Patti Sue Poling

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patti Sue Poling, 62, of Van Wert, who left us on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at her residence surrounded by her loving family.

Born January 7, 1963, in Van Wert, to Elmer Lee Giessler, who preceded her in death, and Joan Elaine Mauller, Patti was a vibrant soul whose life was filled with laughter, friends, and fun.

A proud 1981 graduate of Van Wert High School, Patti continued to pursue her passions at the International Business College, embracing all that life had to offer. Patti had a zest for life that was infectious. She loved nothing more than spending time with her children and grandchildren. Patti also enjoyed her garden, canning her harvest, and baking up cookies to share with friends and family. Patti had a deep affinity for wolves, a symbol of her wild, free spirit. She cruised around town in her beloved orange Dodge Charger, a sight that many will remember fondly.

An adventurer at heart, Patti cherished her travels, having visited Hawaii twice and shared many unforgettable moments with friends in Las Vegas. You could often find her soaking up the enjoyment at drag races, concerts, and gatherings at Huggy Bear campground or Landeck Tavern, where her social butterfly nature truly thrived.

Patti is survived by her beloved mother, Joan Giessler of Van Wert; her everything, Steven Klausing of Landeck; son, Justin (Kirsten) Gamble of Convoy; daughters: Jessica (Taylon) Elzey of Craigville and Christine (Jon) Averesch of Ohio City; bonus children: Bailey (Melissa) Poling of Convoy; Madison (Kyle) Cansler of McComb; brother, Gary (Lisa) Giessler of Convoy, as well as seven grandchildren and another on the way.

Family and friends are invited to gather to honor and celebrate Patti’s life. Visitation will be from 1-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 4, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert. A celebration of life will be from 2-4 p.m.  Sunday, June 8, at Landeck Tavern, Delphos.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Patti’s memory to the annual Huggy Bear’s St. Jude Benefit, payable to Justin Gamble Venmo: @pattispack.

To share in Patti’s online memorial, visit www.alspachgearhart.com.