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
Arnold Patrick “Pat” Horton, 77, of Van Wert, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the Van Wert Manor Nursing Home.
He was born on November 26, 1948, in Jacksonville, Florida and was the son of Arnold Gray Horton and Sophie (Deleon) Horton, who both preceded him in death.
Pat is survived by one daughter, Nicole (Richard) Bright of Van Wert, and two sons, Zachary Horton of Van Wert, Ohio and Kevin Horton of Vancouver, Washington; four grandchildren, Rikki (Carly) Covarrubias, Sean (Autumn) Bright, and Lola and Bailey Horton; five great-grandchildren, Ulrick and Tessa Covarrubias, Bodhi Bright, and Ares and Evaliyanna Stripe. Pat is also survived by two brothers, John (Janice) Horton of Chula Vista, California and James Horton, and a sister Norio Sasaki of California.
He worked in the construction industry on various jobs and served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Kittyhawk as a cook during the Vietnam War.
A private memorial service will take place for Pat in San Diego with full military honors rendered.
Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 09/29/26 at 4:40 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Kenneth E. “Torch” Myers, 59, of Middle Point passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, September 25, 2026, at his home.
He was born on November 14, 1966, in Van Wert, the son of David E. Myers, who preceded him in death, and Rosewitha (Winter) Myers, who survives in Van Wert. On October 20, 1990, he married Barbara A. (Stutz) Myers and she survives of Middle Point.
Ken is also survived by his three sons, Kenneth (Maggie) Myers of Van Wert, Lucas C. (Kristen) Myers of Middle Point, and Samuel C. (Abbygayle) Myers of Delphos; seven grandchildren, Brooklyn Hough, Axl Myers, Blake Myers, Kaylee Myers, Isla Myers, Emma Myers and Bodie Myers; three brothers, Robert J. Myers, Edward K. (Tonia) Myers, and David E. (Pepper) Myers, Jr. all of Van Wert; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Larry & Linda Stutz of Van Wert and his best friend and Navy brother Craig (Donna) Millett, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was a 1985 graduate of Van Wert High School and was a member of St. Mary’s of the Assumption Catholic Church of Van Wert. Ken worked for Froelich Freight as a truck driver and worked at the Allen-Oakwood Correctional Institution as a Correctional Officer and Health & Safety Officer for 24 years. He was a member and former commander of American Legion Post 178 in Van Wert and a member and current commander of Navy Club Ship 726 Ken was also very proud that the Navy Club brought back the Fourth of July parade for the America 250th celebration and started Toys for Tots program in Van Wert, where Eric McCracken has taken the lead on it and is now the Toss a Toy program.
He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5803 of Van Wert and was on the Middle Point Fire Department, where he served as a firefighter and EMT. What he loved the most in his life was his wife, his children and especially his grandchildren, along with his extended family. Ken served in the U.S. Navy, serving tours overseas during numerous deployments: Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, Somalia and in South America. He was very proud sailor and veteran. He, along with Bill Marshall, raised money to erect seven new monuments in Veterans Park uptown. Ken was also cubmaster of Cub Scout Troop 35 when his boys were active in the scouts.
Funeral services for Ken will be at 11 a.m. Friday, October 2, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home of Van Wert with Pastor Briana Geiger officiating. There will be visitation for family and friends from 2-8 p.m. Thursday, October 1, and one hour ahead of funeral services on Friday. Burial will take place at King Cemetery with full military honors provided by the combine units from the American Legion and VFW.
Pallbearers honoring Ken are Shawn Briley, Dave Ashby, Brian Honigford, Dalton Yenser, Craig King and Jeff Ricker.
Preferred memorials: the Middle Point Fire and EMS Department or Toss a Toy.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 09/27/26 at 7:01 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Carolyn V. Craine passed away peacefully at home in Ormond Beach, Florida, with family present at the age of 95.
She was the oldest of seven siblings. She helped raise them as her parents farmed in northwest Ohio. She was a high school band majorette and promoted twirling with her two girls.
She met her husband, John, while roller skating. She became a stay-at-home mom until she went to beauty school and opened a salon in her home. She was a techie at heart buying a microwave, laptop , cell and caption call phone. She loved vacations in Ormond Beach, Florida and eventually purchased an oceanfront condo which was shared with family for short vacations. She became a snowbird traveling back and forth from Ohio. She was known for her friendliness and elegance. She promoted patriotism, veterans and love of country frequently wearing red, white and blue and flying the American flag.
She is survived by her two children, Connie Sue (John) Karby and Vickie Lee Craine; two step-grandchildren; three step great-grandchildren; one brother, Clayton L. (Liz) Sanderson, and two sisters, Carol Ann Proffitt, and Cleona Maye VanVoorhis.
In addition to her parents, Clarence and Clara Maye Sanderson, Carolyn was preceded in death by her brothers, Carl C. Sanderson, Charles Sanderson and Craig Sanderson.
Funeral services for Carolyn will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, October 1, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home of Van Wert. will take place at Blue Creek Cemetery, Haviland. Visitation for Carolyn will start at 10 a.m. on Thursday.
Preferred memorials: CHP Hospice.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 09/25/26 at 2:55 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Michael Carl Roehm, 72, of Ohio City, passed away on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at his residence.
Michael graduated from Lincolnview High School in 1974. In 1976, he married Deborah K. Roehm in Van Wert, Ohio, beginning a marriage that would span nearly 50 years. Together, they shared a lifetime of memories and built a family that remained an important part of their lives.
Michael was a hardworking man who spent many years dedicated to his career before retiring. His strong work ethic was one of the qualities those closest to him remember most. Following retirement, he lived a quieter life and spent much of his time at home.
Michael is survived by his sons, Joseph (Tara Schleeter) Roehm of Middle Point, James (Elizabeth Zartman) Roehm of Ohio City, and Joshua Roehm of Urbana; his grandchildren, Courtney Jeffords, Abbi (Jonathon) Stegaman, Chloe (Jared) Lautzenheiser, America (Austin) Carnahan, Kathy Roehm, Jenny Roehm, Addison Roehm, Janessa Fair, Thayer Zartman, Rileigh Roehm, Natalie Zartman, and Natalie Roehm; and his great-grandchildren, Avrey, Gabe, Emryn, and Havyn. He is also survived by his niece, Chris Buckner, and nephew, Andy Wreath.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Deborah K. Roehm,
Though life and relationships are not always simple, Michael was loved by his family, and his passing leaves a loss that will be deeply felt. Those who loved him will carry their memories of him with them in the years to come.
Per Michael’s wishes, a private burial will take place at a later date.
Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 09/25/26 at 2:54 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Doris Ann Struzik, born on August 3, 1940, in Delphos, passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at the age of 86.
A longtime resident of Van Wert, Doris was a longtime cook at Van Wert County Hospital. Doris was an active member of the Van Wert VFW Auxiliary.
In her personal life, she found joy in crocheting, working on jigsaw puzzles, and crafts. A passionate football fan, Doris especially loved cheering for her favorite teams, the Michigan State Spartans and the Green Bay Packers.
Doris is survived by her two sons, Chris (Millie) Heath and Douglas (Beth) Heath; her grandchildren, Ashley Paige, Austin Wurst and Dustin Heath; her great-grandchildren, Devin Heath, Brandon Heath, Carson Heath, Zaiden Heath and Ava Paige, and siblings, Thomas Bilimek, Patricia Naylor, Robert Bilimek, Carl Bilimek, Judy Wilder, Cheryn Sidle, Harold Bilimek, Cora Theis and Kathy Kimmett.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles O. and Mildred E. (Dunifon) Bilimek; her husband, Douglas Struzik; a grandson, Brandon Heath; and siblings, James Bilimek, Margaret Dixon, Norma Bayless, Betty Dickman and Leroy Bilimek.
A celebration of Doris’s life 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.
POSTED: 09/25/26 at 1:23 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Josephine Theresa Felger, known to relatives and friends alike by Josie, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 96 at 12:30 p.m. Friday, September 17, 2026, at the Van Wert Manor.
Born to Rumaldo Sr and Manuela (DeLeon) Chavarria on September 26, 1929 in Torrington, Wyoming, she knew real hardship and adult responsibilities early on, yet managed to live a very full life. She was passionate about staying current at both the national and local level, and loved to dance.
Her 30-year marriage to Richard Vernon Felger Sr brought seven very unique children into the world — three sons, Ricky Felger of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Timothy Felger of Beechy, Saskatchewan, Canada, Milo (Debbie) Felger of Harlan, Indiana, and four daughters — Christina Davis of Syracuse, Indiana; Josephine (Daniel) Venanzi of Hendersonville, North Carolina; Maria (Anthony) Wayne of Greensboro, Georgia, and Stephanie Peterson, who tragically preceded her in death in 1992. This loss inspired her to pen, and publish, a singular work, ‘Mi Corazon’ (My Heart), which included an original song by her. Josie was blessed with fourteen grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.
Sadly, Emmitt Felger, Timothy’s only son, preceded her in death at the tender age of six. Richard’s daughter, Crystal, as well, preceded her in death, shortly after birth. Many treasured nieces and nephews contributed to the tapestry that made up, and enriched, her long life.
She retired in May of 1996 from National Seal (now Federal-Mogul Corporation) and was a devoted, lifelong member of the Catholic Church.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday, September 25, at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church with Father Hunyor officiating. Burial will follow in Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert. Viewing will be from 2-7 p.m. Thursday, September 24, followed by the rosary at Brickner Funeral Home, Van Wert.
Preferred memorials may be made to A Chosen Warrior, their credo being, “You don’t choose your battle, but you do choose how you respond.” All donations will go to helping women with breast or ovarian cancer.
POSTED: 09/21/26 at 7:02 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
John D. McVay, 78, passed away on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis, Indiana.
John was born on June 18, 1948 in Greenville. He was the son and second child of the Clarence E. McVay and Frances E. (Kline) McVay, who both preceded him in death.
John was a wonderful son, nephew, brother and friend. He was raised in Van Wert. He graduated from Van Wert High School in 1966 and Miami University in Oxford, Ohio with a BA and MA in mathematics.
He started working for Federal Mogul in Van Wert at the National Seal Plant in 1973 as a computer programmer. John worked for Federal Mogul until 1998. He worked in Van Wert, Southfield, Michigan; Salina, Kansas; Logansport, Indiana and Wiesbaden, Germany. He worked in Southfield, Michigan as the Sealing Group I.T Director and was the I.T. Director working with Gylco to implement SAP (computer software) in Wiesbaden, Germany.
John returned to Van Wert in 2000 to care for his mother until her death in 2003 and his Aunt Louise until her death in 2011.
When he moved back to Van Wert, he also worked part-time at Walmart and did substitute teaching until 2005. John started playing the violin in 2012 and joined the Grand Lake Symphony Orchestra in 2016 as a second violinist. He served the community for many years as a poll worker in Van Wert precincts and also Van Wert County precincts in Delphos. John was a member of the Van Wert County Republican Central Committee and just won re-election in this year’s May primary.
He is survived by his sister, Susan McVay of Van Wert and many cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Mary Louise Worthington.
Funeral services for John will be held at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 29, at the First Presbyterian Church of Van Wert with Rev. J. H. Vanlan Hruaia officiating. Burial will take place at 2 p.m. at Greenville Union Cemetery, Greenville. Visitation will be at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, from 3-7 p.m. Monday, September 28.
In lieu of flowers, donations to be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Online condolences may be expressed at cowanfuneralhome.com.
POSTED: 09/21/26 at 1:14 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
James F. Kennedy, 76, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Born on October 6, 1949, in Van Wert, Jim lived a life filled with love, laughter, and meaningful connections, spending most of his years in Middle Point.
Jim worked as an HR Manager at Kennedy Manufacturing, where he was well‑known and deeply respected. His warm personality and natural people skills made him a steady source of guidance and support, earning the trust and admiration of his coworkers.
A devoted family man, Jim cherished his wife, Ramona, and took immense pride in raising his children, Sean, Kimberly, and Blake. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he delighted in every moment spent with them. Known for his strength, humor, and unwavering dedication to protecting those he loved, Jim’s laughter was infectious and his adventurous spirit unmistakable. In his earlier years,
Jim enjoyed reading, hunting and fishing, embracing the outdoors with enthusiasm. More recently, he found joy in tackling DIY home projects, and occasionally belting out a Neil Diamond tune. To all who knew him, Jim was simply an awesome man, someone who brought happiness, comfort, and genuine kindness wherever he went.
Jim leaves behind his loving wife, Ramona, of Middle Point; his children, Kimberly (Bill) Witherow of Springfield, Ohio; Sean (Jennifer) Kennedy of Van Wert; and Blake Edward (Mario) Kennedy of San Jose, California; his stepsons: Scott (Nadine) Lautzenheiser of Washington, Illinois, and Sean (Tracie) Lautzenheiser of Woodburn, Indiana; his brother, Pat Kennedy, of Wisconsin; his brother‑in‑law, Tom Lautzenheiser, of Van Wert, and the mother of his children, Deb Wyandt. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jacob, Joel, James, Jonathan, Jillian, Joshua, and Jessalyn Witherow; Allison, Drew and Emma (Carlee) Kennedy; Levi and Liam Lautzenheiser, along with a multitude of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and LuVerne Kennedy; his brother, Charles Kennedy III; his sister, Nancy Lautzenheiser, and his sister‑in‑law, Jane Kennedy.
James will be laid to rest in Ridge Cemetery following a private service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests contributions be made in Jim’s name to the Middle Point Fire & EMS.
Arrangements are entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory.
Condolences may be shared at alspachgearhart.com.
POSTED: 09/20/26 at 5:30 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
William “Bill” Noble Greene, Jr., 77, passed away at his residence on Sunday, September 6, 2026, in Convoy.
Bill was born on April 13, 1949, in Hamilton, Indiana, to William Noble and Mary Pauline Greene. He built a fulfilling career as a fire prevention/code officer at the Van Wert Fire Department, where he was known for his dedication and work ethic for 27 years.
Outside of work, Bill was a man of many passions. He spent his free time hunting, fishing and practicing his skills in taxidermy. Bill also enjoyed making custom fishing rods that supported his passion for fishing.
Bill is survived by his son, Chip Greene and stepdaughter, Christine Piper.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Ann Greene; his parents, William Noble Greene, Sr. and Mary Pauline Greene, and his sister Marcina Ann Schrader.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, September 25, at Van Wert Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, on Section 70.
Donations in his memory can be made to the Van Wert Fire Department.
POSTED: 09/16/26 at 1:09 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Leah Lynn Lichtenberger, 58, of Millersburg, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 5, 2026, alongside her devoted partner of 26 years, Lowell Penner.
Born on October 14, 1967, in Decatur, Indiana, Leah was the daughter of the Carl and Annabelle (Shaffer) Lichtenberger, who both preceded her in death.
She graduated from Adams Central High School and attended Goshen College. After traveling to Germany, she fell in love with the language and culture, weaving that passion into her everyday life.
Leah lived life at full throttle as a fierce, unbridled spirit with a deep reverence for the earth and a profound belief in serendipity. She poured real heart and passion into the work she loved over the years, though no single title could ever define her as she always prioritized living life to its absolute fullest. She was a traveler at heart who loved exploring, whether hiking quiet trails, riding the rails, or hitting the open road on her Harley. She found endless wonder in nature, marveling at storms, sunsets, eclipses, and rainbows, often declaring them simply “gorgeous”.
A true cheerleader for the underdog and a welcoming voice to strangers, Leah made everyone around her feel cherished. She loved animals deeply, turning her life into a quiet sanctuary for dozens of dogs, cats, orphaned raccoons, and even an injured deer. Out of profound respect for every living creature, she lived as a committed vegan. Among her many talents, Leah was a gifted baker whose legendary freshly baked bread was generously shared with anyone lucky enough to sit at her table. When she wasn’t on the move, you could find her tending her garden, lost in a fantasy book, or taking a long soak in her clawfoot tub, always surrounded by her critters.
Leah is survived by her sister, Rebecca (Terry) Reichard; her brothers, Timothy (MaryAnn) Lichtenberger, Mark Lichtenberger, and Jonathan (Shareen) Lichtenberger; her nieces, Holly (Andrew) Ulrey, Lauren (Dalton) Brazell, and Amber (Christopher) Hoggard; her grand-nephews and grand-nieces: Cole Ulrey, Finley and Indigo Brazell, Addison Hoggard; and Trae (Derek) Church and Breana (fiance Ryan Specht) Penner, who held her dear as their stepmother.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Annabelle Lichtenberger; her niece, Lydia Rose Lichtenberger, and her nephew, Timothy Brite.
A time of visitation will be held from 12-4 p.m. Saturday, September 26, in the College Mennonite Church Fellowship Hall, Goshen, followed by a celebration of life at 5 p.m. at The Fraternal Order of the Eagles Lodge, Syracuse, Indiana.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests a contribution to Tunnel2Towers (T2T) or Veteran’s Senior Living and Care Home in West Lafayette.
POSTED: 09/14/26 at 12:08 pm. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
