Recent Obituaries

Obituary Archives

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.

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.

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 6^th 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.

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 4^th 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 19^th 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 11^th, 2010 at the Regency Hospital of Columbus following an extended illness. Betty was born in Marion on August 25^th, 1925 as the daughter of Chesnie & Elizabeth (Hoover) Gorenflo. On March 27^th, 1944 she married William G. Berry Jr. He preceded her in death on July 23^rd, 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 15^th 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 5th^t, 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 9^th, 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 1^st, 2010 in Partners of Marion Rehabilitation & Care Center where she had resided for the past week. She was born November 5^th, 1930 in Caledonia, the daughter of the late Shirley E. & Geneva B (Landes) Cain.

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

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 24^th 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 25^th 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.