Obituary Policy

Obituaries can be emailed to editor@thevwindependent.com. The Van Wert independent no longer accepts no-cost death notices. As of October 1, 2023, the cost of full obituaries will be $95 (including a photo). Local funeral homes are billed for full obituaries, while out-of-town funeral homes can also be billed, if so requested. Obituaries submitted by individuals must be paid in full prior to publication. The Van Wert independent accepts credit cards by telephone from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Monday-Friday at 419.238.1220. 

Carolyn Jane (Cotner) Fast

Carolyn Jane (Cotner) Fast, 91, passed peacefully on Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, at the Hearth & Home assisted-living community, surrounded by her beloved children and their spouses.

Carolyn was born in Van Wert on Jan. 21, 1934, as the only child of Wilbur and Edna (Runser) Cotner.

Carolyn was a 1952 graduate of Van Wert High School and attended Miami University. While she had been employed by Hallmark Incorporated, Carolyn was also a prodigious basket weaver, constructing more than 8,200 baskets throughout the second half of her life. She often spent weekends selling her baskets at craft shows and weaving with other ladies. Carolyn served many years as a pianist at the former Haviland Baptist Church, and she later attended Trinity Friends Church in Van Wert.

Carolyn wrote that she wanted to be remembered as a person who enjoyed life – “an honest, fun, creative and pleasant person.” Over the years, she loved traveling with cousins and other relatives to destinations like Wisconsin, North Carolina and Vermont, trying new restaurants, and playing cards and games. In her later years, Carolyn always had a new game ready to entertain her grandchildren and great-grandchildren at the holidays. Carolyn credited her mother-in-law Marie Fast for teaching her how to cook, and no family holiday was complete without Carolyn’s famous cinnamon rolls. Most of all, though, Carolyn said she wanted to be remembered as a good mother to her four children. 

She is survived by one daughter, Susan (Michael) Brady of Payne, and two sons, Steven (Mary Jane) Fast of Haviland, and Michael (Jill) Fast of Van Wert. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, Stephanie (Jason) Cox and Kimberly (Gino) Farnham, Nathaniel (Rebecca) Fast, Brian (Jessica) Brady, Austin Fast, Logan Fast, Zane Fast, and Jace Fast, and six great-grandchildren, Brady Cox, Andrew Cox, Madeleine Brady, Jack Brady, Lilly Fast, and Scarlett Fast.

She was preceded in death by a son, Scott Fast, and her former husband, John Fast. 

Please join us to celebrate Carolyn’s life at a visitation from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, October 25, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert. A memorial service will immediately follow at 11 a.m. Interment will be at Pleasant View Cemetery in Latty Township, Paulding County.

Preferred memorials: Trinity Friends Church, Van Wert.

Expressions of sympathy may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.

Terrell Ray Oetzel

Terrell Ray Oetzel, an internationally respected real estate appraiser and beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 18, 2025. He was 85.

Terry learned his work ethic from his parents, Ransom Stewart and Anna Margaret Yahl Oetzel, and joined his dad at age 7 working on farms in Ohio. His passion shifted to appraising, which he practiced up until a week before he passed. His expertise was sought on projects around the world.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Beverly; his daughter, Jennifer Prewitt and her husband, Edward, of Fayetteville, Arkansas; his brother, Rodger Oetzel and his wife, Janette, of Albuquerque, New Mexico; grandson, Fletcher Ransom Prewitt; and his niece and nephews Suzanne, Stephen, and Scott. He is also survived by cousins, Tom and Dan Oetzel and their wives and children.

Terry received an undergraduate degree from The Ohio State University in 1962 and a master’s degree from Michigan State University two years later. Terry and Beverly settled in East Lansing, where he started his professional career as an industrial real estate appraiser with his long-time partner and friend, Don Whipp.

He held numerous leadership positions in real estate, culminating with his becoming national president of the American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers in 1988. At the time he was the youngest president in the history of the organization. Outside of his family, being a part of the Appraisal Institute and mentoring young appraisers was one of his greatest joys. In 2021 he was awarded their highest honor; the J. Scott Robinson Lifetime Achievement Award.

Terry was an avid fan of OSU and MSU sports. He cheered for “whatever team would beat Michigan!” He and Beverly attended every MSU football and basketball game they could. He enjoyed Diet Cokes from McDonald’s and could tell you the different price of a McDonald’s drink in any town between Michigan, Arkansas and Florida. He loved walking on Crescent Beach in Siesta Key, Florida, where he and Beverly spent the winter months in retirement.

Terry’s top priority was his family. He loved exploring the world with Beverly and supporting her fondness of a gift shop. He was so proud of Jennifer and everything she did in life and became especially close to her husband, Edward. He loved attending Jennifer’s events when she was growing up and did the same with Fletcher when he and Beverly would visit Fayetteville before moving there in 2022.

Terry was a great friend and mentor and was incredibly generous. He and Beverly contributed to many local charities and his alma maters. He was a gentleman, and he treated people with kindness.

A graveside service will be held for family on Saturday, October 18, at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. A celebration of his life will be held at the Harrison Road House in East Lansing at 12 p.m. Sunday, October 19. All are welcome.

Arrangements are under the direction of Moore’s Chapel in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Willard Walker Hospice Home, 325 E. Longview St., Fayetteville, AR 72703.

Online condolences may be expressed at https://www.bernafuneralhomes.com.

Robert E. Stemen

Robert E. Stemen, 93, of Van Wert, passed away Thursday afternoon, October 9, 2025, at Vancrest of Van Wert.

He was born on August 6, 1932, in Van Wert the son of Ernest Edward Stemen and Ilo Pearl (Shivley) Stemen, who both preceded him in death. On May 16, 1932, he married Jane Ann (Stemen) who also survives of Van Wert.

Family members include their three children, Gordon (Paula) Stemen of Van Wert, Randy (Beth) Stemen of Van Wert and Debbie Dietrich of Lewisville, North Carolina; grandchildren, Brian, Andrew, Jeremy, Laura Stemen and William Dietrich; 12 great-grandchildren, and one brother, Donald (Sandy) Stemen of Van Wert.

Robert was a 1950 graduate of Van Wert High School and served in the U.S. Air Force. After his service he had worked at Continental Can Company and then Bordens as a machine builder until he retired 1980. Robert was a member of the Van Wert American Legion Post #178 and the NRA. 

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Monday, October 13, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert. There will be calling hours from 12 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Officiating will be Pastor Tim Owens of Pleasant Chapel United Methodist Church. Burial will take place at Ohio City Woodlawn Cemetery with military rites by Van Wert American Legion Post #178 and the Van Wert VFW Post #5803.

Preferred memorials: the Pleasant Chapel United Methodist Church or CHP Hospice.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.

Michael (Mike) Robert Scarbrough

Michael (Mike) Robert Scarbrough, age 65, passed away on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

He was born on August 2, 1960, in Paulding, the son of Robert and Jean (Pier) Scarbrough, who both preceded him in death.

He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer (Benjamin) St. Pierre; his son, Justin (Samantha) Scarbrough; his sister, Sandie (Steve) Stecker; his niece, Kaleena (Max) Goetschius; grandchildren, Hanna and Bryce St. Pierre; Adalia, Ayden, and Alicya Scarbrough; great-grandson, Cash Campbell; great-nephew, Lex (Alex) Koerber; great-great-niece, Quinn Koerber, and the mother of his children, Kuka (Scarbrough) Kerns.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Sue, and brother-in-law, Edgar Doster.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, October 17, at Den Herder Funeral Home in Paulding.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to Heartland Hospice in Whitehouse, Ohio.

Kathy Ann Agler (Bruns) (McConn)

Kathy Ann Agler (Bruns) (McConn), 74, passed away peacefully at Van Wert Manor on October 1, 2025.

She was born on March 23, 1951, at her home in Indiana. Kathy was a devoted mother, an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan, and a passionate animal lover.

Kathy is survived by her son Gabriel McConn, his wife Dawn (Marshall) and their daughter Stella; her stepchildren, Amy (Eric Morr) Rice of Fortville, Indiana; Adam (Christine) and Jason (Mandy) Agler of Washington, Missouri, and grandchildren Dariah, Paeton, Andon, Madison and Livi.

She loved her family and indulged many hours laughing and enjoying time with them over the years. Kathy’s best friend Debbie Hoagland, her cousin Theresa Lehman and her in-law Ann Marshall were vigilant loved ones who stayed by her side until the end.

Kathy was married twice. Her first marriage was in 1973 to her high school sweetheart Chuck McConn, and a few years later they shared a son. Later when Gabe was approaching middle school, Kathy and Ron Agler became an item. They were later married in 2004, and remained so until his passing in 2020.

Growing up in Ohio City, Kathy loved riding horses up and down the dirt roads with her best friend Debbie. The two of them along with Chuck created many hours of mischief to pass the time. Kathy and Chuck worked hard during the week and also kept horses. She turned that hard work into weekends with her quarter horse Mac, barrel-racing in the rodeo.

Kathy took a voyage to Hawaii with dear friends when she was younger. She took trips with Chuck and Gabe to Alaska in an RV loaded with family. Along with Ron, she spent many weekends supporting Gabe at his high school football games or camping at Salamonie Reservoir with their family. They also enjoyed an anniversary trip to the Smokey Mountains a few years before she lost Ron.

Kathy worked hard her entire life and made a career at Continental Can/Sonoco/Greif. She gave them two fingers before she retired, sadly not the two that she wanted to give them. She retired in 2013 after many years of dedicated service.

There will be will be a celebration of life for Kathy at the park in Ohio City in the spring of 2026 and an ash spreading ceremony in Corolla Beach, North Carolina. Her final resting place will be among the wild horses.

The family asks for donations to be made in Kathy’s memory to Horses for Hope https://horsesforhope.org/. Kathy was the first senior citizen to join this horse loving community for a birthday ride with her granddaughter in 2022. Alternatively, you could also make a donation to the American Alzheimer’s Association in hopes they find a cure for this awful disease.

To share memories or condolences in Kathy’s online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.

Lawrence “Larry” David Schoonover

Lawrence “Larry” David Schoonover, 84, loving husband, father,and grandfather peacefully passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 surrounded by family and loved ones at Van Wert Manor.

He was born July 9, 1941 to Frank Schoonover, Sr. and Emma (Taylor) Schoonover of Paulding, who both preceded him in death. In April, 1961. Larry married his soul mate, Beverly Dempsey, and enjoyed 64 years of blissful marriage.

Larry served 20 years in the US Army, serving two tours in Vietnam and was awarded two Purple Hearts, three tours in Germany and one tour in Korea. He was the Van Wert Postmaster for several years until he retired in 2001. He was a Past Master of the Mason Lodge in Karlsruhe Germany, a member of the Shriners, Scottish Right, Van Wert VFW, Van Wert American Legion and DAV.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Schoonover; children, David (Jeanine) Schoonover, Kimberly (Gary) Metcalfe, Laura Schoonover, Karen Hershey, and Valerie (Mike) VanArtsdalen; one brother, Tom Tyler of Shippenville, Pennsylvania; two sisters, Carolyn Murphey of Dallas, Texas, and Emma Raines of Van Wert; 15 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren, and his two furbabies, Dapple and Duke.

Larry was proceeded in death by his stepfather, Clifford Tyler Sr.; brothers, Frank Schoonover Jr and Clifford (Butch) Tyler Jr, and sister Gloria Felger.

At Larry’s request, there will be no public visitation, but a graveside service will be open to the public at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 11 at Ridge Cemetery in Middle Point. A celebration of life will be held at the Van Wert American Legion at 2 p.m. the same day.

Donations in Larry’s memory may be made to Legacy Hospice, 2615 Ft. Amanda Road, Suite A, Lima.

Online condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Services have been entrusted to Alspach Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert.

Lance Mitchell Bolenbaugh

Lance Mitchell Bolenbaugh, 48, of Bryan, passed from this life on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 11:41 a.m.

He was born on June 29, 1977, in Paulding, to Paulette (Miller) Burnett and Cecil “Duke” Bolenbaugh. On May 26, 2001, Lance married the love of his life, Sara (Burden) Bolenbaugh, who survives. Together they built a family and shared many cherished memories over the years.

A 1995 graduate of Van Wert High School, Lance went on to work in several factories throughout northwest Ohio. Known for his strong work ethic, he took pride in providing for his family. Lance lived life with passion and joy. He was a devoted Cincinnati Reds, Ohio State Buckeyes and Dallas Cowboys fan and found freedom and peace riding his Harley Davidson. Music was a big part of his life, he loved attending rock concerts and he especially loved playing the drums. Lance loved showing off his memorial tattoos to everyone. Above all, Lance’s greatest love was his family. He found happiness in being a husband, father and grandfather, and he never missed an opportunity to spend time with those he loved most.

Lance is survived by his wife, Sara; his sons, Blaze Bolenbaugh of Bryan, Jaden (Katrina) Burden of Lima and Sage Burden of Lima, and grandchildren, Kaylee and Hunter. He also leaves behind his sisters, Rochelle Campbell of Middle Point and Paula (Steve) Goins of Van Wert, along with many nieces and nephews who adored him.

He was welcomed into eternal rest by his mother, Paulette Burnett; stepfather, Jim Burnett; grandparents, Rev. Paul and Lorraine Miller, and brother-in-law, Frank Campbell.

Lance will be remembered as a kind and generous soul who never knew a stranger. His laughter, his love for adventure, and the way he always put others first will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

A service to honor Lance’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 4, at Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Services and arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.

Ronald D. “Ron” Etzler

Ronald D. “Ron” Etzler, 85, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2025, at Country Inn Enhanced Living Center in Paulding.

Ron was born on September 15, 1940, in Convoy to Willard and Doris (Schmidt) Etzler, who both preceded him in death. On July 7, 1962 he married Marilyn Ruger, who preceded in him death in 2001.

Ron worked as an accountant for 26 years at Mutual Security Insurance Company. After working at Mutual Security, Ron worked for Lutheran Social Services for 15 years. Ron was also the Village of Payne clerk/treasurer for 32 years. He was on the Village of Payne council.

Ron volunteered at Lifewise of Paulding County and as a Blue Jacket, helping people out of prison/jail gain employment. He was a member of the Paulding Republican Central Committee and John Paulding Historical Society. Ron was a board member for Love In Deed in Fort Wayne and Northwest Ohio Community Action Commission (NOCAC) in Defiance and was a board trustee for the Paulding County Hospital and Paulding County Carnegie Library. He was a past president of the Paulding County Cancer Society. Ron was a loyal member of Edgerton Wesleyan Church in Edgerton, Indiana. 

Ron will be lovingly missed by his sons: Doug (Lyn) Etzler of Grover Hill, and Chris (Stacie) Etzler of Paulding; daughters: Kara (Bruce) Whitman of Payne, and Kim (Larry) Coomer, of Monroeville, Indiana; a brother, Wayne (Marlene) Etzler, of Decatur, Indiana; 19 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren with one on the waym and three step great-grandchildren.

Ron was also preceded in death by his son, Michael Lee and brother, Stanley Etzler.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 4, at Edgerton Wesleyan Church in Edgerton, Indiana, with Pastor Dave Dignal officiating. Burial will follow in Lehman Cemetery, Benton Township, Ohio. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Friday, October 3, 2025 at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding. There will also be visitation from 10 a.m. until time of services on Saturday at church.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ron’s memory to Lifewise of Paulding County.

Online condolences may be shared at www.denherderfh.com.

John D. Rist

John D. Rist, 59, of Middle Point passed away on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Parkview Hospital, Fort Wayne.

He was born September 14, 1966 in Oak Hill, Ohio, to John M. and Evelyn (Walker) Rist who both preceded him in death. On August 19,1989 he married Kelly Dickman, who survives in Middle Point.

John is survived by his children, Colt (Mackanzie) Rist and Alicia (Copsey) Bogle both of Middle Point. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Carson and Tayden. His dog Bosco meant the world to him.

John had been a truck driver for most of his life. He was currently working at Crown Equipment. He served in the United States Marine Corps at Camp Lejeune from 1985-1987. John dearly loved anything to do with cars. He spent his weekends racing at the drag strip or going to a car show. Even though he was a ‘Chevy Guy’ he was proud of and showed his restored 1983 Dodge van. He will always be remembered as a true and loyal friend. Most of all he was a loving father, dad, and ‘PawPaw’ to his grandchildren.

It was John’s wish to be cremated.

A celebration of John’s life will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, October 12, at the Middle Point Community Building.

Weber Funeral Home, Delphos, was entrusted to care for John.

Online condolences may be shared at www.weberfh.net.

Gayle L. Gibbons

Gayle L. Gibbons, 76, of Rockford, peacefully passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne.

She was born on June 22, 1949, in Van Wert, to Julius “Judd” and Gladys (Sites) Winhover. On October 15, 1994, she married Denny J. Gibbons.

Gayle retired from Aeroquip, in Van Wert, after many years of service. She loved tennis, enjoying card games, and making cherished memories at the lake on relaxing days. Golf cart rides brought her joy, but nothing compared to the love she felt when surrounded by her family.

She is survived by her children, Penny (Chris) Canary of Celina, Rodney (Faye) Cheek of Willshire, Holly (Steve) Deitsch of Rockford, Brent (Jennifer) Cheek of Fort Wayne, Monty (Jessica) Gibbons of Rockford, and Brandy (Wesley) Wolford of Celina; her grandchildren, Slade (Kerri) Canary, Afton Strobel, Megan (Tom) Harris, Tyler (Becca) Deitsch, Holden Cheek, Logan (Caleb) French, Tiffany (Andy) Sneddon, Chase (Maddy) Wolford, Remmie Wolford, Lydia Gibbons, Hunter Scott, Jackson Scott and Kylie Gibbons; 16 great-grandchildren, and a sister, Judy (Delbert-dec.) Harding of Willshire. Gayle’s deep love for her family was evident in all she did.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Denny; a son, Kevin Cheek; and a brother, Larry Winhover.

Funeral services will he held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, September 30, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with Rev. Bill Halter, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Willshire Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to  2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.