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
Barbara Anne Allen, 92, of Convoy, went to be with her Lord on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Vancrest of Van Wert.
Barbara was born on February 24, 1933, in Convoy, at her family home to William F. and Rhea (Kreischer) Clay. On June 14, 1953, she married Richard F. Allen, who preceded her in death on December 17, 2010.
She is survived by her five children, Cindy Baxter of Convoy, Randy (Julie) Allen of Columbus, Dan (Laurie) Allen of Grove City, Jim (Carrie) Allen of Convoy, and Mary (Jared) Stumpp of Vermilion; 13 grandchildren, Zach Baxter, Kyle (Tiffani) Baxter, Caleb (Beth) Hoffman, Jennifer Allen (Nathen Miller), Brian (Sarah) Allen, Kimberly (Kyle) Leachman, Bradley Allen, Alexx Allen, Larissa (Eliott) Richardson, Whitney (Anthony) Snead, Emily Stumpp (Timothy Woolf), Katie Stumpp, and Heather (Andrew) Smith; 24 great grandchildren, and two great great grandchildren. Mrs. Allen has a sister, Libbi Ellis of Brookville, and a brother-in-law, Roger (Dottie) Allen of Warsaw, Indiana. She was a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Jeanne Stuck; and a brother, Thomas Clay; and a great granddaughter.
Barb was the only remaining classmate of her graduating class of Convoy High School 1951, of which she was salutatorian. She had attended Wittenberg College in Springfield and was a telephone operator for Indiana Bell Telephone Company in Fort Wayne and later in Convoy. She was an honorary member of the Convoy Research Club, was an avid reader and a former charter member of Calvary Evangelical Church. She cherished her family, was an avid sports fan, especially The Ohio State Buckeyes, an avid bird-watcher, and a dog lover of many, especially Daisy.
Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Gearhart-Sauer Funeral Home, Convoy. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, with Rev. Clark Williman, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemetery.
Preferred memorials: to the Van Wert County Humane Society or to the Brumback Library.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 02/14/26 at 12:13 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Todd R. King passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany.
He was born August 15, 1961, to Randolph and Delight King. Randolph King preceded him in death August 12, 2021.
Todd leaves behind his mother, Delight King of Van Wert; his wife Maria of Stuttgart, Germany; his son Jordan King of Be’er Sheva, Israel; three grandchildren, Jordan Jr., Aviv King, and Livia King all in Israel; a brother Trent and Judy King of Van Wert, and brother Tobin and Renee King of Moreland, Georgia.
Todd graduated from Van Wert High School in 1979, Working as a trainer for the Cougar football team during high school and working for his good friend Bill Derry at Derry Drug. Todd then went on to further his education at Valparaiso University for one year and then went on to Texas Christian University (TCU) for the remainder of his education majoring in education. He then worked teaching in Ohio and furthered his learning in computer programing. In 2010 Todd got hired by a company that contracted to our military forces overseas. After training in Fort Benning, Georgia, his first assignment was in Kuwait, and then various places around Europe, settling in Stuttgart, Germany since 2016.
Todd was well liked everywhere he went and had many friends. He was very energetic and full of life and was up for anything. He loved sports of all kinds and adored his grandchildren. He is truly missed and was loved by all. Todd was a Christian and professed his faith in Jesus Christ.
Internment will be in Germany and there will be no services.
POSTED: 02/13/26 at 9:32 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Paula Jean Wexler, 78, of Columbus, passed away Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Kobacker House.
Paula was born on April 21, 1947, in Toledo to Paul and Nancy Warden.
Paula grew up in Van Wert and was the eldest of eight children. She moved to Columbus in 1969. She was a loving mother to her three children and ten grandchildren.
She worked in sales, which suited her because of her outgoing and vivacious personality. She enjoyed vacationing at the beach, playing Euchre and Gin Rummy and watching live music. Her favorite thing was spending time with her family and spoiling her grandchildren. She volunteered at the women’s shelter and provided gifts and homemade treats at Christmas to the homeless shelters in Columbus. She enjoyed crossword puzzles and read several books a week. Her favorite show was Jeopardy, and she knew most of the answers. She was always impeccably dressed and lit up every room she walked into. She wouldn’t been seen in public without her favorite red lipstick and loved a statement hat.
She had many friends and was loved by all. She will be dearly missed but her memory will live on in all she touched. We know Heaven welcomed her with open arms and find peace in knowing she is whole again and feeling no pain. She will forever be our guardian angel watching over those she loved so deeply.
Paula is survived by her six siblings, nine nieces and nephews and her children, Lisa Thitoff, Jeff (Heather) Thitoff, Chad Thitoff; grandchildren, Gabrielle, Thomas, Ashley, Olivia, Emma, Ari, Maddy, Chloe, Charlotte and Arthur, and her best friends since childhood, Dianne Moysey-Fisk and Trina Shultz.
Paula was preceded in death by her father, Paul; mother, Nancy; husband, Donald; brother, Steven, and granddaughter Sophie.
The family will host a celebration of life at Gabby’s from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, March 14.
To share a condolence with the family, visit www.Shaw-Davis.com.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Compassus Hospice and the Kobacker House for ensuring Paula was comfortable and passed with dignity.
To order memorial trees in memory of Paula Jean Wexler, click here.
POSTED: 02/12/26 at 4:44 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Sandra K. Tracy, 78, of Van Wert, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Lima Memorial Hospital.
She was born on September 29, 1947, in Defiance, to James and Helene (Reynolds) McCulley, who both preceded her in death. On May 4, 1968, Sandra married the love of her life, Stanley Tracy. Together they were members of First United Brethren in Christ Church, where she faithfully served as secretary.
Sandra was the assistant director of the Brumback Library until 1994, after which she worked for Dr. Benya for several years. She later served as office manager for the Van Wert Chamber of Commerce and for ALL Service and Repair. She enjoyed working with the public and visiting with friends and family. She adored her pets and especially cherished every moment spent with her granddaughter, Zoey.
Sandra is survived by her daughter, Megan Tracy of Van Wert, and her granddaughter, Zoey Elaine Tracy of Rockford.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley Tracy.
A memorial service will be held at a later date at First United Brethren in Christ Church, Van Wert. Visitation will be held prior to the service.
Memorial donations may be directed to the family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 02/12/26 at 1:57 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Glenda K. Schaadt of Van Wert, passed away suddenly on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at OhioHealth Van Wert Hospital.
She was born May 16, 1954, to Glenn and Dorothy Etzler, who both preceded in in death, and was also preceded in love and guidance by her stepfathers, Sylvester Grote and Ervin Klausing.
Glenda leaves behind a legacy defined by love, kindness, and quiet strength. She was known for her warm heart, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family and friends. One of four siblings: brother Gary (Linda) Etzler of Hubbard Lake, Michigan, and sisters Sue (Doc) Stokes of Middle Point, and Debra (Dewight) Hitchcock of Van Wert. She was a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews.
On May 20, 1989, Glenda married the love of her life, Kent J. Schaadt, who remained her devoted husband. Her greatest pride and joy were her children. She was a deeply devoted mother to Robert (Josue) Sites of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Spencer (Zoey) Schaadt of Van Wert. Her heart overflowed with love for her grandchild, Romy Wendyl Schaadt, who affectionately knew her as “Gramma Gigi,” a title Glenda treasured above all others.
Glenda had a unique gift for making everyone feel instantly welcome, often greeting others with her signature introduction: “Hi, I’m Glenda-like the good witch!” Through thoughtful conversation, quick wit, a helping hand, or a simple smile, she touched countless lives in meaningful and lasting ways. Her professional life was rooted in service to others, reflecting her natural compassion and care. She cherished her family, the comfort of her home, a good sweet treat, and the simple joys of time spent together – moments that became lifelong memories.
A memorial visitation will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, February 13, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness in Glenda’s memory.
Glenda was a passionate supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and various social causes, and donations made in her honor are welcome. https://www.stjude.org/donate.
Online condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 02/10/26 at 4:12 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Glendene VanLandingham, 102, of Convoy, passed on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at Van Wert Manor.
She was born in 1923, in Paulding County to Fred and Phoebe (Mohr) VanLandingham, who both preceded her in death. Glendene was reared by her uncle and aunt, the late Alfred and Opal (Spicer) Mohr.
Surviving are several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her infant sister, Lois Maxine VanLandingham; one brother, Dean Mohr VanLandingham; one half brother, Charles L. VanLandingham, and four cousins, Guiles C. Mohr, Kendall A. Mohr, Ersel E. Mohr, and Elizabeth A. Brautigam.
Glendene was a graduate of Convoy High School and graduated with degrees from Mission House College and Western Michigan University. She was an educational missionary to India in the early 1950s. For the next 30 years, Glendene taught high school students and was a guidance counselor. She retired from Ottawa-Glandorf Schools. Glendene was a member of Pleasant Chapel United Methodist Church.
A celebration of life service will be held at a later date at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home with Pastor Kimberly Thomas officiating. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour before the service.
Memorials may be made to Crestview Bible Center or to Van Wert Pregnancy Life Center.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 02/08/26 at 6:41 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Barbara J. Tribolet, 89, of Van Wert, went to be with her Lord and Savior Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
She was born July 28, 1936, in Van Wert, to William Kesler and Leah Grace (White) Kesler, who both preceded her in death. She married Jack J. Tribolet on May 18, 1958.
She is survived by her children, Teresa (Virgil) Simindinger of Van Wert, Lisa (Marcus “Gale”) Simindinger of Van Wert, Scott (Michelle) Tribolet of Rockford, Jason Tribolet of Celina, and Christa (Richard) McNaughton of Celina; six grandchildren, Holly (Kevin) Ashe, Eric (Emily) Simindinger, Shari (Nathan) Jewell, Marcus Allen Simindinger, Amanda (Zachary) Johnson, and Jeremy (Mekale) Tribolet; eight great-grandchildren, Kaydin Doner, Zoey Doner, Colin Simindinger, Mavery Tribolet, Marlow Tribolet, Dane Tribolet, Nathan Johnson, and Klaus Ashe; brothers, William Kesler Jr., John Kesler, and Richard Kesler; sisters, Beverly Ainsworth and Linda Missler, and a sister-in-law, Nancy Evans.
She was preceded in death by one son in infancy, Brian Tribolet, and her loving husband Jack J. Tribolet.
She was a member of Trinity Friends Church, and a 1954 Graduate of Van Wert High School. She enjoyed Ohio State Buckeyes, Cincinnati Reds, reading, bingo and spending time with family.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, February 12, at Trinity Friends Church, Van Wert. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery Van Wert. Calling hours are 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, February 11, at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, and Thursday prior to the service from 10-11 a.m. at the church.
Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider donating to Trinity Friends Church.
POSTED: 02/06/26 at 1:13 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Anna Marie Plummer, age 97, of Paulding, went to be with her Lord on Monday, February 2, 2026.
She was born June 15, 1928 in Paulding County, the daughter of M.G. and Magdalena (Manz) Stoller, who both preceded her in death. On June 4, 1950, she married Rex E. Plummer of Grover Hill. Her life plan was to be a mother and she was delighted to have seven children, just as her mother raised seven children. She had a deep and unique connection to each one and provided us with a strong role model.
She was a devoted member of the Latty Apostolic Christian Church. She served as a vacation bible school teacher and often hosted out-of-town grandchildren as they came for the VBS week. She also served the broader community: the American Red Cross, 4-H, Girl Scout Advisor and for the county election board. She was a traveler both around the U.S. and abroad on five continents visiting friends and family. Each spring, she helped in her husband’s business, Berry Seed Company in Van Wert and was also a gardener and she crocheted.
Her entire life she was a shutterbug. Each of her relatives has many photos to share and cherish. The mark she left on all of us of serving others will carry on, influencing those we cross paths with forever.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Rex Plummer; her daugher, Bev Plummer, and grandson, Nathan Plummer.
She will be greatly missed by her children, Carol Plummer, Steven (Deb) Plummer, Jerry Plummer, Kathy (Doug) Dodson, Janis (Scott) Wallace and Rick (Denise) Plummer as well as 13 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 6, at Latty Apostolic Christian Church with church clergymen officiating. Burial will follow in Latty Apostolic Christian Church Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, February 5, at Latty Apostolic Christian Church Fellowship Hall. There will also be visitation from 9-10 a.m. Friday at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made in Anna’s memory to the Country Inn Enhanced Living Center or the Latty Apostolic Christian Church.
Den Herder Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.
Online condolences may be shared at www.denherderfh.com.
POSTED: 02/05/26 at 12:01 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Kathleen “Kathy” Claire Bolenbaugh 70, of Van Wert, passed away Saturday afternoon, January 31, 2026, at the Van Wert Manor Nursing Home in Van Wert.
She was born on February 14, 1955, in Van Wert, the daughter of Maynard R. Jacks and Dorothy M. (DeMoss) Jacks, who both preceded her in death. On July 12, 1989, she married Burdette A. Bolenbaugh who survives.
Kathy was the beloved mother of two sons, Lucas (Jen) Trinosky of Van Wert and Joseph (Bonnie) Trinosky of Franklin, Indiana; grandmother of David and Abigail Rozelle, Corrine Kistler, Margaret Kistler, Gavin McKay, Xander McKay, Julia Trinosky, Titus Blackburn, Zach Dillon and Harmony Dillon; great-grandmother of Eleanor and Vayda Ladd; step-mother of Sarah (Ryan) Bolenbaugh-Dillon of Van Wert and Mathew (Carly) Bolenbaugh of Ohio City, and sister to Carolyn (Tim) Owens of Venedocia and Joyce (Mark) Donaldson of Allen, Texas.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Maynard Jacks.
She was very active at Trinity Friends Church and also at the food pantry for several years. Kathy participated in numerous Van Wert Civic Theater activities, ran the sound booth, was in the “Octette Bridge Club” and in several theater productions “Theater-To-Go.” She had a genuine and infectious laugh, which directors loved to have her in the audience too. Kathy enjoyed gardening, spending time with the grandkids and dabbled in watercolor and pastel painting.
She was a 1973 graduate of Van Wert High School. Kathy worked at the Farmer’s Mutual Insurance Company as an underwriter and the Central Mutual Insurance Company as an office worker, she also worked at the Marsh Grocery Store in the floral department and was a self employed house cleaner.
There will be a memorial service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 18, at Cowan and Son Fuernal Home and Cremation Services in Van Wert. Calling hours will be from 10 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery in Ohio City at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Van Wert Civic Theatre or the Trinity Friends Church Food Pantry.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 02/04/26 at 12:58 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Sheila Rae Gunter, 80, of Delphos, passed away on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Vancrest of Van Wert.
She was born on October 26, 1945, in Lima to Peter J. and Naomi (Hummer) Fuerst. She married David D. Gunter.
A devoted homemaker, Sheila dedicated her life to nurturing her family, raising her sons, Jeff, Daniel, and David, as well as her daughters, Tiffany and Laura. Her unwavering commitment to her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she took great pride in being a loving mother and grandmother. In addition to her family, Sheila found joy in her hobbies. She had a cherished collection of dolls and was an avid reader.
Sheila is survived by her five children, David Gunter of Van Wert, Laura Brown of Celina, Jeff (Amy) Gunter of Van Wert, Daniel Gunter of Van Wert and Tiffany Gunter of Spencerville; her grandchildren, Nathan Gunter, Brittni Wenning, Ryan Gunter, Julia Gunter, Addie Gunter, Evan Maye and Calen Oen, and four great-grandchildren, with one on the way.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Pete and Naomi; her husband, David D. Gunter; and a brother, Michael Fuerst.
A private family burial is scheduled at Woodlawn Cemetery, Ohio City. A celebration of Sheila’s life will be held at a later date.
Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 02/02/26 at 5:49 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
