Herbert D. Kephart

Herbert D. Kephart, 89, of Van Wert, died at 3:25 a.m. Saturday, May 21, 2011, at Venice Regional Hospital in Venice, Fla.

He was born October 29, 1921, in Elida, the son of the late Ross and Minnie (Carr) Kephart. On November 30, 1941, he married E. Louise (McGannon) Kephart, who survives in Van Wert (they would have been married 70 years this year).

Herb was a straightforward businessman dedicated to his family, church, career and community. He fully enjoyed a good laugh.

Over the years he occupied leadership positions at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce, the YMCA and Rotary International. He was a member of the Masons, Elks, Willow Bend Country Club and the American Legion.

Having a true passion for Rotary, Herb joined Van Wert Rotary Club in 1963 and was very close to achieving 50 years of perfect attendance. Affectionately known “Mr. Rotary” in Van Wert, he was president of Van Wert Rotary in 1970-71 and served as district governor in 1986-87. He is the only active Van Wert Rotarian to serve in that capacity since the club was chartered in 1920. Herb is recognized as spearheading the club’s student scholarship program and Rotary auctions, which have funded many worthwhile projects in the community. Herb is a “5 stone” Paul Harris Fellow, which is Rotary International’s humanitarian program. Several years ago, Herb received Rotary International’s “Service Above Self” Award, which is Rotary’s highest honor. Only six Rotarians from District 6600 have received this award and have been recognized as the best in the world.

Following graduation from Middle Point High School, Herb attended Findlay College and, in 1941, began his 45-year career with Central Insurance Company, retiring November 1, 1986. Serving in a number of marketing positions, in 1962 he was named a resident vice president and, in 1964, became vice president of marketing. He was named senior vice president in 1980. During his tenure, he witnessed the company grow from assets of $9 million to over $250 million. At his retirement, Chairman of the Board and President F.W. “Bill” Purmort Jr. stated the following: “During his many years of service, Herb has developed an extraordinary rapport and trust with agents and industry leaders. His energy and dedication to excellence has been an important factor in the companies growth. He is recognized as a true professional by all his colleagues, and we admire and appreciate the contributions he has made over the years here at Central.”

During World War II, Herb served in the U.S. Army in the European Theater of Operations from 1942-1946.

In addition to his wife, survivors include two children, Penny (Larry) Corell of Venice, Fla., and Stan (Sue) Kephart of Westchester; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

A brother, Max Kephart; and two sisters, Lois Major and Norene Metzger, also preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 28, at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert, with the Rev. Paul W. Miller and Rev. Tom Wilson officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert, with graveside military rites performed by the combined honors units of Legion Post 178 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5803 in Van Wert.

Calling hours are from 2-6 p.m. Friday, May 27, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert.

Preferred memorials: Van Wert Rotary Scholarship Fund.

Messages of condolence may be sent to the family at www.alspachgearhart.com.