchildren and watch them play ball or participate in any activity, and enjoyed taking trips to Kentucky with Nathan and Lacie.  A favorite past time for Jim would be bowling, as he thoroughly enjoyed bowling in leagues, especially with his son, Tom.
       
Jim will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Betty Richardson of Mount Gilead; four sons and daughters-in-law: Thomas & Judy Richardson of Mount Gilead, and their children: Nathan (Samantha) Richardson and Lacie (Shawn) Shipman; Jeffrey & Catherine Richardson of Dandridge, Tennessee, and their daughter, Victoria Richardson; Joseph & Shelley Richardson of Sherrills Ford, North Carolina, and their daughter, Sierra Richardson; and Stephen & Carla Richardson of Cardington, and their children: Taylor and Mason Richardson; two great-grandchildren: Grace and Gauge Shipman; and a sister-in-law, Aretha Richardson of Mount Gilead.
       
Including his parents and step mother, Jim was preceded in death by an infant son, Frederick Alvin Richardson; and his brother, Bill Richardson.
       
The Richardson family will greet friends from 4 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 6, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 S. Main St., Mount Gilead, where Masonic services will follow immediately at 7:00 p.m.  Services celebrating his return home will be held there on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Brian Mosher officiating.  Burial will follow in Glendale Cemetery in Cardington.
       
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of Morrow County, or to the National Kidney Foundation, and they may be made in care of the funeral home.
       
For those who wish to express their condolences to Jim’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


John F. Heimlich, age 82, of Mount Gilead and formerly of the Sandusky and Huron area, died unexpectedly Wednesday morning, June 30, 2010 at the Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus.
     
He was born on July 27, 1927, in Edison, the son of the late Harley F. Heimlich and Aetoulia J. (Lowther) Gardner.
     
John was a graduate of Mount Gilead high school in the class of 1945 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps right after graduation.  After a year of proudly serving his country he was honorably discharged and moved back to Ohio.  He worked various odd jobs, including running the Marathon Station in Mount Gilead, before moving to Huron where he became employed with General Motors.  He worked there for 30 years until retirement in 1982.
A man of great faith, he was a member of the Mount Gilead Baptist Church.  John was very active, and it was once said, “He could fiddle all day and enjoy it”.  He loved life and it showed in his attitude towards others and the way he treated them.  John will be remembered as a genuinely nice guy without an enemy in the world.  He held membership at the Eagles, the American Legion, and the Amvets, all in the Sandusky area.

He will be missed by his daughters Vickie L. Simmerlein and her husband Stephen of Mount Gilead and Carolyn Sue Hilliker and her husband Daniel of Bay Minette, Alabama; his other children Judith Walborn of Sandusky, Norma Chambers and her husband Mark of Huron, Deborah Faulkner and her husband Frank of Sandusky, and Catherine Faye of New Hampshire; step-sons David Reed of Oriental, North Carolina, William Reed and his wife Wilma of Mount Gilead, and John Reed and his wife Marsha of Oriental, North Carolina; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren.
     
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wives, Ima L. Gee Heimlich in 1986 and Betty M. Reed Heimlich in 2008; son Richard Jones; and his sister Margaret Dean.
     
Friends may call on the family on Friday July 2, 2010, from 4-7 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Funeral services will be held there on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. with Pastors Lawrence Combs and John Erkfitz officiating.  Private family burial will take place on Tuesday at Meadow Green Memorial Park in Huron.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Cancer Society.  Those wishing to express their condolences to John’s family may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


John Horton, age 62, of Cardington, died June 26, 2010 at his residence.  He was born in Detroit, Michigan on February 2, 1948 to the late Newton H. Horton and Jacqueline F (Horton) VanGeison.

John worked as a transportation and sales manager.  John served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.  John was involved with youth baseball, was an avid bowler, and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

On January 30, 1970 in Inkster, Michigan he married Florence M. Fry.

John is survived by his sons Aaron (Mandy), Matthew, and Zach all three of Cardington, two grandchildren, Elizabeth and Silas Horton; a half brother, Dewey VanGeison of Berkley, Michigan.

Friends may call at Gompf Funeral Home on Wednesday, June 30, 2010 from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM.  Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, July, 1st at 11:00AM.  Pastor Brian Mosher will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


Marie Dodds, age 90, of Edison, died June 27, 2010 at Morrow County Hospital.  She was born on November 27, 1919 to the late Vernon Prosser and Cleo J (Click) Prosser.

Marie was a 1938 graduate of Cardington High School.  She worked as a bookkeeper at Hart Oil Company in Cardington and as a bookkeeper and secretary for a Church in New Jersey.  She was member of the First Presbyterian Church in Mount Gilead.  Marie enjoyed playing Bridge at the Marion Senior Center.

On December 28, 1941 in Hattiesburg, Mississippi she married Gary J. Dodds and he preceded her in death in 1994.

Marie is survived by her sons Richard of Edison, and Gary of Cardington; 4 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren.

A Private family burial will be held in Glendale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the funeral home to help the family with funeral expenses.  Gompf Funeral Service in Cardington is assisting the family with arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


Luda Mae Stephens, age 88, of Mount Gilead died Sunday morning, June 27, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital Extended Facility.
     
She was born on March 29, 1922 in Blaine, Kentucky the daughter of the late Merdith and Emma (Morrison) Edwards.
     
As 1 of 13 children, Luda grew up in Blaine and attended their high school until an illness in the family forced her to drop out and help take care of her siblings.  Luda was a young lady in grade school when she met and became friends with Douglas Stephens.  Throughout the years their friendship blossomed and they were married June 15, 1942.  They just celebrated 68 years of marriage; all told, their marriage and friendship has spanned nearly 80 years!  While Douglas proudly served his country, Luda worked in a shoe factory in Portsmouth, Ohio and in a canning factory in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Shortly after the war Douglas and Luda moved to north central Ohio and began raising a family.  They have three boys and lived in Marengo and Sunbury before moving to Mount Gilead in 1985.  She took great pride in her family and the time spent together, especially Thanksgiving when they would gather together and she would cook the most wonderful feast.   When asked what her specialty was, the family had difficulty picking one particular dish, but if forced to choose, her fried chicken and sweet potatoes where excellent.  They said everything she made was amazing and when her health no longer allowed her to cook Thanksgiving dinner they could not believe that what she had done on her own now took several people.  A faithful Christian woman, Luda was a member of the Mount Gilead Church of Christ where she was part of the church cleaning crew.  So many of the words used to describe Luda; loving, patient, prayerful, unselfish, serving, and sacrificing, are words used in the Bible to describe those that are committed to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
     
She will be missed by her husband Douglas, their three sons, Bill and his wife Amy of Delaware, Michael and his wife Carol of Galena, and Steve and his wife Rachel of Rock Island, Illinois; nine grandchildren Chris, Paul, Lisa, Lori, Jason, Amy, Erin, Amanda, and Julie; 22 great grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren; and her sister Eliza Ferguson of Blain, Kentucky.
     
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by 11 brothers and sisters.
     
Friends may call on the family on Thursday July 1, 2010 from 3-7 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.  

Funeral services will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the Mount Gilead Church of Christ, 322 Iberia Street, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338 with her sons, Pastors Bill and Steve Stephens officiating.  Burial will follow in Rivercliff Cemetery.
     
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the church.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Luda’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


 “Love.”  There is no better way to describe Bonnie Levering.  She lived life “full of grace, with a dedication to excellence” and “acceptance of all differences”.   She was known by her family and so many others, simply as “Mom” and "Granny" for her ability to love everyone unconditionally.
       
Bonnie Sue (Brown) Levering, age 65, of Mount Gilead, died Friday evening, June 25, 2010, at the Morrow County Hospital Extended Care Facility following a courageous battle with cancer.
       
On February 1, 1945, Bonnie was born and raised in Fulton, Ohio, the daughter of the late Elmer and Martha (Dyke) Brown.  After moving into the Mount Gilead School system in the 6th grade, she graduated as the salutatorian in the Mount Gilead High School class of 1963.
       

During high school, Bonnie attended a sock hop in Cardington on April 1, 1960, where she met Newt Levering on his birthday.  Bonnie and Newt quickly realized they had an undeniable chemistry and their relationship blossomed immediately.  Before her graduation, they married on December 1, 1962, at the First Presbyterian Church in Mount Gilead, where she had been a member.
       
Shortly following graduation, Bonnie and Newt started their family, having the first of their four girls.  Believing in the importance of remaining home to raise their daughters, Bonnie waited to pursue her career ambitions until all of her daughters were in school.  Despite all of her responsibilities, she managed to graduate cum laude from the Ohio State University after attending the Marion branch with her Bachelor of Science degree in education in December of 1977.  While there, she was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honorary Society and a member of the Mortar Board.
       
Her first teaching assignment came before graduating, as Bonnie started teaching in the Iberia Middle School.  After a short time there and in the Marion City Schools, she transferred to the Edison Elementary School teaching fourth grade and soon thereafter teaching sixth grade students.  After thirty years of teaching, Bonnie retired from the Mount Gilead School system in December of 2007.
       
Being accepting of all differences, Bonnie felt called to help in the efforts of mainstreaming students.  She and her team teacher, Theresa Lyle, taught an integrated classroom of inclusion for several years.  Their classroom was always full, and they prided themselves in creating a curriculum and experience that enabled all levels of learning and always having lessons prepared for all of their students.  Bonnie had a “lifelong dedication to learning” and she worked diligently from morning till night.
       
From her students she encouraged them to “live and act above mediocrity” and to always “aim for your best”.  She taught them to “think deeper” and she cared for all of her students as if they were her own children, encouraging creativity and expecting their best, showing them unconditional love.
       
Often being recognized for her excellence as a teacher, Bonnie was twice honored to win the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation Scholar award, whose purpose is to “foster the development of young people to the maximum extent through improving the quality of teaching in secular elementary and secondary schools.”  She was also recognized twice by “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.”
       
For several years, Bonnie served as the cheerleading advisor for the middle school and high school.  She demanded discipline and focus from the girls, teaching them to consistently do their best.  They were often the “top squad” at their performances.
       
For several years she was a business partner with Newt on their organic farm raising livestock, and with Newt and Rick Uncapher of Edison spending many summer hours remodeling and decorating their rental homes.
       
A woman of deep faith, Bonnie and her family had been deeply involved with the Edison United Methodist Church for many years.  While there, she was a founding member of “God’s Promises”, a family worship and praise singing group, and she loved the opportunity to sing with her family and friends.  Later, she became the praise and worship leader at the Lighthouse Christian Center.  Having the voice of an angel, Bonnie truly felt “singing was her ministry” for the Lord and she sang with all of her heart and soul.  She also enjoyed playing the piano and the guitar.
       
With their family, Bonnie and Newt loved to pack their Volkswagen “Bus” full of tents and supplies and travel the United States.  On more than one of their summer vacations away from school, they spent the majority of their time camping.  They have so many priceless stories of “leaking tents” and being “thrilled when a camp site actually had water”, which they will forever cherish.
       
Very skilled and artistic, Bonnie excelled in most anything she set her mind to.  She became a “beautiful floral designer”, making countless arrangements to decorate for weddings or to be given as gifts.  She could also sew any outfit and enjoyed framed cross-stitching.
       
With a love for puzzles, Bonnie could work her way through most any challenge with the confidence and audacity to use a pen on her most difficult crossword puzzle.
       
Bonnie is dearly missed by her husband, G. Newton Levering, of Mount Gilead; four daughters: Kathy (Rick) Linstedt of Cardington, and their children: Brandon, Aaron, and Cory Linstedt; Jean (Johnny) Thomas of Upper Sandusky, and their children: Tom Korody, Taryn (Dennis) Lodge, Emily Gillespie, Denim Franklin, and Johnny and Chrissy Thomas; Shanna (Jim) Gress of Mount Gilead, and their children: Bryan, Nick, and Raychel Gress; and Meegan (Tom) Elkin, and their children: Rachelle Wyatt, Spenser Elkin, and Brenna and Makaylee Wyatt; one great grandson, Brice Haughn; a sister, Doris (Bill) Burns of Florida; a sister-in-law, Nonna (J.D.) Cass of Montana; and several nieces and nephews, countless dear friends, and many “adopted” children and grandchildren.
       
A service of celebration for Bonnie’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 29, at 6:30 p.m. at the Park Avenue Elementary School, 335 W. Park Ave., Mount Gilead, with her nephew Pastor Traber Cass officiating.  Immediately following her service, her family would like for her friends and former students to join them for an ice cream social to continue sharing their many memories and stories of Bonnie’s life well lived.
       
Her family requests, rather than flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Bonnie Levering Memorial Scholarship Fund at the service or c/o First Knox National Bank, P. O. Box 70, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.
       
Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead is honored to serve the family of Bonnie Levering.  To express your condolences to Bonnie’s family, please visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Lucy E. Hardy Gallion Jolly, 81 of Cardington, died Tuesday morning at her residence.

Born on December 3, 1928 in Elliott County, Kentucky to the late Everett and Ila (Blevins) Hardy. A clerk for the White’s Market and the IGA in Sunbury and a laborer for Ranco. Member of TOPS in Mount Gilead and ran with her daughter The Little Red Barn Consignment Shop in Fulton. Crocheting or any needle work was something she enjoyed doing.

Lucy loved her family, her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were very special to her. A music lover at heart Lucy started playing the guitar at age four and enjoyed all types of music. She played her guitar and enjoyed singing songs by Patsy Cline and Loretta Lynn. Well known for her ability to tune almost any stringed instrument and play most of them. Some special memories were her churning butter, cooking on a wood stove and live music in her home.

Survived by daughters: Diane Pallos of Millersport, Sharon (Doug) Edwards of Cardington, daughter-in-law: Carol, Gallion of Cardington, grandchildren: Tara, Tish, Isaiah, Jacob, Season, Kyle, Laurel; great grandchildren: John, Corey, Heather, Dakota; brothers: Bill (Nell) Hardy of New Plymouth, Todd (Linda) of Grayson, KY., June (Phyllis) Hardy of Patriot, Ed (Sue) Hardy of Knoxville, TN.; caretaker: Cami Sinden.

Preceded in death by husbands: Eddie E. Gallion on April 6, 1985, Richard F. Jolly on December 26, 2000; son: Alan E. Gallion on October 13, 1999; brother Ervin and sister Cosetta Young.

Friends may call Thursday from 5-8 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR 3 at 61, Sunbury where services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. with Pastor JR Smith officiating. Internment will follow in the Sunbury Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions can be made to: Hospice of Morrow County, 228 South Street, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.

The DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Lucy Jolly.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Christopher Lane Bartley, age 48, of Mansfield died late Thursday night, June 17, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center in Mount Gilead.
     
He was born in Mount Gilead, Ohio on July 3, 1961 the son of the late Foster Douglas Bartley and Don Retia (Bartley) Madeker of Mount Gilead.
     
Before spending most of the past year in Woodside Village, Christopher lived at the Raintree Center in Mansfield for 28 years.
     
Christopher enjoyed listening to soft soothing music, particularly easy listening.
     
In addition to his mother he is survived by his step-father Gerry Madeker, his brother Larry Madeker and his fiancé Kathy Hallabrin of Mansfield; his sister Kim Howard and her husband Dale of Mount Gilead; several nieces and nephews; and a special friend Beverly McPherson of Angola, Indiana.
     
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother Jeffery W. Bartley on January 16, 1973.
     
Friends may call on the family Monday June 21, 2010 from 5-7 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Funeral services will be held there on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Verlan Bricker officiating.  Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery.
     
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of the Raintree Center, Hospice of Morrow  County, and Woodside Village Care Center for the special attention Christopher received while in their care.  They ask that memorial contributions, if desired, be made to any of these organizations.
     
For those wishing to express their condolences to Christopher’s family you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Kenneth R. Kearns, age 59 of Marengo passed away suddenly Sunday evening, June 13, 2010.

He was born on May 27, 1951 in Kenton and was a graduate of Highland High School in 1969.  Kenneth worked as a assembler for both Ranco and Liebert Corp.

He enjoyed fishing, hunting coon and horse riding in his younger years. Kenneth will be remembered for his love of family.

Survived by his mother: Mary Ann (Keller) Kearns of Marengo, son Kelly Kearns (fiancé Mary Criswell) of Cardington, daughter Carrie Kearns of Marengo, grandchildren: Ally, Jacob, Gage, former wife of 24 years: Christine (McKay) Kearns of Marengo, brothers: Johnny of Cardington, Larry (Vicky) of Mansfield, Lloyd (Donna)  of Marengo, sisters Carol (Doug) Hollingsworth of Mt. Gilead, Karen (Sterling) Boggs of Marengo, Connie (Rex) Payne of Ashley, Kathie (Chris) Henwood of Fredericktown, numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his daughter: Shelly Kearns in 1976 and his father Alva Kearns in 1983.

Kenny will forever be remembered and loved by his family and friends.

A service for his family and friends will be held at East Liberty Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home in Marengo.

Memorial contributions can be made to his immediate family to help with final expenses.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


“Love Jesus.  Love life.  Love your family.  Get dirty sometimes.  Trash your classroom, because the kids will love it.”  These are just a few of the things that came so naturally to Scott, as he was a man who was not afraid to live.
       
Scott Robert Morrison
went to be with the Lord on Thursday morning, June 10, 2010, at home surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous three year battle with brain cancer.  He lived life as fully and deeply as possible in his 32 short years.
       
On September 30, 1977, Scott was born in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Robert and Annie (Richey) Morrison.  As a family they moved to Mount Vernon, where his father ministered to the Lakeholm Church of the Nazarene.  When Scott was in the 11th grade, he began teaching Sunday School there and continued to do so through college.  He graduated from Mount Vernon High School in the Class of 1996.
       
Following high school, Scott began studying at the Mount Vernon Nazarene University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education and special education in 2000 and his master’s degree in eduation in 2005.  While there, he was instrumental in forming an organization known as “Servanthood Ministries,” and their purpose was to be of service and help on any projects they could throughout the Mount Vernon community.  The motto for MVNU is “To seek to learn is to seek to serve.” and in his senior year, Scott was privileged to receive their highest honor, the “Service Above Self Award.”
     
After graduating college in the fall of 2000, Scott took a position within the Mount Gilead Elementary Schools as a Special Education teacher.  He truly felt called to help, and he used every form of multimedia possible to have fun with the kids.  “He would write songs and jingles, or make videos and play all of the characters” to help make the learning process fun.  Also, with the intention of encouraging father’s to take a more active role in their children’s lives, Scott started a father-son book club to help enrich their relationships.
       
In Mount Gilead, Scott was drawn to worship at the Gilead Friends Church.  While helping with their youth group, he met another youth helper, Rebecca Jones, whom he had to get to know better.  Their love blossomed and they were married shortly thereafter at the church, on July 26, 2002.  Together Scott and Rebecca have served as the children’s church leaders since 2005.  They started Planet Zero!, the weekly children’s church program, overseeing projects and writing curriculums.  They also directed and performed numerous skits for church, and they even wrote, directed and produced their own Easter drama which they titled “The Greatest of These”.
       
When asked “what words would you use to describe Scott as a father”, his wife glowingly said, “He was all the best words.”  His two girls were truly the apples of his eye, and he took every opportunity possible to brag about them.  Scott and Olivia were best friends and playmates and he would do anything she asked no matter how farfetched the request.  He often acted out all of the characters in whatever book they were reading together.  He and Olivia were “hilarious” together.  Then, along came Lily and she was “such a prize” for Scott.  “As the Lord fathered Scott, Scott fathered his children…with unconditional love.”
       
For Scott, the whole “world was his stage” and he made sure there “was never a dull moment in the Morrison household.”  Along the way, Scott would always keep and use whatever props he could get his hands on for his next video.  His juices were always flowing, and he would often be found rummaging through their “prop closet” at two in the morning, saying “I have an idea.”  He also used his struggles with cancer in his teachings, always being brutally honest about his experiences, and never giving up hope or faith.
       
Most important of all for Scott, was his love for the Lord.  He had a quiet, steadfast faith and never missed an opportunity to share Jesus with others.  Scott agreed with the Apostle Paul, who said, “But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24)
       
Scott will be forever missed by his beloved wife and children: Rebecca, Olivia & Lily Morrison, of Mount Gilead; his parents, Bob & Annie Morrison of Mount Vernon; brother, Mark (Michelle) Morrison of Westerville; father and mother-in-law, Rick and LuAnn Jones of Mount Gilead; brother-in-law, Richard (Aleta) Jones, and their son, Garrett, of Maryland; paternal grandmother, Betty Morrison; maternal grandmother, Aline Richey, both of Mount Vernon; grandmother Rosemary Brown of Mount Gilead; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.
       
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Percy Morrison; and maternal grandfather, Jack Richey.
       
His family will greet friends from 2 – 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 13, 2010, at the Gilead Friends Church, 3613 Twp. Rd. 115 (SR 42), Mount Gilead.  Services celebrating his life and giving glory to God will also be held there on Monday at 10:00 a.m., with Pastor Brian Mosher officiating and where he will star in his own videos.  Burial will be observed privately by his family in Rivercliff Cemetery.
       
Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead is honored to serve the family of Scott Robert Morrison.
       
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Scott Morrison Benefit Fund, to benefit his children, Olivia and Lily; and they may be sent to First Knox National Bank, P. O. Box 70, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.
       
Scott’s family would to extent a heartfelt “thank you” to both the Mount Gilead and Mount Vernon communities for your overwhelmingly loving support.  Everyone is encouraged to share your special memories of Scott and your condolences to his family on his Facebook Memorial Page or by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Betty J. Ault, age 82, of Mount Gilead died late Thursday evening, June 10, 2010 in Columbus.  She was born in Edison on January 22, 1928 to the late Howard A. and Edna M. (Grosh) Wright.

Betty was a 1946 graduate of Edison High School.  She worked at ITT Power Systems and PECO for a total of 35 years.  Betty also worked 9 years as a cook at Whetstone Lanes in Edison where she loved to treat everyone to her pies, cakes, cookies, and carmels.  She was a member of the Seniors on Center and of the AmVets and was an avid card player.

Survivors include a daughter, Carolyn Stephens of Cardington; a son and daughter-in-law, Eddie and Ann Roberts of Fairfield; 4 grandchildren;  great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren;  four brothers, Richard, Neal, Jimmy “James” and Leroy Wright; numerous nieces and nephews an special friend, Oliver Davis of Marion. Betty wanted to give a special thanks to Frank and Betty.

In addition to her parents Betty was preceded in death by a brother, Stanley Wright  a sister, Phyllis Lanum, and husband Paul Ault..

Friends may call Tuesday June 15, 2010 from 4:00 until 6:00 PM at the Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington where the funeral service will begin at 6:00 PM.  Pastor Darryle Moody will officiate and her burial will be in Rivercliff Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com.


James D. “Jim” Harvell, age 89, of Galion died Monday June 7, 2010 in the Emergency Room of the Morrow County Hospital.
     
He was born on May 10, 1921, the son of the late James and Lillian Mae (Register) Harvell in Leland, North Carolina.
     
Jim grew up in the Wilmington, North Carolina area where he was the neighborhood marble shooting champion; collecting all the marbles from the local kids.  He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1939, during the 11th grade.  His loyal service turned into a career which spanned 21 years, retiring as an AOC (Aviation Ordnance Chief Petty Officer).  During World War II he was stationed on aircraft carriers in the Southwest Pacific Theatre, which was under the command of General Douglas MacArthur.  His duties included loading bombs onto planes and depth charges on destroyer escorts.  After the war he was part of logistic flight crews up and down the east coast.  Upon his retirement from the Navy he became employed by the United States Government in the Civil Service.  There he worked observing manufacturing plants, as quality controller.
     
On August 29, 1951 he married Emma Elizabeth “Betty” Remillard.  They had 4 children and were married for 52 years before her passing on September 8, 2003.  They enjoyed traveling together and set a goal to visit all 50 states; making it to all but Alaska.
     
He attended the Vineyard Church in Sunbury.  The children recalled family camping vacations throughout the lower 48 States.  While not much of a “joiner”, Jim did belong to the U.S.S. Intrepid Association, aboard which he was a Plank Owner, or a part of the ship’s first crew.  A huge sports fan, Jim particularly enjoyed football, college basketball, and Little League baseball.  His television was always tuned to sports channels.  Jim will be remembered as a product of the Great Depression era; a stoic, self-made man, who understood the importance and value of his family.
     
He will be missed by his two sons David James Harvell of Hayama, Japan and Brian James Harvell of Jacksonville, Florida; two daughters Dawn J. (Harvell) Addison and her husband Rev. W. Daniel of Galion and Brenda Anne Harvell of Mansfield; seven grandchildren Michelle Harvell, Naomi Harvell, Dustin Harvell, Holden Harvell, Paige (Addison) Rohe and her husband Dan, Joel Daniel Addison, and Zachary William Addison; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     
In addition to his parents and wife he was preceded in death by his three sisters Margaret Rooks, Donnie Mae Brew, and Ruby Lucille Lane; and his brother William Earl Harvell.
     
Friends may call on the family on Friday June 11, 2010 from 5-7 PM at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.   Funeral services will be held there on Saturday at 11:00 AM with his son-in-law, Rev. W. Daniel Addison officiating.  Burial with full military honors conducted by the V.F.W. Post #8054 and the AmVets Post #97 will follow in Iberia Cemetery.
     
For those wishing to express their condolences to Jim’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Mae Linkous, age 83, of Sparta, Ohio went to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, June 6, 2010 at the Ohio Eastern Star Home surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on June 12, 1926 in Keystone, West Virginia to the late Ralph and Gladys (Gillenwater) Young.  Mae was a caring and loving wife, mother and grandmother and could always be found attending her children and grandchildren’s events.  Mae was a very spiritual woman and served in many leadership roles at the Sparta Advent Christian Church.  Mae was an avid bowler with the lady’s of Chesterville.
         
She is survived by her son, Michael Edward (Diana) Linkous of Marengo, two daughters, Betty (James) Gray of Marengo and Linda (Greg) Sands of Centerburg, a daughter-in-law, Nancy Linkous of Sparta, eleven grandchildren, twenty-four great grandchildren, a sister, Peggy Story of Sacramento, California and a half brother, Kenneth (Patricia) Young of Greensboro, South Carolina.
         
Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Paul Edward Linkous, a son, Robert Wesley Linkous and a brother, James Wesley Young.
         
Friends may call on Tuesday from 6 to 8 PM at the Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home, 201 Newark Road, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050 where a funeral service will be held on Wednesday at 11 AM.  Rev. Dave Keefer will be officiating.  Burial will follow in Bloomfield Cemetery in Sparta.
         
Memorial contributions may be made to the Sparta Advent Christian Church.  This obituary and guest registry are online at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.  The Dowds-Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mae Linkous


Randy L. Shepard, age 42, of Mount Gilead, died unexpectedly on Friday afternoon, June 4, 2010, at the Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus following a brief illness caused by his lifelong battle with asthma.
       
On July 11, 1967, Randy was born in Galion, Ohio, the son of Larry and Linda (Kleinman) Shepard of Mount Gilead.   He graduated from Highland High School in the Class of 1986, where he was active in their basketball program, serving as the team’s manager while in high school and for three years after graduation.
       
Shortly following high school, Randy enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving in the Corps of Combat Engineers from January of 1989 to June of 1992.   He was in with the 234th and 79th Combat Engineers in Germany, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm, where he was with the General Construction Equipment Operators and earned several medals.   After Desert Storm, he was stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, with the 34th Corps of Engineers until June of 1992.   He then served as an active Army Reserve with the 175th Quartermasters Company out of Delaware until 1997.   He truly had a passion for the military, and he struggled with the reality that his asthma kept him from being able to make the military his lifelong career.
       
After his honorable discharge from the Army, Randy hit the open road as a long distance semi truck driver for over seventeen years.   Having worked with several other companies, he has most recently been affiliated with the Western Star Transportation Company, based out of California.   He enjoyed having the opportunity to see most of the country.
       
An avid fisherman, Randy would try and find a fishing hole as soon as he could after a long haul.   He also continued to enjoy watching high school, college and pro basketball, and he looked forward to watching NASCAR on any Sunday he wasn’t on the road.
       
Having a huge heart, Randy truly loved his family and friends, and most especially his nephew and niece, Tyler and Mara.
       
Randy will be dearly missed by his parents: Larry and Linda Shepard of Mount Gilead; a sister and brother-in-law, Wendy and Bradley Combs of London, and their children: Tyler and Mara Combs; two uncles: Joseph Kleinman of Galion, and his former wife, Sally Henderson, and Roger Shepard and his wife, Sandy, of Decatur, Alabama; an aunt, Alice (Kleinman) Snyder, and her husband, Norman, of Kennesaw, Georgia; a paternal grandmother, Carol Shepard of Decatur, Alabama; several cousins: Aaron and Noelle Snyder, both of Columbus, Jeff Kleinman of Scottsdale, Arizona, and Amanda (Kleinman) Huggins, and her husband, Bud, of Orlando, Florida, and Stan Cooperider of Iberia; a very close family, Larry Burns of Cardington, and Ricky Belcher of Sparta; and several more dear friends.
       
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Joseph and Irene Kleinman, and his paternal grandfather, Richard Shepard.
       
The Shepard family will greet friends from 5 – 7 p.m. on Monday, June 7, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 S. Main St., Mount Gilead, where services celebrating his life will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Paul Walter officiating. Burial with military honors provided by the V.F.W. Post 8054 and AmVets Post 87 will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Chesterville.
       
Memorial contributions may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, P. O. Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250-0301.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Randy’s family you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com .


Frances E. Goodrich, age 91, of Mount Gilead, died Tuesday evening, June 1, 2010, at the Morrow County Hospital.
       
A lifelong Morrow County resident, Frances was born on August 27, 1918, the daughter of the late Jay R. and Ethel A. (Beckley) Woodruff.  She was a graduate of Mount Gilead High School.
       
Frances was a member of the First Baptist Church in Mount Gilead since March 27, 1932, where she taught Sunday school for over 20 years, was the Sunday school secretary-treasurer, and also served as the superintendent for the primary and beginner classes.
Frances was a member of the Williamsport Grange since 1936, when it was referred to as the Gilead Grange; later becoming Adams Grange.  She served as the Chaplain for the Grange and became a 65 year member in 2006.  Before Whetstone Industries was created, Frances acted as school transportation for several handicapped children in the surrounding communities.  In her spare time, Frances enjoyed gardening and sewing; especially quilts.  She also liked to play many different board and card games and also dabbled in playing guitar.  She always found joy in spending time with family and friends.
       
Frances will be dearly missed by two sons: Allen E. Goodrich of Rio Rancho, New Mexico and Dan M. Goodrich of Columbus; five grandchildren: Barbara, Betsy, Bobbie, Troy, and Steven; many great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Marjorie Goodrich of Crestline, Ohio; nephews, Jay R. Woodruff and Rev. Dr. John Stoll; nieces, Irene Gould, Dorothy Mae Keller, and Joanna Stoll; and all of the wonderful family, friends and neighbors who always helped take care of her.
       
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Foye Allen Goodrich; a son, John R. Goodrich; infant daughter, Shirley M. Goodrich; brothers, Paul & Ralph Woodruff; sisters, Edith E. Beardsley, Mildred Barler, and Mary Elizabeth Woodruff; and a niece, Della Dewey.
         
Friends may call from 12 – 2 p.m. on Monday, June 7, 2010, at the First Baptist Church, 51 W. High St., Mount Gilead, where services celebrating her life will be held at 2 p.m. with Rev. Joshua Melvin officiating.  Burial will follow in Iberia Cemetery.
       
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the First Baptist Church or to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.
         
The Goodrich family would like to extend a heartfelt “Thank You” to everyone at Woodside Village and the Morrow County Hospital for the wonderful care Frances received.
         
Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead have been entrusted with the arrangements.  For those wishing to express their condolences to the Goodrich family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Delbert A. Snyder, age 83 of Marengo passed away Thursday morning, June 3, 2010 at Heartland of Centerburg.

Born in Cardington on July 9, 1926, he was the eldest son of the late Frank Delbert and Olive Orral (Myers) Snyder.  He lived the majority of his life in the Marengo area and was a graduate of Marengo High School in 1945. A US Army veteran of WW II, he proudly answered the call to duty.

After the passing of his parents in 1961, he and his brothers Stanley and John carried on the family tradition and operation of Snyder’s Milling Service in Marengo. As one who could fix anything, he continued to be employed at the mill for his brother Stanley until his retirement.

He was a member of the Marengo United Methodist Church and American Legion Post No. 710.  An avid hunter and fisherman, he also enjoyed playing cards and picking his guitar.

Delbert will be missed by daughter: Brenda (Dan) Keller of Marengo, son Brian (Kathi) Snyder of Mobile, Alabama, grandchildren: Jerri (Rick) Evans, Valerie (Geoffrey) Price, Randall (Jody) Keller, Bridget (Johnathan) McCarty, Brian (Kim) Snyder, Clay (Stephanie) Bradley, Phillip (Kathryn) Bradley, Mason (Norma) Bradley, 13 Great-grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He was also preceded in death by Brothers: John in 2002, Stanley in 2008, and Great-granddaughter: Jenna Keller.

Friends may call Saturday 5-8 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home (SR 229) Marengo, where a service celebrating the life of Delbert Snyder will be held Sunday at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Sue Antolik officiating. Burial will follow in Marengo Cemetery with military honors.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Marengo United Methodist Church.

The DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home are honored to serve the family of Delbert Snyder and condolences to them may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Dale E. Taylor, 82 of Marengo, died Saturday evening May 29, 2010 at his residence.

Born on August 4, 1927 in Newark to the late Emery B. and Lilian L. (Blake) Taylor. A 1945 graduate of Newark High school and a member of Local 189 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union. 37 year member of Jackson Lodge No. 85 F&AM, Valley of Columbus 32 degree, Sunbury Eagles Aerie #3614.

Dale was a work alcoholic and was always tinkering with various projects. Owned and operated Taylor Plumbing from 1958-1978 in Newark. Inspector for the State of Ohio Plumbing Unit from 1989-2001.  Owner of Autumn Lakes Campgrounds from 1978-2003 and enjoyed raising Yorkshire Terriers. Through the years Dale has taught many young men the plumbing trade.

Survived by wife: Lois (Fizer) Taylor and they were married August 22, 1999; son: Lonnie (Patty) Taylor of Newark; daughter: Dianna (Jerry) DeFord of Tabor City, NC; 6 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren; step-sons: Charles (Paula) Lewis of Athens, Ricky (Valerie) Lewis of Olive Green, David (Nancy) Lewis of the state of Washington; step-daughters: Mary (John) Johnston of Centerburg, Mardissa (Randy) Thorpe of Olive Green;  numerous step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren.

Dale was preceded in death by his first wife of 52 years: Doris (Lightle) Taylor on May 19, 1999; sister: Patty Newman.

No calling hours will be observed and graveside services will be held at a later date.

DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, Sunbury is honored to serve the family of Dale Taylor.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Clyde Roy Compton, age 83 of Mt. Gilead passed away Saturday morning May 29th, 2010 in Community Health Care Center of Marion.

He was born October 14th, 1926 in Virginia the son of the late Wallace & Altie M (Hess) Compton. He was first joined in marriage to Mary Cantrell on June 9, 1952. She passed away on September 28, 1978. On July 7th, 1983 he married Minnie (Paxton) Medley. She survives him at home.

Clyde was an expert welder. He worked for many years at Peabody Galion and operated Compton & Sons Welding Shop for a period of time. In his free time he enjoyed many different venues of music including playing the banjo and guitar and dancing. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed many hours hunting and fishing.

Besides his wife Clyde is survived by his children; William (Sue Ellen) Compton of Galion, Charlie (Harvey) Musser of Cardington, Paul (Donna) Compton of Johnsville, David (Mary) Compton of Caledonia, Sharon (Larry) Hunt of Marion, Vencil (Debbie) Medley of Green Camp, Robert (Betty Jo) Medley of Marion and Barbara (David) DeLauder also of Marion. Twenty Three grandchildren numerous great grandchildren and many nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Arnold and an infant daughter.

Funeral Services for Clyde will be held at 1:30 P. M. Tuesday June 1st, 2010 at the Timson Allen & Melroy Funeral Home in Caledonia. Friends may call at the Funeral Home on Monday from 6 until 9 . Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timsonallenmelroy.com


Barbara Cattell Brantingham, a much beloved Missionary, Mother and Grandmother died on May 25th, 2010 at Patriot’s Colony Convalescence Center in Williamsburg, Virginia. She was 74.

She was born on December 10, 1935 in Cleveland, Ohio, belonged to a long line of Quaker missionaries. Her grandparents, George and Isabella DeVol, were missionary doctors in Nanking, China. Her parents, Everett and Catherine Cattel, spent their early careers in Madya Pradesh, India where Barbara lived the first eighteen years of her life.

Babs graduated from Woodstock School in the Himalayan foothills, and returned to Ohio to attend Cleveland Bible College (now Malone University). There she married John Paul Brantingham and had her first three children.

The family moved to Taiwan in 1963 where she worked for 25 years as a missionary, speaker, writer, community leader, and for a brief period, travel agent. This was in addition to being a full-time encourager, counselor and storyteller to the foreign community of Taipei. Her fourth Child was born in Taiwan.

She is survived by her sister, Mary Catherine, by daughter Jeanne Ming Brantingham Hayes, by sons David Everett, Jonathan Perry, and Timothy James, and by nine grandchildren: Leigh, Benjamin, William, Warren, Aaron, Nathan, Samuel, Jacob, and Miya.

A service celebrating the life of Barbara Brantingham will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday at the Alum Creek Friends Church, 3385 SR 229, Marengo, OH 43334 with Pastor James Brantingham officiating.  Friends may call at the church one hour prior to the services and burial will follow in the Alum Creek Church Cemetery.

The DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home in Marengo are honored to serve the Brantingham family, to view her complete obituary or send condolences please visit: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Frances E. Goodrich, age 91, of Mount Gilead, died Tuesday evening, June 1, 2010, at the Morrow County Hospital.
     
Arrangements are pending and will be announced by Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead.



 Timothy E. Galligher, 47, of Jeromesville, passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack Wednesday, May 26, 2010.

Born January 19, 1963 in Zanesville, he was the son of Frank and Marilyn (Pryor) Galligher. He graduated from Philo High School in 1981 and attended Ohio University Zanesville. Tim was a Mansfield area businessman for over 20 years and was currently employed with Contractor's Choice. A former member of First Congregational Church of Mansfield, Tim currently attended Jeromesville United Methodist Church. He enjoyed his time with his girls while helping coach their softball teams. Tim was involved in many Mansfield area community projects.

He is survived by two daughters, Paige, age 20, and Courtney, age 17, Galligher, both of Ashland; his children's mother, Tamara Galligher of Newark; parents, Frank and Marilyn Galligher of Zanesville; brother, Frank Galligher, Jr. and his wife, Karen, of Utica; many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews; and friend, Cathleen Rowland of Jeromesville.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents.

Friends may visit from 1-3 p.m., Saturday, June 5, 2010 at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road in Mansfield. A memorial service will follow at 3:00 p.m. conducted by Pastor Paul Atkinson.

Memorial contributions may be made towards his daughters' education fund at Huntington Bank.

Online guest registry at www.wappner.com


James W. “Jimmy” Fife, Jr., age 51, of Cardington, died Saturday, May 22, 2010, at the Morrow County Hospital.
       
Jimmy was born on December 6, 1958 in Mansfield, Ohio, the son of the late James W. Sr. and  Mary L. (Aumend) Fife.  He was a 1977 graduate of Tri-Rivers Career Center.
       
For more than five years Jimmy had worked for Little Mac’s Tree Service and had also just started a job with Asplundh Tree Expert Company.  He loved his job and how it enabled him to always be outdoors.  He also enjoyed helping others split wood and was always excited to go mushroom hunting.  Jimmy always found many things to keep him busy when he wasn’t working.  Current events were always kept up on by reading his favorite newspaper, the Mansfield News Journal. He was an excellent mechanic and helped many people work on their cars, but especially liked working on his own 1971 Ford Mustang.  Jimmy enjoyed playing his electric/acoustic guitar and could always be found watching a good movie.  He was never one to turn down a good home cooked meal.  Jimmy will be remembered as a caring, giving person who was always willing to help others, never asking for anything in return.
       
Jimmy will be dearly missed by his brother, Will Fife of Cardington; his Aunt, Mary Williams of Galion; and his very special friends: Ronald (Alicia) MacMichael of Mount Gilead, Ken Hughes of Marion, Jeff (Melissa) McAvoy of Mount Gilead, and Lud LaRoache of Cardington.
       
In addition to his parents, Jimmy was preceded in death by a brother, Douglas T. Fry.
Jimmy’s family will greet friends from 2 - 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 27, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 S. Main St., Mount Gilead.  Services celebrating his life will be held there at 4 p.m. with Pastor Ray Linn officiating.
       
For those wishing to express their condolences to Jimmy’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Paul H. Adkins, age 65, of Cardington died early Thursday morning, May 20, 2010 at his residence.  He was born November 1, 1944 in Huntington, WV to the late Herbert L. and Mable M. (Turner) Adkins.

Paul was the owner of Westfield Tooling and was a tool and die maker.  Paul loved to work and always kept busy.  He loved riding his Rhino, John Deere tractors and spending time with his grandkids.

On June 1, 1963 in Fulton he married the former Sharon D. Foust and she preceded him in death on February 14, 2001.

Paul is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Gary A. and Stephanie Adkins of Powell, three grandchildren, Marcus, Ellie, and Ethan Adkins; three brothers, Noah Graham of KY, Joe Graham of Cardington and Herb Adkins of TN and his fiancée, Joyce Whitt.

In addition to his parents and wife Paul was preceded in death by a son, Paul “Chip” Adkins; and five brothers, Bob Martin, Leann Adkins, Okey Adkins, Herbert L. Adkins and Fred Adkins.

Friends may call at Gompf Funeral Home on Sunday, May 23rd from 2:00 to 5:00PM.  Funeral services will be held at the funeral home on Monday, May 24th at 11:00AM.  Pastor Joe Graham will officiate and burial will follow in Marengo Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are requested to consider Heartland Hospice.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com

Joyce Robinson Sowash, age 49, of Mount Gilead died Tuesday, May 11, 2010, unexpectedly at her home.
     
She was born on May 8, 1961, in Mount Gilead the daughter of Carl D. and Barbara A. (Bird) Robinson of Ft. Pierce, Florida.
     
In addition to her parents, she will be missed by her two sons: Christopher Sowash of Mount Gilead, and Cory Sowash of Gillette, Wyoming; her brother, Paul Robinson and his wife Heather of Cardington; and her sister, Donna Jean Myers and her husband Randy of Delaware, Ohio.
     
Her family will greet friends from 2 – 4 p.m. on Sunday May 16, 2010, from 2-4 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Funeral services will not be observed and a private graveside service will take place at a later date.
     
For those wishing to express their condolences to Joyce’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Patrick “ Pat” L. Belcher, 70 of Sparta, died Wednesday morning May 12, 2010 at his residence surrounded by his family.

Born on August 31, 1939 in Fulton to the late Clarence “Ikey” and Edith (Burson) Belcher. US Army Veteran and a retired laborer for North Electric and most recently for Bry- Air in Sunbury retiring in 2004.

Pat enjoyed hunting deer, squirrel and pheasant, gardening, fishing and woodworking of all kinds, especially birdhouses and furniture. He was very outspoken, well liked, a good dad and enjoyed time spent with his family.

Survived by his loving wife of 50 years: Lillie (Conley) Belcher and they were married April 29, 1960 in Sparta; sons: Kevin (Peggy) , Philip (Rhonda)  both of Cardington, Christopher of Sparta; daughters: Edith (Bill) Zornes of Chesterville, Mae Bethany Belcher of Sparta; 13 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren; sisters: Jeanette (Howard) Saunders of Marengo, Deloris (John) white of Marion, Kay (Richard) Nichols of Centerburg.

Preceded in death by brother: James Belcher.

Friends may call Friday from 5-8 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, 73 Walnut, Marengo where services will be held Saturday 11 a.m. with Pastor David Keefer officiating. Interment will follow in the Bloomfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to his family to assist with funeral arrangements.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Lucile Dawson, age 84, of Mount Gilead died Sunday morning, May 12, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital Emergency Room.
     
She was born on August 29, 1925 in Franklin Township the daughter of the late Tolly H. and Laura (Hull) Linn.
     
Lucile was a graduate of Chesterville High School in the class of 1942.  This was particularly special, because she not only graduated at age 16 but was the Valedictorian of her class. 

It was there at Chesterville High School, as a freshman, that Lucile developed a friendship with an older boy, Jim Dawson.  That friendship evolved into a beautiful bond that has now spanned over six decades!  They were married on August 31, 1946. 

Before their children were born Lucile worked at H.P.M. as the Executive Secretary.  She served under several past presidents and was well known for her short hand and typing skills.  She and Jim had 3 boys.  Lucile was very proud of her sons and kept a close tab on them, always concerned about their personal and professional lives.  Jim’s employment took the family to Lebanon, Ohio.  Lucile was active there in the Little Sisters of Lebanon United Methodist Church.  After the boys graduated from Lebanon High School, Jim and Lucile returned to Morrow County.  She and Jim always had Standardbred Race Horses on their farm.  As a woman of great faith, Lucile was a member of the Harmony Chapel, United Methodist Church.  She was active in the United Methodist Women.  Lucile was very skilled with her hands and enjoyed the arts of knitting, crocheting, and needlepoint.  Her needlepoint works included framed replicas of all their homes and the cushions on their antique chairs.  She loved her photo albums and was into “scrapbooking” before the term was invented.  Lucile was fond of historic events, especially those related to Morrow County and her own family.  This led her to write extensively on the History of Morrow County and research her family’s genealogy.  She wrote her own poetry and many of her writings were a result of the daily life experiences and how they affected her.  Her selfless and kind nature always led Lucile to find the good in people.  She truly cared for those around her and her devotion to her family was unmatched.  As Lucile’s health failed her, Jim was able to act as her caregiver and nurse over the last 2 years.  After over 60 years of friendship, love, and devotion, James would have had it no other way.
     
She will be missed by her husband Jim; Their 3 sons Dave and his wife Barbara of Loveland, Ohio, Don of San Francisco, California, and Doug and his wife Gloria of Dublin, Ohio; 6 grandchildren Anna, Olivia, Raquel, Jason, Tyler, and Emily; and her sister Esther Chapman and her husband Carl of Mount Gilead.
     
Friends may call on the family on Wednesday May 12, 2010 from 4-7 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Pastors Jeannie Winters and Joe Sopher will conduct services there on Thursday at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Harmony Chapel United Methodist Church.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Lucile’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Christine (Owens) Harrod, age 56, of Painesville and formerly of Mount Gilead and Crestline died Sunday night, May 9, 2010 at her home after a courageous 8 month battle with cancer.

She was born on September 11, 1953 in Mount Gilead, the daughter of the late Price Edmond and Francis Caroline (Ostrom) Owens.

Christine attended Mount Gilead High School and the 1st Presbyterian Church. She was also a member of the VFW Post #8054 and AmVets Post #97

On July 22, 1985 she married William “Bill” Harrod at the Mayor’s Home in Covington, Kentucky.

They lived in Crestline and have lived in Painesville for the last 10 years. She was a devoted housewife, mother, and grandmother.

Christine loved interior decorating and tending to her flower garden in the spring and summer.

In addition to her husband Bill, she will be missed by her son Troy Truax of Galion and his son Tyler; step son Larry Harrod and his wife Cheri of Marion and their children Mickayla and Braxton; step daughter Jillian Hollis and her husband Robert of Columbus and their children Rachel, Jacob, and Wesley; brother Jeff Owens of Mount Gilead and his children Kalie Owens and her son Jace Carter and Carrine Robinson and her husband Tim and their daughter Emry; sister Brenda Sparkman of Marion and her children Wade and Tara; and a nephew Tony Owens.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother Steve Owens.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday May 29, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at the 1st Presbyterian Church, 55 North Cherry Street, Mount Gilead, with Pastor Dennis Braun officiating.

Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead have been entrusted with the arrangements.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Cancer Society.

For those wishing to express their condolences to Christine’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.

George F. Lane, age 88 of Galena passed away Saturday evening, May 8, 2010 surrounded by his family.

He was born September 21, 1921 on the family farm in Condit to the late Fenton G. and Vinnie E. (Fisher) Lane. A graduate of Sunbury High School in 1939, he played on the football team and always enjoyed reminiscing at the class reunions. He was a US Army Veteran serving briefly during WW II.

George worked 44 years with Producers Livestock Assoc.  A career which began in the Columbus stock yards, he then spent 25 years as manager of the Mt. Vernon stockyards. He was transferred to the Columbus corporate office in 1966 as manager of the hog sales department and director of operations, retiring in 1988. His success was shown by the loyalty of numerous treasured friendships in the farming community.

A member of Condit Presbyterian Church, he prided himself in his homestead.  He enjoyed gardening; flowers and vegetables, as well as manicuring his landscape and lawn.

Survived by son: Don (Lisa) Lane of Cincinnati, daughter: Susan (Brian) Howlett of Hacienda Heights, CA, 4 Grandchildren: Lawrence and Michael (Juliet) Howlett, Brian and Douglas Lane (fiancée Laura Maynard). Sister-in-law: Virginia Ihle of Sunbury, dear friend Leda Walker, and a host of special nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by his wife of 53 years: Erdene (Buck) in 1998, brother Robert and sister Margaret Kletrovets.

Friends may call Wednesday 4-8 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury where a service celebrating the life of George Lane will be Thursday 10:30 a.m., interment will follow in Trenton Cemetery

Memorial contributions can be made to Sunbury Community Library, 44 Burrer Dr., Sunbury, OH 43015 or Arthritis Foundation, 3740 Ridge Mill Dr., Hilliard, OH 43026

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21).  Bob loved his family more than anything in the world, and it showed.  His heart belonged to them, afterall, they were his treasure.
     
Robert Eugene “Bob” Bayles, Sr., age 77, of Mount Gilead, died Thursday afternoon, May 6, 2010, at the Grant Medical Center in Columbus.
     
Bob was born on May 17, 1932 in Marion, the son of the late Ralph B. and Gladys M. (Hart) Bayles.  He graduated from Caledonia High School in the Class of 1951 and completed two years at Marion Business College.
     
A U.S. Army Korean War veteran, Bob served as a medic at Camp Polk, Louisiana and Fort Sam Houston Hospital in San Antonio.  He was a member of the American Legion Post 97 in Cardington.
     
While a senior in high school, Bob fell for the sweetest girl, a junior named Monnie Lou Williams.  It started out as your typical high school sweetheart love story, he was on the basketball team and she was a cheerleader.  But that initial crush turned into so much more.  On November 3, 1951 Bob and Monnie were married at the Trinity Baptist Church parsonage in Marion.  For over 58 years they shared a special bond that only most people hope for, true lovers and best friends.
     
Dedicated to his church, Bob was a faithful member of the Edison United Methodist Church.  He served in many roles including the Finance Committee and as Chairman of the PPR Committee.  Bob developed a close relationship with his Pastor, Don Lockwood, always holding Pastor Lockwood accountable for going to visit his mom.  For 20 years, Bob selflessly gave himself to the city of Marion as a firefighter.   Not wanting to give up his career, heart problems forced him into an early retirement in 1981.  He kept in touch with many of his fellow firefighters in later years by being a member of the Police and Fire Retirees of Ohio.  In his spare time, Bob enjoyed woodworking in his garage at home.  Among the numerous items he made were crafts, birdhouses, and a desk.  He also loved to travel throughout the United States and even made a few trips to Mexico and Canada.  Bob enjoyed being the cook for his family and even served in that role at the firehouse on many occasions.  Bob will be remembered as a family man; His family being first and foremost in his life.  He would do anything for his wife, kids, grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He was sometimes stubborn, but always patient, having a great compassion for others.  His teasing nature and unique sense of humor will be missed by everyone.  When asked to describe Bob, Monnie simply said that Bob was “Awesome!”
     
Bob will be dearly missed by his wife, Monnie, of Mt. Gilead; two sons: Robert E. (Brandy) Bayles, Jr. of Cardington, Matthew B. (Jenni) Bayles of Marion; his daughter, Randi L. (Randall) Oaklief of Mt. Gilead; 10 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren; two brothers; Ivan R. (Jean) Bayles of Bradenton, Florida, and Jim (Sue) Bayles of Marion.
     
In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his brother, Donny Bayles.
     
Bob’s family will greet friends from 5 – 7 p.m., on Monday, May 10, 2010 at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 N. Main St., Mt. Gilead, where services will follow at 7 p.m. with Pastor Don Lockwood officiating.  Burial in Caledonia Cemetery will be held at a later date.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Heart Association, 5455 N. High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Bob’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Betty L. Smith, age 80, formerly of Mount Gilead died early Thursday morning, May 6, 2010 at The Madison Senior Living Community in London.  She was born on August 7, 1929 in Waldo to the late Walter F. and Mabel Marie (Curren) Smith.

Betty was a 1947 graduate of Prospect High School and held a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Rutgers University.  She had worked as an accountant with J. Weinburg and Company CPA firm for 15 years.  Betty had attended the Church of the Sacred Hearts.

She is survived by a sister, Jane Davis of London, OH; six nieces and nephews and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by a brother, Richard W. Smith and three sisters, Margaret Myers, Mary Nuckles and Nettie D. Smith.

Friends may call Saturday, May 8th at Gompf Funeral Home beginning one hour prior to the funeral service that will be held at 2:00PM. Burial will follow in Waldo Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, Grand Central Station, PO BOX 4777, New York, NY 10163.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com.

Reginia “Jean” Green, age 76, of Cardington died early Thursday morning, May 6, 2010 at the Kobacker Hospice House at Riverside Methodist Hospital.  She was born June 17, 1933 to the late Florren E. Haas and Pearl I. (Hutchinson) Haas Rayfield who survives in Meadville, PA.

Jean attended Harding High School in Marion and had enjoyed working at both Long’s Seed House in Mt. Gilead and for Melvin Mayceko, CPA in Cardington.  She had also worked at the Cardington Public Library where she enjoyed helping the children.  Jean was a member of Saint Paul Lutheran.

On January 15, 1950 she married Richard L. Green and he preceded her in death on January 30, 2005.

Survivors include two sons, Daniel and Debbie Green and Rick Green of Cardington and a daughter Kris Higgins of Columbus; two grandchildren, Jeremy Higgins and fiancée, Jill Sehlhorst and Brian Green; two great-grandchildren Collin and Jack Higgins; two brothers, Dwight (Janet) Haas of Meadville, PA and Gregory Haas and Anita Musser of Upper Arlington.

In addition to her father and husband, Jean was preceded in death by a grandson, Matt Higgins; a step-sister, Sharon Maxwell and her step-mother, Zelma Haas.

Friends may call at Gompf Funeral Home Friday, May 7th from 2:00PM to 4:00PM and 6:00PM to 8:00PM where funeral services will be held Saturday, May 8th at 11:00AM.  Pastor Ronald Abbot will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Union Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider the American Diabetes Association or the Kobacker Hospice House.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com.


Wayne Copley, age 79, of Cardington, died Wednesday evening, May 5, 2010 at his residence.
     
Arrangements have been entrusted to Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead.  For more information please visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Roberta “Bobby” Dickerson, age 88 of Marengo passed away Saturday, April 24, 2010 at Riverside Hospital.

She was born on December 12, 1921 in Columbus to the late Robert and Winifred (Walker) Stevenson.  A graduate of North High School, where she met her husband of 64 years; Owen H. Dickerson she earned a teaching degree from O.S.U. where she was an active member of Kappa Kappa Gamma.

After raising her children, she returned to her teaching career with the Big Walnut School System. She along with her husband held a passion for camping with the family Airstream. Together they were active members of the Wally Byam Caravan Club and enjoyed numerous club rallies.
Winters were spent in Punta Gorda, FL. Friendly in nature, Bobby loved people and will be remembered for her warm friendly smile.

She is survived by sons: Michael, Steven (Becky) of Jackson, MS, Gary (Kathy) of Cincinnati, Patrick of Marengo, former daughter-in-law: Carolyn Frost, 5 Grandchildren, and several Great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband: Owen in 2009, her younger sister: Patricia and a Grandchild.

Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Friday May 7th at Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, 15370 Meredith State Rd., Sunbury, OH 43074 with Pastor Robert Riggs officiating. Inurment will follow in Union Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, Sunbury.

Memorial contributions can be made to her church.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Gene Adams, age 71 of Marengo died peacefully at home Sunday evening, May 2, 2010.

He was born April 24, 1939 in Perry County, Kentucky to the late Ray and Evelyn (Young) Adams.  Gene retired in 2005 after working 40 years with City Wide Supply Inc. as a sheet metal foreman.

A former Marengo Volunteer Fireman, he was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman. Quiet in nature, he possessed a gentle soul that was liked by all. He was happiest amongst his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

He was a wonderful husband to his loving wife of 49 years: Billie W. (Addison), father of son: Craig (Laura) Adams of Marengo, daughter: Daphne (Bryan) Engebritson of Reno, NV, and grandfather to: Chad Adams (Miss Calai Van Meter), Allie, and Wyatt Engebritson.

Also survived by brothers: Archie (Glenna) Adams of Marengo, John (Kathy) Adams of Pulaskiville, Dan Adams of Iberia, Sisters: Bonnie (Harvey)Moore of Centerburg, Aggie (Herman) Adkins of Fredericktown, Shirley Hall of Marengo, Dora (Astor) Caudill of Marengo, Martha (Don) Newell and Mary (Jerry) Newell of Marion.

Friends may call Wednesday 4-7 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury. Graveside services will be Thursday 11:00 a.m. at Bloomfield Cemetery, near Sparta with Pastor Jeff Deel officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to his family for help with final expenses.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Jeremy L. Holtrey, age 29, of Edison died unexpectedly Friday night, April 30, 2010 from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.
He was born on February 20, 1981 in Marion the son of Chris Holtrey and Alisa Holtrey, both of Mount Gilead.
         
Jeremy was a graduate of Mount Gilead High School in the class of 1999 and continued his education at Northwestern Technical College in Lima, where he received his certification as an auto diesel mechanic.
         
During his school aged days Jeremy raised pigs and was active in FFA.  He also played an important role in the life of his younger brother Joshua, who passed away just over a week ago.  He worked at Midas at Polaris both as a mechanic and in sales.  Jeremy was very active and always had to be doing something.  His father instilled in him an immense work ethic and Jeremy displayed that in his 24/7 work schedule.  While he was a mechanic by trade, Jeremy was very skilled and taught himself to do various projects around the house.  They included plumbing and electric work that Jeremy learned as the job progressed.  His independent and stubborn nature led to a refusal to allow someone else to do a job he could take care of himself.  Jeremy loved anything that went fast, which included his Camaro, his motorcycle, and his Dad’s 1964 Chevy Nova that they drag raced at their home course, Pacemakers in Mount Vernon and at LaRue in Marion.  He also enjoyed going mud running with his buddies; most notably at Crum’s Mud Run on Route 746 in Cardington.  Jeremy also enjoyed his time spent outdoors; trips to Lake Erie, sporting clays with his dad and Perry, or sucking it up on the golf course.
Amazingly, Jeremy also found time to play Texas Hold “Em and fight in the MMA on Coach Stills Team.
     
We could not complete Jeremy’s story without sharing the love and devotion he had for his family.  From his Mom, Dad, and Joshua, to Mollie, who he had planned to marry, to their 4 children, Jeremy was very protective of his family and there will be a void in their lives forever.
     
He will be dearly missed by his partner Mollie and their children Austan, Alyvia, Allasyn and Avery; his mother, Alisa Holtrey of Mount Gilead; his father, Chris (Colleen) Holtrey of Mount Gilead; paternal grandparents: Jo Ann and Lew Holtrey of Columbus; great grandmother, Catherine Hanna of Worthington; nieces and nephews: numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, and many dear friends.
     
In addition to his brother Joshua Ryan, he was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Delores and Orville Coots.
         
Friends may call on the family on Tuesday May 4, 2010 from 4-7 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead. Pastor Jay Weaver will conduct services there on Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Rivercliff Cemetery.
         
Memorial contributions may be made to the family to assist Mollie and their 4 children.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Robert H. “Bob” Miller, age 91, of Mount Gilead, died Thursday morning, April 29, 2010 Olentangy Woods Nursing & Rehabilitation in Galion.
       
Robert was born on February 28, 1919 in Caledonia, the son of the late Morley D. and Wave (Schofield) Miller.  He was a graduate of Martel High School.
       
On March 22, 1940, Robert married Ruth Elma Kaiser.    They shared over 56 special years together.  Their favorite activity as a pair was to spend Saturday night square dancing together.  She preceded him in death on November 20, 1996.
       
Not afraid of hard work, Bob dedicated his life to farming in Morrow County, where he owned and operated his own farm.  When he was not farming he spent most of his time “machine jockeying,” mostly buying and selling tractors.  He was labeled “King of International Morrow County” because of all of his support to Farmall tractors and equipment.  A devoted country music fan, Bob traveled all over the U.S. to attend country music festivals.  His many destinations included Missouri, Michigan, Kentucky and Gatlinburg.  He was a big fan of Hank Williams, but was especially fond of Anne Murray, saying, “She can’t be beat.”  He cherished the last trip he was able to take, a special trip to Montana.

A caring and thoughtful person, Bob will be dearly missed by his many wonderful friends.
       
A visitation will be held from 5 – 7 p.m. on Monday, May 3, 2010 at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 N. Main St., Mount Gilead.  A service celebrating Robert’s life will be held there on Tuesday at 11 a.m. with Pastor Kelly Melvin officiating.  Burial will follow in Caledonia Cemetery.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Humane Society of Morrow County, P.O. Box 298, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.
       
For those wishing to express their condolences, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


James M. Cox, age 81, of Mount Gilead died Monday afternoon, April 26, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center.
     
He was born on July 1, 1928 in Mount Gilead the son of the late Dwight Cox and Genevieve E. (Hershner) Cox Ritchey.
     
James was a graduate of Edison High School in the class of 1946 and enlisted in the United States Army shortly thereafter.  Once discharged, he came back to Mount Gilead and began his employment at H.P.M. as a crane operator.  His work there spanned 30 years until his retirement.
     
After his retirement, James moved to Florida where he lived until moving back to Mount Gilead in 1989.  A private man by nature, James could sit out in his yard for hours watching the birds and enjoying the outdoors.  He also walked all over the village of Mount Gilead, most often the fairgrounds, where he would set the pace on the race track.  Often times he would head out in the morning to pick up groceries and find himself driving the roads of Morrow County just for leisure.  James loved driving and it was very difficult the day he had to give it up.  A cat lover, he was known to have as many as 10 cats in his home at any one time.  He could never turn down a stray, and once in his possession off to the vet he would go to get it spayed.  In his nearly 3 years at Woodside Village, James grew close to some of the staff and enjoyed the 1 on 1 conversation they would have.  Most importantly, James passion was bowling.  He belonged to 14 different leagues at various times throughout the years.  His home was full of trophies and his closet was full of bowling shirts.
     
He will be missed by his sister Ruth Harshner and her husband Carl of Edison; nephew Michael D. Harshner; and nieces Christine Smith, Evelyn Horowitz, and Samantha McFarland.
     
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by wife Nancy A. Cox in 1970.
     
Friends may call on the family on Friday April 30, 2010 from 5-7 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Pastor Don Lockwood will conduct services there on Saturday at 11:00 a.m.  Burial with full military honors conducted by the V.F.W. Post #8054 and AmVets Post #87 will follow in Rivercliff Cemetery.  Friends may also call from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to Edison United Methodist Church.  For those wishing to express their condolences to James’ family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Regardless of his various trials and tribulations his family and friends could always count on their #1 Buckeye fan, Joshua Holtrey to lift their spirits and brighten their day.  He lost his battle with Cerebral Palsy unexpectedly on Monday morning, April 26, 2010, at the Morrow County Hospital Emergency Room.
     
Joshua Ryan Holtrey
,  age 28, was born on April 5, 1982, in Mount Gilead the son of Chris Holtrey and Alisa Holtrey, both of Mount Gilead.
     
A student of Whetstone Schools, Joshie later was dedicated himself to Whetstone Industries, where he worked in the newspaper department sorting newspapers.
     
Although Joshua could not communicate in a “traditional” manor, words were not required to show the love and compassion he had for his family and friends.  While some may find it unusual that Joshua laughed at you if you stubbed a toe or banged your finger on something, family and friends found themselves doing it intentionally just to hear Joshua’s contagious laughter.  An avid Ohio State Buckeye football fan, Joshua loved cheering on his favorite team.  Always one to keep his mind active, Joshua routinely wore out the pens on his Magna Doodle going through several every year.  Joshie had a special relationship with his nieces and nephews, feeding and burping them as infants.  Also more recently, while on his “voom voom chair”, he would race them on their bikes up and down the driveway, or he would play catch with them for hours.  With his heart warming smile, Joshua absolutely loved “flirting with the ladies.  Joshua will be remembered as a young man who had all the reasons in the world to be upset with his circumstances.  Instead he lived his life with a smile on his face and an unending love for those around him.
     
He will be dearly missed by his mother, Alisa Holtrey of Mount Gilead; his father, Chris (Colleen) Holtrey of Mount Gilead; his brother, Jeremy (Mollie) Holtrey of Edison; paternal grandparents: Jo Ann and Lew Holtrey of Columbus; great grandmother, Catherine Hanna of Worthington; nieces and nephews: Austan, Alyvia, Allasyn and Avery; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, and many dear friends.
     
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents: Delores and Orville Coots.
     
Joshua’s family will greet friends from 4 – 7 p.m. on Thursday April 29, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead.  A service celebrating Joshua’s life will be held there on Friday at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jay Weaver officiating.
     
Memorial contributions may be made to Whetstone Industries, to go towards the levy, and they may be sent to the funeral home.  Joshua’s family would like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to Pam Conrad and Gladys Shipley, who both gave him loving and unconditional care for many years.
     
For those wishing to express their condolences to Joshua’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Judy E. Beacom, age 67 of Mt. Gilead died Monday, April 26, 2010 at Grant Medical Center surrounded by her family.

She was born on January 17, 1943 in Ashland to the late Adrian and Annabelle (Rennals) Lawrence. A devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and foster parent; she was a lifelong resident of Morrow County, specifically the Marengo area.

A member of New Testament Missionary Baptist Church, she enjoyed crafts, crocheting, and knitting. Home decorating was her favorite pastime, as she was known to redecorate the same room several times each year.  Feisty and at times stubborn, she enjoyed nature and was happiest at home with her family. Unique best describes her as there was no other Mother or Grandmother like her.

Survived by children: Stephannie (Gary) Rhodes of Delaware, Kandy (Bruce) Levings of Mt. Gilead, Melissa (Darrell) VanDyke of Fredericktown, Aaron (Jessica) Beacom of Cardington, 16 Grandchildren, 15 Great-grandchildren, Sisters: Dolores (Joel) Shaffer of Schoolcraft, MI, and Sunny Stough of Barberton.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband: Hobart Beacom in 1999.

Friends may call Wednesday 6-8 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home (SR 229) in Marengo.  Funeral services will be Thursday 11:00 a.m. at New Testament Missionary Baptist Church, 5560 SR 95 near Mt. Gilead with Pastor William C. Kirk officiating. Burial will follow in Fargo Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
 

 


Katrina Sue Preece, age 45 of Ashley was called home to be with her Lord Sunday morning, April 25, 2010 at Delaware Court.

She was born on November 1, 1964 in Columbus and was a graduate of
Big Walnut High School in 1983. She had worked in the food service industry.

A member of Berachah Baptist Church, she enjoyed studying her Bible, reading and crafts of all types. She treasured her independence. Always the encourager, she was both humble and positive in nature.  She touched many lives in spite of her years of illness, always giving glory to God.

She was preceded in death by her mother: Marie (Lee) Preece.

Survived by father and step-mother: Lloyd and Nina Preece of Sunbury, brother and sister-in-law: Larry and Edie Preece, nephew: Tyler, niece Sara all of Ashley, Aunts, Uncles, extended family and friends.

Friends may call Thursday 6-8 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury. Graveside services giving glory to God for the life of Katrina Preece will be held Friday 10:00 a.m. at Trenton Cemetery, with Pastor Jonathan Smith officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made to her family to help with final expenses.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Carlene Scott, age 48, of Cardington, died unexpectedly on Sunday, April 18, 2010.
         
On February 21, 1962, Carlene was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Barbara Hollins of Cardington and the late John Marcin of Connecticut.
         
While living in Lion, Illinois, Carlene found the love of her life, James Jay Scott, who was stationed there while serving in the U. S. Navy.  They were married on December 18, 1992, and have loved their seventeen years together.
         
Despite being injured in a factory accident many years ago, Carlene still gave all she could to her family as a wife, mother and grandmother.  She truly loved spending time with her children and her beloved granddaughter, Destiny Lynn Smith, age 4.  She was always there to help her family, no matter what the cost to herself, and they will forever be grateful for her unconditional love, care, and kindness.
         
A woman of faith, Carlene was a  member of the Genoa Baptist Church and she cherished the messages of Pastor Frank Carl.
         
She will be dearly missed by her husband, James Jay Scott of Cardington; two daughters: Brianna (Nicholas) Smith and their daughter, Destiny of Marengo; and Allana Scott of Cardington; three brothers: Jack (Laura) Marcin and their children: Brandon, Dylan, Vivian, and Victoria; Tim (Heidi) Phelan and their children Dustin and Damian; and Patrick Phelan and his son Kyle.
         
Including her father John Marcin, Carlene was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Vernon Marcin.
         
Per Carlene’s wishes, services will not be observed.  Memorial contributions may be made to her family.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Carlene’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


George H. Fisher Sr., age 76 of Marengo died Friday, April 23, 2010 at home surrounded by his family.

He was born on November 28, 1933 in Columbus to the late George H. and Imogene (Smith) Fisher.  A lifelong painter, he had been a resident of Marengo for the past 48 years.

An outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and gardening. George collected post cards and old toy trucks. Kind hearted and generous, he was always helpful. Family was most important and he always had a grandchild underfoot.

He enjoyed listening to guitar music, even attempted to play the guitar, but could play a good tune on the harmonica. His motto in life was “to do it right the first time”.

Survived by his loving wife of 54 years: Blondena (Spears), Children: Cindy (Roger) Counts of Temperance, MI, George (Betty Fisher of Wellston, Debbie (Larry) Exline of Stonewood, WV, Mike Fisher (Genie Day) of Marengo, Wally (Brenda) Fisher of Marengo, Selina Walker of Mt. Gilead, 17 Grandchildren, numerous Great-grandchildren.

Also preceded in death by daughter-in-law: Nanette and brother Walter.

Friends may call Tuesday 5-8 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, (SR 229) in Marengo, where services will be held Wednesday 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Ben Powers officiating, burial will follow in Marengo Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Jack W. McPeek, age 90, of Mount Gilead, died Friday morning, April 23, 2010, at the Morrow County Extended Care Facility following a brief illness.
         
On August 10, 1919, Jack was born at home in Mount Gilead, the son of the late Isaac and Stella (Grubaugh) McPeek.
       
A graduate of Mount Gilead High School in the Class of 1939, Jack remained close with a classmate, Martha Fisher.  Once they finally began dating the rest has been history, and they were married on August 23, 1941, in the Mount Gilead Church of the Nazarene.  Over the years, they have shared a special relationship filled with love for their family.  They have been deeply devoted to one another for nearly sixty nine years.
       
A lifelong resident of Mount Gilead, Jack had one job for his entire career at the HPM Corporation, where he worked as a machinist.  He was dedicated to the company for forty five years until he retired in 1984.  Always keeping everyone’s best interest at heart, Jack became heavily involved with the International Association of Machinist’s Union.  He was involved in many negotiations between the company and the machinists and he always “stressed fairness.”  Also, he served the Union as their treasurer.  For the past twenty three winters, Jack and Martha have thoroughly enjoyed being snowbirds flying south to Eustis, Florida.  While there, he spent a good majority of his time aboard his beloved golf cart traveling through the community socializing with all of his friends.  Having a unique interest in finding things “of value”, Jack loved going to as many flea markets, sales and auctions he could find.  Frugal by nature, he really enjoyed finding a good deal.  Also, he made sure he never missed the Morrow County Fair, and he looked forward to it every year.  Having “never met a stranger,” Jack could strike up a friendship when you least expected it.  He also absolutely loved most any social gathering, especially when he was surrounded by his family and friends and it helped if he was also the center of attention.  A man of integrity and honor, Jack’s legacy will carry on in the hearts of his family.  He will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who was always there.
         
He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Martha McPeek, of Mount Gilead; daughter and son-in-law, Jacqueline and Michael West of Leawood, Kansas; four grandchildren: Dr. Nicholas (Erin) Brown and Douglas Brown, both of Wooster, Michelle West of Prairie Village, Kansas, and Lori (Aaron) Cross of Overland Park, Kansas; four great-grandchildren: Owen and Lauren Brown, and Sydney and Ella Cross; a son-in-law, Dr. Charles (Ruth) Brown of Wooster; and a sister, Jeanne (Tom Burkhart) McPeek of Galion.
         
Including his parents, Jack was preceded in death by his daughter, Rebecca Brown; infant son, Richard McPeek; and an infant sister.
         
Jack’s family will greet friends from 2 – 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 25, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 N. Main St., Mount Gilead, where services celebrating his life will be held on Monday at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Jerry Mathias officiating.   Burial will follow in Rivercliff Cemetery.
         
Memorial contributions in made to the American Heart Association or to the American Cancer Society and they may be sent in care of the funeral home.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Jack’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Warren O. Stecher, age 89, of St. Louis, Missouri, died Monday afternoon, April 19, 2010, at the Woodside Village Care Center in Mount Gilead.
     
Local arrangements have been entrusted to Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead.


Carol Housley, age 76 of Marengo and formerly of Columbus, died Thursday afternoon April 15, 2010 at Riverside Hospital.

She was born on May 15, 1933 in Columbus to the late James and Bernice Jones. Carol had lived in the Marengo area since 1978 and was a homemaker.

Carol enjoyed fishing, camping and was an excellent cook, gravy and biscuits and fried chicken were some of specialties. She enjoyed drives in the countryside and shopping. Carol enjoyed telling family stories, old recipes and old home remedies.

Survived by her husband: Bobby Housley and they were married  June 18, 1965; sons: Robert (Treena) Smith of Galena, Larry Ramey of Sunbury; daughter: Diane (Glenn) Tigner of Logan; 12 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren; sisters: Shorty, Bett, Bebe.

Preceded in death by infant son: Ronnie Ramey, brother Herb; sister: Toots.

Memorial services will be held Tuesday 7 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR 3 at 61, Sunbury and friends may call one hour prior to the service.

Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Morrow County, 228 South Street, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.

The DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Carol Housley.


Sandra Rogers, age 63, of Galion died late Tuesday evening, April 13, 2010 at Mansfield MedCentral after a courageous bout with cancer.
     
She was born on July 5, 1946 in Powhatan, Ohio the daughter of the late Thomas and Helen (Leasure) McClintock.
     
A resident of the area her entire life, Sandra attended Colonial Crawford High School in Bucyrus.  Her caring and loving nature led her to a career as a nurse’s aid. She was employed with Mansfield MedCentral for nearly 15 years.  When not spending time with her family, Sandra could be found outside in her yard; tending to her flower gardens or enjoying fresh fruit from her fruit trees.  She also enjoyed shopping trips to Amish country.  She will leave a legacy of love and compassion for her children and grandchildren.  Her magnetic personality drew in those around her.
     
She will be missed by her Husband of 38 years Arthur Virgil Rogers; her children and grandchildren, Dan Thoman of Bellville and his son Brian; Terry Thoman of Bucyrus and his son John; and Rod Thoman and his wife Dawn of Mount Gilead and their children Dustin and Amber;  her sister Illa McAfee of Wooster; and many nieces and nephews.
     
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her brother Mike McClintock.
     
Friends may call on the family on Friday April 16, 2010 from 5-8 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.  
Funeral services will be held there on Saturday at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will follow in Shauck Cemetery.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Cancer Society.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Sandra’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Edith A. Phillips, age 53 of Centerburg passed away Sunday, April 11, 2010 at Centerburg Pointe following a courageous battle against cancer.

A graduate of Centerburg High School in 1975, she was born on June 3, 1956 in Mt. Vernon to the late Jewel and Opal (Gore) Jones. She worked in the food service industry.  She enjoyed long walks, clowns, watching movies and a good meal. Sweet, kind hearted, and compassionate, she a people person, who treasured family and friends.

Survived by children: Derek Phillips of Centerburg, Jarrod Phillips of Fredericktown, Brittany and Lisa Compton of Centerburg, Grandchildren: Blaze and Gunner, and sister: Juldean Jones, nieces, nephews, her boy friend: Danny Kirk, and the staff and residents at Centerburg Pointe.

She was also preceded in death by her niece: Riley Lanigan.

Graveside services will be held Saturday 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Liberty Cemetery with Rev. Mardessa Baker officiating. Arrangements entrusted to DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home in Sunbury.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Rita K. Loyer, age 80, of Marion, died Saturday afternoon, April 10, 2010, at Heartland of Marion, following a three month illness.
       
Rita was born on November 21, 1929, in Delaware, Ohio, the daughter of the late Fred and Katherine (Kreis) Loyer.  She was raised on the family farm, where she would care for her parents in their later years and where she would call home her entire life.  After graduating from Claridon High School in the Class of 1947, Rita enrolled at Capital University, where she would earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Education.  With a firm belief in each child’s abilities, Rita was proud to return to Claridon Elementary Schools to teach 5th grade.  After Claridon Schools were consolidated, Rita then transferred to the Waldo Elementary Schools to continue enriching the lives of her 5th grade students.  After forty six years, she “retired” from her official teaching position and immediately became a full time volunteer for Waldo Schools and lastly for the Heritage School.  Even despite her recent illness, she was dearly hoping to be able to return to her beloved students.  Believing in the education system, Rita had a caring and warm way of helping all of her students follow the right path and get the most from their education.  A book worm, Rita loved reading anything she could get her hands on.  The books she found having value, she would diligently pass along to her students and family.  Deep in faith, Rita was a lifelong member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Cardington, where she taught Sunday School her entire adult life and served on the Church Council.  Having a green thumb, Rita enjoyed tending to her garden and her well manicured yard.  After her retirement, she even started an orchard on the farm and she would share her produce with as many people as possible.  An avid sports fan, if any of Rita’s favorite teams were playing you could count on her being glued to the tv cheering them on.  She loved rooting for her beloved Cleveland Browns, Ohio State Buckeyes, and most importantly her Cleveland Indians.  Her dedication to watching her teams even lead her to get the premium sports package from the Dish Network, so she never had to miss a game.  Very witty, Rita often would catch you off guard with a joke with her “wry sense of humor.”  Having a heart of gold, Rita gave unconditionally of her time and efforts to her students, church and her family.  Her legacy will be carried on within the hearts and minds of all those she has touched for countless years to come.
       
Rita will be missed by her two brothers: Frederick “Charles” (Virginia) Loyer of St. Marys, and Philip Loyer of Waynesville, North Carolina; and four nieces and three nephews.
       
The Loyer family will greet friends from 4 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13, 2010, at the Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home, 360 E. Center St., Marion.  Services celebrating her life will be held on Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Paul Lutheran Church, 336 W. Main St. (US Route 42), Cardington, with Pastor Ed Wahl officiating.  Burial will follow in Marion Cemetery.
       
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Church or to Heartland Hospice, and they may be sent in care of the funeral home.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Rita’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Mildred J. Vaughn age 73 of Caledonia passed away Friday evening April 9th, 2010 in Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus after a short illness. She was born Sept. 04h 1936 in Marion County, the daughter of the late Ralph & Lucile (Rinker) Roesch. On August 05 1955 she married Barry Vaughn. He survives her at home. Midge was a 1954 graduate of Martel High School. She was a Librarian for the Caledonia Branch of the Marion Public Library for many years. She was a member of the Iberia United Methodist Church, Last Chance Seniors and the Bunco Club in Caledonia.

In her younger days she was a den mother for the local Cub Scout Pack. She loved walking and riding bicycle, going to garage sales with her friends and cheering on the Cleveland Indians. In her quiet moments she like to read and put together puzzles, but  she loved being with her family the most. Besides her husband of over 50 years, Midge is survived by her sons; Robin (Jackie) Vaughn of Caledonia, R. Scott Vaughn of Marion and Jerry (friend Tammy Stephenson) Vaughn of Prospect . Her two daughters; Cathy (Ralph) Stayner of Edison and Shannon (Kevin) Whipple of Caledonia and her sister Joyce (Tom) Hayes of Caledonia. Grandchildren; Ronee (Lee) Berry, Andy (Laura) Berry, Seth, Nick and Brayden Vaughn, Scotty & Jordan Vaughn, Hannah, Lara & Kendra, Austin & Logan Whipple, Chandra & Miranda Johnson. Great Grandchhildren: Tyler & McKaylee, Aaron Miller, Kaylynne, Mashayla & McKenzie Berry, Kalab Crockett, Jaxon Caudill, Kearsten & Cadaen Vaughn. She will be dearly missed by her special friends; Ora & Tina Fitch, Elaine Trout and Eric & Lisa Meadows. She was preceded in death by her sister Betty Hissong and her daughter Jeanie Lynn Vaughn. Funeral Services for Midge will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday April 14th, 2010 at the Iberia United Methodist Church with the Pastor Pat Fruth officiating. Interment will follow in Caledonia Cemetery. Friends may call at the Timson Allen & Melroy Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2 until 4 and 6 until 9 Memorial contributions may be made to Iberia United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timsonallenmelroy.com


Billie Marie Helman, age 85, of West High Street in Mt Gilead, died Saturday, April 10, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital.  Billie was born on November 12, 1924 in Paintsville, KY to the late Roby and Hazel (McKinzie) Gibbs.

On May 17, 1952 in Richmond, Indiana Billie married Elwin Lester Helman and he preceded her in death in August of 2001.  Billie worked at Ranco as an inspector for 36 ½ years.

Billie is survived by her five children and their spouses, Raymond Evans of Pensacola, FL, Michael  and Patricia Evans of Fredericksburg, VA, Richard and Irma Evans of Manchester, TN, Loree and Robert Curren of Marengo and Brenda and Jack Monk of Cardington; 11 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Billie was preceded in death by her sisters, Jessie Ray and Betty Matson and a great-grandson, Cody.

Friends may call on Monday, April 12th from 5:00 to 8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington, where services will be held on Tuesday, April 13th at 11:00AM.  Reverend Don Neumeister will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Union Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com

Virginia Maxine Sherman, age 87, died Thursday afternoon, April 8, 2010 at the Morrow Manor Nursing Center in Chesterville.
       
She was born in West Liberty, Ohio on March 16, 1923, the daughter of the late Fred C. and Lieudelle (Bosart) Davie.
       
Virginia has been a member of the Morrow County Community since she was 17, where she has tilled the land and raised dairy cows.  An extremely hard worker; when not farming she was working at the mobile home manufacturing plant in Galion.  A friend of the Amish, Virginia used her free time to transport them to their various jobs throughout the area.  A true animal lover, Virginia always had cats and dogs at her home.  They were her babies.  Most importantly, Virginia loved driving around on her John Deere mower. To her it was not just a lawnmower, it was a mode of transportation.

In addition her parents and husband, Kenneth, she was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters, Don, Gene, Bill, Chuck, Walter, Anna, and Margie.
       
She will be missed by 15 nieces and nephews and numerous great nieces and nephews.
       
Funeral services will be held on Monday April 12, 2010 at 2:00 PM with Pastor Kelly Melvin officiating at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Friends may call on the family from noon until the time of service.
       
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the American Heart Association, North Central Ohio, 5455 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Virginia’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Kenneth L. Young, Sr., age 71, of Fulton died early Wednesday morning, April 7, 2010 at his residence.  He was born September 19, 1938 in Ashley to the late Lloyd and Bessie (Moodispaugh) Young.

Kenneth worked 35 years as a welder at Stahl’s in Cardington and retired in 2001.

He is survived by his wife Madeline (Hubbard) Young whom he married August 12, 1967 in Virginia.  Survivors also include his children and their spouses, Pamela Young & Daniel Storch of Marion, Danny and Lisa Townsend, Von and Kris Jackson, Keith and Kathleen Townsend all of Cardington and Kenneth Young, Jr. of Fulton; 7 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren and a brother, Harold Young, Sr. of Mt. Gilead.

In addition to his parents Kenneth was preceded in death by 2 brothers and 2 sisters.

Friends may call Friday, April 9, 2010 at Gompf Funeral Home from 2:00 to 4:00PM and 6:00 to 8:00PM where funeral services will be held Saturday, April 10th at 11:00AM.  Burial will follow in Fulton Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Hospice of Morrow County, 228 South Street, Mount Gilead, OH 43338.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com

Charles H. “Chuck” Bennett, age 82, of Mount Gilead, died early Sunday morning, April 4, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital Extended Care Facility.
       
He was born on March 4, 1928 in Cookeville, Tennessee, the son of the late Herman and Vivian (Terry) Bennett.  He graduated from West Tech High School in Cleveland and attended Baldwin Wallace for three years.
       
Chuck was a World War II Army Veteran and he retired from H.P.M. Corporation in Mount Gilead.
       
On October 9, 1965, Chuck married Sally Marie Hoskinson.  Together they have shared over 44 years.
       
A gentle and soft spoken man, Chuck lived a simple life.  In his spare time he enjoyed radio controlled cars and airplanes and also flying planes as a private pilot.
       
Chuck will be dearly missed by his wife, Sally of Mount Gilead; five children: James (Pam) Bennett of Great Falls, Montana, Michael Bennett of Grafton, Ohio, Judith (William) Reilly of Midland, Texas, Jeanne (Michael) Gabel of Avon Lake, Ohio, Mark (Bridget) Bennett of LaGrange, Ohio; eight grandchildren; one great grandchild; and a brother, James (Elaine) Bennett of North Royalton, Ohio.
       
In honoring Chuck’s wishes, a cremation will take place.  Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead have been entrusted with the arrangements. For those wishing to express their condolences to the Bennett family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Ruth E. Biddle, Ruth E. Biddle, age 89, of Chesterville and formerly of Mount Gilead died Saturday afternoon, April 3, 2010 at Morrow Manor in Chesterville.
     
She was born in Columbus, Ohio the daughter of the late Merril C. and Mary E. (Sutton) Beougher.
     
On December 5, 1951 she married George D. Biddle at the Hansberger Church in Columbus.  They were married for 57 years before his passing on January 13, 2009.  Ruth was a very traditional wife, always remaining in the background with her soft spoken and quiet nature.
     
Ruth was a member of the Peace United Methodist Church in Columbus where she was their secretary for many years.  She later used her secretarial skills at the Ohio Department of health.  After her retirement from the department of health, Ruth and George moved to Morrow County.  Aside from their winter trips to Silver Springs, Florida, they lived in the area for 27 years.  As a member of the local “breakfast club”, Ruth looked forward to her daily trip to either McDonalds or the Gathering Inn.  Ruth was notorious for her sweet tooth and loved all things chocolate.  She also collected bells and could always be found with a pug at her side.  Music played a very important role in Ruth’s life; she was a member of the church choir, played the violin and piano, and when within earshot you could always hear her humming a tune.  More recently she learned how to play the Hammer Dulcimer.  Ruth did taxes from January to January and always had various tax forms on her kitchen table.  Her first statement upon entering her heavenly home may be, “No more taxes!”.  She will be remembered as a caring and loving woman who had the adoration of all of her family and friends.
     
In addition her parents and husband, Ruth was preceded in death by a great grandchild; her two brothers Raymond and Howard Beougher; and her sister Dorothy Beougher.
     
Ruth will be missed by her three daughters: Ellen Gamble of Gahanna, Mariann (Michael) Merrick of Mount Gilead, and Carol (Dale) Martin of Columbus; son, Paul (Jackie) Biddle of Caledonia; twelve grandchildren: Jeremy, Aaron (Marsha), Brian, Logan, and Preston Gamble, Tim (Heather) Merrick, Tracy (Dave) Stone, Jenna, Dale, and Wyatt Martin, and Tom (Linda), and Shelby Biddle; and fourteen great-grandchildren and two on the way.
     
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at 2:00 PM at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead, with Pastor Okie Evans officiating.  Burial will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Chesterville.  Friends may call from noon until the time of the service.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Morrow Manor Activity Dept., P. O. Box 44, Chesterville, Ohio 43317, or to Acclaim Hospice, 2800 Corporate Exchange Dr., Columbus, Ohio 43231.
     
For those wishing to express their condolences to Ruth’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Betty Jo Jagger, 84, of Mount Gilead, died early Wednesday morning, March 31, 2010 at the Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus.
     
She was born in Mount Gilead on August 12, 1925, the daughter of the late Bruce and Mary Cronenwett Hardman.
     
She graduated from Wellington High School in 1943, returning to Mount Gilead in 1945.
     
On December 26, 1948 she married Richard E. Jagger.  They were married for 57 years before his passing on March 19, 2005.
     
She worked for H.P.M. Corporation as their secretary and the Morrow County Hospital in the business department until retiring.  Betty Jo was a member of the Williamsport United Methodist Church, the Rural Mother’s League, the Order of the Eastern Star, the Daughter’s of The American Revolution, and served as a Morrow County Republican Committeewoman.  She loved sports, especially the Cleveland Indians, The Ohio State Buckeyes, and The University of Kentucky Wildcats basketball and football teams.  In February, she was able to attend the Kentucky-Tennessee basketball game and see the Wildcats get a big win and make amends for an early season loss to the Volunteers.  Betty Jo will be fondly remembered as a generous and loving woman who cared deeply for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.
     
She is survived by her daughter Judy Jagger-Mescher and her husband Greg of Centerville, Ohio; two sons Dr. James Jagger and his wife Kathleen of Lexington, Kentucky and Dean Jagger and his wife Beth of Mount Gilead, Ohio; seven grandchildren Matt Jagger and his wife Sarah, Ted Smith and his wife Akiko, Alison Sutton and her husband David, Nathan Jagger and his wife Kelli, Mark Jagger and his wife Rebecca, Kristine Smith and Carla Jagger; four great grandchildren Justice Sutton, Natalie and Brooke Jagger, and Masaki Smith; two step-grandchildren Grant Mescher and Brooke Griffey (Brian); two step-great grandchildren Aiden and Audrey Griffey; and her sister-in-law Joan Jagger of Mount Gilead.
         
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Robert and Dick Hardman.
         
Friends may call on the family on Friday April 2, 2010 from 2-4  and 6-8 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Pastor Gary Lamb-Hart will conduct services there on Saturday at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will follow in Bryn Zion Cemetery.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Williamsport United Methodist Church or Gideon’s International.  Condolences may be expressed to Betty Jo’s family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Illah Jane (Karcher) Wells, age 94 of Cardington died Monday morning, March 29, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center in Mount Gilead.  She was born December 23, 1915 in Upper Sandusky to the late Gilbert M and Fannie F. (Payne) Karcher.

Jane was a 1933 graduate of Upper Sandusky HS.  She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit # 97 and of the 8 & 40.  Jane previously had been employed for 19 years as a clerk at the Cardington Locker and for 8 years at Green’s Lite Stop.

In May 1933 she married Emmett Raymond Wells and he preceded her in death in February 1990.

Survivors include her children, John Wells of Hudson, FL, Paul D. Wells of El Cajon, CA, Marjorie Burkhardt of Cardington, David Wells of Ball Ground, GA and  Sherrill White of Cardington; 23 grandchildren and  28 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Jane was preceded in death by a son, Jessie Wells; a daughter, Linda Fabian; two brothers, Nelson and Denzil Karcher and five sisters, Roma Kinley, Alma Kolarik, Mary Theil, Dorothy Mundy and Namah Gibson.

Friends may call Friday, April 2nd from 2:00 to 4:00PM and 6:00-8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington where funeral services will be held Saturday, April 3rd at 11:00AM. Burial will be in Old Mission Cemetery in Upper Sandusky at a date to be announced.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of Gompf Funeral Service, 440 S Center Street, Cardington, OH 43315.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompfh.com


Fred F. Gliem, age 90, went home to meet his Lord on March 29, 2010.  He was born March 26, 1920 in Wayne County, Ohio to the late Robert and Ora Edgerton Gliem.  He graduated from Creston High School 1938.  Fred served in the US Air Corp during World War II in the South Pacific and Burma.  He married Lucille (Sue) Infield in 1948.  They lived in Wooster, Columbus and in 1958, moved to Morrow County and have lived here for the last 50 years. 

His children are David Gliem and wife, Laurel (Shelly) of Thornville; Bob Gliem and wife, Regina (Powers) of Marion; Dee Sanders and husband, Roger Sanders of Waynesfield; Joe Gliem and late wife, Karen (Smith) of Cardington; Sid Long and husband, Kevin Long of Cardington, and Tim Gliem–deceased.  Fred and Sue have 12 grandchildren.  Fred was preceded in death by 4 sisters and 3 brothers.

Fred was the manager of the Lutheran Memorial Camp at Fulton, OH for 27 years and touched the hearts of many young and old alike.

The education of our youth was very important to him.  He served on the Cardington-Lincoln school board for 4 years, Tri-Rivers school board for 17 years, Morrow County school board for 20 years and was a charter school board member of the Gilead Christian School.

Friends may call at Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington, OH from 2:00 to 4:00 PM and 6:00 to 8:00 PM Thursday, April 1, 2010. The funeral service will be held at Cardington Church of the Nazarene Friday, April 2, 2010 at 11:00AM.  Internment will be in the Fulton Cemetery following the service.  (Due to a bridge out, we can only enter Fulton from State Route 61 on the east side of Fulton, the cemetery is on the west side of Fulton.)

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Spirit & Sword Ministries 4093 Mission Bell Drive, Boynton Beach, FL 33436.  www.spiritandsword.org  (Haiti missionaries since 1985). Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com.


Larry Donald Miller age 63 of Caledonia, passed away unexpectedly Friday morning March 26th, 2010 in Marion General Hospital. Larry was born December 11th, 1946 as the son of the late Donald F. & Mariam L. (Koehler) Miller. Larry was a graduate of River Valley High School. He was a U. S. Army veteran and had worked previously at L.L.C. in Galion and Eaton Corporation in Marion, More recently he was the proprietor of the Miller’s Small Engine Shop in Caledonia. He was a former member of the Loyal Order of the Moose in Galion and Marion. He was a member of Caledonia Post 407 of the American Legion. Larry loved to fish and loved to watch the Browns, Cavaliers and the Buckeyes. Larry is survived by his son and Daughter - in - law Donald L. & Cathy Miller of Mt. Vernon. His daughter Amanda J. Miller of Marion and his grandchildren MicKi Miller of Mt. Vernon and Michael Miller of Marion. He also leaves behind his loving companion Glenda Woodgeard to cherish his memory. A Memorial Gathering will be held in the Miller Small Engine Shop at 124 E. Marion Street in Caledonia on Wednesday March 31st from 4 - 6.   Timson Allen & Melroy Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timsonallenmelroy.com


He had an unforgettable personality and for one last time on Sunday, Richard will have the floor all to himself.
     
Richard W. “Richie” Looker Sr., age 53, of Fulton died Thursday, March 25, 2010 at his residence.
     
He was born on October 10, 1956 in Columbus, Ohio the son of the late Guy F. and Mary Grace (Oliverio) Looker.
     
Very skilled with his hands and with a sharp mind, Richard was an excellent carpenter.  He was mainly self-employed, but also worked for the Reed’s and other businesses in the area.  A fan of old country and westerns, Richard could spend hours in front of the television watching Bonanza and The Rifleman.  According to his family he was quite the fireman, never afraid to risk his life for others.  Labeled the “Morrow County Hero” by the Morrow County Sentinel, because he would not give his name, Richard risked his life when he entered into a burning trailer to save a baby.  Richard had the gift of gab and was an amazing storyteller; always giving great detail that completed the tale.  His personality so magnetic, that when he went out you never knew what friend he may bring home.  Richard also enjoyed tinkering with old cars, and like so many of his generation, he had the knack for remembering the make and model of so many of the older cars.  Always thinking of others, Richard routinely prayed for his friends and family and was not ashamed of his relationship with Jesus.
     
He will be missed by his wife Connie Tennant, who he married in November of 1983 in Marion; his daughter Windy and her husband Jamis Rose of Mount Gilead; son Richard W. Looker Jr.; siblings Pat Gentile of Columbus, Barb Muir of Toledo, Gary and his wife Judith Schorr of Chatanooga, Tennessee, Verda and her husband Bill Caplinger of Ashley, and Janet and her husband Tom Keen of Mansfield; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     
Friends may call on the family on Sunday March 28, 2010 from 2-4 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Rev. Donna Ball will conduct services there on Monday at 1:00 p.m.  Burial will follow in Mansfield Memorial Park.
     
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family, c/o the funeral home.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Richard’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


William E. Greenawalt, Sr., age 59, of Galion passed away peacefully at his home Sunday, March 21, 2010 after an illness.  He was born January 27, 1951 in Urbana to the late Paul and Marjorie (Kidder) Greenawalt.

William was a machine operator at Central Machinery in Marion and a member of the Baptist faith.  On February 1, 1969 he married the former Judith Short and she survives in Galion.

Survivors also include four children and their spouses, James and Chris Greenawalt of Cardington, William, Jr. and Stacey Greenawalt, Kathy and Jeff Powell and Connie and Mark Miller all of Mt. Gilead; 15 grandchildren, one great-grandchild and eight siblings, David Greenawalt of Marengo, Barb Black of Fulton, Lloyd Greenawalt of Caledonia, Susan Bunner of Prospect, Mary Eckard of Mt. Gilead, Edna Welch of Cardington, Vicky Hurley of Cardington, and Charles Greenawalt of Mt. Gilead.

In addition to his parents William was preceded in death by a brother and a sister.

Friends may call Wednesday, March 24th from 2:00-4:00PM and 6:00-8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington where the funeral service will be held Thursday, March 25th at 11:00AM. Pastor Jay Weaver will officiate and burial will be in Glendale Union Cemetery. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the family in care of the funeral home.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompfh.com.


Viola R. Franks, age 88, of Mount Gilead died Friday morning, March 19, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital Extended Care Facility after a brief illness.
     
She was born August 3, 1921 in Russell County, Virginia, the daughter of the late Will David and Ida Ellen (Bostic) Whited.
     
A resident of Morrow County for over 50 years, she was a homemaker, who enjoyed her family, friends, her home, her flowers, and cooking.  She took classes in cake decorating and did many beautiful cakes.  She was a faithful servant of the Lord and was active in the Ladies Aid Society.  She was instrumental in getting gift boxes collected and shipped to Franklin Graham for Children in other countries from the Cornerstone Christian Church.  She also received an award for lifetime Sunday School attendance.
     
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Boyce C. Franks, her daughter Bonnie, her son David, her grandson Brandin Javens, 6 brothers, and 4 sisters.
     
She will be missed by her two daughters Janey (Mick) Johnson of Mount Gilead and Deborah (Mark) Bohland of Lexington; seven grandchildren Davette (Johnson) Javens and her husband Jeff, Devon Johnson, Darin Franks and his wife Holly, Scott Palmer and his wife Holly, Jonathan Franks and his wife Kim, Stacey (Palmer) Kinkel and her husband Jason, and Vanessa (Veal) Martin and her husband Eric; ten great grandchildren Brian Javens, Christina and Rebecca Franks, Caitlyn Franks, Taylor, Lily, and Abigail Martin, Sophie and Lily Palmer, and Jonathan Kinkel; two great great grandchildren Makayla and Alexis Javens; one sister Ada M. Stiltner of Mount Gilead; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     
Friends may call on the family on Monday March 22, 2010 from 5-8 p.m. at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Funeral services will be held there on Tuesday at 2:00 PM.  Burial will follow in the Franks Family Cemetery in North Woodbury.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Johnsville Volunteer Fire Department or Hospice of Morrow County, 228 South Street, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Viola’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Joseph Robert Bronson, 87, of Mount Gilead, died Friday, March 19, 2010 at the Woodside Village Care Center.
     
He was born in Sunbury, Ohio on February 2, 1923, the son of the late Homer and Luella (Stopher) Bronson.
     
Joseph served in the U.S. Army during World War II.  He resided in Cleveland before returning to Mount Gilead in 1960.  He worked as an auto mechanic until retiring.  Joseph was a member of the Crestline Sportsmen Gun Club and enjoyed hunting and trap shooting.  Cantankerous by nature, Joseph always kept his family caretakers at Woodside Village, and Teresa on their toes.
     
He is survived by two brothers Ted Bronson of Sunbury, Ohio and Homer Bronson of Marion, Ohio; two sisters, Dorothy Bellamy and Joyce Whitt of Marengo, Ohio, and Linda Newell of Ashville, NC; nieces and nephews.
     
His wife Mary E. Shreves Bronson preceded him in death along with a brother Bernie Bronson and sisters Virginia Mitchell, Betty Bronson, Mary Caldwell, and Lucille Reynolds.
     
Ben Granger will conduct funeral services at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street on Monday, March 22, 2010 at noon.  Burial will follow in Rich Hill Cemetery near Centerburg.  Friends may call one hour prior to the services.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired may be made to the Woodside Village Activity Fund.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Joseph’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Lewis C. “Louie” Davis Sr., age 77 of Centerburg formerly of Sunbury passed away suddenly Thursday, March 18, 2010 at Knox Community Hospital.

Born on Feb. 3, 1933 in Columbus to the late George and Goldie (Johnson) Davis, he moved from Sunbury to Centerburg in 2000.  A former assembler with North American Rockwell, he owned and operated Davis Texaco Gas Station in Sunbury in the 1970’s and was a bus driver for the Big Walnut School District.  He then worked on the freeze dry line for Nestles’ prior to retirement.

A member of Sunbury First Baptist Church, he was known as the Texaco man and had been an adviser for the Sunbury Halter and Saddle 4-H club. Quite intelligent and always the worker, he enjoyed camping and playing card games. Patient, kind, and loving; he will be remembered for his love and devotion to family.

He leaves to cherish his memory children: Lewis “Corky” (Susan) Davis Jr. of Dublin, Jacque (Clint) Johnson of Marengo, Lynn (Steve) Ross of Centerburg, grandchildren: Courtney and Heather, brother: Paul (Marty) Davis of Columbus, sisters: Deloris Thompson of FL, Jerry Sullivan of CA, Eileen Blevins of Columbus, and sister-in-law: Cathy Davis of Logan.

Preceded in death by his loving wife of 38 years: Lora (Lilse) in 1990 and brothers: David, George, Tom, Leroy, and Bill.

Friends may call Saturday from 3-5 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury, where services will follow Saturday at 5:00 p.m., Pastor Dan Brown will officiate. Inurnment will follow in Sunbury Memorial Park on Monday morning.

Memorial contributions can be made to the American Lung Assoc., 1950 Arlingate Ln, Columbus, OH 43228.

The DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Lewis Davis Sr.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Carl Levi Robinson, 71, of 304 Barbble St. Currituck, North Carolina, died Thursday, March 11, 2010, in the Albemarle Hospital.

Mr. Robinson was born in Marion, Ohio son of the late Carl and Mrs. Lelah Moore Robinson.

Carl was a graduate of Cardington High School.

He was a retired First Class Machinist Mate with the U.S. Navy, a Vietnam Veteran and also retired from Metro Machine.
     
Mr. Robinson is survived by two daughters, Sheryl Pope of Barco, NC, Carla Mefford of Moyock, NC; two sons, Ronald Robinson of Louisville, KY, John Wayne Robinson of Delmar, DE; his companion Grace Marie Crowe of Currituck, NC; three sisters Faye Martin and Susan Cole both of Marion, OH, Carolyn Stockdale of Mt. Gilead, OH; one brother Clyde Robinson of Mt.Gilead, Ohio; 13 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter.
     
Funeral services will be held on Friday March 19, 2010 at 3:00 PM at the Snyder Funeral Home, Craven Chapel, 67 North Main Street, Mount Gilead, with Pastor Jay Weaver officiating.  Burial with full military honors provided by the V.F.W. Post #8054 and AmVets Post #87 will follow in Rivercliff Cemetery.  Friends may call one hour prior to the service.
     
For those wishing to express their condolences to Carl’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Christopher L. Vance age 25 of Sparta was taken from us unexpectedly Monday, March 15, 2010 at Grady Memorial Hospital in Delaware.

A graduate of Highland High School and Tri-Rivers Career Center in 2002, he was born on July 26, 1984 in Dallas, Texas. With an astute knowledge of mechanics, he could fix or repair anything with a motor. A mechanic by trade, diesel engines and motor bikes were his specialty.

He enjoyed time spent at Pacemakers Drag Strip in Mt. Vernon and building model airplanes with his father.

The treasure of his life was his daughter: Hannah, with whom he enjoyed the outdoors, camping, fishing, and hiking. He loved his family and with his outgoing and happy go lucky personality was blessed with a large circle of friends.

In addition to his daughter Hannah and her mother Amber Fisher, he is survived by his mother and step-father Tammy (Caldwell) and Donald Stotts of Apple Valley, father Charles Vance of Columbus, sisters: Cassandra (Mike) Brooks of Centerburg, Courtney Hunter of Apple Valley, brother Cody Hunter (fiancé Shalissa) step-brothers: Joe, Jack, and Jake Stotts, nieces: Alaynna & Brianna Brooks, Kailyn Hunter: grandparents: Donna (Tom) Drake of New Albany, Ronald Vance of Westerville, Don Ferguson of Forrest, Ellen Smith of Columbus.

He is also survived by Aunts: Cathi Vance, Cindy Davis, Candy Gaston, Cheryl Caldwell, Susie Weber, Cindy Caldwell, Brittany Jones, Uncles: Craig Vance, Troy Caldwell, Robert Caldwell, Bill Jones, Earl King, and several cousins.

Preceded in death by Nanny Ferguson and Aunt Ladonna Robbins.

Friends may call Thursday 5-8 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury, where services will be held Friday 2:30 pm with Chaplain Star Sanchez officiating, burial will follow in Bloomfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Hannah Vance Trust Fund, c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 238, Sunbury, OH 43074.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Jessie Eileen Ray, age 80, of Easy Street in Marion died Saturday Evening March 13, 2010 at her home.  She was born Mar. 22, 1929 in Thelka, KY. to the late Roby B. and Hazel P. ( McKinzie) Gibbs.

Jessie was formerly a resident of Marengo and had attended the Marengo United Methodist Church and also the American Legion.  She had worked at North Electric and I.T.T. in the technical support department for a total of 28 years.

Survivors include Jessie’s daughter; Judy K. Conkle and Vickie Stout of Marion; three grandchildren, Lori Hoffmire and Thomas Conkle both of Marion and Danielle (Thomas) Tobias of Hillard; seven great-grandchildren: Travis (Amanda) Jolley, Andrea Hoffmire, Autumn Conkle, Aubree Conkle, Katelin Tobias, Emalynn Eileen Tobias, Ian Tobias; two great-great-grandchildren: Jesse and Lillie Hoffmire; and a sister Billie Helman of Mount Gilead.

In addition to her parents, Jessie was preceded in death by her husband James T. Ray and a sister Betty J. Matson.

Friends may call Tuesday, March 16, 2010 from 2:00PM to 4:00PM and 6:00PM to 8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington where funeral services will be held at 1:00PM on Wednesday. Burial will follow in the Marengo Cemetery with Pastor Edward Damphouse officiating.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, Hospice of Marion or the Alzheimer’s Association. Condolences may be expressed at www.gompffh.com.

To live life to the fullest and to love your family with all of your heart and soul was something that came naturally for Betty Fuson.  She cherished every moment and most especially every moment with her beloved family.
       
Elizabeth “Betty” Curtis Fuson, age 65, of Mount Gilead, died Friday evening, March 12, 2010, at the Ohio State University Medical Center surrounded by her family.
         
On June 9, 1944, Betty was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, the daughter of the late William “Ted” and Irene “Gram” (Blake) Hill.  She graduated from North Chelmsford High School in Chelmsford, Massachusetts.
         
While working as a hotel attendant in Merrimack, New Hampshire, Betty met Arthur S. Curtis who was in town for months while his company completed a project for Anheuser Busch.   Betty and Art were married on August 7, 1970, and she and her son, Michael, moved to Mount Gilead to join Art’s family in the fall of that year.  Bringing each of their own families together, they “blended as if they were their own.”  They shared over twenty seven years of marriage, until Art preceded her in death on December 1, 1997.
         
Always greeting customers with a smile, Betty served as a hostess for many years at Bob Evan’s Restaurant and retired after years of service as a cashier  for Kroger’s, both in Marion.  A woman of faith, Betty was a member of the Grace Brethren Church in Edison, where she had many dear friends.  She had also been a member of the Eastern Star Burgoyne Chapter #178 in Mount Gilead.  During the 1970’s and 1980’s, Betty coached girls recreational  softball in Mount Gilead, helping give younger women the opportunity to play sports at an early age.  Betty also found great joy in watching Michael J. excel in sports.  Some of her favorite memories involved traveling with Art, Gram and the family with their cow bells in hand following Michael from game to game through high school, at Ohio State and throughout his professional baseball career.  Betty struck up a friendship on the golf course with Howard Fuson in September of 2000.  Getting a second chance at love, Betty and Howard married on October 31, 2003.  Together they shared a love for golf, and Howard understood first and foremost if he wanted to be with Betty, he would also have to be with “Gram” and the entire family.  An avid bingo player, Betty was often teased by her family that she should start a new club, “Bingo Lovers of America”.  She shared this love with her mother, Gram, and her love ran so deep for her beloved game that she even named her dog “Bingo”.  For Betty, her family was the most important thing in her life.  She looked forward to the holidays because she knew when her entire family would gather, the house would be filled with love and lots and lots of laughter.  She was the proudest wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother you would ever meet.
         
Betty will be dearly missed by her husband, Howard Fuson of Mount Gilead; children: Michael J. (Diane) Curtis, and their children: Kaitlyn, Arthur James “A.J.” and Connor, all of Waukesha, Wisconsin;  John (Debbie) Curtis of Mount Gilead, and their children: Ryan (Elizabeth) of Mount Gilead, Kevin (Jenna) of Cincinnati, and Scott (Brittany)  of Delaware; Michael D. (Jean) Curtis of Cardington, and their children: Sarah  of Delaware, Rachel of Cardington, David of Delaware and  Elizabeth (Tyler) Franklin of Tennessee; Bill Curtis of Indiana; Kevin (Vicki) Fuson of Galion, and their children: Megan and Courtney; Howard Allen Fuson of Mount Vernon and grandchildren Kelly Hollis; John Bush, JoAnn Hogan, Amy Moore and Robert Bush;  great-grandchildren: Liam Curtis, Addie Curtis, Sophia Montealegre and Sebastian Dondalski; and a brother, William (Mary Ann) Hill of North Andover, Massachusetts.
       
Betty will also be missed by her dear friends Tom and Pam Neviska and niece Dottie (Cooper) McAvoy and the entire Cooper family, along with numerous friends and relatives.
       
In addition to Art and her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her grandson, Erik Doyle Curtis; a son, Kris Fuson and a daughter, Jan (Curtis) Bush.
       
The Curtis and Fuson families will greet friends from 5 – 8 p.m. on Monday, March 15, at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 S. Main St., Mount Gilead, where memorial services celebrating her life will be held on Tuesday at 5:00 p.m. with Pastor John Shirley officiating. Inurnment will follow in Maple Grove Cemetery in Chesterville.
       
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, 2225 Citygate Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43219-3651.


       
For those wishing to express their condolences to Betty’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


A precious angel, Jasmyne Alexandria Globe, her time here was all too brief.  She was a stillborn infant at the Marion General Hospital on March 8, 2010, the daughter of Amber Mess and Gerid Globe of Cardington.
       
Jasmyne will be thought of often and missed by her sister, Angelia Globe; maternal grandparents: Jereme (Sandy) Mess of Mount Gilead, and Jennifer (Rick Smalley) Mess of Galion; paternal grandparents: Jerri Weese of Cardington, and Dale Globe of Marion; two aunts: Lynn Weese of Cardington, and Heather Kern of Marion; an uncle, Austin Kern of Mount Gilead; and many other dear relatives.
       
A service of comfort will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, March 12, 2010, at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 S. Main St., Mount Gilead, with Pamela Lamb-Hart officiating.  Her family will also greet friends for an hour prior to the service.  Burial will follow in Bloomfield Cemetery in Sparta.
       
For those wishing to express their condolences to Jasmyne’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Robert E. “Uncle Bob” Dowalter Jr., age 58, of Marengo died Sunday afternoon, March 7, 2010 at the Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus.

He was born in Delaware, Ohio on April 20, 1951 the son of the late Robert E. Dowalter Sr. and Betty L. (Thompson) Dowalter.

He attended Highland High School and was a Veteran of the United States Navy.  Uncle Bob had friends all over the county, especially in Marengo where he never missed an opportunity for a good time.  Those friendships ran so deep that most of Marengo made the journey to Columbus to visit him in the hospital.  A sports fanatic, Uncle Bob loved his NASCAR and his “buddy” Dale Earnhardt Jr.  He also followed UFC and was a fan of the Browns, Patriots, and of course, The Ohio State Buckeyes.  He even had his living room decorated in the Scarlet and Grey.
     
He will be missed by his brothers Gary L. and his wife Bonnie of Caledonia, Rick and his wife Janet of Edison, and Steve of Mount Gilead; his best friend Phillip Nunn of Marengo; step-daughter Yvonne Lewis of Mount Vernon; step-sister Sue (Bill) Prichard of West Virginia; a special niece Lynn Simpkins and her husband Gerald Richardson; a special friend Becky Asbury; and numerous nieces and nephews.
     
A graveside services will take place at a later date in Homer, Ohio.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the family, c/o the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.  For those wishing to express their condolences to Uncle Bob’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Morrow County lost a man of great character and a pillar of their community.  James Newcome, Morrow County’s Outstanding Senior Citizen of 2009, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday night, March 5, 2010.
     
It was in East Chicago, Indiana on a fall day in September that Jim’s journey began; a journey filled with love, service to his country, personal success, family joys, and a drive to selflessly serve his community until his dying days.  He was born the only son of the late O.I. and Evelyn (Pearl) Newcome.
     
His story of love also began on a fall day; it was as a young junior high student that his life would change forever. He met Mary Lou Newcome and he knew immediately there was something very special about her. They later attended a hay ride and hot dog roast together and from that day forward they would be best friends. For over 60 years they had lived a full, wonderful life together. She died on June 22, 2009 and while cancer will be listed as the cause of his death, some may tell you he died of broken heart.
     
They have 2 children, Mary Lou Dowalter of Cardington and James “Jim” Newcome of Mount Gilead.
     
Like so many great men who have gone on before him, James served in the United States Navy during World War II and returned for a stint during the Korean Conflict.  During his two tours, Jim found time to complete his college education; graduating from Kent State University with a double major in health and physical education and biology.  He took his new found knowledge and he and Mary Lou packed up the kids and moved to California where he worked as an educator.  His roles included teaching physical education to high school students and coaching both baseball and football.  In 1961 they moved to Mount Gilead where he became a grain and cattle farmer.  He eventually became the sight coordinator for Habitat for Humanity where he oversaw the building of the first 8 houses in Morrow County.  In addition to his involvement with Habitat, Jim was a township trustee and also organized “The over the hill gang” which performs community service projects.  Jim was a very skilled carpenter, not only using those skills for Habitat but also in remodeling the family farm house.  Humble by nature, James never took full credit for the award he received, all the while giving credit to those who worked alongside him.
     
In addition to his children he will be missed by his 4 grandchildren John Atwell of Cardington, Jeremy Dowalter of Mount Gilead, Shane Bolding of Virginia, and Quaid Newcome of Fredericktown; 6 great grandchildren Brandon Atwell, Izabella Wilson-Dowalter, Mikayla Dowalter, Kiara Skaggs, and Atlee and Penelope Dowalter; and a sister Donna Hanna of Stow, Ohio.
     
Friends may call on the family on Wednesday March 10, 2010 from 4-7 p.m. at Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Graveside services will be held on Thursday at 1:00 p.m. at the Restland Cemetery, Brimfield Township, Kent, Ohio.
     
Memorial contributions may be made to Local Habitat, P.O. Box 341, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.  For those wishing to express their condolences to James’ family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Donald Ray Reed, age 40, of Wellsburg, WV died Wednesday, March 3, 2010 in a house fire.  He was the son of Helen I. (Linley) Reed whom is deceased and Noah and Dawn (Foster) Reed who survive in Mount Gilead.

Survivors also include three children, Helen Irene Reed and Donald Ray Reed, Jr. both of Steubenville and Dakota Reed and eight siblings; Tammy Jones of Cardington, Martha “Tina” Cline, Brenda Pruett, Noah Reed, Jr. all of Mt. Gilead, Christel Pyles of South Shore, KY, Adam Reed of Mt. Gilead, Danny Reed of Cardington and Danielle Ratliff of Galion.

Friends may call Sunday, March 7, 2010 at Gompf Funeral Home from 2:00 to 5:00PM where funeral services will be held Monday, March 8, 2010 at 11:00AM. Burial will be in Glendale Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions to Donald’s family in care of the funeral home will assist with the expenses. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com.

Victor P. Wuertz, age 88, formerly of Cardington died at Kingston of Marion early Wednesday morning, March 3, 2010.  He was born November 2, 1921 in Milford Center to the late Jacob and Bertha (Gase) Wuertz.

Victor was a 1950 graduate of Marysville HS and had served in the US Army during World War II.  He had been employed at International Harvester in Columbus and was a lifetime farmer.  Victor was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Waldo and of the Jenkins-Vaughan American Legion Post 97 and of the Gideon’s.

On June 14, 1947 in Columbus he married the former Janet Pence and she preceded him in death June 3, 2009.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Garold and Janet Wuertz of Delaware; granddaughter, Jacqueline and Gary Fairchild of Henderson, NV; a great-granddaughter, Maya Fairchild of Henderson, NV; a brother and sister-in-law Robert and Ruth Wuertz of Edison; and three sisters Elsie Wuertz of Columbus, Anna Wuertz of Marysville, and Mary Beekman of Centerburg.

In addition to his parents and wife, Victor was preceded in death by a son, Peter G Wuertz; two brothers, Leroy and Edward Wuertz and three sisters, Bertha Thompson, Clara Pauline Bell and Ruth Bywater.

Friends may call Friday, March 5, 2010 from 5:00 to 8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home where funeral services will be held Saturday March 6th at 10:00AM.  Pastor Sarah Schaaf will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Union Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider, St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 135 West Main Street, Waldo, OH 43356 or the American Heart Association Ohio Valley Affiliate, PO Box 163549, Columbus, OH 43216-3549  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com.


Dale Miracle, age 79, of Marengo, Ohio died February 26, 2010 at home.  A resident of Morrow County since 1962, Dale was born in Marietta, Ohio on December 13, 1930 to Stacel Ray Miracle and Clara J. (McDonald) Miracle. Dale was US Navy veteran, Lifetime member of VFW and an avid golfer.  He is survived by his wife, Sharon Miracle, a brother, Robert of California, 6 children and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. 

The family will hold a Memorial Service at a date later in the year.  Friends who wish to acknowledge Dale’s life with a memorial contribution are asked to send it to the charitable entity of their choice.  The family wishes to thank all friends for their support and prayers.


Richard L. Rittler, age 71, of Cardington died Friday Feb. 26, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center in Mount Gilead. He will be sadly missed by his family and his beloved dog, Charlie.  He was born June 12, 1938 in Baltimore, MD to the late George E. and Helen (Knorr) Rittler.

Richard was a veteran having served in the U.S. Army.  He had worked at H.P.M. for 35 years retiring in 2000.  He was a gifted musician and a talented banjo player. 

On March 6, 1960 in Mount Gilead Richard married the former Sarah J. Garris and she survives in Cardington.  Additional survivors are his son, James E. Rittler, of Carey; daughter, Valerie R.(Jim) Rufener, of Smithville; grandchildren, Zach Rittler, Heath Rittler, Nicki Rittler, and Emily Rufener; brother, Jim Rittler of Baltimore, MD and sister, Evelyn Robinson, of Mount Gilead and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents Richard was preceded in death by two sisters, Dianne Edgar and Kathryn Depue.

At Richard’s request a private family service will be observed.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Veterans Relief Fund of Morrow County and checks should be made to Morrow County Veterans Service Office, 619 West Marion Road, Suite 106, Mount Gilead, OH 43338.

 Gompf Funeral Service of Cardington was honored to assist the Rittler family with the arrangements.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com

Zula E. Shrout, age 98, of Cardington died Sunday Feb. 28, 2010 in the Woodside
Village Care Center.  She was born Oct. 30, 1911 in Ironto, VA to the late Edward M. and Lucy Della (Purdue) Wells.

On Dec. 30, 1933, in Christianburg, VA, Zula married Clarence Nelson Shrout. He preceded her in death on Jan. 3, 1999.  Together they founded the Cardington Baptist Temple where he pastored from 1965-1994. She diligently and lovingly worked alongside him.  She also worked at Head Start as a cook for seventeen years.

Survivors include a daughter, Jo Weaver of Monterrey, Mexico; a son, Edward Shrout of Rittman, OH; three granddaughters, Michelle (Daniel) Jones of Monterrey, Mexico, Sherry (David) Glaze of Arlington, TX and Wendy (Joel) Solomon of Santiago, Chile; a grandson, Jay (Stephanie) Weaver of Cardington; 13 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren and one on the way 

In addition to her husband and parents, Zula was preceded in death by three brothers and one sister.

Friends may call at Wednesday, March 3, 2010 from 5:00 to 7:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00AM Thursday, March 4th at the Cardington Baptist Temple, 510 Park Avenue, Cardington.  Brother Roy Maple will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Cardington Baptist Temple.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


Robert L. “Robby” Davis, age 45 of Marengo died unexpectedly Tuesday, February 23, 2010 following surgery at Riverside Methodist Hospital from complications with Crohn’s disease.

A lifelong resident of Morrow County he was born in Columbus on May 27, 1964 and was a graduate of Highland High School in 1982. a lifelong truck driver, he formerly was the manager of the Croton Egg Farm..

He was a member of the OSTPA, Richland County Tractor Pullers Assoc., and the Morrow County Coon Hunters.  An outdoorsman, who enjoyed attending tractor pulls, coon hunting and fishing, he was also a fan of NASCAR; following Dale Earnhardt Sr. & Jr.

Even though he enjoyed being the center of attention, he was always concerned about others more than himself. Both imaginative and persuasive, he was also affectionate. He will be remembered for his love of family and friends.

He is survived by his father: Harold (Beverly) Davis of Mt. Vernon, brother: Randy Davis of Marengo, sister: Cyndi (Clyde) Huvler of Centerburg, step-father: John Townsend of Marengo, Niece, Nephews, Great-Niece & Nephew, close friend: Bob Varner, extended family and numerous friends.

Friends may call Thursday 4-7 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury. Graveside services will be held Friday 11:00 a.m. in Maple Grove Cemetery with Pastor Jeff Deel officiating.

Memorial contributions can be made the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Memorial Gifts, PO Box 1245, Albert Lea, MN, 56007-9976.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Fannie B. McLain, age 106 a longtime centurion of the Marengo area and perhaps the eldest resident of Morrow County died peacefully early Tuesday morning, February 23, 2010 at Bennington Glen in Marengo.

She was born in Sparta on January 5, 1904 to the late Dart L. and Ora G. (Randolph) Chase. A graduate of Marengo High School in 1921, she received her teaching degree from the former Edison Normal School. Fannie married her late husband of 52 years: George McLain in 1923 and they assumed the ownership of the Chase Market in Marengo from her parents.  She also taught school for a brief time.  For over 25 years she worked for the former Union Store in Mt. Gilead and later as a clerk for the B&R Cardinal Store in Marengo, finally retiring at the age of 85.

One of the many milestones in her life included being a 90 year member of the Pythian Sisters Marengo Temple 501, she was recognized last year by Garnet Thomas the Grand Chief of Ohio for this achievement.  A longtime member of the Marengo United Methodist Church, she credited her longevity to her faith and daily prayers. She was also a member of the Hobby Club, Golden Twig of Morrow County Hospital, Daughters of the American Revolution, and Women’s Auxiliary of American Legion Post 710  Fannie was blessed to live independently until she was 99. She was an excellent cook known throughout the community for her sloppy Joe sandwiches, which she made for bingo, her homemade pies, and beef & noodles. Giving, well educated, and always unselfish, she was a patient teacher. She was also an avid reader of romance novels.  At one time she was the Marengo correspondent for The Morrow  County Sentinel.  She loved to read and play bingo; however her biggest passion was crocheting. Known as Granny Fannie to many more than her own, over her lifetime she crocheted thousands of items for generations of children in the Marengo Community.

She will be remembered for her dedicated service to her community and her love of family.

She is survived by daughter: Ora Jane Ayers of Mt. Gilead, 15 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and numerous great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, husband George in 1975, sons: George “Eddie” and William McLain, grandson: Mike McLain, brothers: Herschel, Thomas, David, Lloyd, Linden and sister Mary Conway.

Friends may call Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 with Pythian Services at 4:00 p.m. at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR 229 in Marengo.  Funeral services will be held Friday 10:00 a.m. at Marengo United Methodist Church, with Rev. Susan Antolik officiating, burial will follow in Bloomfield Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Marengo United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 126, Marengo, Ohio 43334.  Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Mary Forrest, age 91, of Mt. Gilead, died Wednesday February 17, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital Extended Care Facility.
     
She was born in Cleveland, Ohio on May 28, 1918, the daughter of the late John and Bertha (Lubrodowski) Gorges.  She spent her years as a child and young adult in Cleveland where she attended Lincoln High School.
     
She married Bedford Forrest in 1941.  They were married for nearly 25 years before his unexpected passing in 1965.
     
In 1960 the Forrest Family moved to Ashley where they lived until 1972 when Mary moved to Mount Gilead.
     
Mary was a homemaker in every sense of the word.  She was an excellent cook and baker and loved to crochet; one afghan after another.  As a mother, Mary devoted most of her adult life to her handicapped son, Jimmy, and his many needs.  A woman of great faith, Mary was a member of the Mount Gilead (Southern) Baptist Church for nearly 20 years and was very active in the Seniors on Center in Mount Gilead where she enjoyed their luncheons and playing dominoes.
     
She is survived by her son Jimmy Forrest of Cardington; two daughters Earlene (Don) Piatt of Cardington and Marlene (Michael) Vickers of Port St. Lucie, Florida; a daughter-in-law Jennifer Forrest of Mount Gilead; her 5 grandchildren Darla, Donnie (Mary), Kevin (Kim), Richard, and Brian (Stephanie); and her 3 great grandchildren Marissa, Caleb, and Hunter.
     
In addition to her parents and husband she was preceded in death by her son Thomas D. Forrest; her 4 brothers; and her 4 sisters.
     
Funeral services will be held on Monday February 22, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Lawrence Combs officiating at the Snyder Funeral Home, 76 South Main Street, Mount Gilead.  Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in Delaware.  Friends may call from noon until the time of service.
     
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Mount Gilead Baptist Church, 600 North Main Street, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Donald R. Evans, age 74, formerly of Edison died early Wednesday morning, February 17, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center.  He was born on August 8, 1935 in Marion to the late Ralph H. and Marjorie G. (Grubb) Evans.

Donald graduated from Edison High School in 1953 and served in the US Army Signal Corps from 1958 to 1960.  Donald was a member of the Trinity United Methodist Church, of the Mt. Gilead Masonic Lodge #206, Mt. Gilead Chapter of OES, and Kiwanis.

Donald is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Toni Evans of Edison; daughters, Kandee Evans of Edison and Kathleen Mullennix of Mt. Gilead; five grandchildren and a sister and brother-in-law, Judy and Al Shoemaker of Marengo.

In addition to his parents Donald was preceded in death by a daughter, Karla Evans; two brothers, Robert and Richard Evans and a sister, Jean Pearce.

Friends may call Saturday, February 20, 2010 from 10:00AM to 11:30AM at Gompf Funeral Home.  Masonic services will be held at 11:30. Funeral services will be immediately following the Masonic service.  Pastor Robert Johncox will officiate and burial will follow in Chapel Heights Memorial Gardens in Marion.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Trinity United Methodist Church in Mt Gilead or Hospice of Morrow County.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


Paul M. McMahon, age 84, of Cardington died Tuesday, February 16, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center in Mount Gilead.  He was born July 24, 1925 in Mount Vernon to the late James M. and Mary G. (Grossman) McMahon.

Paul served in the US Navy during World War II and served in the North Atlantic Convoy duty.  After WWII he worked as a carpenter in Marion for ten years helping to build Marion General Hospital, the Marion Coliseum and the Marion prison.  Then he went on to work on the railroad for 34 years as a carpenter.  Paul coached the Marion Swim Team for 13 years during the 50’s and 60’s.

On August 4, 1944 Paul was honored to marry the former Mary Lou Brooks who survives in Cardington.

Survivors also include two daughters, Patricia Shomion of Cardington and Janet Karely of Fort Walton Beach, FL; four granddaughters; three great-granddaughters and two great-grandsons.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 15, 2010 beginning at 3:00PM at the Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington. Condolences may be expressed at www.gompffh.com


Naomi M. Linstedt, age 90, and a former resident of Cardington died Monday, February 15, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center.  She was born March 7, 1919 in Rushsylvania, OH to the late James F. and Jessie A. (McAdams) Ansley.

Naomi was a graduate of Marion Harding High School.  In addition to being a housewife, she had worked as a cook both at the Lutheran Memorial Camp and for many years at the Cardington-Lincoln Schools.  She was a member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church.

On Dec. 23, 1939 in Ada, Naomi married Earl B. Linstedt.  He preceded her in death on June 10, 1986.

Naomi is survived by her children; Judy and Edward Nesbitt of Mount Gilead, Ruth Linstedt of Biloxi, Miss., David and Toni Linstedt of St. Louis, MO., and John and Terri Linstedt of Cardington; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Naomi was preceded in death by two sisters and a brother.

Friends may call Thursday, February 18, 2010 from 3:00PM to 8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington where funeral services will be held Friday, February 19th at 11:00AM. Reverend Edward Wahl will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Union Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider St Paul Lutheran Church, 336 West Main Street, Cardington, OH 43315 or Alzeimer’s Association, Central Ohio Chapter, 3380 Tremont Road, Columbus, OH 43221.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


Betty J. Berry age 84 of 366 N. Murray Hill , Columbus, 43228 passed away Thursday afternoon February 11th, 2010 at the Regency Hospital of Columbus following an extended illness. Betty was born in Marion on August 25th, 1925 as the daughter of Chesnie & Elizabeth (Hoover) Gorenflo. On March 27th, 1944 she married William G. Berry Jr. He preceded her in death on July 23rd, 2001. Betty was employed by General Motors Columbus Division for 25 years. She was a member of Lodge 2236, Loyal Order of Moose in Hilliard and the United Auto Workers. In her younger days she was a member of Fife Memorial Baptist in Marion. Her family and activities with them was the center of her life whether it was camping or just sitting on the porch. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Greg & Sue Berry of Hilliard and her daughter Carol Byrd of Columbus. Five grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Dorothy Cluff of Columbus and her two brothers Robert Gorenflo of Green Camp and William Gorenflo of Columbus. She will be remembered and missed by her many nieces and nephews. She preceded by one brother and her son William G. (Bear) Berry III. Funeral Services for Betty will be held at 12:00 Monday February 15th at the Timson Allen & Melroy Funeral Home in Caledonia with Pastor John Grimm officiating. Interment will follow in Caledonia Cemetery. . Friends may call at the Funeral Home in Caledonia on Monday from 10:00 until time of service. Memorial contributions may be made to the Loyal Order of Moose. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timsonallenmelroy.com.


Roxanne Sharrock age 55 of Martel passed away unexpectedly Friday afternoon February 5tht, 2010 in Marion General Hospital. She was born September 30, 1954 in Marion the daughter of Robert & Barbara (Sickel) Sharrock of Martel. Roxanne was a graduate of MARCA School and a member of the Martel United Methodist Church. She worked at various different jobs during her time at Marca Industries. Besides her parents Roxanne is survived by her brothers and sisters-in-law, Greg & Kim Sharrock, Tim & Jane Sharrock, Keith & Kelly Sharrock , Brian & Diane Sharrock. Five nephews, Jim, Dan, Matt, Brian & Blake. Four nieces, Robin, Kayla, Lindsay & Ally. Her uncles and aunts; Tom & Nancy Sickel and Romalene & Raymond Pangborn. Seven cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Ward & LaVern Sharrock , Kenneth & Georgeanna Sickel

and her nephew Adam. Funeral Services for Roxanne will be held on Tuesday February 9th, 2010 at 11:00 in the Martel United Methodist Church with Pastors Yvonne Hechler and Robert Johncox officiating. Interment will follow in Caledonia Cemetery. Honorary casket bearers will be; Imo, Jeffrey, Tiny, Mae, Kathy and Roxanne’s special friend Stanley. Friends may call at the Timson Allen & Melroy Funeral Home in Caledonia on Monday from 2 - 4, 6 - 8. Memorial contributions may be made to the RHAM or the Martel United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timsonallenmelroy.com


Betty Joan Clutter age 79 of Caledonia passed away Monday evening February 1st, 2010 in Partners of Marion Rehabilitation & Care Center where she had resided for the past week. She was born November 5th, 1930 in Caledonia, the daughter of the late Shirley E. & Geneva B (Landes) Cain.

On July 21st, 1951 she married Ivan L. Clutter in San Diego. He preceded her in death December 20th, 2001.

Joan was a graduate of Caledonia High School and was employed by J.C. Penney of Marion during the 1960s. She enjoyed oil painting, crocheting , hooking rugs and was very good at sewing. She always enjoyed her winter home in Frostproof, Florida.

Joan is survived by her son Larry Clutter of Caledonia and her daughter and son -in-law Karen & Leo Buyer of Marion. She will also be remembered by seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. She will also be missed by her brother James Cain of Fremont .

She was preceded in death by her son Gary, five brothers and one sister. Funeral Services for Joan will be held on Friday February 5th, 2010 at 11:00 in the Timson Allen & Melroy Funeral Home in Caledonia with Kenneth Boswell officiating. Interment will follow in Caledonia Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday from 2 - 4, 6 - 8. Memorial contributions may be made to the Central Ohio Breathing Association. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timsonallenmelroy.com


M. Josephine "Jo" Gerhardt, age 94, a long time resident of Mt. Gilead, died January 22, 2010, in Boynton Beach, Florida.
     
Mrs. Gerhardt was born in May 1, 1915, in Chesterville, OH. She graduated from The Ohio State University with bachelor’s degrees in fine arts, education and biological sciences. She and her family moved to Mt. Gilead in 1947, where she taught fifth grade for several years and until her retirement from Mt. Gilead Schools, high school art and science.   Mrs. Gerhardt was an artist who also regularly taught adult art classes.
     
Mrs. Gerhardt was an active member of Trinity United Methodist Church until her move to Florida. She was also involved in the community, serving as a Boy Scout den mother, and later as a member of the Senior Progress Club, Green Pairs Garden Club, United Methodist Women, American Association of University Women, County Fine Arts Guild, Alpha Couples Twig and a volunteer at the Morrow County Hospital. She derived great pleasure from helping others and creating visually beautiful pieces of art.
     
Mrs. Gerhardt was preceded in death by her sons, Steven and Robert, and her husband, Robert William Gerhardt.
     
She is survived by sons Jon S. Gerhardt and wife Claudia, Stow, OH; Kenneth J. Gerhardt and wife Melissa, Gainesville, FL; David G. Gerhardt and wife Diane, Boynton Beach, FL;  daughter-in-law Joan Gerhardt (Robert L. Gerhardt, deceased), Austin, TX; eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
     
Calling hours will be at the Snyder Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 67 N Main St., Mt. Gilead, on Saturday, February 6th at 1:00 p.m. with a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m.
     
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church, Mt. Gilead, OH, or The Alzheimer’s Association.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Alice Beverly Cochran Cox, age 81, of Mount Gilead and formerly of Columbus, died Friday evening, January 29, 2010, at home surrounded by her family following an extended illness.
         
On January 22, 1929, Alice Beverly was born in Marengo, the daughter of the late Frank and Nellie Cochran, who were of Mount Gilead.  
         
Her family then moved to Columbus in 1942, when she was just entering high school.  She then graduated from North High School in the Class of 1946.  Following high school, Alice Beverly enrolled into the Ohio State University, where she was proud to have won Miss Ohio State in 1948 and was the Maquio Queen for the OSU yearbook.  She later transferred to Capital University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Education.  She was a member of the Alpha Z Delta Sorority.  For 30 years, Alice Beverly dedicated herself to her elementary students in the Columbus Public School system, and she retired from Como Elementary School.  Also, she later became a member of the Morrow County Teacher’s Retirement System.  Following her retirement, Alice Beverly and her daughter, Cathy Shomber, felt called back to Mount Gilead, where they started the Horse Bottom Acres Farm.  Their farm gives a home to retired racehorses that would otherwise have been euthanized, and she was responsible for helping to save at least 14 horses.  An intelligent woman, Alice Beverly was often referred to as a “walking dictionary” as everyone would call her for an answer to most any question.  She also was an avid reader, reading anything she could get her hands on.  A woman of grace and beauty, Alice Beverly was known to “turn heads” throughout most of her life.  An animal lover, Alice Beverly had raised countless different animals throughout her life, such as rats and lambs, but her beloved canine companions, Meetoo and Rooster, were always by her side.

Always there for her family, Alice Beverly “was the best mother her children could have asked for.”  Having a huge heart, she would also open her arms, taking in any one who needed a place to stay.  To her grandchildren, she was their beloved “Muggers.”
         
Alice Beverly will be dearly missed by her daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Steven Shomber of Mount Gilead; four grandchildren: Jeremy Shomber of South Carolina, Sara Shomber of Columbus, Chris (Danyelle) Belcher of Wadsworth, and Madelyn Belcher of Colorado; two great-grandchildren: Seby Shomber and Jake Ellington; three step-children: Bill (Barb) Cox, Charlie Cox, and Doug (Carol) Cox; several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a sister, Norma (Francis) Bishop of Oberlin, Ohio; two nieces and two nephews; and countless dear friends, such as: Kathy Fitzpatrick of Athens, and Mary Ellen Crimmels of Columbus.
         
Including her parents, Alice Beverly was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Dana W. Cox, and her two sons and a daughter-in-law: Timothy and Betsy Belcher and Casey Belcher.
         
A service of celebration for Alice Beverly’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, 2010, at the Harmony Chapel United Methodist Church, 3994 County Road 20, Mount Gilead, with Hospice Chaplain Star Sanchez officiating.  Burial will take place at a later date in Glendale Cemetery in Cardington.
         
Arrangements have been entrusted to Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Vocations Racehorse Adoption, 13580 Leeper-Perkins Rd., Marysville, OH 43040 (to help find caring homes for retired racehorses), or to the Morrow County Animal Shelter, 195 S. Main St., Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.
       
For those wishing to express their condolences to Alice Beverly’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Myrtle C. Howard, age 86, of Cardington died Wednesday evening, January 27, 2010 at Woodside Village Care Center in Mount Gilead.  She was born May 29, 1923 in Morrow County to the late George and Faye (Huddleston) Cole.

Myrtle attended Marengo School.  As a homemaker, Myrtle raised chickens and had an egg route.  She and her husband, Luther had large vegetable and flower gardens and sold items from these gardens from their home as well.

Myrtle married Luther Howard in Greenup, KY on March 8, 1941 and he preceded her in death on September 22, 2000.

Myrtle is survived by four brothers, Wayne Cole, Sr., Vaughan Cole, Carle Cole all of Cardington and Harold Cole of Mount Gilead; a sister, Helen Lucille Hunt of Centerburg; 25 nieces and nephews; several great and great-great nieces and nephews and friends and neighbors..

In addition to her parents and husband Myrtle was preceded in death by 3 brothers, Clyde, Herbert and Paul Cole and a sister, Dorothy Dye.

Graveside services will be held in Glendale Cemetery on Monday, February 1, 2010 at 1:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to Gompf Funeral Service, 440 South Center Street Cardington, Ohio 43315 to help the family with funeral expenses. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompfh.com

John Christopher Gompf Sr., age 74, of Cardington went home to be with our Lord on Thursday, January 21, 2010 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born December 19, 1935 in Cardington to the late Martha (Gompf) Chapman and Jacob and Florence (Fairchilds) Gompf.

On April 16, 1955, he married Shirley M. Shafer in Richmond, Indiana.

John was a 1953 graduate of Cardington-Lincoln High School. He was a life-long farmer and worked in maintenance for the city of Marion for 35 years. John was a member of St. John Lutheran Church (Windfall) in Cardington. He was an avid Cincinnati Reds baseball and Cleveland Cavalier's basketball fan.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Shirley; three children, Judy (Lester) Foulke, Marion, John Jr. (Pam) Gompf, Cardington, and Jeri (Craig) Blue, Marion; seven grandchildren, John Gompf III, Jennifer Lynn Gompf, Jennifer Leigh Crone, Isaac Blue, Micah Blue, Katie Blue, Rachel Marshall ; and two great grandchildren, Alexis and Bailey Crone.

Friends may call from 2:00PM to 4:00PM on Sunday, January 24th at Gompf Funeral Home in Cardington or a half hour prior to the funeral service at the church. Funeral service will be held Monday, January 25th at 11:00AM at St. John's Lutheran Church (Windfall), 5070 Newmans-Cardington Road East, Cardington. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church (Windfall) LOMO Campership Fund, 5070 Newmans-Cardington Road East, Cardington, OH 43315 or Home Reach Hospice, 3595 Olentangy River Road, Columbus, OH 43214.

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed care of Gompf Funeral Home, www.gompffh.com


Ray Sexton, 62, of Edison died late Wednesday night, January 20, 2010 at his home.
     
He was born in Wayne County, West Virginia on December 7, 1947, the son of the late Howard Sexton and Marie Emily (White) Sexton of Edison.
     
Ray was a machine operator for Worthington Foods for 33 years, retiring in 2005.  He enjoyed spending time outdoors fishing and hunting.
         
In addition to his mother he is survived by his three children Eric Sexton of Pickerington, Kim and her husband Tye Lang of Sunbury, and Dawn Sexton of Columbus; 11 grandchildren; and 6 siblings.
     
A memorial service will take place at a later date. Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead have been entrusted with the arrangements.
     
For those wishing to express their condolences to Ray’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Richard Allen Van Horn, 74, of Urbana, formerly of Marengo, Ohio, went to be with the Lord, with his family by his side on Saturday, January 16, 2010.

Richard was born in Rosewood, Ohio to the late Ward and Cora (Casebeer) Van Horn. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Mary Ann (Stickley) Van Horn.

Richard was a 1953 graduate of Westville High School. After graduation he served in the United States Army from 1953 - 1955 stationed in Italy. Richard then went on to graduate from Wilmington College with a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education and with a Master's Degree in Educational Administration from The Ohio State University. Richard's dedicated career in education touched the lives of thousands of students, teachers and community members. He began his career at Greenfield Jr. High and went from there to Anna Local where he taught special education. He worked at the Champaign County Board of Education as a supervisor and then to Graham Jr. High where he served as the building principal for 6 years. His next career change took him to Morrow County where he lead the Highland Local Schools as Superintendent for 14 years. He was instrumental in the construction of a new junior high school and the Highland community recognized his leadership by dedicating the new building to him.

In retirement, Richard was the driving force in the establishment, construction, and operation of a water company serving southern Morrow County and also served as its president. Richard also served on the Morrow County Hospital and Delco Water Boards and spent the remainder of his retirement on the family farm taking every opportunity to be involved in the lives of his children and his seventeen grandchildren.

Richard is survived by the 7 Ks and their families; Kimberly Jones (Aaron, Austin and Alexandra) of Urbana, Kathy (Randy) Weaver (Brock, Kirby, and Chase) of Marengo, Kris (Roberto) Rojas (Olivia, Diego, Isabel, and Lorenzo) of Upper Arlington, Kurt (Joanne) Van Horn (Clara, Nathaniel and Hannah) of Mandeville, LA, Kent Van Horn of Pacific Beach, CA, Karyl (Rusty) Strader (Colby, Cooper and Caden) of Urbana and Kelly (Neil) Ziegler (Max) of Clintonville. He is also survived by two sisters Frances Burcham, Sarasota, FL and Mary Ruth (Carl) Strayer of Peoria, AZ, numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. Richard was
preceded in death by his brothers John Van Horn and Donald Van Horn.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 3-8 p.m. on Wednesday, January 20, 2010 in the VERNON FUNERAL HOME, Urbana, Ohio. Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 21, 2010 in the funeral home with the Pastors, Dr. Rev. James Van Zile and Rev. Roger Larrison officiating. Burial will follow in Rosedale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Richard Van Horn Scholarship Fund, Security National Bank, Westville United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 117, Westville, Ohio 43083 or 1st Baptist Church of St. Paris, 121 S. Church St., St. Paris, Ohio 43072.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.vernonfh.com.


Kathryn Elizabeth Pearl Maxwell was born in Delaware County, OH on May 13, 1923 to the late Harry Smith and Margaret Isabella (David) Pearl.  Her name was made from the names of her two grandmothers, Sarah Kathryn Pearl and Lucy Elizabeth David. She grew up in the home where she was born in the Village of Warrensburg on the banks of the Scioto River.  Three other children were born to the family: a son, Robert Carroll and two daughters, Sara Lucy and Florence Louise.  Florence died at the age of seven of peritonitis resulting from a burst appendix.

Kathryn graduated from Ostrander High School and The Ohio State University.  She also did graduate work at Bowling Green University and Ashland University.  For her student teaching she was assigned to Cardington High School.  As was customary at that time the Home Economics teacher was also responsible for much of the management of the school cafeteria-making menus, ordering food, and generally keeping an eye on the operation.  These duties led to a relationship with the local Riverside Dairy delivery man.  A romance developed and on June 8, 1947 she married Cecil Aubrey Maxwell at the Warrensburg United Methodist Church.

They set up their new home on Chesterville Road in Cardington, with their already established family, including Cecil’s son, James Leslie, whose mother had died when he was only a few months old.  To their family they added a set of twin girls, Janice Eileen and Janet Elaine, and a third daughter, Jeanne Emily.

In 1951, when the health of Cecil’s father was failing they bought Riverside Dairy on a long-term contract that guaranteed income to his parents as long as they lived.  They traded houses, moving to the Riverside Dairy Farm on East Main Street in Cardington.  Then in addition to keeping up with four busy children Kathryn became the secretary-treasurer of the dairy, occasionally finishing a late developing batch of cottage cheese, making an emergency delivery of dairy products, or taking a tire to a driver stranded somewhere along the road with a flat tire. For 41 years, Cecil and Kathryn made Riverside Homemade Ice Cream.

In 1954, Cecil’s parents returned from a weekend at Lakeside and announced that they had bought a house.  Two years later they moved to Lakeside and established a guest house called Maxwell’s Hospitality House.  After Paul’s death in 1967, Cecil and Kathryn bought out his sister GaNell’s interest and continued to operate the Guest House.  The Hospitality House is in its 55 year of operation by the Maxwell family.

When the children were of college age, Kathryn returned to college and trained to earn her certificate to teach developmentally handicapped students, and for 17 years taught at Cardington-Lincoln School.

She was an active member of Cardington First United Methodist Church, United Methodist Women, Senior Citizens Club, Buckeye Twig of Morrow County Hospital, Reveille Club and Morrow County Retired Teachers.  She was a Paul Harris Member of the Rotary International.  She was awarded Outstanding Citizen of Morrow County and the Jennings Scholar Outstanding Educator Award.  Kathryn was an active participant in the Woman’s Health Initiative of The Ohio State University Medical Center study contributing statistics and research for more than 15 years.

Kathryn volunteered extensively for many organizations.  A favorite involved listening to second grade students read in Mrs. Chris Robinson’s class in Cardington.

She passed away on January 18, 2010.  Kathryn leaves her husband of 62 years, Cecil of Cardington, a son, James Leslie (Pam) Maxwell of Burlington, VT; three daughters, Janice (TG) Haynes and  Janet (Gary) Wuertz all of Delaware and Jeanne Vaughan of Avon; a brother, Robert Pearl and as sister, Sara Foreman both of Delaware; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may visit the family Friday, January 22nd from 2:00-4:00PM and 6:00 to 8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Home.  Funeral services will be held at the Cardington First United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 23rd at 10:00AM.  Pastor Gail Angel will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Cemetery

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Cardington First United Methodist Church, 300 South Marion St, Cardington, OH 43315 or to The Maxwell Park in care of the Village of Cardington, PO Box 10, Cardington, OH 43315. 

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com.

Billy May, age 77 of South Marion Street in Cardington died Saturday, January 16, 2010 in the Morrow County Hospital Extended Care Unit. He was born on March 26, 1932 in Brewster, Kansas to the late Oscar and Birdie (Ball) May.

Billy was a 1950 graduate of Gallatin HS in Gallatin, Tennessee and a graduate of Tennessee Tech University. He attended George Peabody College to work on his master’s degree. Billy served in the United States Army and received the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. He was a retired school teacher and was the Mayor of Cardington for 9 years. Billy was a member of the American Legion and served on the Morrow County Mental Retardation Board. He was a member of the Cardington First United Methodist Church.

On August 23, 1953 in Goodlettsville, Tennessee he married the former Margaret Hill and she survives in Cardington.

Survivors also include 3 daughters, Connie (Dan) Eafford of Cleveland, Debby (Ralph) Kinney of Bucyrus, and Sherry (Scott) Sherer of Milford Center, 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents Billy was preceded in death by a brother, Allen May.

Friends may call at Gompf Funeral Home, 440 South Center Street, Cardington on Thursday, January 21, 2010 from 2:00PM to 4:00PM and 6:00PM to 8:00PM. Funeral services will be held at 11:00AM Friday, January 22, 2010 at the Cardington First United Methodist Church, 300 South Marion Street, Cardington with Pastor Gail Angel officiating. Burial will follow in the Glendale Union Cemetery.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution are asked to consider Cardington First United Methodist Church or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Northwestern Ohio Chapter, 401 Tomahawk Drive Maumee, OH 43537. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com

Martha Ruth Winters age 87 formerly of Caledonia passed away Wednesday evening January 13th, 2010 in Heartland of Marion. She had been in failing health for the past few years. She was born in Caledonia on September 24th, 1922 the daughter of the late William R. & Iva (Everett) Bayles. On June 3rd 1966 she married O. Eugene “Sonny” Winters. He preceded her in death on October 19th, 2005. Martha was noted for being a good cook and was well know around Caledonia for the candy she made at Christmas time. But looking after her children and grandchildren was what she loved most. Those left behind to cherish her memory include her son and daughter-in-law Craig & Penny Woodrum of Marion: Her daughters and sons-in-law Barbara & Steve Reed of Florida, Janice & Ray Kinney of Bolivar Ohio, Jackie & Jerry Ward of Waldo and Ann Carter of Florida. She also leaves behind fourteen grandchildren and twenty-two great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters.

Funeral Services for Mrs. Winters will be held on Saturday January 16th, 2010 at 10:30 in the Timson Allen & Melroy Funeral Home in Caledonia with Pastor Steven Roper officiating. Interment will follow in Caledonia Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Friday from 6 - 8. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor‘s choice. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.timsonallenmelroy.com.


Mark W. Fisher, age 97 of Sunbury died unexpectedly Sunday, January 10, 2010 at Grady Memorial Hospital.

He was born on May 1, 1912 in Mason County, West Virginia to the late John D. and Myrtle (Jordan) Fisher.  He worked in the timber industry in his youth and was a lifelong farmer of both grain and dairy.  He enjoyed a love of nature and the woodlands.

A member of Rural Chapel United Methodist Church, his life centered on faith, family, friends, and farming.  He was a great conversationalist, who enjoyed hunting and gardening.  A country gentleman, who was a gentle and kind man, he lived everyday to the fullest, without regret.

Springtime was his favorite time of year, as he liked to see things grow.  He was a proponent of learning, who was willing to try new experiences.  He enjoyed history, was happiest on the farm surrounded by his family and friends.

He is survived by sons: Mark Wayne (Brenda) Fisher of Delaware, Max (Cindy) Fisher of St. Louis, MO, grandchildren: Shelly Lynn (Al) Myers, Sherry Lee Fisher, Mark W. Fisher II Jr., Alex William Fisher, 4 Great-grandchildren: Mark W. III, Ryan M., Andrew J. Fisher, Jacob M. Myers, brother: Paul (Jean) Fisher of Mt. Gilead, sister: Delphia Barr of Westerville.

Preceded in death by wife of 64 years: Edna Cora Thompson in 2003, brothers: Hoy, Harold, Cecil, John, Clyde Fisher, and sister Sylvia Hartsook.

Friends may call Thursday 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. at DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home, SR’s 3 at 61, Sunbury.  Funeral services will be held Friday 10:30 a.m. at Rural Chapel United Methodist Church, 5850 Cheshire Rd., Galena, OH 43021, with Pastor Robert Wright officiating,  burial will follow in Berkshire Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to his church.

Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


June M. Kunze, 91, of Columbus died January 7, 2010, at Wesley Glen Retirement Community.

She was born on June 9, 1918, in Richland County Ohio the daughter of the late Howard and Winnie Follin and was a long time resident of North Columbus and active in real estate in this area for many years.

She and her husband Ralph enjoyed traveling, having traveled to 20 countries and all 50 states, and spent winters in Hawaii for many years after retirement.

She was a member of North Broadway Methodist Church for many years and also belonged to the D.A.R.

She is preceded in death by brother Roger (Eileen) Follin.

She is survived by loving husband of 71 years, Ralph, son Wesley (Sue) Kunze, Daughter Beth (Don) Herring and son Gary (Carol) Kunze, 8 Grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Monday January 11, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Snyder  Funeral Homes, Craven Chapel, 76 North Main Street, Mount Gilead, with her grandson, Dr. John Herring officiating.  Friends may call from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service.  Private graveside services will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery in Chesterville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the North Broadway Methodist Church, 48 East North Broadway, Columbus, Ohio 43214.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com .


Jerry Dean Cook, 77, of Cardington, passed away Tuesday, January 5, 2010 at 10:55 AM at Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus.

She was born March 10, 1932, in Marion, a daughter of the late John and Julie Sparks.

On March 9, 1955 she married the love of her life, Floyd Cook in Marion.

She was a loving mother and wife, talented seamstress and cook and one of the Godliest women any of her family members have ever known. She was active in her church, teaching Sunday school for a period of time.

Always “on duty”, Jerry was tough, but fair. Quick to give her opinion and a stern word when necessary, she was also the first person to offer a hug and words of encouragement during a difficult time.

Though she’s left us in body, her spirit remains and what she taught everyone around her about compassion, character and standing up for what’s right will serve as a guide for years and generations to come.

She is survived by her husband, Floyd Cook of Cardington, her children, Sue (Phil) Ohler of Cardington, Janet (Kenny) Keane of Mount Gilead, John Kilgore of Mount Gilead, Teresa Habibi of West Palm Beach, FL, Sandy (Don) Henry of Cardington and Jodi Smith of Mount Gilead; 19 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren; a brother and sister, J.C. Sparks of Hindman, KY and Joy Lee Howard of Gratz, KY.

Pastor Jim Brantingham will officiate a funeral service at Gompf Funeral Home; Saturday, January 9th at 2 PM. Friends may call prior to the service beginning at 1 p.m. at Gompf Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Gilead Christian School, 3613 Township Road 115, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


Ralph A. Compton, 71, of Mount Gilead died Tuesday morning, January 5, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital Extended Care Facility.
     
Funeral services will be held on Thursday January 7, 2010 at 2:00 PM the Edison Enterprise Baptist Church, 3055 State Route 95 West, Edison, Ohio 43320 with Pastor Ed Colegrove officiating.  Friends may call on the family from noon until the time of the service at the church.
     
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Snyder Funeral Homes of Mount Gilead.  Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com


Mary Louise Freeman Persinger, age 85, of Marion, died Monday evening, January 4, 2010, at the Riverside Methodist Hospital following over a six year battle with heart disease.
         
On October 26, 1924, Mary was born in Marion, Ohio, the daughter of the late Fred and Frances (Bowles) Freeman.
         
A lifelong resident of Marion, Mary had worked at the Bowe’s Ice Cream Store, Persinger Nursing Home, the War Plant, and at the Smith Clinic where she was a cook for over twenty five years until her retirement.  For Mary, her family was her life.
         
She will be dearly missed by her six children: Rebecca Packer of Mansfield, John Persinger of Columbus, Brenda (Robert) Goheen of Cardington, Fred Persinger of Pennsylvania, James (Kathy) Persinger of Marion, and Gene Persinger of Marion; fourteen grandchildren: Shannon (Gilmore) Faltas of Columbus, Stephanie Gilmore of Marion, Amy (Gilmore) McDonald of Marion, Brandeis Goheen of Cardington, Ronald Packer of West Virginia, Ryan Persinger of Marion, Ashley Persinger of Marion, Jodi Persinger of Pennsylvania, Jason Persigner of Pennsylvania, Shelley Persinger of Marion, John Persinger of Marion, Bobbie Jo Persinger of Pennsylvania, Nicole Persinger and Josh Persinger of Marion; twenty four great-grandchildren; a brother, Alfred Freeman of Marion, three sisters: Jeannette Pfeifer of Columbus, Alfreda Layne of Marion, and Reba Noe of Marion; and numerous nieces and nephews.
         
Including her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her two brothers: Eugene and Robert Freeman; and by her former husband, Claude Persinger Jr.
         
The Persinger family will greet friends from 2 – 6:30 p.m. on Friday, January 8, 2010, at the Denzer-Farison-Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home, 360 E. Center St., Marion, where a memorial service honoring her life will follow immediately at 6:30 p.m. with Rev. Craig Lewis officiating.
         
Memorial contributions may be made to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, 700 Children’s Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43205.
For those wishing to express their condolences to Mary’s family, you may do so by visiting www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


Sherry L. Williamson, age 46, of Lincoln Court, Cardington died Sunday, January 3, 2010 at the Morrow County Hospital.  She was born in Pikeville, KY on August 19, 1963 to the late Paris Reed and Shirley (Rose) Reed whom survives in Cardington.

Survivors include her children, Brandy Williamson of Cardington, Jerry Williamson of Pikeville, KY and Kayla Stamper of Galion; 6 grandchildren, Kaitlynn, Adrianna, Brooke, Ashley, Dalton, and Dylan; a brother, Paris L. Reed of Fulton; a sister, Regina Sherman of Stryker and her fiancé, Glenn Swint of Cardington.

In addition to her father, Sherry was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Madison.

Friends may call Wednesday, January 6th from 2:00PM to 4:00Pm and 6:00PM to 8:00PM at Gompf Funeral Service where funeral service will be held Thursday, January 7th at 1:00PM.  Danny Honeycutt and Donna Ball will officiate and burial will follow in Glendale Union Cemetery.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.gompffh.com


June E. Graham of Marion passed away Friday, January 1st, 2010 at her Kingston Residence in Marion following a brief illness.

She was born on June 26, 1923 in Hardin County to the late Othe and Elsie (Drollinger) Dilsaver. June married her husband of 59 years; Robert H Graham in 1939 and together they raised their family in the rural Salem community of Marion County.  They retired to Port Charlotte, Florida in 1976 and June continued to winter there until 2005 when she returned to Marion to be near her family.

June is preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert (1997) and by her 3 brothers and 3 sisters.

A lifelong homemaker, June also worked for the Montgomery Ward Stores in Marion & Mt. Vernon.  She was a member of Salem United Methodist Church of Marion and the Trinity United Methodist Church in Florida, and was active in the United Methodist Womens s Club.
A wonderful cook and baker, she will be remembered for her wonderful pies. She also spent many hours crocheting wonderful gifts, such as afghan’s and potholders.  She shared a passion with her husband for gardening, playing cards and square dancing they were members of the Hicks and Chicks of Marion and Charlotte Promendaders.  She had a wonderful sense of humor and never had an unkind word for anyone. She loved her children and grandchildren and was most proud of each and everyone of their accomplishments. Even in her last weeks she would be quick with a smile and a reminder that she loved you.

She is survived by a son: Herbert (Bonnie) Graham Sr. of Marion, Daughters; Judy (Dick) Gifford of Atlanta, GA, Anna (Courtney) Hodges of Marion, 8 Grandchildren, 15 Great-Grandchildren and 3 Great-Great Grandchildren.

Friends may call Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 at the Denzer, Farison, Hottinger & Snyder Funeral Home, 360 E. Center St., Marion.  Funeral services will be held Thursday 11:00 am at Marion Salem United Methodist Church, with Rev. Jared Williams officiating. Burial will follow in Salem Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions can be made to Marion Salem United Methodist Church.  Condolences may be expressed at www.snyderfuneralhomes.com