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.
POSTED: 12/28/10 at 3:42 pm. FILED UNDER: Info
Lynn L. “Peach” Parrish, 73, of Van Wert, passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025, at VanCrest Nursing Home in Van Wert.
He was born September 27, 1952, to Howard and Dorothy (Corwin) Parrish, and was a 1970 graduate of Oakwood High School. On October 19, 2013, he married the love of his life, Teresa (Alexander) Staude who survives in Van Wert.
Lynn retired from Alexander-Bebout in March 2021 after a lifetime in construction. He was a member of Moose Lodge #1320, Elks Lodge #1197, and American Legion Post #178, all in Van Wert. He and Teresa had enjoyed traveling and Lynn had been the resident fireworks technician at Hamilton Lake. Always the quintessential storyteller, his stories were funnier each time he told them.
Lynn is survived by his loving wife, Teresa; his son, David (Ann) Parrish of Defiance; daughters, Melissa Parrish-Valle of Austin, Texas, Sarah (Eric) Schier of Delphos, and Tracy (Brian) Mitchener; his grandchildren Kelsea (Chris) Ballard, Joey, Wes, and Grace Schier, Zach Parrish, Katie (Adam) Niese, Lauren and Ava Mitchener, and Elijah Staude; a great-granddaughter, Parker Gerenscer; his much older twin sister, Linda Fisher, and brothers, Joe (Joanna) Parrish and Denny (Karen) Parrish all of Defiance.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law, Tom and Sylvia Alexander; a son, John Clinton Parrish; a daughter, Angela “Angel” Staude; brothers, Jack and Allen Parrish, and half-brothers, Howard Parrish, Jr., J. William Parrish, and James Parrish; and grandson, Hunter Alan Parrish.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, December 20, with services following at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
POSTED: 12/14/25 at 11:43 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Steven “Steve” Waterman, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, received the ultimate victory on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, after a short battle with an unexpected illness. Surrounded by his loving family, angels gently lifted his spirit into the waiting arms of his Savior Jesus Christ.
He was born on January 28, 1958, to Byron “Bud” Waterman and Joanne (Rickard) Waterman, with his father preceding him in death and his mother surviving in Ohio City. The younger of two sons, Steve is survived by his brother, Gregory “Greg” (Ellen) Waterman. He is also preceded in death by his nephew, Brian Waterman, whose memory remained dear to him.
A proud graduate of Ohio City High School, Class of 1976, Steve pursued his education with purpose and dedication, earning associate degrees in accounting and business management from Wright State University. Feeling a call to ministry, he later earned his bachelor’s degree in religion from the University of Findlay and a master of divinity from Winebrenner Theological Seminary.
On March 4, 1989, Steve married the love of his life, Gloria Waterman (Johnson), who survives in Fort Wayne. Together they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and unwavering support. Their daughters, Jolynn “Jo” Simson (Waterman), married to Nate, with children Owen (8) and Ivy (6), and Jenna Dunham (Waterman), married to Joel, with children Beckham (4) and Briar (7 months), were the treasures of his life and a source of immeasurable pride.
For 29 years, Steve served faithfully as pastor of Olive Branch Church of God in Rockford, and Sugar Ridge Church of God in Convoy before retiring in 2018. His ministry touched countless lives through sermons, baptisms, weddings, prayers, and moments of quiet support—always offered with humility and a sincere heart. After retiring, he continued serving at C.A.L.L. Ministries Food Pantry in Celina, where he volunteered regularly and joyfully. During this time, he also attended Trinity Global Methodist Church in Van Wert, where he found ongoing fellowship and spiritual community.
Steve’s greatest joy was simply being wherever his grandchildren were. Whether settling into his favorite chair with a little one on his lap or cheering them on at their activities, he showed up for them in every way a grandfather could. Christmas held a special place in his heart—not only for the celebration of Jesus’ birth, which guided his life, but also for the magic and fun he created. He delighted in the candlelight, the traditions, and especially in donning his red velvet Santa suit, bringing wonder to those he loved most.
He cherished long bike rides, camping trips at Huggy Bear Campground, and quiet moments with his beloved dog, AJ, who was a constant source of comfort and companionship. After retirement, Steve found unexpected joy in pickleball — not just in playing, but in the friendships he formed on the court. He rarely missed a day, drawn as much to the people as to the game itself. Known for his lively spirit and loud, infectious laugh, Steve brought warmth, energy, and genuine joy wherever he went. He touched others simply by being present, and his love continues to echo in the lives of those he cherished. We find peace and joy in knowing that God has welcomed Steve home with the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Visitation will be held from 1-6 p.m. Sunday, December 14, at Cowan Funeral Home in Van Wert. A one-hour visitation will also take place at 9 a.m. Monday, December 15, prior to the 10:00 a.m. funeral service at Olive Branch Church of God in Rockford, with Pastor Randy Bevington officiating. Burial will follow in Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City.
Preferred memorials: C.A.L.L. Ministries Food Pantry in Celina.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/11/25 at 9:43 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
David Eddy, age 68, of Toledo and formerly of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at The University of Toledo Medical Center.
He was born on November 1, 1957, in Van Wert, to Lloyd E. and Lois I. (Wilmore) Eddy, who both preceded him in death.
David participated in the Special Olympics and found fulfillment in his work at Thomas Edison Closed Workshop and PC Workshop in Paulding. He enjoyed fishing and had a lifelong love of farming, especially riding alongside his father on the family farm.
He is survived by his siblings: Kent (Pam) Eddy of Grover Hill; Marcia (John) Laukhuf of Payne, and Mark (Karen) Eddy of Grover Hill. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews, Scott, Steven, Sarah, Stuart, Christopher, Tara, Melissa, Benjamin, and Aaron, as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews who will cherish his memory.
In addition to his parents, David was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Eddy, and a nephew, Matthew.
Private funeral services will be held. Interment will be in Middle Creek Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made in David’s name to LifeWise of Grover Hill.
To share memories or condolences, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 12/10/25 at 5:57 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Susan Elaine Coil, age 69, of Van Wert, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, surrounded by her family at Saint Rita’s Medical Center in Lima.
Sue was born on December 29, 1955, to Robert and Betty Wright in Decatur, Indiana. She graduated from Van Wert High School. She worked with various companies such as Borden Foods, KMI Mfg, Ohio City Mfg, and Eaton.
During a weekend outing with girlfriends in the summer of 1985, she met her future husband, Kevin Dean Coil, at a Firemen’s dance in Middle Point, Ohio. On November 25, 1987, they eloped in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Sue was a devoted fan of THE Ohio State University and Chicago Cubs. She drove her boys all over the state to countless football and baseball practices, games, and tournaments. During football season, you would always find her in the stands at all the Van Wert Cougar games, cheering on her boys and their teammates. She was also passionate about the arts and helped encourage some of her children and grandchildren to pursue career paths in the creative arts.
Every day of her life was shaped by the love for her family. They were her greatest joy and purpose. She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Kevin; her boys, Chris (Janelle) Fisher and B.J. (Kendra) Fisher; and daughter, Shelby Coil; her grandsons, Gabriel, Cole, and Ethan Fisher, and granddaughters, Aiyana and Savannah Coil.
In addition to her parents, Sue was preceded in death by her brother, William Wright; sister, Pamela Baird; brother-in-law, Rick Baird, and nieces Candy Beagle and Tina Subler.
Cremation has taken place according to her wishes, and a private family gathering to celebrate her life will be held at a later time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Sue’s name to the Van Wert Humane Society, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 12/10/25 at 5:49 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Steven W. Leiter, 79, of Fairfield, Ohio, passed away December 5, 2025.
He was born September 26, 1946, in Van Wert, the son of Frederic Leiter and Charlotte Geherlich Leiter, who both preceded him in death. On August 22, 1969, he married Janet Wisniewski and together they built a loving home for 56 years.
Steve was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force and spent many years working in the financial banking industry, always providing for his family with dedication and purpose. Steve’s life was defined by service – to his faith, his family, and his community.
A devoted member of Fairfield Church of Christ, he found great joy in serving Jesus. Through the church, he discovered a passion for the prison ministry of Kairos, and he could often be found greeting members with a warm smile or driving the church van for those with special needs. He loved spending time with his family doing anything from watching movies to traveling on vacations across the country. If his girls or grandkids were involved in an activity, Steve was there – proudly, faithfully, and without hesitation.
In April 2011, Steve received an extraordinary gift — his brother Paul selflessly donated a kidney, blessing Steve with 14 additional years of life. Steve’s gratitude for this gift was immeasurable. He used those years to pour even more love into his family, friends, and community. As a proud member of the Fairfield Optimist Club, Steve served for many years on the board and as president. He was an enthusiastic participant in a variety of service projects including their high school scholarship fund, the annual MASC soccer tournament, the turkey shoot fundraisers, mowing soccer fields for the youth leagues, and fishing derbies for the special needs community. There was so much more to Steve than just a list of accomplishments could capture.
He loved golf, movies, ice cream, and most of all time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Janet Leiter; three children Jodi (Rickey) Strother, Kimberly (Robert) Jerger, and Stephanie (Jason) Brown; grandchildren Sarah (John) Manovich, Nathan Strother, Roman (Katey) Jerger, Julia Jerger, Joseph Strother, Ashley Brown, Emily Brown and the late Joshua Brown; great-grandson Rodrick Jerger, and his siblings Patricia (John) Bigelow, Rebecca (Edward) Weingartner, and Paul (Laura) Leiter.
Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, December 15, at Fairfield Church of Christ, 745 Symmes Road, Fairfield. A funeral service will follow at 12 p.m., officiated by Brian Schrieber. Full military honors will precede the service at the church. Burial will take place on a later date in Van Wert. The family wishes to invite all to gather at the Fairfield Optimist Club, 194 Joe Nuxhall Way, Fairfield, immediately following the funeral to continue to celebrate Steve.
In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials to Fairfield Church of Christ, a portion of which will go to their local Kairos ministry.
POSTED: 12/09/25 at 7:33 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Michelle D. Klutka, 62, of Van Wert, passed away Friday, December 5, 2025, at her residence.
She was born June 13, 1963. Michelle was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and a member of the Van Wert American Legion.
Michelle is survived by her sons, Justin (Janine) Klutka and Jordan (Jennifer) Klutka; grandchildren, Noah, Owen, Avelynn and Will; a brother, William Humrickhouse of Ashley, Indiana, and nieces, Katlin, Quincy and Kendal.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and Theresa (Kintz) Humrickhouse, and a brother, Eric Humrickhouse.
Michelle loved the theater, singing, Harley Davidson motorcycles, and above all else, her cats.
A memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, December 13, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Father Chris Bohnsack, officiating. Private burial will take place at a later date. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials: the Van Wert County Humane Society.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 12/09/25 at 1:45 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Cindy Lou Jones, 68, of Van Wert passed away Saturday morning, December 6, 2025, at VanCrest of Van Wert.
She was born on November 15, 1957, in Van Wert, the daughter of Gale Warren Jones and Patricia Louise (Thurston) Jones, who both preceded her in death.
Surviving is her brother: Michael G. (Barbara) Jones of Sarasota, Florida.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Jerry Alan Jones and a sister, Caryl Ann Jones..
Cindy was a 1976 graduate of Van Wert High School and had attended Trinity Friends Church of Van Wert.
A memorial service will held at 11 a.m. Friday, December 12, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home of Van Wert with Pastor Matt McGovern officiating. Interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery of Ohio City at a later date. Calling hours will be held at the funeral home from 10 a.m. until time of the service on Friday.
Preferred memorials:Trinity Friends Church of Van Wert.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/09/25 at 10:01 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Dr. Gilbert Butler, 75, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 5, 2025, in his home in Van Wert, surrounded by family.
Gil was born on April 26, 1950 in Cincinnati, the son of Jesse P. Butler and Betty Jane (Price) Butler who preceded him in death. On June 23, 1976, he married Mary L. (Geiger) Butler, his “Falcon Flame” who survives.
Other survivors include his sons, Cebron “C.B.” J. (Kimberly) Butler of Lima, Philip S. Butler of Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and Christopher I. Butler of Van Wert; grandchildren, Jordan J. Butler of Van Wert, and Claire I. and Drew A. Butler of Lima. Gil is also survived by his siblings, Reginald (Diane) Butler of Holiday, Florida and sister Vicki I. Butler of Cincinnati. In addition, Gil is also survived by many loving cousins, nieces and nephews.
Gil grew up in West College Hill, also know as the “Sub”. There he became a member of the Second Baptist Church. He graduated from North College Hill High School in 1968. He graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1972. He then pursued a masters degree at Purdue University in 1974 in social psychology. Gil furthered his education in 1988 when he earned his doctorate in psychology at Wright State University in Dayton where he was awarded the “Dean’s Award” on behalf of his class.
Gil began working as a probation officer in Dayton and then moved to Franklin County Children Services where he was a counselor. In 1988, Gil became the Director of the Starr Commonwealth, a private school for troubled boys and girls. After that he spent 24 years working at Foundations Behavioral Center in Celina where he was also the clinical director. He also continued to work at the Paulding and Westwood Behavioral Center in Van Wert. Gil also had his own private practice between jobs.
In his spare time Gil liked researching his family roots and genealogy became his passion. He also was an avid reader and studied philosophy, religions, meditation and African-American history. Gil will always be remembered for his calm, patient, caring and compassionate nature. His family will always remember being serenaded with his harmonica on their birthdays and his delicious – mouth watering pancakes.
A family celebration of life for Gil will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Van Wert CHP Home Care and Hospice.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 12/08/25 at 9:47 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Stanley A. Courtney, 73, of rural Van Wert, passed away 3:36 p.m. Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He was a retired production employee from Federal Mogul Corp.
In accordance with his wishes, there will be no public services.
Condolences may be expressed and memories shared with Stanley’s family at www.millerfuneralhomes.net or the Miller Funeral Homes Facebook page.
POSTED: 12/07/25 at 7:44 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Edward Knuth, 61, of Van Wert, passed away Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Promedica Toledo Hospital.
He was born October 18, 1964, in Van Wert to Edward Paul and Evelyn (Metler) Knuth. They both preceded him in death.
Edward is survived by children, Nicole (Knuth) Lee, Chris Knuth, and Amanda Trejo; grandchildren, Makenzie Shock, Morgan Shock, and Jainde Trejo; siblings, Evelyn (Don) Mercer, George Searfoss, Everett “Bud” (Marie) Jewell, Jessie (Danny) Chesbro, and Kathy (Parks) Jewell; sister-in-law, Lourna Jewell; special cousin, Sandy Oliver, and several nieces and nephews.
Edward was preceded in death by his siblings, Bill Knuth, Ernie Jewell, Chuck Searfoss, Sonny Jewell, Bob Jewell, Darlene (Jewell) Dawson, Jacque Jewell, Jilda (Searfoss) Yoh, Helen (Jewell) Richardson, Kathleen “Kitty” Jewell, Toni (Searfoss) Baker, and Sophie “Sol” Jewell, and nephew, Mike Chesbro.
Edward worked construction for many years. He loved to cook, working outside doing yard work and chopping wood. Edward could be found rocking out with his siblings in the barn where he loved to dance especially doing the jumping splits and playing the air guitar.
Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, December 6, at Harter & Schier Funeral Home, Delphos. Burial will be held at a later date. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Memorial donations may be given to Nicole Lee.
POSTED: 12/05/25 at 6:33 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
