The Van Wert County Courthouse

Saturday, Jun. 13, 2026

Friday, May 22, 2026 7:44 a.m. – Dispatched the Van Wert Fire Department to a location on Lincoln Highway in Ridge Township for a subject who passed out. 9:14 p.m. – Deputies responded to a residence on Lehman Road in Washington Township for a report of harassment. 9:32 p.m. – Deputies responded to an area […]

POSTED: 05/26/26 at 8:25 am. FILED UNDER: Law Enforcement

The following real estate transfer information has been provided by the Van Wert County Recorder’s Office. The transfers listed below took place between May 18-22, 2026. Cheryl B. German, Dale R. German, Dale German to Dale R. German, Cheryl B. German – a portion of Section 26 in Washington Township. Michael L. Reindel, Karen A. […]

POSTED: 05/26/26 at 8:05 am. FILED UNDER: Real Estate Transfers

Van Wert Police Sunday, May 17 – a parking ticket was issued and a junk violation was investigated in the 100 block of Blaine St. Sunday, May 17 – a theft report was taken in the 500 block of E. Main St. Sunday, May 17 – a report was made in reference to a possible […]

POSTED: 05/26/26 at 7:43 am. FILED UNDER: Law Enforcement

Clair A. Dudgeon, 88, a lifelong resident of Van Wert County, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family on Friday, May 22, 2026. Born June 28, 1937, and raised in Glenmore, Clair grew up rooted in the values of family, faith, and hard work—principles that guided him throughout his life. He was the […]

POSTED: 05/26/26 at 6:25 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor Memorial Day – to some, it’s an extended weekend, a time for road trips, family gatherings, barbeques etc. To others, it has a different meaning, one that must not be forgotten. During Monday’s Van Wert American Legion Post 178 Memorial Day ceremony at Woodland Cemetery, Past Commander Bill Marshall noted that while […]

POSTED: 05/25/26 at 6:59 pm. FILED UNDER: News

Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert was the site of Monday’s Legion Post 178 Memorial Day service. The service included music, a wreath laying, and a 21-gun salute. Bob Barnes/Van Wert independent

POSTED: 05/25/26 at 6:58 pm. FILED UNDER: News

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor 146 Van Wert High School seniors – the Class of 2026 – received their diplomas on Sunday as part of the school’s 155th annual commencement exercise. The graduating seniors, family members and many others gathered for the 70 minute ceremony held in the Van Wert High School gym. Sunday’s ceremony also featured […]

POSTED: 05/25/26 at 6:57 pm. FILED UNDER: News

There were smiles and a few tears during Sunday’s Van Wert High School graduation ceremony. The annual commencement exercise featured recognition of this year’s graduates of distinction, music by the Van Wert High School choir, the presentation of diplomas, speakers and more. Bob Barnes/Van Wert independent

POSTED: 05/25/26 at 6:52 pm. FILED UNDER: News

Submitted information The Van Wert County Humane Society is urgently asking for the community’s help after reaching beyond-capacity levels at the shelter. The organization is currently caring for 26 dogs and more than 50 cats, with every kennel full and cat housing areas overflowing. To help relieve overcrowding and place animals into loving homes faster, all adoption […]

POSTED: 05/25/26 at 6:49 pm. FILED UNDER: News

Submitted information PAULDING — The Paulding County History Museum will hold its annual membership meeting and election of directors at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 31, at the museum in Paulding. The public is cordially invited to attend. The program and meeting are free and open to everyone. The annual meeting was postponed from February due […]

POSTED: 05/25/26 at 6:48 pm. FILED UNDER: News