Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory is proud to be the preferred funeral provider serving Van Wert and the surrounding areas since 1903.
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Dennis G. SmithDennis G. Smith, age 65, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, after a courageous...
09/10/2025

Dennis G. Smith

Dennis G. Smith, age 65, of Van Wert, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, after a courageous year-long battle with cancer. Born on August 8, 1960, in Van Wert, to Willard "Bill" and Dorothy (Stuckey) Smith. Dennis was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, known for his kindness and unwavering spirit.

He was a machinist at Danfoss, in Van Wert, with 23 years of service.

Dennis was a member of the Van Wert County Outdoorsmen Association, where he found joy in nature and camaraderie with fellow outdoor enthusiasts. He had a passion for shooting and cherished his lifelong love for the Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds. His loyal dog, Emma, held a special place in his heart.

Family was of utmost importance to Dennis, and he treasured the time spent with his wife Laura, children, and grandchildren. He and Laura made lasting memories together, especially during their memorable trip to Europe, a journey they were grateful to have shared.

He is survived by his wife, Laura (Crowley-Fitzsimmons) Smith of Van Wert; his children, Erin (Tim) Jones of Van Wert, Luke (Lula Caudill) Smith of Mooresville, Indiana, Cory Fitzsimmons of Van Wert and Valerie Fitzsimmons of Celina, Ohio; grandchildren, Nick Fitzsimmons, Hayden (Cassidy Stoller) Marsee, Delanei Jackson, Reide (Zada Walker) Jackson, Jasmine Jones, Kalyssa Jones, Wesson Smith, Re*****on Smith, Samuel Smith and Layla Sterrett; a great-granddaughter, Henzley Marsee; a brother, David (Sarah) Smith of Van Wert; and sisters, Darlene (Ray) Young of Convoy and Lori (Jack) Wilson of Van Wert. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Dennis's positivity and warmth touched the lives of many, and he will be remembered for his efforts to make the world a better place. He was a source of inspiration to all who knew him, consistently lifting those around him with his encouraging words and genuine kindness.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Rev. Ron Johnson, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Van Wert County.

Visitation will be from 12:00-2:00 PM on Saturday, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dennis's memory to the American Cancer Society at donate.cancer.org.

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 Dennis Smith's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Vickie ThatcherVickie Thatcher, 57, of Decatur, Indiana, died at 7:38pm on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at her residence. ...
09/01/2025

Vickie Thatcher

Vickie Thatcher, 57, of Decatur, Indiana, died at 7:38pm on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at her residence. She was born August 9, 1968, in Mercer County, Ohio, to LeRoy E. and Janet L. (Fickert) Hoaglin. On June 17, 1989, Vickie married Steven Thatcher.

She was a 1986 graduate of Vantage Vocational School (Ohio City High School) and a 1989 graduate of the International Business College where she studied Secretarial and Word Processing.

Vickie had previously worked at Midwest Federal Credit Union, Schnitz Racing and the Council on Aging, all in Decatur.

She was an avid reader who enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in the fall was one of her favorite places. She was always planning trips and making plans for the holidays.

Vickie is survived by her husband, Steven Thatcher of Decatur; her sons, Jonathon "Cole" Thatcher and Lucas L. Thatcher; her mother, Janet L. Hoaglin; brothers, Rodney E. (Karen) Hoaglin and David L. (Evelyn) Hoaglin; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, LeRoy E. Hoaglin.

Funeral services will be held at 4:00pm on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Gearhart-Sauer Funeral Home and Crematory, Convoy, Ohio.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00pm on Thursday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana or to Heart to Heart Hospice.

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

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gearhart-Sauer Funeral Home & Crematory, 655 N. Main St, Convoy, Ohio.

View Vickie Thatcher's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Edward GrimesEdward L. Grimes, 90, of Van Wert, died at 7:01pm Sunday, August 31, 2025, at his residence. He was born Ma...
09/01/2025

Edward Grimes

Edward L. Grimes, 90, of Van Wert, died at 7:01pm Sunday, August 31, 2025, at his residence. He was born May 2, 1935 in Paulding County to Lester and Gertrude (Font) Grimes. He married the former Ellen Barnhart.

Ed retired from the Van Wert County Sheriff's Office as a Deputy Sheriff. Earlier in life, he had worked for Union Sherburn Excavating, B.F. Goodrich and General Motors.

Growing up, Ed spent time living at the Marsh Foundation. He was an avid fisherman who also enjoyed hunting, golfing, bowling and camping.

Ed is survived by his wife, Ellen Grimes of Van Wert; his children, Jon (Suzie) Grimes of Van Wert and Cindy Dailey of Van Wert; grandchildren, Melissa (Rick) Gent, Lyndsay (fiance: Whitney) Drake, Travis (Jami) Grimes, Gavin (fiance: Sofia) Cross, Chad Dailey and Jodi Dailey; great grandchildren, Alyssa, Kylee, Elizabeth, Brok, Kyndra, Stella, Anikyn, Abel, Chloe, Olivia and Bryce; and great-great grandchildren, Avionna and Zavier,

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Edgar "Ned" Grimes and Eugene "Beanie" Grimes; sister, Ellen Scantlin; and son-in-law, Dennis Dailey.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00pm on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert. Burial will take place at a later date in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point.

Visitation will be from 12:00-2:00pm on Thursday, at the funeral home.

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

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

View Edward Grimes's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Carl JohnsCarl D. Johns, 78, of Van Wert, died at 7:15 am on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Vancrest of Van Wert. He was bo...
08/27/2025

Carl Johns

Carl D. Johns, 78, of Van Wert, died at 7:15 am on Monday, August 25, 2025, at Vancrest of Van Wert. He was born May 9, 1947, in Van Wert, to Wilbur and Marguerite (Miller) Johns. On October 18, 1966, he married the former Kay Dunifon.

Carl retired from the Chrysler Corporation after 30 years of service in Van Wert and Atlanta.

He was a veteran of the United States Navy, serving during Vietnam.

Carl was a member of the Van Wert Bass Association, Van Wert Moose Lodge, American Legion and V.F.W.

He was an avid fisherman who loved traveling with Kay. Carl was able to accomplish one of his life's goals by visiting all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Carl and Kay wintered in Ft Myers, Florida for 25 years. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and smile to fellow neighbors at Holiday Condo in Ft Myers.

Carl is survived by his wife of almost 59 years, Kay Johns of Van Wert; a son, Steven Johns of Van Wert; a granddaughter, Megan (Nathan) Hartman of Ossian, Indiana; 3 great-grandchildren, Bronson, Cody and Lynleigh; 4 brothers, Larry (Ivy) Johns of Lebanon, Ohio; Dana (Cathy) Johns of Ft Wayne, Rick (Alice) Johns of Convoy and Barry Johns of Van Wert; a sister, Deb Ashbaugh of Van Wert; and a half-brother, Chris (Kim) Fox of Celina.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Nancy Finkhousen; a brother in law, Gary Ashbaugh; and a nephew, Jason Back.

A celebration of life will be held from 2:00-4:00pm on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the Van Wert Moose Lodge #1320. Military honors will take place at 3:00pm at the lodge.

Carl's family requests no flowers or keepsake items. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Van Wert County Humane Society.

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

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

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

Beverly ThomasBeverly A. Thomas, a beloved mother, grandmother and sister, passed away peacefully at her home in Van Wer...
08/25/2025

Beverly Thomas

Beverly A. Thomas, a beloved mother, grandmother and sister, passed away peacefully at her home in Van Wert, OH, on August 22, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on April 25, 1932, Beverly lived a full life filled with love, laughter, and a deep dedication to family and community.

Beverly married the love of her life, David Thomas on July 29, 1950. She graduated from Oakwood High School and earned her certificate from Ivy Tech College while having a fulfilling career at General Electric, where she worked for an impressive 32 years before retiring. Not one to sit still for long, she then spent another 15 years serving customers at Walmart, making countless friends along the way.

Beverly was more than just an employee; she was a vibrant member of her community where she served on the Grover Hill Village Council, volunteered for the Red Cross and taught Sunday school. She was formerly a longtime member of the Church of Christ of Grover Hill and attended Lifehouse Church. Beverly was a life member of the Van Wert VFW Auxiliary, where she contributed her time and energy to those in need. In her younger years, she was a member of Van Wert WBA and enjoyed bowling with her family and friends.

An avid reader, Beverly had a love for books that filled her home. But her true joy came from being a mother and grandmother. Beverly was the best-always cooking up delicious meals and caring for her children and grandchildren with an open heart.

She is survived by her daughters: Julia (Manuel) Rhodes, Susan Moorman, and Paula J. Mullins; her son, Steven (Melissa) Thomas; her sisters, Judith Stabler, all of Van Wert, Carol Mansfield of Antwerp, Kathleen Sue (Terry) Armstrong of Clayton, IN; her grandchildren: Calvin (Brenda) Rhodes of Ohio City; Rebecca Hays; John Moorman; Amber (Jayson) Subler all of Van Wert; Jason Mullins of Convoy; Amanda (Jason) Richey of Ohio City; Jennifer (Joey Chavarria of Brooksville, FL; Jessica (Jeremy) Morefield of Van Wert; as well as 22 great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents, Forest and Helen (Bright) Knotts; husband, David Thomas; son-in-law, Danny Mullins; brother and sister-in-law, James and Gladys Knotts; and nephew, Larry Mansfield.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 2 to 8 pm on Thursday, August 28, 2025, and again one hour prior to the funeral service. Beverly will be buried privately with her husband in Middle Creek Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association or to the National Kidney Foundation.

To share in Beverly's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Beverly Thomas's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Douglas PrudenDouglas Dean Pruden, affectionately known as Deano, left us peacefully on August 23, 2025, at his residenc...
08/25/2025

Douglas Pruden

Douglas Dean Pruden, affectionately known as Deano, left us peacefully on August 23, 2025, at his residence. He was born November 19, 1949, in Van Wert, to the late Paul Douglas and Helen Elizabeth (McKee) Pruden, living his entire life here.

On December 16, 1967, Dean married Jenny Rhodes. Together they shared 57 years of marriage. Dean was a hardworking man who dedicated many years working for Stoneco. He was a longtime member of the Van Wert Moose Lodge, where he enjoyed spending time with friends.

In his younger days, Dean was an avid softball player, a passion that brought joy to many summer days. He carried a lifelong passion for sports, especially when it came to his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes and Cincinnati Reds

Beyond sports, Dean had a love for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, camping and, especially, mushroom hunting. Dean also liked playing cards and spent countless hours tinkering with his cherished '53 Ford, which was a source of pride for him.

He had a soft spot for animals, especially his dogs, who he loved dearly. Known for his playful spirit, he had a knack for teasing his grandkids and coming up with nicknames that brought smiles and laughter.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Jenny Pruden of Van Wert; his daughter, Paula Kay (John) Lemon of Angola, IN; his son, Douglas Dean (Shaina Johnson) Pruden II of Van Wert; his mother-in-law, Alma Rhodes of Van Wert; 11 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Dean was preceded in death by his daughters: Christina Boyd and Deana Ladd; his brother, Ronald Pruden and his sister, Judy Pratt.

In true Dean fashion, come celebration his life on Saturday, September 6th from 2-7 at the Van Wert Moose Lodge as we cheer on the Buckeyes. In honor of Dean's wishes, family and friends are invited to wear their Ohio State Buckeyes or Cincinnati Reds attire.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Van Wert County Humane Society.

To share in Dean's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.

View Douglas Pruden's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Duane AdamsDuane Paul "Dewey" AdamsBorn in Berks County Pennsylvania on March 18 1972 to Paul and Betty Adams. Duane liv...
08/11/2025

Duane Adams

Duane Paul "Dewey" Adams

Born in Berks County Pennsylvania on March 18 1972 to Paul and Betty Adams. Duane lived his 53 years with a rare mix of grit, generosity and wit so sharp it could cut steel- but mostly it just made you laugh until your ribs hurt. He passed away on August 8, 2025, surrounded by family and (in spirit) by the countless people whose lives he'd touched.

Duane married his soulmate, Danielle, and together they built a beautiful bustling life, full of love, sarcasm and more than a few rescued animals. He was the proud father of Elizabeth, Paul (Hannah), Evan, Emily, and Daisy, and the world's most devoted "Papa" to Opal. He also leaves behind his mother Betty; his sister, Drena Romberger of PA; and a wide extended family, coworkers, and friends that became family. Duane was proceeded in death by his father Paul and his beloved aunt Elsie, who was like a mother to him.

Since 2009, Duane worked for MJ electric, most recently serving as construction manager for the Jay Allen project - a massive 100-mile transmission line rebuild from Fort Wayne to Richmond, a journeyman lineman at heart he was known for finding every person's "100%" and making sure they knew they mattered. He didn't just manage crews; he built careers, mentored apprentices, and earned the respect of everyone who worked alongside him. Many started as co-workers and ended up as lifelong friends because of him. His Quanta commitment coin -awarded after stopping to help a young boy who crashed his dirt bike-is just one example of the countless times he put others first.

Off the clock, Duane was just as dedicated-to his family, to gardening, to reading, and rescuing any animal that needed saving. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing and any time spent on the water. He was witty, sarcastic (as hell), and endlessly hard-working, stubborn in the best way, and generous to fault. Duane was the guy who teach you without making you feel dumb, the guy who defend his crew like family and the guy who could make a long day feel shorter with a perfectly timed wisecrack. The industry, and the world, are both better for having had him in them -and they will feel a little emptier without him. He had the kind of presence that could command a crew, fill a room, or make you laugh, even when you didn't feel like it.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 16, from 12 to 6 p.m. at Convoy Fox Hunters.

In lieu flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a legacy college account for their children and granddaughter Opal.

To share in Duane's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangments by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.

View Duane Adams's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Kimala StricklerKimala Ann Strickler, age 70, of Middle Point, passed away at home on July 28, 2025, following a brief i...
08/11/2025

Kimala Strickler

Kimala Ann Strickler, age 70, of Middle Point, passed away at home on July 28, 2025, following a brief illness. She was born on August 18, 1954, in Van Wert to the late Glenn and Joann Neer.

A 1972 graduate of Lincolnview High School, Kim dedicated her life to her family and to the Middle Point community. She was a faithful member of the Middle Point United Methodist Church and served proudly in many roles, including the Middle Point Fire Auxiliary, the Middle Point Village Council, and the Founder's Day Committee. Her compassion, generosity, and service to others left a lasting mark on those around her. Each summer, Kim brought joy to the entire community by hosting her much-anticipated Fourth of July fireworks display-a tradition that became a cherished celebration for family, friends, and neighbors alike.

Kim will be remembered as a loving mother to her daughter, Tammy (Brien) Corzine, and a proud grandmother to her cherished grandchildren: Andrew, Jenna, and Krista Corzine. She is also survived by her devoted companion, Bob Miller, and his children: Shawn (Vanessa) Miller, Curtis (Karen) Miller, Rachel (Brian) Hire; along with his 10 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren, all of whom she cared for deeply.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Barry Strickler, and her step-children, Eric and Hollie Strickler.

A celebration of Kim's life will begin at 12:30 pm on Sunday, August 24, 2025 at Middle Point Community Building, 300 W Sycamore St, Middle Point, OH 45863 with a brief memorial service at 1:00 PM and a meal to follow.

Memorial contributions in Kim's honor may be made to the Middle Point United Methodist Church, the Middle Point Fire Association, or a charity of the donor's choice.

To share memories or condolences, please visit Kim's online memorial at www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home.

View Kimala Strickler's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Richard WardRichard Laurence Ward, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend, left us peacefully on August 6, 2...
08/11/2025

Richard Ward

Richard Laurence Ward, a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend, left us peacefully on August 6, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on July 3, 1942, in Convoy, Ohio, Richard spent his life in Van Wert, where he became known not just for his skilled trade as a Journeyman Tool & Die Maker, but also for his vibrant spirit and remarkable sense of humor.

As an Army Veteran, Richard was a protector at heart-stepping up for his sisters after the loss of their father and later for his own daughters, Melissa and Miranda, who looked up to him with immense love and admiration. His loyalty knew no bounds, and he had a knack for making everyone feel special, as he never met a stranger; if you didn't know him, you certainly would shortly after meeting him!

Richard found joy in muzzle loading and tending to his beloved vegetable garden, but his true passion lay in exploration. After the passing of his wife, Richard transformed a van into his mobile adventure hub and took to the open road to explore the vast landscapes of North America. He often found himself off-grid for weeks at a time, weaving tales of epic travels, including one where he claimed, with a twinkle in his eyes, to have ventured as far as the North Pole! His adventurous heart mirrored his zest for life and willingness to embrace whatever his daughters had in store for him.

Richard leaves behind his cherished daughters, Dr. Melissa Bowman and Miranda (Adam) Garcia, along with his beloved grandchildren: Jacob and Scott Bowman and Autumn, and Christian Garcia. He is also survived by his dear siblings: sisters: Amy Landin and Sharon Clark and brother, Lanny Ward.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia (Adams)Ward; parents, Richard and Betty (Bruner)Ward; and brother, Danny Ward.

In the spirit of Richard's love for adventure and connection, let's remember the laughter, the tales, and the countless moments that made him such a remarkable person. He may be gone, but his stories will live on in our hearts forever. It was Richard's wish that no public services be held.

To share in Richard's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgarhart.com. Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory in Van Wert, Ohio.

View Richard Ward's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Craig Endsley GoddardCraig Endsley Goddard (March 2, 1936 - August 4, 2025)"The generous will prosper; those who refresh...
08/07/2025

Craig Endsley Goddard

Craig Endsley Goddard (March 2, 1936 - August 4, 2025)

"The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." - Proverbs 11:25

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Romans 8:38-39

Craig Endsley Goddard, 89, of Bradenton, Florida passed away in the early hours of August 4, 2025. He was born on March 2, 1936 in Grover Hill, Ohio to Doyle and Vera (Endsley) Goddard. From a young age, Craig served the small town of Grover Hill from the family general store, Goddard's Grocery Store, delivering groceries, working behind the counter, and leaving surprise bags of candy on porches at Christmas time. Perhaps this is where he first learned generosity without seeking any of the recognition for it. After graduating from Grover Hill High School, he went on to receive his bachelor's in education from Defiance College, his master's in school administration from Indiana University, and his education specialist degree from the University of Toledo.

On June 16, 1961, Craig married Sandra Jeanne Mohr, a moment he would remember as "the best decision I ever made." In their sixty-four years of marriage, Craig and Sandra were blessed with three children, and simply lived to spoil their six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He was the father of Scott (Cheryl) Goddard of Houston, TX, Suzanne (Tyler) Bates of Gibsonburg, OH, and Steve Goddard of Punta Gorda, FL, and the grandfather of Katherine (Jack) Fitzsimmons, Kendall (Sara) Bates, Nathaniel (Gabby) Mucke, Jenna (Zachary) Prather, Alana Bates, and Charlie Goddard. The family enjoyed many years at the cottage on Little Long Lake, where Craig excelled in teaching his children, nieces and nephews, and all their friends to water ski. There truly was "not a single person he could not get up" on the water.

Craig dedicated 30 years of his life to education, and will be remembered for his unassuming commitment and support of both students and faculty. He taught for three years at Convoy Union (now Crestview) High School, where students excelled not by being the smartest kid in the room, but by putting forth their best and most honest effort. He later served as the principal of Riverdale Schools and Lake Elementary for two and six years, respectively. For nineteen years, Craig served as the superintendent of Lake Local Schools before retiring and enjoying many more years with his wife, children and grandchildren. He was a much loved member of Bethel United Brethren Church, where he took great joy in sponsoring students of the youth group each summer for their mission trips. Craig will always be remembered by friends and family for his ornery sense of humor and incredibly generous heart.

Craig is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Roger Goddard. In lieu of a service, a private ceremony will be held at a later date to celebrate his life and cherish the memories he leaves behind.

According to the faith we have in Jesus Christ and the resurrection, as Craig would always say to his grandchildren, "See ya later, alligator."

Local arrangements by Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory. to share in Craig's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

View Craig Endsley Goddard's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

James SperryJames F. "Jim" Sperry, 83, passed away on August 3, 2025, in Van Wert, the area where he was born and spent ...
08/06/2025

James Sperry

James F. "Jim" Sperry, 83, passed away on August 3, 2025, in Van Wert, the area where he was born and spent his life. Born on May 6, 1942, in Van Wert, Jim was the son of Velma and Ralph Sperry.

He served his country honorably in the United States Army from 1960 to 1963. Following his military service, Jim dedicated 34 years of hard work to Federal Mogul, where he built a long-standing career. Jim was a man who enjoyed the outdoors and the companionship of animals. Over the years he spent time hunting and fishing with friends and family. He also had a passion for raising animals; he cared for ponies, palomino horses and alpacas. His affection for animals also included a lifelong love for dogs. Jim was a member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Convoy and a lifeĀ­time member of the Van Wert VFW Post # 5803.

Jim is survived by his wife, Wanda; his children: Chuck (Michelle) Sperry of Middle Point; Mike (Angie) Sperry; Julie Ortiz; Rhonda Perry; Melissa (Tim) Friemoth; Jennifer Dotson, all of Van Wert and Jamie Dotson of Harrod. He was also blessed with 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. His brother Richard Sperry, of Markle, IN also survives.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Velma and Ralph Sperry.

A funeral service will be held 2:00 PM on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Steve Shrum officiating. Interment will follow in Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service, from 12 pm to 2 pm on Thursday at the funeral home.

Memorial donations can be made in Jim's name to Redeemer Lutheran Church or to the Van Wert Humane Society.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved him. To share in Jim's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.

View James Sperry's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Nancy DiasNancy Dias, 78, of Delphos, formerly of Middle Point, passed away on August 3, 2025, Vancrest of Delphos.Nancy...
08/05/2025

Nancy Dias

Nancy Dias, 78, of Delphos, formerly of Middle Point, passed away on August 3, 2025, Vancrest of Delphos.

Nancy Dias was born on January 9, 1947, in Van Wert, to her late parents, Richard and Joan (Tobias) Anderson.

Nancy is survived by her sons: Grant Dias of Van Wert and Grady Dias of MI; sister, Deborah (Bill) Larimore of Lima; grandsons: Kyle, Devin and Logan Dias; Ethan and Mason Dias; several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her brother Donald Anderson and a grandson, Alex Dias.

Nancy will be laid to rest in Woodland Cemetery during a private ceremony.

Memorial donations can be made in Nancy's name to a charity of the donor's choice.

To participate in Nancy's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

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

Address

722 S. Washington Street
Van Wert, OH
45891

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+14192381112

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