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
Cheryl L. Castle, of Convoy, passed away at home on Monday, July 13, 2026.
She was born on April 19, 1959, the daughter of Lawrence and Ivalou (Mitch) Strunkenburg. Cheryl was united in marriage on March 24, 1974, to Joel K. Castle who survives.
She is survived by a son, Joshua (Brenda) Castle of Convoy, and daughter, Jaimie L. Friemoth of Convoy. Also surviving are grandchildren Dalton, Katelyn, and Camren Castle as well as Harleigh, Landin, and Nathaniel Friemoth. She is also survived by one niece, Nickie Strunkenburg.
Cheryl had worked at Eaton.
There are no services or memorial scheduled at this time.
Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert, assisted the family.
POSTED: 07/15/26 at 12:49 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Robin M. White, 69, of Van Wert, passed away late Sunday evening, July 12, 2026, at Van Wert Manor.
She was born in Cherry Point, North Carolina, on October 3, 1956, the daughter of Robert Cleveland Wisenborn and Jane Ann (Good) Demoss, who both preceded her in death.
A graduate of Celina High School, Robin worked at Kennedy Manufacturing for many years. In her spare time, she enjoyed music and dancing at concerts, black and white movies, outdoor activities, and had a strong passion for horses and animals of all types. Robin was an expert crossword puzzle enthusiast, there was never a crossword puzzle she couldn’t solve.
Fondly referred to by those closest to her as “Weezer”, Robin was very tight-knit with her family, and nothing compared to the deep love she held for them.
She is survived by her daughter, Ashley (Bryan) Stetler of Rockford; her son, Zachary (Mandy) White of Phoenix, Arizona; her grandchildren, Owen Stetler and Mathieu White; her sisters, Shelbyan (Scott) Clyde of Van Wert and Lorna Cotterman of Celina; her step-sisters, Michelle Dickinson and Kassie Crone, her aunt, Janet K. Bolton all of Van Wert, and many special nieces, nephews and cousins.
Robin was preceded in death by her brother, Jeremy “Jake” DeMoss, and her uncle Jerry D. Bolton.
A memorial service will be held at 5 p.m. on Friday, July 17, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Pastor Eric Muhlenkamp officiating. Visitation will take place from 3 p.m. until time of services on Friday.
Preferred memorials: Everheart Hospice or Van Wert Manor.
Online condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 07/14/26 at 5:46 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Linda Sue Anderson, 80, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at her residence after a courageous two and a half year battle with esophageal cancer. With broken hearts, her family said goodbye to a woman whose strength, grace, and devotion shaped their lives.
She was born on February 5, 1946, at the family home in Wetzel to C. C. “Pete” and Lela G. (Swartz) Hammons, who both preceded her in death.
Linda graduated from Lincolnview High School in 1964 and retired from Federal Mogul after a dedicated 36‑year career. On February 12, 1966, she married the love of her life, Bill Anderson. Together they raised three children and shared a lifetime of cherished memories. After retirement, Linda and Bill enjoyed traveling and spending their golden years side by side. She attended Trinity Friends Church for more than 35 years and faithfully volunteered in the church nursery and at the church food pantry.
To Linda, nothing was more important than family. She adored her children and treasured her grandchildren and great‑grandchildren.
Linda is survived by her husband, Bill Anderson, of Van Wert; daughters, Kimberly (Brad) Saylor and Shelly (Roger) Smith, both of Van Wert; son, Bradley G. Anderson of Payne; sisters‑in‑law, Anna Hammons and Karen Hammons, both of Van Wert; Judy (Jerry) Sanders of Racine, WI; Sandi (Frank) Agler of Van Wert; Cindy Dawson of Willshire; eight grandchildren; seven great‑grandchildren and another on the way; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her brothers, Charles Hammons and his wife, Chloris, Donald Hammons, and Neil Hammons, and her sister, Lois Christman, and her husband, Nick.
A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, at the Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert, with Pastor Matt McGovern presiding. Interment will follow in King Cemetery. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations be made in Linda’s name to Karla’s Kupboard Food Pantry at Trinity Friends Church.
Condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 07/12/26 at 6:28 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Timothy Allen Coleman, 73, of Van Wert passed away peacefully at 1:30 PM on July 8, 2026, at Lutheran Hospital of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
He was born on December 22, 1952, in Pikeville, Kentucky, to Glen and Sharon (Thomas) Coleman, both of whom preceded him in death. Tim shared nearly 55 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Joyce (Lewis) Coleman, who survives. They were united in marriage on August 7, 1971.
A 1971 graduate of Van Wert High School, Tim loved his early work at EJ Evans and spent many years working at Aeroquip in Van Wert. Tim was a big baseball and college football fan and rarely missed the opportunity to cheer on his beloved Kentucky Wildcats. Above all else, Tim cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved following their lives, celebrating their accomplishments, and hearing about everything they were involved in. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with them and his grand dogs.
Tim is survived by his children, Shane Coleman (Gary Herman) of Findlay, Candi Coleman of Lexington, Kentucky, and Clint (Julie) Coleman of Van Wert; four grandchildren, Zoe Coleman, Zander Coleman, Bryce York-Coleman, and Isaiah York-Coleman; a sister, Barb (Dan) Shell; brother-in-law Larry (Peg) Lewis; sisters-in-law Rhonda Thatcher (Bud Mengerink), Cathy (Larry) Herrick, Deb (Dennis) Fegley, and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 11, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Van Wert, with John Rager officiating. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
The family extends its heartfelt appreciation to the physicians, nurses, and staff at Lutheran Hospital for the compassionate care provided to Tim during his final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the American Lung Association or the American Cancer Society.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 07/10/26 at 6:24 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Janet M. Mohr, 92, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, in Pendleton, Indiana.
She was born on January 7, 1934, in Venedocia, to Luther and Starley Williams, who both preceded her in death. On October 22, 1955, Janet married Byron Mohr. Together they shared 67 wonderful years of marriage before Byron’s passing.
Janet was also preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Melody Hicks; her brother, Haydn Williams; and her brothers and sisters-in-law, David Mohr, Bob Stripe, Bill Fast, Dean Lichtensteiger, Bev and Phil Zimmerman, and Gloria Fast.
Janet is survived by her son, Marc L. Mohr (Jill) of Lapel, Indiana. She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Megan (Tom) Starnes of Brownsburg, Indiana, Ashley Foster of Fort Wayne, Evan (Kaitlin) Mohr of Georgetown, Kentucky, Isaac Mohr of Pendleton, Indiana, Cade (Lily) Mohr of Pendleton, Indiana, Mark (Amy) Hicks of Chicago, and Tim Hicks of Fort Wayne. She was a proud and loving great-grandmother to Madden and Macy Starnes, Jaret (Taylor) Starnes, Sierra and Samantha Foster, Brooks and Berkley Mohr, Grace Adams, and Jerzy Hicks.
Her family was her greatest joy, and she treasured every opportunity to spend time with them.
Janet graduated from Van Wert High School and began her career as a secretary at Central Mutual Insurance Company. She later served the citizens of Van Wert as Deputy Clerk of the Van Wert Municipal Court, where she worked faithfully for 20 years.
Service to her community was one of Janet’s greatest passions. She volunteered tirelessly as a Camp Fire Girls leader, was an active member of Twigs, and served on the YWCA Board of Directors for 10 years. Janet established the YWCA travel program as a unique fundraiser and spent 43 years organizing and leading tours that raised thousands of dollars to support YWCA programs. She was also a faithful member of Trinity Global Methodist Church, where her faith and servant’s heart were evident throughout her life. Janet took immense pride in her family’s rich heritage. As a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, she devoted years to researching her Revolutionary War ancestry. Her extensive genealogical work uncovered family members who helped establish America in the 1600s, earning her the distinguished title of Grand Dame. She was equally proud of her Welsh heritage, traveling to Wales to meet relatives and sharing her knowledge through presentations on Welsh traditions. Salem Presbyterian Church in Venedocia, along with the friends and family connected to her Welsh roots, always held a special place in her heart. Janet will be remembered for her unwavering faith, generous spirit, dedication to family, commitment to her community, and love of history and heritage. Through her volunteer work, leadership, kindness, and encouragement, she enriched the lives of countless people. Her legacy of service, compassion, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her.
Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 13, at Trinity Global Methodist Church in Van Wert with Pastor David To officiating. Interment will follow at Woodland Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, July 12, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home, Van Wert, and again hour prior to the funeral on Monday, from 9-10 a.m. at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Salem Presbyterian Church in Venedocia or to the Van Wert County Fair Association for the Dairy Barn Window Project.
The family will forever cherish Janet’s memory and the example she set through a life well lived.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 07/09/26 at 10:56 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Tiffany Howard, 42, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 5, 2026, in Van Wert.
She was born on August 12, 1983, in Lima, to Kenyon and Carolyn (Dickerson) Graham.
Tiffany graduated from Bath High School and Apollo Career Center before earning her nursing degree from Rhodes State College. On June 2, 2010, she married her husband, Frank Nicholas Howard.
Tiffany loved the Lord and was a faithful part of The Forge Christian Ministries and The Forged of Fire Motorcycle Ministry family. She enjoyed gardening, crocheting, and crafting, often using her talents to create thoughtful gifts. She was known for her sweet, kind, and caring nature-a loving mother, wife, daughter, sister, and cherished friend.
She is survived by her husband, Frank N. Howard; her children, Clayton Ashton Bowers, Kellynn Quinn Howard, and Finley Nicole Howard, all of Van Wert; her parents, Kenyon and Carolyn Graham of Lima; her sister, Tabitha (Paul) Savage, and their children, Maddie, Kennedy, and Jax, of Johns Island, South Carolina; her sister, Ashlee (Spencer) McKim, and their children, Thea, Lilian, and John, of Terlton, Oklahoma; her father‑in‑law and mother‑in‑law, Frank and Patricia Howard of Van Wert, as well as her brothers and sisters in Christ at The Forge Christian Ministries.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 11, at Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert, with Pastor Eric Burk and Pastor Brad Custis officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 07/08/26 at 5:26 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Cathy Ann Krick, 71, of Convoy, passed away on Sunday, July 5, at Vancrest of Van Wert, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on September 22, 1954, at Van Wert County Hospital to Carl Wilder and Valerie (Boxell) Wilder‑Laug, who both preceded her in death.
A 1972 graduate of Van Wert High School, Cathy worked at Teleflex for over 30 years.
One of Cathy’s greatest joys in life was being a grandmother to her ten beloved grandchildren: Hayden, Hudson, Harper, Holden, Aurora, Sawyer, Ethan, Devon, Shayla, and Zach. Nothing brought her more happiness than cheering them on from the sidelines as they played the sports they loved. Whether it was basketball, baseball, softball, football, track, volleyball, soccer, or any other activity, she rarely missed an opportunity to watch them compete. She was their biggest fan-celebrating every victory, encouraging them through every challenge, and taking immense pride in each of their accomplishments. The memories made together at games and sporting events were among her most treasured, and her love and support will remain with her grandchildren for the rest of their lives.
Above all else, Cathy was a devoted and loving mother. Her daughters, Alicia, Jamie, and Aimee, were the center of her world, and she loved them with all her heart. While her family grieves the loss of her presence, they find comfort in knowing that Cathy has now been reunited in heaven with her beloved daughter, Kelli, and her husband, Russ. That long‑awaited reunion brings peace, knowing they are together once again, embraced in perfect love.
Cathy shared an extraordinary bond with her sister, Shari, who was not only her sister but also her very best friend. They cherished spending time together-going out to eat, taking trips to the casino, or simply enjoying each other’s company. Their friendship was filled with laughter, love, and countless memories that will be treasured forever. The closeness they shared was a true blessing and a beautiful example of the special connection only sisters can have.
Cathy was also blessed with lifelong friendship. Among those she cherished most was her oldest and dearest friend, Faye Trinosky. Their friendship was a testament to loyalty, love, and unwavering support through life’s many seasons. Michelle Hohman’s caring heart, unwavering kindness, and constant presence meant the world to Cathy. Through every season of life, Michelle was a source of comfort, strength, and unconditional friendship. Her compassion, gentle spirit, and steadfast support brought joy during the good times and peace during the difficult ones. Cathy treasured her family and friends and felt truly blessed to have them in her life.
As she enters the gates of Heaven, she will be welcomed by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and reunited with her loved ones. She will be missed so very much by all who knew and loved her.
Cathy is survived by her daughters, Alicia (Andrew) Perrott of Convoy, Jamie (Mark) Mendell of California, and Aimee (Duane) Shears of Michigan; brother, Denny (Jane) Wilder of Celina; brother, Dean Wilder and sister, Shari Brooks, both of New Haven, Indiana; grandchildren: Hayden, Hudson, Harper, Holden, and Aurora Perrott; Sawyer, Ethan, and Devon Mendell; Shayla and Zach Shears, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Cathy was preceded in death by her spouse, Russ Krick; daughter, Kelli McGinnis; sister, Renee Lehman, as well as her parents, Valerie and Carl Wilder.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, July 9, at Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor Steve Haddix presiding. Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery. Family and friends will be received from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, and again on Thursday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home.
For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be directed to the Knight Pride Club.
Online condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 07/06/26 at 2:46 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Debra L. Klinger, 69, of Van Wert, died at 5:54 p.m. Monday, June 29, 2026, at Mercy St. Rita’s Medical Center, Lima.
She was born on October 29, 1956, in Van Wert, to David and Dollie (Gipe) Klinger.
Deb retired from Teleflex, in Van Wert, after 25 years of service. She was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Van Wert and was formerly a member of the Van Wert American Auxiliary. Deb enjoyed playing Webkinz, bingo, reading and playing card games. She also loved garage sales, thrifting, watching the Food Network and spending time with her family .
She is survived by a brother, Larry Klinger of Van Wert; a sister, Marsha Klinger of Van Wert; and many nieces and nephews.
Deb was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Shirley Trammell, Robert Klinger, Donald Klinger and Sonny Klinger, and a special friend, Bill Carroll.
Private graveside 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 & Crematory, Van Wert.
POSTED: 07/01/26 at 2:38 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Donnalee Jane Goodwin, 89, of Van Wert, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Homestead at Towne Center.
She was born July 27, 1936, in Van Wert, to Charles Parsons and Susie (Allen) Courtney, who both preceded her in death.
As a child, Donnalee attended The Marsh Foundation and later built a long and meaningful career there, retiring after 38 years of dedicated service. She was well known for her love of baking, her fondness for Elvis, and her gift for keeping a meticulous home-something she proudly passed on to her children from an early age.
Donnalee is survived by her son, Rick L. Allen; daughter, Nancy J. (Kurt) Muntzinger; stepdaughter, Lori J. Goodwin; sister, Peggy Blackmore Parsons; daughter‑in‑law, Liz Allen; 10 grandchildren, Jason (Brittany) Allen, Jenny (Paul) Allen, David (Heather) Allen, Christopher (CJ) Allen, Amber Walters, Andrew (Sara) Berelsman, Chad (Kim) Muntzinger, Kyle (Samara) Muntzinger, Coiran and Calum; seven great‑grandchildren, Adele, Eleanor, Lucy, Coe, Kiedis, Tova, and Freya; special relative, Pam Allen, and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Goodwin; son, Randy L. Allen; stepson, Glen P. Goodwin; previous husband, Morrell G. (Chum) Allen; brother, Charles “Charley” Parsons; and sisters, Charlotte and Nancy Parsons.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, July 10, at the Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, Van Wert, with visitation from 9-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow immediately in Woodland Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Donnalee’s name may be directed to Everheart Hospice or St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 06/30/26 at 9:22 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
John Garner Shaffer, 82, passed away Saturday morning, June 27, 2026, at his residence in Van Wert.
He was born on March 28, 1944, in Converse, the son of Loyal Vaughn Shaffer and Elsie Mae (Bryan) Shaffer, who both preceded him in death. On March 20, 1965, he married the former Bonnie Jean Rickard who survives.
Also surviving is a son, Jason Garner Shaffer of Van Wert.
He was preceded in death by a half-sister, Delores Jean Renner.
John was a graduate of Spencerville High School and a veteran of the U.S. Army. He had worked for the State Highway Department and USS Agri Chemicals as the plant manager. He then retired from Aeroquip Corp.
He had been a member of the Van Wert American Legion Post. He enjoyed Wednesday morning breakfast with his friends at Orchard Tree. He was an avid Ohio State Buckeye football fan. John was a loving husband and father and will be greatly missed.
Private interment service will be held at Venedocia Cemetery.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 06/28/26 at 5:47 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
