Obituaries can be emailed to editor@thevwindependent.com. The Van Wert independent no longer accepts no-cost death notices. As of October 1, 2023, the cost of full obituaries will be $95 (including a photo). Local funeral homes are billed for full obituaries, while out-of-town funeral homes can also be billed, if so requested. Obituaries submitted by individuals must be paid in full prior to publication. The Van Wert independent accepts credit cards by telephone from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday at 419.238.1220.
POSTED: 12/28/10 at 3:42 pm. FILED UNDER: Info
David Brent DuVall, 62, of Middle Point, passed away Monday morning, December 21, 2025, at his residence.
He was born August 1, 1963, in Van Wert, to Otis W. and Betty Jo (Eversole) DuVall.
He was a graduate of Lincolnview High School. He retired as a State of Ohio meat inspector and was a lifetime farmer. After retirement, Dave enjoyed time spent working at Sanderson Meats. Dave was an avid golfer who loved his annual golfing trips to Maggie Valley, North Carolina. He also enjoyed time spent working out for many years, most recently at Peak Fitness in Delphos.
Dave cherished most his time spent with his nieces and nephews and his beloved dogs, Willy and B.B. He is survived by his siblings, Bill (Beth) DuVall of Leeland, North Carolina, Steve (Cindy) DuVall of Middle Point and Jane (Bob) Alexander of Bowling Green; nieces and nephews, Nick (Becca) DuVall, Phillip (Courtney) DuVall, Tasha (Robbie) Breese, Scott (Jeannie) Alexander, Stephanie (Andy) Lang; Michelle (Mike) Leal and Megan (Aaron) Reeves, and many great nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Dave was preceded in death by a niece, Jennifer DuVall.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, December 27, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor Briana Geiger, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Preferred memorials may be directed to the Van Wert YMCA or to the Van Wert Humane Society.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 12/23/25 at 10:20 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Luke Keuneke, 40, of Rawson, passed away Sunday, December 21, 2025 due to a tragic accident.
Luke was born on August 18, 1985 in Van Wert, to David and Debra (Feasby) Keuneke. He married the love of his life Lynsie Smith in 2020 and she survives in Rawson.
Also surviving are his parents; children, Ellie Keuneke, Cain Keuneke, Cohen Smith and Ady Smith; brothers, Nicholas (Jaela) Keuneke and Joshua (Melissa) Keuneke; nieces and nephews, Emily, Ethan, Hope, Evan, Ava and Zoey; father and mother in-law, Mark and Jan Powell; sister-in-law, Erika (Thomas) Naylor, Kayla (Jeremiah) Magee, Chelsie (Josh) Perry and their children, Isaiah, Isabelle, Isla, Briggs, Bryer, Beckham, Liberty and Kimber and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Ralph and Romaine Feasby and Erwin and Louise Keuneke.
Luke was a 2004 graduate of Van Wert High School. Luke worked at Five Angle Construction and co-owned and operated Cutting Edge. Luke currently worked at Vorst Custom Cabinetry & Countertops. Luke was a faithful and devoted member of Findlay First Church of the Nazarene, where he lived out his love for God through service and fellowship. He sang on the Praise Team, taught Sunday School and was actively involved in the Upward Program as a referee coordinator, and helped lead a mission trip to Alpaca. Luke was always the first to volunteer, serving others with a joyful and willing heart.
A hardworking and gifted man, Luke had a remarkable ability to fix just about anything. He enjoyed woodworking, building cabinets, and taking on projects that blessed his family and others. An excellent cook, he also found joy outdoors—whether fishing, playing disc golf, or enjoying a game of racquetball. He loved reading, listening to music, and cheering on sports, especially when it involved his children.
Luke was a dedicated coach to children’s soccer teams and a constant source of encouragement and support to his children, as well as his nieces and nephews. He was considerate, helpful, kind, and truly never met a stranger. Luke’s unconditional love, generosity, and genuine care for others reflected his deep faith and his love for family.
Above all, Luke was a God-loving man whose life was marked by service, humility, and love. He will be remembered as an amazing husband, father, son, brother, son-in-law, family and friend, and his legacy will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.
A time to gather and celebrate Luke’s Life will be from 4-7 p.m. Friday, December 26, in the Findlay First Church of the Nazarene, 2501 Broad Ave., Findlay. Additional visitation will be held on Saturday, December 27, from 10 a.m. until the time of Luke’s celebration of life service at 11 a.m. in the church with Pastor Mike McClurg, officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made in Luke’s honor to the Upward Sports c/o Findlay First Church of the Nazarene
Arrangements have been entrusted with the Stombaugh-Batton & Snyder Funeral Home, Carey.
Online condolences, as well as a fond memory can be shared with Luke’s family by visiting www.stombaughbatton.com.
POSTED: 12/23/25 at 10:10 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Nancy Ann Smith, 63, of Lima, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Mercy Health in Lima.
She was born on April 30, 1962, to Paul and Mary Lou (Ringwald) Butler, who both preceded her in death.
Nancy is survived by her close friend, Rick Cira of Lima; her children, Kyle (Anita) Smith of Van Wert, Ian Smith, of Van Wert, Jared Smith of Findlay, and Kirbi (Dustin) Glossett of Van Wert. She was a grandmother to eight grandchildren: Sophie, Jaxson, Hazel, Harrison, Harvey, and Hartford Smith, and Chad and Willow Glossett. She is also survived by her siblings, Bob (Julie) Gamble of Van Wert, John (Beth) Gamble of Van Wert, Dale (Lisa) Butler of Ohio City, Barbara (Mark) McDonald of Van Wert, and Paula Butler of Youngstown.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Terry Gamble, and her grandson, Cameron Smith.
Chiles-Laman Funeral Home, Shawnee Chapel, is entrusted with funeral arrangements.
POSTED: 12/18/25 at 1:47 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Jerome E. Blankemeyer, of Van Wert, a devoted husband, son, father, and friend, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the age of 54.
Born on May 21, 1971, to Eugene and Joan (Schaadt) Blankemeyer, Jerome lived a life full of laughter, service, and love. On October 24, 2020, he married the former Erica Runyon.
He dedicated over 35 years to Danfoss, in Van Wert, and was known for his cheerful spirit, often making others laugh with his playful and ornery nature. Jerome was always willing to lend a helping hand, whether in the fields, his garage, or within the community. In addition to his work, Jerome had enjoyed woodworking, camping, and attending local sporting events.
He cherished the time spent with his family and friends, but above all, he treasured the moments shared with his beloved wife, mother and his four children. Jerome took great pride and immeasurable joy in being a grandfather.
Jerome is survived by his wife, Erica Blankemeyer of Van Wert; his mother, Joan Blankemeyer of Van Wert; his children, Caleb (Olivia) Blankemeyer of Paulding, Hunter (Morgan) Blankemeyer of Van Wert, McKayla Blankemeyer of Van Wert, and Emmett Blankemeyer of Van Wert; his grandchildren, Conrad, Aubrey and Owen; and siblings, Samuel Blankemeyer of Van Wert; Angela (Tracey) Myers of Centerburg, Elaine Leffel of Hilliard, and Maureen Blankemeyer of Cuyahoga Falls.
He was preceded in death by his father; a sister, Celeste Blankemeyer, and a brother-in-law, Jack Leffel.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, December 20, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Van Wert, with Father Chris Bohnsack, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Mohr Cemetery, Van Wert County. Visitation will be 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, December 19, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 12/17/25 at 8:28 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Richard “Dick” Atwood, 87, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15, 2025, surrounded by his loving wife and daughter.
Born on April 11, 1938, in Mt. Pleasant, Ohio, Richard was the son of Howard and Bertha Atwood.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother William Atwood, and his sister Nancy Briggs.
Richard shared 61 wonderful years of marriage with his wife, Reha (Elston) Atwood, who remained devotedly by his side throughout their life together. He is also survived by his daughter, Renee (Atwood) Long, and her husband, Robert, of Indianapolis, Indiana. From a previous marriage, he leaves behind his son, James Atwood (wife JoAnne), grandson Ethan Atwood, and daughter Deb Atwood, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Richard retired from the Van Wert Common Pleas Court, where he was valued for his integrity, dedication, and steady presence. Beyond his professional life, he poured his time and energy into his community. He was an active member of First United Methodist Church of Van Wert, volunteering at the food pantry, helping with church building upkeep, and serving as a representative to the church conference. Committed to preserving local history and fostering community life, Richard was also a member of the Van Wert Historical Society, Wassenberg Art Center, Kiwanis, and the Elks. An avid golfer, he was a longtime member of Willow Bend Golf Club. He also found deep joy in the outdoors-especially camping and fly fishing in Montana and Wyoming, where he often said he felt closest to God.
A funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Monday, December 29, at First United Methodist Church of Van Wert with Rev. Christian Taylor presiding. Visitation will be prior to the funeral from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the church. Private interment will be at Woodland Cemetery.
Richard will be remembered for his unwavering love for family, his generosity of spirit, and the kindness he extended to everyone around him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First United Methodist Church of Van Wert or to cancer research organizations of your choice.
To share in Richard’s online memorial, visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.
POSTED: 12/17/25 at 3:29 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Doris R. Evans, 92, of Venedocia, was greeted by her loved ones at the golden gates early Sunday morning, December 14, 2025. She now rests alongside her beloved husband, William “Bill” Evans, son, Richard “Dick” Evans, and grandson Thad Reed.
She was born on June 11, 1933, in Abernathy, Texas, to J.J. and Uma Mae Vineyard, who both preceded her in death. She was raised alongside four brothers and three sisters, all of whom preceded her in death, except for her beloved sister, Dorothy Manley, who continues to reside in Texas.
Doris was a woman of many traits, including homemaker, farm wife, nursing aide, and most importantly, mother.
Surviving are her three children, Dixie (John) Painter, Bill (Ruth) Evans, and Diane (Ken) Linger. She gained her most precious and important title of Mamma through her grandchildren, Mike (Erin) Reed, Torrey (Scott) Walker, Wendy (Jason) Frank, Stacy (Joe) Elling, Megan (Brett) Ryan, Shana (Pat) Mosier, Ross (Alyssa) Evans, Daniel (Caitlin) Linger, Jessica (Jordan) Doherty, and Micah (Kayla McGinnis) Linger. Her loved deepened with her great-grandchildren, Gia, Wren and Booker Reed; Thad, Zada (Reide Jackson), Emerson and Quinlyn Walker; Autumn and Willow Frank; Evan and Ella Elling; Landon, Ashlyn and Holden Price; Alyssa, Saxon, Cruz and Hayes Ryan; Corbin Evans; Chance (Kassidy) Mosier; Maeleigh, Haven and Everly Evans; Tate Linger; and Josie and Remi Doherty.
Doris was a member of the Salem Presbyterian Church in Venedocia.
Services will be held at 4 p.m., Monday, December 22, 2025, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home. There will be calling hours 1-4 p.m. prior to the service.
Preferred memorials are to the Ohio City E.M.S. or to the Family to direct for Recovery Services.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/15/25 at 9:03 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Hugh William Jones, son of Hugh F. and Naomi Jones passed away on Sunday, December 14, 2025, one month from his 90th birthday. He will be sadly missed by his wife of 65 years, Darlene (Baker) Jones.
Hugh worked at Aeroquip Corp. for 40 years, but his real love was farming ground that has belonged to his family for over 100 years. He also raised Holstein calves for many years. Reading, especially American history was a favorite pastime and he could tell you many facts about battles fought by heart. He loved being out in the woods and cut the winter supply for heating. He eagerly anticipated a yearly week-long hunting trip with a highly regarded group of friends.
Hugh was a member of Olive Branch Church of God and loved his church family. He had attended Salem Presbyterian Church and had many friends there. Family get togethers with children and grand children were treasured events.
Hugh is survived by his two daughters, Laura (Mark) Shultz of Huntington, Indiana and Cathy Lehman of Cicero, Indiana; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren, who as a nod to his Welsh heritage lovingly call him “Tadcu”.
He was preceded in death by his son, Hugh Edward “Eddie” Jones, who passed away just one month ago. He was also preceded in death by his two brothers, Gordon and Edward Jones.
Services will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, December 19, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Pastor Tyler Watson officiating. There will be calling hours from 1-3 p.m. prior to the service.
Preferred memorials: Olive Branch Church of God.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/15/25 at 8:56 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Lynn L. “Peach” Parrish, 73, of Van Wert, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025, at VanCrest Nursing Home in Van Wert.
He was born September 27, 1952, to Howard and Dorothy (Corwin) Parrish, and was a 1970 graduate of Oakwood High School. On October 19, 2013, he married the love of his life, Teresa (Alexander) Staude who survives in Van Wert.
Lynn retired from Alexander-Bebout in March 2021 after a lifetime in construction. He was a member of Moose Lodge #1320, Elks Lodge #1197, and American Legion Post #178, all in Van Wert. He and Teresa had enjoyed traveling and Lynn had been the resident fireworks technician at Hamilton Lake. Always the quintessential storyteller, his stories were funnier each time he told them.
Lynn is survived by his loving wife, Teresa; his son, David (Ann) Parrish of Defiance; daughters, Melissa Parrish-Valle of Austin, Texas, Sarah (Eric) Schier of Delphos, and Tracy (Brian) Mitchener; his grandchildren Kelsea (Chris) Ballard, Joey, Wes, and Grace Schier, Zach Parrish, Katie (Adam) Niese, Lauren and Ava Mitchener, and Elijah Staude; a great-granddaughter, Parker Gerenscer; his much older twin sister, Linda Fisher, and brothers, Joe (Joanna) Parrish and Denny (Karen) Parrish all of Defiance.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law, Tom and Sylvia Alexander; a son, John Clinton Parrish; a daughter, Angela “Angel” Staude; brothers, Jack and Allen Parrish, and half-brothers, Howard Parrish, Jr., J. William Parrish, and James Parrish; and grandson, Hunter Alan Parrish.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 20, with services following at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
POSTED: 12/14/25 at 11:43 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Steven “Steve” Waterman, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, received the ultimate victory on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, after a short battle with an unexpected illness. Surrounded by his loving family, angels gently lifted his spirit into the waiting arms of his Savior Jesus Christ.
He was born on January 28, 1958, to Byron “Bud” Waterman and Joanne (Rickard) Waterman, with his father preceding him in death and his mother surviving in Ohio City. The younger of two sons, Steve is survived by his brother, Gregory “Greg” (Ellen) Waterman. He is also preceded in death by his nephew, Brian Waterman, whose memory remained dear to him.
A proud graduate of Ohio City High School, Class of 1976, Steve pursued his education with purpose and dedication, earning associate degrees in accounting and business management from Wright State University. Feeling a call to ministry, he later earned his bachelor’s degree in religion from the University of Findlay and a master of divinity from Winebrenner Theological Seminary.
On March 4, 1989, Steve married the love of his life, Gloria Waterman (Johnson), who survives in Fort Wayne. Together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering support. Their daughters, Jolynn “Jo” Simson (Waterman), married to Nate, with children Owen (8) and Ivy (6), and Jenna Dunham (Waterman), married to Joel, with children Beckham (4) and Briar (7 months), were the treasures of his life and a source of immeasurable pride.
For 29 years, Steve served faithfully as pastor of Olive Branch Church of God in Rockford, and Sugar Ridge Church of God in Convoy before retiring in 2018. His ministry touched countless lives through sermons, baptisms, weddings, prayers, and moments of quiet support—always offered with humility and a sincere heart. After retiring, he continued serving at C.A.L.L. Ministries Food Pantry in Celina, where he volunteered regularly and joyfully. During this time, he also attended Trinity Global Methodist Church in Van Wert, where he found ongoing fellowship and spiritual community.
Steve’s greatest joy was simply being wherever his grandchildren were. Whether settling into his favorite chair with a little one on his lap or cheering them on at their activities, he showed up for them in every way a grandfather could. Christmas held a special place in his heart—not only for the celebration of Jesus’ birth, which guided his life, but also for the magic and fun he created. He delighted in the candlelight, the traditions, and especially in donning his red velvet Santa suit, bringing wonder to those he loved most.
He cherished long bike rides, camping trips at Huggy Bear Campground, and quiet moments with his beloved dog, AJ, who was a constant source of comfort and companionship. After retirement, Steve found unexpected joy in pickleball — not just in playing, but in the friendships he formed on the court. He rarely missed a day, drawn as much to the people as to the game itself. Known for his lively spirit and loud, infectious laugh, Steve brought warmth, energy, and genuine joy wherever he went. He touched others simply by being present, and his love continues to echo in the lives of those he cherished. We find peace and joy in knowing that God has welcomed Steve home with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Visitation will be held from 1-6 p.m. Sunday, December 14, at Cowan Funeral Home in Van Wert. A one-hour visitation will also take place at 9 a.m. Monday, December 15, prior to the 10:00 a.m. funeral service at Olive Branch Church of God in Rockford, with Pastor Randy Bevington officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City.
Preferred memorials: C.A.L.L. Ministries Food Pantry in Celina.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/11/25 at 9:43 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
David Eddy, age 68, of Toledo and formerly of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at The University of Toledo Medical Center.
He was born on November 1, 1957, in Van Wert, to Lloyd E. and Lois I. (Wilmore) Eddy, who both preceded him in death.
David participated in the Special Olympics and found fulfillment in his work at Thomas Edison Closed Workshop and PC Workshop in Paulding. He enjoyed fishing and had a lifelong love of farming, especially riding alongside his father on the family farm.
He is survived by his siblings: Kent (Pam) Eddy of Grover Hill; Marcia (John) Laukhuf of Payne, and Mark (Karen) Eddy of Grover Hill. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews, Scott, Steven, Sarah, Stuart, Christopher, Tara, Melissa, Benjamin, and Aaron, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews who will cherish his memory.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Eddy, and a nephew, Matthew.
Private funeral services will be held. Interment will be in Middle Creek Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made in David’s name to LifeWise of Grover Hill.
To share memories or condolences, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 12/10/25 at 5:57 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
