The Van Wert County Courthouse

Thursday, Sep. 25, 2025

Richard L. “Rick” Eberle Sr., 75, of Middle Point, passed away at 6:56 a.m. Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital. He was born October 3, 1949, in Van Wert, to Charles A., Sr, and Juanita V. (Lee) Eberle. On August 26, 1968, he married the former Clara White. Rick was a retired […]

POSTED: 10/29/24 at 2:17 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries

It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of Brent A. Perl, 44, of Convoy, who tragically passed away on Friday, October 25, 2024, due to an accident. Born on December 2, 1979, in Van Wert, Brent was a devoted son to Ory (Wade) and Gary Perl as well as a loving father, […]

POSTED: 10/29/24 at 9:44 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries

Jean L. (Evans) Graboski, 68, passed away at 6:45 p.m. Saturday, October 5, 2024, at Cypress Healthcare in San Marcos, Texas. Jean was born September 22, 1956, at St. Rita’s Hospital in Lima, to John M. and Gwen M. (George) Evans of Venedocia, both of whom preceded her in death. Jean is survived by her […]

POSTED: 10/29/24 at 9:09 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries

Monday October 28, 2024 6:55 a.m. – Deputies responded to an area of Ohio 117 in Jennings Township for a report of a motor vehicle crash. Deputies arrived in the area and were unable to locate the incident. 9:26 a.m. – Deputies responded to an area of the Van Wert Mercer County Line Road in […]

POSTED: 10/29/24 at 7:31 am. FILED UNDER: Law Enforcement

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor Leeson Ave and leaf pickup were just two of several topics addressed during Monday night’s meeting of Van Wert City Council. Safety-Service Director Jay Fleming told council members that slip pouring of Leeson Ave. curbs began Monday afternoon and he said concrete work should wrap up this (Tuesday) afternoon. He added paving […]

POSTED: 10/28/24 at 9:04 pm. FILED UNDER: News

VW independent staff  The Stripe Road overpass over U.S. 30 in Van Wert has officially re-opened to traffic.  It was closed in early May, after it was discovered it had been struck by an unknown over-height vehicle. The main members, beams and girders were bent and damaged, along with the cross-frame members and stiffeners. Crews […]

POSTED: 10/28/24 at 9:04 pm. FILED UNDER: News

VW independent staff PIQUA — The Van Wert Cougar Marching Band is “excellent” again. The 45-member band earned the rating during the Ohio Music Educators Association’s (OMEA) state finals at Alexander Stadium in Piqua on Sunday. The band went with a themed presentation called “Welcome to Anytown” which was described as a vintage space alien […]

POSTED: 10/28/24 at 9:03 pm. FILED UNDER: News

Lincolnview Elementary recently participated in the 2024 Apple Festival Art Show. Hayden Garay (left) received fourth place in the fourth-sixth grade division, while Kinsley Kohlhorst (right) received third place in the first-third grade division. The students are under the instruction of Mrs. Melissa Stork. Photo submitted

POSTED: 10/28/24 at 9:03 pm. FILED UNDER: News

Submitted information  A reminder that Lincolnview Local Schools will host a school auction from 4-6 p.m. Thursday, October 31. The auction will be located at the school’s bus barn and all items will be located in the bus bays for all to see. Visit beegeerealty.com for a list of items up for grabs and more information under […]

POSTED: 10/28/24 at 9:02 pm. FILED UNDER: News

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports The latest installment of Random Thoughts includes best wishes, Division VII, Region 28, how many is too many, an obvious observation, and a Buckeye scare. Running to state Wow. What a tremendous showing by local cross country runners during Saturday’s regional competition. Just outstanding performances by Van Wert, Crestview and Lincolnview. The […]

POSTED: 10/28/24 at 9:02 pm. FILED UNDER: Sports