Joan Maxine (Spencer) Rager

Joan Maxine (Spencer) Rager, 84, of Van Wert, passed away Wednesday, December 19, 2012, at her residence after an extended illness.

She was born in Bryant, Ind., on February 28, 1928, the daughter of the late Ernest G. and Lizzie L. (Spade) Spencer. On December 27, 1949, she married Ralph E. Rager, who survives in Van Wert.

Mrs. Rager worked at Central Mutual Insurance Company before becoming a housewife and mother of three children who survive her: Bruce R. Rager of Fort Wayne, Ind., Barbara J. (Ralph) Cox, also of Fort Wayne, and John A. (Sherry) Rager of Van Wert.

She is also survived by a sister, Alice L. Smith of Macon, Ga., and one brother, Robert D. Spencer of Indianapolis, Ind. She had 11 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Four sisters, Kathleen B. Reichard, Mary C. Pence, Rose Anna Buckloh and Nellie G. Cline, also preceded her in death.

Joan grew up on the family farm in Jay County, Ind., and was a 1946 graduate of Hartford (Ind.) High School. She loved music, singing, playing the piano and reading her Bible. She sang in the choir and attended Liberty Baptist Church in Van Wert.

Private family graveside services will be held at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert, with Pastor Jim C. Burns officiating.

There will be no calling hours.

Preferred memorials are for Bibles placed by Gideons International.

Arrangements were handled by Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert.

Online condolences may be left at www.cowanfuneralhome.com.