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. 

Joseph Norman Detwiler Jr.

Joseph Norman Detwiler Jr. – everyone knew him as Norm – passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 20, 2025.

He was born in Van Wert on March 3, 1950, and spent his life rooted in the community he loved.

Norm is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Pamela (Tindall) Detwiler; his sons, Aaron Detwiler and his wife Lara, and Luke Detwiler and his wife Carrie; and his sisters, Joyce Thatcher and Johnna Roberts.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Dixie Detwiler of Van Wert, as well as his brothers, Jeff Detwiler and Nick Detwiler.

For more than 40 years, Norm served as an elder in the Van Wert and surrounding congregations of Jehovah’s Witnesses, where he was known for his warmth and humor, and willingness to help anyone in need. His kindness left a lasting impression on friends and neighbors – he could hardly walk through a store without seeing many people who knew him.

Norm owned and operated Quality Services, a janitorial company, for decades. Whatever he was doing, he was always willing to stop and chat or just listen. He had a deep love of the Bible and his faith was evident to everyone he met.

Norm will be remembered for his love for his family, his dedication to Jehovah God and the gentle way he touched the lives of so many.

Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Saturday, November 29, at Vantage Career Center, Van Wert. Visitation will be one hour prior, starting at 1 p.m.

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

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

Kevin Jay Smith

Kevin Jay Smith, 65, of Van Wert, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025, just days before his 66th birthday.

Born in Van Wert to the late Ralph J. and Ormal (Shaw) Smith, Kevin grew up with a zest for life that remained with him throughout his years.

A 1978 graduate of Lincolnview High School, Kevin attended Van Wert Schools prior to moving out of the district. Kevin began a fulfilling career at Progressive Stamping in Ottoville, later working at Eaton before returning to Progressive Stamping, where he retired in October, 2025.

Kevin was a proud member of his community, formerly a member of the American Legion and more recently a member of the Moose Lodge. Known for his quick wit and love of nicknames, he brought laughter and joy wherever he went. His grandchildren knew that if grandma said no, grandpa would be ready with a “yes,” creating memories that will be cherished forever. He loved camping and cheering on his favorite teams – the Michigan Wolverines and Green Bay Packers and treasured time with his family above all else.

Kevin was a devoted husband to his wife, Tina; a proud father to his son, Zachary, and an adoring grandpa to Conner and Braylon Smith, Reynah Stuckey, Kaylee, Xavier, and Hannah Okuly. He joyfully anticipated the arrival of three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Karla (David) Boyce and Sandy (Dana) DeCamp, along with 12 nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Kevin was preceded in death by his son, Dustin Stuckey. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Kevin’s life and birthday at 6 p.m. Monday, November 24, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert. Visitation will be held from 2-6 p.m. the same day.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed toward expenses to honor Kevin’s memory.

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

Charlene Rickard

We are saddened to share the passing of Charlene Rickard, 65, on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Vancrest Nursing Home.

She was known for her kind heart and the way she could touch the lives of those around her. Even with the limitations she lived with throughout her life, she left an impression on everyone she met.

She is survived by her mother, Barbara (Ellerbrock) Rickard of Convoy; two sisters, Carolyn (Karl) Kill of Powell, Ohio and Rhonda Rickard of Chandler, Arizona; one brother, Gregory (Amber) Rickard of Convoy; nephews, Paul (Tyler) Rickard of Columbus, Steven (Kaylee) Rickard of Van Wert, Chris Kill of Columbus, Mitchell (Kaitlin) Rickard of Van Wert and Kayden (Amber) Kill of Columbus, and two great-nephews, Rylan and Reece Rickard.

Charlene was preceded in death by her father, Marion Rickard, and her brother, David Rickard.

Her memory will remain with all who knew her.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

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

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

Phyllis A. Stemen

Phyllis A. Stemen, age 96, of Grover Hill, passed away Wednesday, November, 19, 2025, at her home.

She was born in Continental on June 16, 1929 to Homer and Addie (Anspach) Prowant, who both preceded her in death. She was married to Oliver E. “Ollie” Stemen, who preceded her in death in 1978.

Phyllis retired as the librarian at the Grover Hill Elementary School after 22 years of service. She was also an active member of the former Zion United Methodist Church in Grover Hill where she played the organ, sang in the choir, and taught Sunday school and Bible school. Phyllis enjoyed reading and traveling on the city bus while living in Savannah, Georgia.

She is survived by her daughter, Annette (Frank) Howard of Grover Hill; son, Von Rick Stemen of Grover Hill; granddaughter, Annette “Katie” (Jason) Jackson of Grover Hill, and great-grandchildren, Fern and Sirus Jackson.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her brothers, Charles and Ray Prowant.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, November 23, at Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill, with Pastor Nathan Ferrell officiating. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding.

Preferred memorials: the Grover Hill Friends of the Library or to the Wayne Trace Grover Hill Elementary Library.

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

Ruth E. Frysinger

Ruth E. Frysinger, 99, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family, on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

She was born on August 1, 1926, in Mercer County to Denver Emerson Pond and Mary P. (Baucher) Pond, who both preceded her in death. On June 23, 1944, she married the love of her life, Jack Lee Frysinger, Sr., with whom she shared 74 years of marriage until his passing on December 7, 2018.

Ruth was also preceded in death by her parents; her beloved sons, Gary Wayne Frysinger and Jack Lee Frysinger, Jr.; her daughter-in-law, Deborah Diane (Dull) Frysinger; two brothers, Carl Eugene Pond and H. Wayne Pond; four sisters: Kathryn E. Fisher, Opal J. Howell, Ruby M. Bollenbacher, and Betty M. Whitling, and one great granddaughter, Josie Denys Garbash.

She is survived by her son, Richard D. (Tina) Frysinger of Amelia, Ohio; daughter-in-law, Teresa Frysinger of Van Wert; 12 grandchildren: Calandra (Menelaos) Gregory, Camille Frysinger (Justin Jackson), Joel Frysinger (Heather Ortega), Carisa Lanning, Cayla Frysinger, Heidi (Chris) Huffman, Susan (Jeff) Ford, David Frysinger, Jason Frysinger, Erin Frysinger, Kyle Frysinger, and Shelby Frysinger (Riley Becker), 16 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, each of whom she loved dearly.

Ruth was a proud graduate of Rockford High School. Her primary and most treasured role was that of a devoted mother and homemaker, raising three boys with unwavering love, patience, and strength. In addition to caring for her family, Ruth worked in several local retail clothing shops and later at Van Wert County Hospital, where she was known for her warm smile and gentle nature.  Beyond her work and dedication to her family, Ruth also served her community by volunteering at the election polls for many years. She took great pride in supporting her community and fulfilling her civic duties with the same quiet reliability she brought to every area of her life.

In her final weeks, one truth became unmistakably clear: Ruth was far stronger than her petite frame ever suggested. Standing just five feet tall, she carried a lifetime of challenges, heartbreaks, and losses with a quiet resilience that defined her character. Throughout her life, she endured more than most will ever know, yet she met each season with courage and a steadfast heart. She was the kind of woman who held her family together through storms, who kept going when others would have crumbled, and who moved mountains in her own gentle way. Ruth was a survivor in every sense, and her determination and devotion became the foundation on which generations of her family were built.

A woman of deep faith, Ruth was a longtime member of Trinity United Methodist Church (now Trinity Global Methodist Church) in Van Wert. She lovingly served as a Sunday School teacher and member of the choir for many years. Her quiet kindness, steady presence, and unwavering devotion to her family and church will be remembered by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, from 4-7 p.m. Monday, November 24. A funeral service celebrating Ruth’s long and fulfilling life will take place at Trinity Global Methodist Church at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 25, with Pastor David To officiating. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.

Preferred memorials: Trinity Global Methodist Church of Van Wert.

Linda M. (Waldron) Jeknavorian

Linda M. (Waldron) Jeknavorian, 84, of Van Wert, a very loved and devoted wife, mom, grandma and servant to her Savior, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

She was born July 1, 1941, in Van Wert, to Arthur and Lelia (Harvey) Waldron.

Linda graduated from Van Wert High School in 1959. In 1960, she started at St. Rita’s Nursing School and graduated in 1964 as a Registered Nurse. Linda joined the United States Army as a nurse in 1966 and was later honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant in November 1968.

She served at Fort Sam Houston, Texas and was later transferred to Fort Belvoir, Virginia, where she met the love of her life, Roy A. Jeknavorian. After their military service, Linda and Roy moved to Glen Cove, NY and were married on November 22, 1968. Linda retired from the Van Wert County Hospital in 1994, after 18 years of service. She also previously worked at Manhasset Hospital in New York and, after moving back to Van Wert in 1970, at the V.A. Hospital in Fort Wayne.

Linda had attended First United Methodist Church, where she was very active in the missionary ministry. She led the mission committee for several years and served on four adult mission trips to Mexico. In September of 2000, Linda and Roy participated in the “Walk to Emmaus” Christian spiritual renewal workshop. Over the years, they introduced many people to the teachings of Jesus Christ, through the “Walk to Emmaus” workshop.

In addition to her husband, Roy, Linda is survived by her three children, Roy (Tammy) Jeknavorian, Jr, Katrina (Scott) Steen and Laura (Wes) Palmer; her grandchildren, Tifanie (Ronnie) Roberts, Tyler Dirham, Stefan Dirham, Camille Dirham, Lelia Valle, Tony Valle, Kobe (Cora) Palmer, Zach (Carrie) Palmer, Morgan Jeknavorian, Trey Jeknavorian and Kelsey (Brandon) Cole; 13 great- grandchildren; and her brothers, Michael Waldron and David (Marsha) Waldron.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Debra Berkebile.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 24, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor David To officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, with military honors being rendered by the Van Wert American Legion and V.F.W. Visitation will be from 1-6 p.m. Sunday, November 23, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Linda’s honor may be directed to Fountain Park Home Healthcare or to the Van Wert Council on Aging.

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

Sally Ann Walton

Sally Ann Walton, 84, of Carey passed away peacefully Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Heritage Manor, Findlay.

Sally was born on March 9, 1941, in Van Wert, to Alexander “Boot” and Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Fergus) Stewart, who both preceded her in death.  Sally was a 1959 graduate of Van Wert High School. During her high school years, Sally was an active member of the Ohio High School Speech League, where she developed her quick wit and gift for lively conversation, traits she carried with her throughout her life.

She first married James R. Thatcher, with whom she shared two children, Betsy (Mike) Bakies and James S. Thatcher who gave them grandchildren, Haley (Shawn) Burgderfer, Britney Richmond, Jimmy, Megan and Marissa Thatcher as well as great-grandchildren, Ellie and Ruby. 

During her time in Van Wert, Sally worked at The Wassenberg Art Center and owned and operated a Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio.  She was a member of the Twigs and Willow Bend Golf Club. Growing up, she cherished summers at Clear Lake in Fremont, Indiana.

Sally moved to Carey, in 1995 and married Izaak B. Walton, Jr. who preceded her in death on October 23, 2025. From that marriage, Sally welcomed Izaak’s children, Abby Walton, Josh (Natalie) Walton and Izaak (Mindy) Walton and grandchildren, Cooper, Reid, Grier, Emmy, Ava, Luke, Izaak and Ezra.

She is also survived by her siblings: Alan Fergus “Pat” (Billie) Stewart and Sue Madar, a host of nieces and nephews and her canine companion Rocky.

She was preceded in death by a son Seth Walton; grandson, Eric Bakies and siblings, Anthony “Tony” Stewart, Alexander “Sandy” Stewart and Janet Stewart.

Sally was a proud and devoted supporter of her children in all their endeavors, whether cheering them on in sports, guiding them through 4-H projects, or offering her steady love and encouragement. She found great joy in taking care of her family and running a warm, welcoming household.

A talented cross-stitcher and knitter, Sally’s hands were rarely still. Many friends and loved ones treasure the handmade gifts and decorations she created with care and creativity.

Known for her silly, feisty, and wonderfully sarcastic sense of humor, Sally could always make others laugh and feel at ease. She had a remarkable way of finding joy in everyday moments and sharing that joy with those around her.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her. Above all, Sally will be remembered for her warmth, humor, and unwavering love for her family.

A time to gather and celebrate Sally’s life will be held from 4-6 p.m. Thursday, December 4, in the Stombaugh-Batton & Snyder Funeral Home, Carey, where a service will be held at 6 p.m. Private Inurnment will be held in the St. Mary’s Cemetery, Carey.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials may be made in Sally’s honor to Alzheimer’s Association, Bridge Hospice or to a Wyandot County Council on Aging.

Online condolences, as well as a fond memory may be shared with Sally’s family by visiting www.stombaughbatton.com.

Hugh Edward “Eddie” Jones

Hugh Edward “Eddie” Jones, a man deeply devoted to his family, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 15, 2025 at the young age of 56.

Eddie was born on October 27, 1969, in Van Wert,  to Hugh W. and Darlene (Baker) Jones. For 37 years, Eddie was a dedicated employee at Danfoss (formerly Aeroquip/Eaton) and will be remembered fondly by his colleagues for his strong work ethic and bright personality.

Eddie’s greatest joy was found in the company of this loved ones; he cherished the time spent with his family and also enjoyed the open road on his motorcycle, attending car shows, and relaxing with his friends. Eddie’s genuine spirit and undeniable humor made a lasting impact on everyone he met.

He leaves behind a loving family that will miss him tremendously: his parents; two sisters, Laura (Mark) Shultz of Huntington, Indiana, and Cathy Lehman of Cicero, Indiana; two loving daughters, Madison (Salvador) Galvan-Trejo of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and Lainie Jones of Van Wert. He was cherished as “grandpa” to his granddaughter, Laura and his three step-grandchildren; Cullen, Greyson and Anniston.

Eddie’s memory will be carried on by his entire family and the community of friends whose lives he touched.

A viewing service will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, November 23, at Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert with a ceremony beginning at 4 p.m.

Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.

David R. Sheets

David R. Sheets, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away Friday, November 14, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born on September 29, 1945, in Decatur, Indiana, to Leland and Merle (Dull) Sheets, who both preceded him in death, David was a proud member of the community he called home throughout his life.

David graduated from Crestview High School and furthered his education by earning an associate’s degree from International Business College. He devoted many years of his life to his career as a machinist at Aeroquip, where he was respected for his craftsmanship and dedication. After retiring, he often reflected fondly on his time there, always sharing stories with an infectious enthusiasm that resonated with those around him.

On December 18, 1966, David married Sharon Swartz, who preceded him in death. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. David’s warm and friendly nature meant that he never met a stranger; he possessed a rare gift for forming connections with everyone he encountered. He found joy in simple pleasures, whether it was a day at the shooting range, a few rounds of euchre with friends, or sharing meals and stories over dinner at a restaurant. David’s generous spirit and easygoing demeanor created lasting friendships and a legacy of kindness that will be remembered by all who knew him.

David is survived by his loving daughter, Stacia (Adam) Averill; his son, Devin (Shay) Sheets, as well as his treasured grandchildren, Anniston and Ainsley Burlingame, and Wade, Wren, and Will Sheets.

In addition to his parents and wife, David was preceded in death by his brother, Doyt Sheets.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate David’s life during visitation at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert, from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, November 20. A funeral service honoring his life will be held at the same location at 10 a.m. Friday, November 21. David will be laid to rest privately next to his wife in Ridge Cemetery.

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

Stephen Lee McGannon

Stephen Lee McGannon, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the age of 71.

Born on August 10, 1954, in Van Wert, to Frank and Pauline “Polly” McGannon Jr., who both preceded him in death. Steve spent his life in the embrace of the community he cherished, where he was known for his steadfast work ethic and deep devotion to family.

A 1972 graduate of Van Wert High School, Steve dedicated many years to his career as a tire builder at BF Goodrich, from which he later retired. His commitment to his work was matched only by his love for his family, especially after the loss of his wife, Tammy McGannon in 2012. As a single father, he raised his young daughter, Haley McGannon, with unwavering strength and compassion, instilling in her lifelong lessons of resilience and care.

Steve often reflected fondly on his childhood, particularly the fishing trips he took with his father-navigating the map on those adventures became a cherished rite of passage. In his leisure time, he found joy in golf, weekly card games with friends, and cheering on his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes. A man of simple pleasures, he also took great pride in keeping his yard clean and well-kept.

Steve’s legacy lives on through his daughters, Haley McGannon and Karey (Ryan) Helle; his son, Derrick Sams; his sister, Linda (Denny) Zinn; and his brother, Ron (Donna) Stuckey. He was a proud grandfather to Raiden Sams, Delaney Wright, Payton Sams, Aaliyah Helle, and Kaylee Helle, and a great-grandfather to Bentley Foster. Each memory shared and moment cherished has woven a lasting tapestry of love that will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Steve’s life at 2 p.m. Wednesday, November 19, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert. Visitation will be held at the chapel from 12-2 p.m. prior to the service. Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery.

As we gather to honor Steve’s life, we reflect on the man he was — a hardworking, devoted father whose love and joy for life inspired those around him. His spirit will live on in the laughter of his grandchildren and the treasured memories held by his family and friends.

To share in Steve’s online tribute, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.