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05/26/2026

Nancy Ann Silette

Nancy Ann ( Hilderbrand) Silette, 88 , passed away on Saturday May 23rd, 2026 at Van Crest Long Term Care, in Van Wert, OH.

Nancy was born in Star City, West Virginia on July 14th , 1937 to the late Earl and Alice Hilderbrand. After the passing of her mother, Nancy's dad married Maxine, with whom they had several children.

Nancy married Dominick Silette on September 15th, 1957. Upon Dominick's passing in 2021, they had been married for 63 years. Nancy and Dominick owned and operated a small apple orchard and resided in the same home for over 50 years, which was the center of the family.

Nancy worked at the Thomas Edison Center for many years with children and adults with special needs. She worked one on one with the participants in the school, the workshop and the retail store when it was still in business. She especially enjoyed the friendships she forged with the other staff, and made lifelong connections.

Nancy enjoyed baking, cooking spaghetti or rigatoni for her family on Sundays, and trying new recipes. She enjoyed reading mysteries and thrillers, listening to the radio, and looking at magazines. Nancy loved being outside and working in her flower garden.

Nancy was a fashionista who loved looking trendy and up to date. She loved shopping and fashion, make-up , perfume and jewelry. She always strived to look her best.!

Nancy loved her home and everyone enjoyed being there and sitting around the big kitchen table. Her favorite thing to do was decorate, especially for Christmas. She loved her beautiful ornaments and displayed them for all to see and enjoy. Nancy always made each person feel special with many gifts and always had special desserts or foods that she knew each person liked. Nancy always made sure to remember everyone's birthdays and was a very giving person to her family, friends and neighbors. Nancy was sophisticated, sassy, stubborn and spirited. Her quick whit and intelligence will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She was one in a million!

Nancy is survived by her five children; Mark (Cindy) Silette of Van Wert OH; Ann (Stephen) Darr of Toledo OH; Pete (Cynthia) Silette of Findlay OH; Laura (Anthony) Ferrero of Galena OH; and Philip Silette of Mt. Vernon OH, 10 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. Nancy is also survived by her sister and best friend, Shirley Hilderbrand of Dearborn, MI; sister Julie Hilderbrand of Morgantown, WV; sister Bonnie Hidlerbrand of Morgantown, WV; brother Bob Hilderbrand of Maryland; brother Steve Hilderbrand of WV, and many nieces and nephews.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents Alice and Earl, stepmother Maxine, her beloved husband Dominick, her beloved son Nickolas; and her siblings, Terry Hilderbrand and Warren Hilderbrand.

A private memorial celebration will take place at a later date.

Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Nancy Ann Silette's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/22/2026

Deborah Leiter

Deborah Joanne (Jewell) Leiter, affectionately known as Deb, passed away on Tuesday, May 19, at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Born on January 24, 1953, she was the daughter of the late Carol (Wolfcale) and Ernest Jewell. Deb married the love of her life, Jerry B. Leiter, on April 8, 1978, and together they shared 48 years of unwavering devotion, building a life filled with love, partnership, and cherished memories. Jerry will forever hold Deb close in his heart and lovingly cherish her memory.

To know Deb was to know exactly where you stood. She was a fighter who laid down the law and didn't mess around-it was "her way or the highway," and her family respected and loved her for it. Beneath that protective, no-nonsense exterior was a heart completely devoted to her family; as proven from day one when she became the bonus parent to Jerry's 4 children, Stacie M. (Bob) Lippi, Michele L. (Bill) Bird, Lisa R. Dunn, and Jeremy B. Leiter, who will all miss her dearly.

Some of her happiest moments were spent camping with her grandchildren and having the rare, beautiful privilege of watching them raise children of their own. She was a beloved grandmother to 10 grandchildren, Danielle L. (Nate) Myers, Brittany M. (Jake) Sherman, Christian G.A. Stickney, Heather L. (Desmond) Frost, Angel M. (Ryan) Masters, Tyler D. Dunn, Jasni Gardner, Jordon B. (Nikki) Leiter, Josh M. (Kershin) Leiter, and Joel Leiter, as well as a beautiful generation of great-grandchildren. Deb also leaves behind her sisters, Penny (Jewell) Roberts and Joette Jewell; as well as several nieces and nephews with whom she always enjoyed spending time.

Deb found joy in life's simple pleasures - tending to her plants and flowers, crafting, getting lost in a good book, and watching reality crime shows that always gave her a good laugh. She also had a caring heart and a deep love for helping others. Long before facing her own illness, Deb touched many lives through her work at several restaurants in Van Wert. She later devoted herself to caring for the elderly, working for many years at Lincolnway Nursing Home before becoming a home health aide, where her compassion and kindness continued to make a difference in the lives of others.

She was reunited in faith with those who preceded her in death: her parents, Carol and Ernest; her grandson, Tyler D. Dunn; her brothers, Delbert E. Jewell, Donald E. Jewell, and Clyde A. Jewell; her brother-in-law, Clark B. Roberts and her sister, Cynthia A. (Jewell) Kline.

There will be a celebration of life held at her home at a later date.

Condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Deborah Leiter's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/20/2026

Shirley Ann Short

Shirley Ann Short, 88, of Van Wert, died at 2:40pm on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne.

She was born March 30, 1938, in Dayton, Ohio, to Herbert and Lonie (McGuire) Wilson. She married Ralph L. Short.

Shirley was a receptionist at R.T.A. in Dayton for many years.

She was a member of Wesley Church in Van Wert. Shirley enjoyed crafts, reading, playing cards and wintering in Florida. She also enjoyed vacationing and camping with Ralph for many years and spending time on her family farm in Adams County, Ohio.

Shirley is survived by 2 children, Tina Day of Convoy and George "Joey" (Kathy) Wilson, Jr of Dayton; 4 grandchildren, Brittany (Derek) Horner, Julian Leslie (Erin) Norwood, Jeffery Haws and Jennifer Haws; 2 great grandchildren, Dylan and Bryce Horner; and a sister, Linda Chapman of Miamisburg, Ohio.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ralph; a brother, George Leslie Wilson, Sr.; and 2 sisters, Charlotte Gebhart and Barbara Carder.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30pm on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Burial will take place at 2:00pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Trissel Cemetery, New Lebanon, Ohio.

Visitation will be from 11:00am-12:30pm on Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Prefered memorials may be directed to a charity of the donor's choice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.

View Shirley Ann Short's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/19/2026

Patricia A. Roberts

Patricia "Pat" A. (Lyons) Roberts, 82, of Van Wert, died Monday evening, May 18, 2026 at Vancrest of Van Wert.

She was born January 10, 1944, in Decatur, Indiana, to Herbert D. and Edith (Pancake) Lyons.

Pat attended the Jennings Road Church of Christ in Van Wert. She was a dog-lover and cherished all of her grandchildren.

Pat is survived by her son, Gregory A. Roberts and his wife, Johnna; 3 grandchildren, Britni (Heather) Roberts, Kaitlin (Alex) Adam and Joshua (Dustin) Roberts; 3 step grandchildren, Kendall (Nick) Germann, Jarrett (Mayleen) Dye and Ryleigh (Nick Radabaugh) Dye; a great grandchild, Luna Adam; 6 step great grandchildren, Mackena, Jaxon, Elise and Lydia Germann and Violet and Harper Dye; and 3 brothers, Lester Lyons of Convoy, Leroy (Laura) Lyons of Ohio City and Kerry (Sharon) Lyons of West Liberty.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00pm on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor David Ray, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Kings Bethel Cemetery, Harrison Township.

Visitation will be from 11:00am-1:00pm on Tuesday, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Van Wert County Humane Society.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.

View Patricia A. Roberts's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/18/2026

Curtis D. Proffitt

Curtis D. Proffitt, 87, of Van Wert, passed away at 5:19am on Monday, May 18, 2026, at his residence. He was born on September 4, 1938, in Spencerville, Ohio, to Glenn and Lela (Bowen) Proffitt. He married the former Carol Sanderson.

Curt was a salesman at Van Wert Auto Supply for 36 years. He retired from Kennedy Manufacturing, in Van Wert, after 6 years of service.

He attended the First United Brethren in Christ Church in Van Wert.

Curt is a member of the Van Wert Mens Bowling Hall of Fame and served as a Past President of the Van Wert Mens Bowling Association.

He enjoyed bowling, riding his motorcycle, hunting, fishing and sports.

Curt is survived by his wife, Carol Proffitt of Van Wert; a daughter, Theresa (Terry) Baker of Van Wert; a son, Michael (Barbara) Proffitt of Leawood, Kansas; 5 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; and a brother, Cary (Ellen) Proffitt of Van Wert.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Lana Drewyore and Winona M. Proffitt, who died in infancy.

Visitation will be held from 1:30-3:00pm on Friday, May 22, 2026, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to First United Brethren in Christ Church or CHP-Hospice.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.

View Curtis D. Proffitt's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/15/2026

Anna J. Bigelow

Anna Bigelow, 91, of Scott, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Vancrest of Payne following a brief illness. She was born on March 27, 1935, in Van Wert, to the late Llewellyn E. and Blanche (Harmon) Whitaker.

Anna lived a quiet, humble life rooted in simple joys. After many years of service, she retired from Huffy Bikes. She found comfort in reading, crossword puzzles, and sewing, especially in her earlier years. As time went on, she discovered a renewed sense of connection and purpose through her involvement with the Paulding County Senior Center, where she enjoyed the companionship and activities it offered.

She leaves behind her children: Sherry M. Walkup of Fort Wayne; Liesa (Dennis) Boroff of Scott; and Barbara (Mike) Bowers of Van Wert; eight grandchildren; many great‑grandchildren; several great‑great‑grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly.

In addition to her parents, Anna was preceded in death by her son, Terry L. Powell; and her siblings: Doyle E. Whitaker, Llewellyn "Pete" E. Whitaker Jr., and Sara Robeson.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 PM on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Scott Cemetery, with Cheryl Schaffner officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Anna's name to the Paulding County Senior Center, a place that meant so much to her.

Online condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.

View Anna J. Bigelow's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/08/2026

Larry L. Harris

Larry L. Harris, a beloved son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, entered the kingdom of heaven on May 7, 2026, at the age of 83. He was born on July 29, 1942, to Arthur Leroy "Roy" and Ireta (Miller) Harris, in Paulding, Ohio.

Larry was a proud and dedicated family man and the truest example of faith, compassion, and kindness. He wished to be remembered as a "DJ" - a disciple of Jesus. He always held his love of Jesus first. Next was his wife of 63 years, Sharon (Boyd), who was his lifelong love and sweetheart. Larry is also survived by his daughters, Tamali (Christopher) Pruden of Grover Hill and Lorali (Michael) Todd of Daytona Beach, Florida; his grandchildren, Ashley Pruden, Ryan (Katelyn) Todd, Devin Pruden, and Andrew (Ashley) Todd; and his great-grandchildren, Caroline, Madeline, Emmeline, and Levi Todd.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Carl Harris; and sisters, Marilyn Evans, Carol Gockley, and Clara Rice.

Larry graduated from Manatee High School in Bradenton, FL and went on to attend Florida State University. He had a commendable career as a professional truck driver for over 47 years for Aeroquip and USF Holland. Larry also served his community as Chief Deputy for Sheriff Don Thomas at the Van Wert County Sheriff's Office and worked at the Van Wert City Police Department.

His commitment to serving others extended beyond his professional life. He was an Eagle Scout and one of the first recipients of the Boy Scout God and Country Award. Larry was a member of various Masonic organizations, the Heartland Patriots, Wesley Church of Van Wert, and was a friend of the Gideons.

Known for his wit and a bit of ornery charm, he touched the lives of many throughout his life. Larry will be remembered for his selfless spirit and unwavering dedication to his Savior, his family, and community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and laughter - guiding those who knew him to live their lives with the same kindness and integrity he embodied.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, May 11, 2026, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Rev. Josh Tissot and Rev. Steve Haddix officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Preferred memorials may be directed to Community Health Professionals-Hospice or Wesley Church of Van Wert.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St., Van Wert, Ohio.

View Larry L. Harris's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

05/06/2026

Gregory A. Stemen

Gregory A. "Chase" Stemen, affectionately known as Chase to his friends, a beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to many, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, May 4, 2026, at the age of 76.

Greg was born on December 10, 1949, in Harrison Township near Wren, Ohio, to Ga***rd and Miriam (Baxter) Stemen. He spent his early years in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where he later graduated from high school before moving to Van Wert, where he lived for many years.

In 1974, Greg attended the Ohio State Highway Patrol Training Academy and served in law enforcement for several years until medically retiring from police work. He loved horses and shooting, was an avid gun collector, and had a lifelong passion for Chevrolet Corvettes.

He is survived by his niece, Amanda Stemen of Lima; and his first cousins, Tom Jones of Tucson, Arizona, and Charlene Barcus Bowers of Portland, Indiana.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Gary Stemen.

Family will receive friends from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St., Van Wert, OH 45891. Private funeral services for the family will be held at a later date.

Greg spent many afternoons at Orchard Tree Restaurant, and in his honor, the family invites friends to share a meal and fellowship there prior to the visitation on Tuesday, from 12 to 1 p.m. A table has been reserved.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Greg's name to the Fraternal Order of Police at https://fop.net/donate/.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.

View Gregory A. Stemen's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/30/2026

Michael E. Combs

Michael E. Combs, 64, of Van Wert, passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at his residence. He was born March 13, 1962, in Bluefield, West Virginia, to the late Gordon C. and Peggy M. (Sheets) Combs.

He is survived by his children, Michelle Lynn of Kansas, Joleene, Jocelyn and Jordon all of Ohio; sisters, Angie and Lynn; a brother, Allen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Michael will be laid to rest in Roselawn Cemetery, Princeton, West Virginia.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Services have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.

View Michael E. Combs's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/21/2026

Tammy D. Barr

Tammy D. Barr, 64, of Van Wert, passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Van Wert Hospital. She was born August 21, 1961, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to her late parents, Robert Horn Sr. and E. Pauline Mrak.

Tammy was a kind and helpful woman-someone who loved deeply, cooked wonderfully, and offered friendship freely. Her warmth, generosity, and steady presence will be remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her son, Jason Barr of Van Wert; her friend and companion, Jean O'Daffer of Middle Point; and her siblings and step‑siblings: Tony Horn; Robert Horn Jr. of Michigan City, Indiana; Debora Horn of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Michelle (David) Bassett of Hicksville; Patrick (Kim) Horn of Leo, Indiana; Vickie Wright of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Susann Gottfried (Ryan Smith) of Fort Wayne, Indiana; and Karen, Mike, and Angel Mrak; and her dear friends: Sherrie Friedrich, Tammy Wheeler, Sedrick Bishop. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

In addition to her parents, Tammy was preceded in death by her infant son, Joshua; her husband, Bill Barr; her stepmother, Kathleen Horn; her grandparents, Juanita and George Horn; Lee and Leota Malone; her brother‑in‑law, Mitch Wright and her good friend, Sue Etgen.

A Celebration of Tammy's Life will be held from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at North Scipio Christian Church, 23628 State Rd 37, Harlan, Indiana 46743.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Tammy D. Barr's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

04/21/2026

Thelma Weiss

Thelma Weiss, 92, of Van Wert, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 20, 2026, at Van Wert Manor. She was born December 8, 1933, in Confluence, KY, to the late Kermit and Lula (Begley) Johnson. On May 29, 1954, she married Rev. Wilfred "Wil" Weiss in Florence, KY. He preceded her in death on October 7, 1987.

Thelma worked as a nurse's aide with Visiting Nurses and Hospice of Van Wert. She was a longtime member of Zion Christian Union Church, where her husband served as pastor, and was also a member of Praise Point Church. In recent years, she attended Church on the Horizon.

In her earlier years, Thelma enjoyed golfing, cooking for her family, creating floral arrangements, and tending her garden-especially her well‑known tomatoes.

She is survived by her children: Joseph Weiss, Ronald Weiss, and William (Aleta) Weiss; her brothers: Jim (Kim) Block, Steve (Kim) Hensley, Bob Block; as well as numerous grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, and great‑great‑grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Thelma was preceded in death by her son, Daniel Weiss; daughter, Lois Bloomfield; and siblings: Kermit Johnson Jr., Lee Johnson, Edward Johnson, and Hazel Cleary.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Brad Custis officiating. Interment will follow in Ridge Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the funeral home, and again one hour prior to the service on Saturday.

Memorial donations may be made in Thelma's name to Church on the Horizon, 551 Center Street, Van Wert, Ohio 45891, or to Legacy Hospice, 2615 Fort Amanda Road, Lima, Ohio 45804.

Online condolences may be shared at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach‑Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Thelma Weiss Ditmyer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

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