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
James Paul Silance, affectionately known as Paul, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the age of 79.
Born on August 12, 1946, in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, Paul made his way to Van Wert, Ohio, in 1966. It was there that he met the love of his life, Dorothy Douglas, and they tied the knot on February 16, 1967, embarking on a beautiful journey together.
Paul lived a fulfilling life dedicated to his family and work. He proudly served as a welder at General Dynamics for 30 years, where he was a valued member of the UAW. Retirement didn’t slow him down; he obtained his CDL and drove a dump truck, a true testament to his hard working spirit. Paul was also known for his love of repairing vehicles; he and his father-in-law even ran a body shop from his garage, where he found joy in fixing things up.
Together with Dorothy, Paul traveled to every state east of the Mississippi River, where they enjoyed countless camping adventures. A member of First United Brethren Church in Van Wert for many years, he was also an active participant in community organizations, including the American Legion and, formerly, the Eagles. Paul had a passion for keeping up with the world, often watching or listening to the news.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy; sons, Kevin (Jozette) Silance of Pennville, Indiana, and Steven Silance of Van Wert; grandsons Seth (Trequjuan) Silance and Ethan Silance, both of Van Wert, and sister Opel Padrick of Jacksonville, N.C.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Marion Daniel and Beatrice (Jenkins) Silance, as well as eight siblings, Delores Thompson, John Silance, Jimmy Silance, CT Silance, Daniel Silance, Delbert Silance, Mary Ellen Silance, and Marrie Shepherd.
The funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, September 27, at the Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert, followed by a committal service at Woodland Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Friday, September at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel.
To share in Paul’s online memorial, visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 09/24/25 at 1:39 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Harry E. Latimer, 89, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025.
He was born on Mother’s Day, May 10, 1936, in Payne. On June 28, 1975, he married the former Nancy Dunlap. They celebrated 50 years of marriage this year.
A proud veteran of the United States Army, Harry served his country with honor. He retired from Duke Energy in Edgerton, Indiana after many years of dedicated service.
Harry attended Grace Bible Church in Van Wert, where he found community and fellowship. His greatest joy came from his family, whom he loved fiercely.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy Latimer of Van Wert; his sons, Bill (Maria) Latimer of Milton, Florida, and John (Michelle) Latimer of New Haven, Indiana; his daughters, Lynette Latimer Baum of Van Wert, Ruth Anne Latimer of Columbia City, Indiana, and Tami (Tommy Gabric) Latimer Miller; along with eight grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy of love. He is also survived by his very close friends, Bob Barker and Willi Richardson, and many nieces, nephews and in-laws.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John C. and Ruth E. (Zartman) Latimer; brothers, Herb and Don Latimer; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Charles and Donna Dunlap; sister-in-law, Liz Geist; brother-in-law, Jerry Dunlap, and niece, Kimberly Daniels.
Memorial service times will be announced in the near future.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Van Wert Council on Aging or to a Parkinson’s research organization.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements were entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 09/23/25 at 1:03 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Steven L. Greulach, affectionately known as “Stevo” to those fortunate enough to call him friend, passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025.
Born in Van Wert, on January 11, 1952, to Harold and Margaret (Fisher) Greulach, who both preceded him in death, Steve was a lifelong resident who will be remembered for his profound love of life and family.
After graduating from Crestview High School in 1970, Steve married Sandra “Sandee” Preston, on June 12, 1971. Shortly after marriage, Steve and Sandee moved into Steve’s childhood home, and over the next 54 years, they raised their three children and welcomed the blessing of grandchildren.
A tool and die maker at Federal Mogul for 43 years, Steve took pride in everything his hands could make. If you knew him, he likely hand-delivered a bag of his self-proclaimed famous popcorn or surprised you with a batch of his extra spicy jerky (giggling as he watched you taste its heat). Loving all things outdoors, Steve farmed, showed sheep, spent years coon and squirrel hunting, and grew the most impressive collection of antique John Deere tractors. Long after his kids outgrew their time in 4-H, Steve always found a reason to tinker in the barn, and he spent the last 20 years helping his grandkids learn how to show lambs and grow into 4-H champions. When he wasn’t in the barn or spending time outside, his favorite spot was sitting in front, row in a gymnasium where he watched his grandsons earn the title of state basketball champion. His youngest grandchildren remember him as the eternal giver of candy. He never let the jar go dry, and he rarely showed up without a box of donuts.
A member of Redeemer Lutheran Church, Steve’s heart was always happiest when he was pouring back into the people around him. More than anything, he believed in (and relentlessly practiced) the art of being a good neighbor. Known as the neighborhood caretaker, he spent his days checking on neighbors, waving to friends from the front porch, and always greeting everyone he met with a firm handshake and a quick smile.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandee; daughters, Tracey (Clint) Lautzenheiser and Tammy (Joe) Motycka; son, Mark (Aimie) Greulach; grandchildren, Cain (KC Dukes), Connor (Lexie), and Colton (Madeline Thurman) Lautzenheiser, Ethan and Emily Greulach, and Ava, Reid, and Owen Motycka; great-grandson, Banks Lautzenheiser; brother, David (Pat) Greulach; sister-in-law, Carol Greulach, and his cherished rat terrier, Rat.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard Greulach.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, September 25, at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Convoy with Pastor Steve Shrum officiating. Interment will follow at Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, September 24, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert, and again one hour prior to the service at the church.
In lieu of flower, memorials may be directed to Redemer Lutheran Church and Van Wert Humane Society.
To share in Steve’s online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 09/21/25 at 8:01 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Charles E. Bladen, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the age of 90.
Born on June 13, 1935, in Madison, Indiana, to Lawrence and Elsie (Spivy) Bladen, who both preceded him in death.
Charles made his home in Van Wert and spent many years as a skilled mechanic. Charles will be remembered for his love of life and his many passions. A former midget car racer, he enjoyed the thrill of the track and brought that same enthusiasm to the bowling alley and golf course. He also had a special talent for music, possessing a beautiful voice that lit up the room during karaoke nights. He loved sharing the standards, often with his own karaoke machine, bringing joy to those around him. Charles was also a proud member of the Elks and Moose, where he formed lasting friendships that enriched his life.
He is survived by his daughters, Elizabeth “Libby” (Randy) Shell and Glenna Kelsey; sons, Dave (Laurie) Bladen, Robert (Kelly) Bladen, and Stan Bladen; sisters, Betty Bradbury and Carol Ann (Jim) Gates, as well as 14 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. His presence will be greatly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Bladen; first wife, Frances Poynter Bladen; two sons, Charles Albert and Louis Edward Bladen, and nine siblings.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a graveside service at Woodland Cemetery 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, September 23. Visitation will be prior to the graveside service on Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Wesley Church of Van Wert.
To share in Charles’ online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 09/21/25 at 7:48 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Joyce A. Thatcher, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the age of 84.
She was born on August 14, 1941, in Van Wert to Russell H. and Edna (Gribler) Matthews, who both preceded her in death. She spent all of her life in Convoy where she touched the hearts of all who knew her.
Joyce graduated from Convoy Union High School in 1959 and immediately began working at Central Insurance, determined to save for her upcoming wedding. Her dedication paid off when she married her soulmate, Jerry Thatcher. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and hospitality, a cherished gathering place for family and friends throughout the years.
Joyce’s professional journey reflected her caring nature and strong work ethic. She worked for Dr. Diller before finding her calling as a bank teller in Convoy, where she served the community with warmth and reliability. Her life was marked by quiet strength, joyful companionship, and a deep commitment to those she loved. Joyce was full of life and known for her warm hospitality. She always welcomed her children’s friends with open arms and made everyone feel at home.
Her commitment to community extended beyond her family; Joyce was a devoted supporter of local initiatives and cherished her time at the Sugar Creek Church of God, where she worshiped for many years. Joyce and Jerry even opened their hearts and home to Esteri Ikävalko, a Finnish foreign exchange student, maintaining a lifelong friendship that enriched their lives.
Joyce is survived by her son, Steven Thatcher of Decatur; her daughter, Michele (Tim) Miller of Fort Wayne; her grandchildren, Jonathan “Cole” Thatcher and Lucas Thatcher, both of Decatur; Abby (Andrew) Francis of Cary, North Carolina; Joel Miller of Indianapolis, as well as her sister, Janet Mitchell of Texas.
In addition to her parents and husband, Joyce was recently preceded in death by her daughter-in-law, Vickie Thatcher.
A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 24, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel in Van Wert with Pastor Steve Drake officiating. Interment will follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, September 23, and one hour prior to the funeral at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials in Joyce’s name may be directed to CHP Homecare and Hospice or the Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.
To share in Joyce’s online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 09/19/25 at 1:59 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Bryce L. Beckman, 69, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born August 19, 1956, in Lima to Joe and Nancy (Holtzapple) Beckman. On October 14, 1978, he married Jacqueline (Taylor) Beckman, who survives.
Other family members include two sons, Scott Beckman of Van Wert and Adam (Sarah) Beckman of Scott, and a very special granddaughter, Clovey Beckman.
Bryce was a 1975 graduate of Van Wert High School and attended Ohio State University. Throughout his life, he remained dedicated to his family, committed to hard work, and true to his values. Bryce enjoyed life to the fullest and always had a positive outlook. He built a long and respected career in banking where he was known not only for his professionalism and expertise, but also for the kindness and respect he extended to the lives he touched.
Outside of work, Bryce’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He treasured time spent at the dinner table, where sharing his talent for cooking always brought people together creating memories.
Bryce enjoyed woodworking, crafting pieces that reflected his patience, skill, and creativity. He especially enjoyed passing on his skills to anyone willing to learn. Bryce had a gift for accomplishing anything he set his mind to and he never hesitated to lend a hand to others.
Bryce was blessed with a loving family and many lifelong friends, all of whom he deeply cherished and who will miss him greatly. His faith, love, kindness and smile remain a lasting gift to all who knew him.
In addition to his parents, Bryce was preceded in death by his brother Gregory Beckman.
The family will honor Bryce’s life with a private service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Bryce’s name may be directed to First United Methodist Church.
To share in Bryce’s online memorial, visit www.alspachgearhart.com.
Arrangements were entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.
POSTED: 09/19/25 at 8:06 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Lyla Kay Caris, 82, of Paulding, passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Kay was born on August 20, 1943, in Van Wert County, to John and Ruth (Swartz) Wilkin, who both preceded her in death. On August 26, 1961 she married James “Jim” Caris.
Kay grew up in Wetzel where she worked at her family’s grocery store, the John W. Wilkin General Store. She was a member of the first graduating class of Lincolnview High School, Class of 1961. Kay had many activities she loved in her life which included reading, cooking, baking, canning, crocheting, and the music of Elvis Presley. She enjoyed going to car cruise-ins with Jim, watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Kay worked for 20 years for Paulding Exempted Schools in the cafeteria and later as a custodian. She was involved in Music Mothers when her children were in school, coached little girls softball, and was a presiding judge for the Paulding County Board of Elections.
She is survived by her husband of 64 years, James “Jim” Caris; children, Sharon (David) Arens of Sherwood, Bruce (Cheryl) Caris of Sherwood, James (Angie) Caris of Fort Wayne, Brian (Susan) Caris of Fort Shawnee, and Karen Caris of Defiance; sister, Joyce (Ron) Weck of Paulding; brother, Roger Wilkin of Wetzel; grandchildren, Madison (Garrett) Jones, Bailey Caris, James Paul Caris, and Maykayla Belle Caris, and great-grandchildren, Ryann and Cameron Jones.
Kay was also preceded in death by her brothers, John “Butch” Wilkin and Larry Wilkin.
Private services will be held at the convenience of the family at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made in Kay’s memory to the Paulding County Carnegie Library or to the Caring and Sharing Food Pantry.
Online condolences may be shared at www.denherderfh.com.
POSTED: 09/17/25 at 2:41 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Joyce E. Baer, 90, passed away on the evening of Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Vancrest of Van Wert surrounded by her loving family.
Joyce was born on October 31, 1934, in Dayton, to Joseph and Myrtle (Cotterman) Strick, both of whom are deceased. On October 8, 1955, she married Paul H. Baer who also preceded her in death on June 17, 2006.
Joyce is survived by her children, Gary (Betty) Baer of Delphos, Sue (Steven) Bigham of Van Wert and Sandra (Bruce) Klinger of Convoy; one sister, Glenna Strick of Dayton, and three grandchildren, Faith Baer, Dr. Sarah Klinger and Samantha Klinger.
Joyce was preceded in death by two sisters, Carmen Hoffman and Ruth Huff, and a brother, Julius Strick.
Joyce graduated from Van Wert High School in 1953. She worked at Van Wert Times-Bulletin for 24 ½ years and attended Calvary Evangelical Church in Van Wert. Before her husband’s passing, Joyce enjoyed camping with her family in their travel trailer. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and traveling. Joyce also liked going to the Council on Aging in Van Wert and taking their Zumba classes.
Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, September 20, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Pastor Clark Williman officiating. There will be calling hours from 9-11 a.m. prior to the service on Saturday.
Preferred memorials: Calvary Evangelical Church in Van Wert or the Van Wert Council on Aging.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 09/15/25 at 3:16 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Dennis Lee Doster, 89, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Van Crest Nursing Home in Payne, Ohio.
Dennis was born on November 3, 1935, to Foster “Hank” Doster and Gladys Stair, both of whom preceded him in death. On August 13, 1955, he married Helen Kay Tinlin, who survives him.
Dennis graduated from Blue Creek High School in 1955, where he excelled as an athlete. After graduation, he began working at Lafarge, where he dedicated 46 years of service until his retirement.
Dennis had a deep love for sports. He was an avid fan of Ohio State, the Chicago Bears, and the Chicago White Sox, but his greatest joy came from watching the teams his children and grandchildren played on. Throughout his life, Dennis also enjoyed listening to country music, traveling with his brother-in-law and sister, and making occasional trips to the casino.
Along with his wife, he is survived by his four children, Jean (George) Porter of Paulding, Kim Pitser of Antwerp, Denny (Kim) Doster of Paulding, and Dawn (Joey) Meza of Mary Ester, Florida; nine grandchildren, Michelle (Shane) Sidle, Eric (Jessica) Armstrong, Ashley (Bill) Kindle, Melissa Scott, Logan (Danielle) Doster, Cameron Doster, Sean, Jared, and Brandon Meza, and 10 great-grandchildren: Jacob Sidle, Delaney and Devin Scott, Dylan, Corbyn, and Elizabeth Armstrong, Liam and Charlotte Kindle, Chloe and Jackson Doster. He is also survived by his sister, Margaret Williamson.
He was preceded in death by an infant son, Gary Allen; and his siblings: Ronald “Joey” Doster, Bill Doster, Dema Saxton, and Phyllis Jean Doster.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, at Den Herder Funeral Home, Paulding, with Ryan Thomas officiating. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will be in Hedges Cemetery, Jackson Township.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made in Dennis’ memory to Vancrest of Payne Activity Fund.
Online condolences may be shared at www.denherderfh.com
POSTED: 09/15/25 at 3:02 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Betty J. Uncapher, a beloved mother, grandmother and cherished member of the Van Wert community, passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025, at the age of 93.
Born on March 3, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, Betty lived a life full of love and dedication to her family and community. On August 9, 1952, she married Norman E. Uncapher.
Betty was an avid fisherman, finding joy in the tranquil embrace of nature. She was also a talented cook, particularly renowned for her delicious pies that brought comfort and joy to those she loved. Above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, creating lasting memories with her children and grandchildren.
She retired from Aeroquip in Van Wert after many years of dedicated service, having previously worked at Van Wert Manufacturing. Her commitment to her community extended beyond her professional life. She volunteered with the swim program for the Paulding County Board of Developmental Disabilities, demonstrating her compassion and dedication to helping others. She attended Calvary Church in Van Wert.
She is survived by her loving children, Michael (Cynthia) Uncapher of Van Wert, Cathy (James) Sowers of Van Wert, David (Dian) Uncapher of Lima and James (Lisa Agler) Uncapher of Van Wert; her cherished grandchildren, Nicole (Nathan) Hillery, Ryan (Lucie) Uncapher, Jaclyn (Bill) Evans, Steven Sowers, Zachary (Sarah) Uncapher, Lucas (Amanda) Uncapher, Tessa (Greg) Boyles, Canon (Austin) Wray and Ben Uncapher, and 17 great-grandchildren.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, Mack and Harriet Wilson; her husband, Norman E. Uncapher; a sister, Amy Durffee, and a grandchild, Jordan Uncapher.
Funeral services for Betty J. Uncapher will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, September 21, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Prior to the service, there will be a visitation beginning at 2 p.m., allowing family and friends to gather and share their memories of her remarkable life.
Preferred memorials: the Van Wert YWCA Building Fund.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 09/15/25 at 2:50 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
