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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Mark BohnleinMark A. Bohnlein passed away peacefully at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and un...
10/20/2025

Mark Bohnlein

Mark A. Bohnlein passed away peacefully at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unwavering devotion. Born in Lima, Ohio, and raised in Delphos, Mark was the son of Joseph and Ella Bohnlein.

He graduated from Delphos St. John Catholic High School in 1971, where he played football and wrestled. Mark was an avid, lifelong Atlanta Braves fan and was know for his sense of humor.

Mark dedicated 42 years to Eaton as a quality assurance inspector, embodying integrity and diligence. He was a member of Saint Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, and his faith was central to his life.

Above all, Mark was a devoted father to Tracy Spieth and proud grandfather to Evan Spieth. For Mark, the sun rose and set with them. He never missed a moment of their lives, celebrating their milestones with joy, pride and unwavering support.

He is survived by Tracy and Evan of Van Wert; brothers Ron (Cathy) Bohnlein, John (Jane)Bohnlein; and sister Sue (Dean) Donald.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother Paul, and beloved companion Bobbi Sterrett.

A funeral service will be held Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, with Father Chris Bohnsack officiating. Visitation begins at 10:00 AM. Burial will follow at Woodland Cemetery.

To honor Mark's generous spirit, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

To share memories or condolences, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.

Mark's warmth and laughter will echo in the lives he touched.

View Mark Bohnlein's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Larry C. BlandLarry C. Bland, 89, of Willshire, passed away on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Swiss Village in Berne, Indi...
10/13/2025

Larry C. Bland

Larry C. Bland, 89, of Willshire, passed away on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Swiss Village in Berne, Indiana. Larry was born on September 25, 1936, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Lester C. and Helen (Stapleton) Bland. On August 23, 1957, he married the former JoAnn F. Gilbert. Larry retired from B.F. Goodrich after many years of service. After retiring, he continued to work alongside George Adam in construction.

Larry was a proud member of the Sons of the American Legion and the Rockford Eagles. He also held a past membership with the Free and Accepted Masons in Monroeville, Indiana. He enjoyed Hunting, auto racing, and he loved showing off his 1932 Ford Roadster at car shows. Larry cherished traveling with his wife, JoAnn, and spending summers at Crooked Lake and winters in Manasota Key, Florida.

He leaves behind his loving daughter, Jackie (Jeff) Caffee of Geneva, Indiana, and his siblings: Marilyn Winn of Ft Wayne, Shirley (James) Milender of Arizona, Priscilla (Rich) Burch of Ft Wayne, Rebecca (Norm) Fick of Ft Wayne and Ed (Babs) Bland of Monroeville . Larry was a proud grandfather to Amber Roman, Zach Caffee, Jake Caffee, and Keith Roman; and a great grandfather of six.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 61 years, JoAnn F. Bland; and a son, L. Dean Bland.

A private family celebration of life will be held in honor of Larry.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Friends of Limberlost, P.O. Box 571, Geneva, Indiana, 46740.

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

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

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

Kathy AglerKathy Ann Agler (Bruns) (McConn), 74, passed away peacefully at Van Wert Manor on October 1, 2025. She was bo...
10/08/2025

Kathy Agler

Kathy Ann Agler (Bruns) (McConn), 74, passed away peacefully at Van Wert Manor on October 1, 2025. She was born on March 23, 1951, at her home in Indiana. Kathy was a devoted mother, an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan, and a passionate animal lover.

Kathy is survived by her son Gabriel McConn, his wife Dawn (Marshall) and their daughter Stella; her stepchildren, Amy (Eric Morr) Rice of Fortville, Indiana; Adam (Christine) and Jason (Mandy) Agler of Washington, Missouri; and grandchildren Dariah, Paeton, Andon, Madison and Livi.

She loved her family and indulged many hours laughing and enjoying time with them over the years. Kathy's best friend Debbie Hoagland, her cousin Theresa Lehman and her in-law Ann Marshall were vigilant loved ones who stayed by her side until the end.

Kathy was married twice. Her first marriage was in 1973 to her high school sweetheart Chuck McConn, and a few years later they shared a son. Later when Gabe was approaching middle school, Kathy and Ron Agler became an item. They were later married in 2004, and remained so until his passing in 2020.

Growing up in Ohio City, Kathy loved riding horses up and down the dirt roads with her best friend Debbie. The two of them along with Chuck created many hours of mischief to pass the time. Kathy and Chuck worked hard during the week and also kept horses. She turned that hard work into weekends with her quarter horse Mac, barrel-racing in the rodeo.

Kathy took a voyage to Hawaii with dear friends when she was younger. She took trips with Chuck and Gabe to Alaska in an RV loaded with family. Along with Ron, she spent many weekends supporting Gabe at his high school football games or camping at Salamonie Reservoir with their family. They also enjoyed an anniversary trip to the Smokey Mountains a few years before she lost Ron.

Kathy worked hard her entire life and made a career at Continental Can/Sonoco/Greif. She gave them two fingers before she retired, sadly not the two that she wanted to give them. She retired in 2013 after many years of dedicated service.

There will be will be a celebration of life for Kathy at the park in Ohio City in the spring of 2026 and an ash spreading ceremony in Corolla Beach, NC. Her final resting place will be among the wild horses.

The family asks for donations to be made in Kathy's memory to Horses for Hope (https://horsesforhope.org/) in NC. Kathy was the first senior citizen to join this horse loving community for a birthday ride with her granddaughter in 2022. Alternatively, you could also make a donation to the American Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate) in hopes they find a cure for this awful disease.

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

View Kathy Agler's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Larry SchoonoverLawrence "Larry" David Schoonover, 84, loving husband, father,and grandfather peacefully passed away on ...
10/04/2025

Larry Schoonover

Lawrence "Larry" David Schoonover, 84, loving husband, father,and grandfather peacefully passed away on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 surrounded by family and loved ones at Van Wert Manor. He was born July 9, 1941 to the late Frank Schoonover, Sr. and Emma (Taylor) Schoonover of Paulding, Ohio.

In Apral 1961. Larry married his soul mate, Beverly Dempsey, and enjoyed 64 years of blissful marriage.

Larry served 20 years in the US Army, serving two tours in Viet Nam and was awarded 2 Purple Hearts, 3 tours in Germany and 1 tour in Korea. He was the Van Wert

Postmaster for several year until he retired in 2001. He was a Past Master of the Mason Lodge in Karlsruhe Germany, a member of the Shriners, Scottish Right, Van Wert VFW, Van Wert American Legion and DAV.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Schoonover; children, David (Jeanine) Schoonover, Kimberly (Gary) Metcalfe, Laura Schoonover, Karen Hershey, and Valerie (Mike) VanArtsdalen; one brother Tom Tyler of Shippenville PA and two sisters, Carolyn Murphey of Dallas TX and Emma Raines of Van Wert, fifteen grandchildren; twenty-four great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and his two furbabies, Dapple and Duke.

Larry was proceeded in death by stepfather Clifford Tyler Sr., brothers Frank Schoonover Jr, Clifford (Butch) Tyler Jr, and sister Gloria Felger.

At Larry's request, there will be no public visitation, but a graveside service will be open to the public at Ridge Cemetery in Middle Point, Ohio at 10:00 am on Saturday, October 11, 2025. A celebration of life will be held at the Van Wert American Legion at 2:00 pm on the same day,

Donations in Larry's memory may be made to Legacy Hospice, 2615 Ft. Amanda Road, Suite A, Lima, Ohio 45804.

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

Services have been entrusted to Alspach Gearhart Funeral Home, 722 South Washington Street, Van Wert, Ohio 45891.

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

Lance M. BolenbaughLance Mitchell Bolenbaugh, 48, of Bryan, Ohio, passed from this life on Sunday, September 28, 2025, a...
10/02/2025

Lance M. Bolenbaugh

Lance Mitchell Bolenbaugh, 48, of Bryan, Ohio, passed from this life on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 11:41am. He was born on June 29, 1977, in Paulding, Ohio, to Paulette (Miller) Burnett and Cecil "Duke" Bolenbaugh.

On May 26, 2001, Lance married the love of his life, Sara (Burden) Bolenbaugh, who survives. Together they built a family and shared many cherished memories over the years.

A 1995 graduate of Van Wert High School, Lance went on to work in several factories throughout Northwest Ohio. Known for his strong work ethic, he took pride in providing for his family.

Lance lived life with passion and joy. He was a devoted Cincinnati Reds, Ohio State Buckeyes and Dallas Cowboys fan and found freedom and peace riding his Harley Davidson. Music was a big part of his life, he loved attending rock concerts and he especially loved playing the drums. Lance loved showing off his memorial tattoos to everyone. Above all, Lance's greatest love was his family. He found happiness in being a husband, father and grandfather, and he never missed an opportunity to spend time with those he loved most.

Lance is survived by his wife, Sara; his sons, Blaze Bolenbaugh of Bryan, Jaden (Katrina) Burden of Lima and Sage Burden of Lima; and grandchildren, Kaylee and Hunter. He also leaves behind his sisters, Rochelle Campbell of Middle Point and Paula (Steve) Goins of Van Wert, along with many nieces and nephews who adored him.

He was welcomed into eternal rest by his mother, Paulette Burnett; step-father, Jim Burnett; grandparents, Rev. Paul and Lorraine Miller; and brother-in-law, Frank Campbell.

Lance will be remembered as a kind and generous soul who never knew a stranger. His laughter, his love for adventure, and the way he always put others first will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

A service to honor Lance's life will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill, Ohio.

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

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

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Gayle GibbonsGayle L. Gibbons, 76, of Rockford, Ohio, peacefully passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Luthera...
09/27/2025

Gayle Gibbons

Gayle L. Gibbons, 76, of Rockford, Ohio, peacefully passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Lutheran Hospital in Ft Wayne. She was born on June 22, 1949, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Julius "Judd" and Gladys (Sites) Winhover. On October 15, 1994, she married Denny J. Gibbons.

Gayle retired from Aeroquip, in Van Wert, after many years of service. She loved tennis, enjoying card games, and making cherished memories at the lake on relaxing days. Golf cart rides brought her joy, but nothing compared to the love she felt when surrounded by her family.

She is survived by her children: Penny (Chris) Canary of Celina, Rodney (Faye) Cheek of Willshire, Holly (Steve) Deitsch of Rockford, Brent (Jennifer) Cheek of Ft Wayne, Monty (Jessica) Gibbons of Rockford, and Brandy (Wesley) Wolford of Celina; her grandchildren, Slade (Kerri) Canary, Afton Strobel, Megan (Tom) Harris, Tyler (Becca) Deitsch, Holden Cheek, Logan (Caleb) French, Tiffany (Andy) Sneddon, Chase (Maddy) Wolford, Remmie Wolford, Lydia Gibbons, Hunter Scott, Jackson Scott and Kylie Gibbons; 16 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Judy (Delbert- dec.) Harding of Willshire. Gayle's deep love for her family was evident in all she did.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Denny; a son, Kevin Cheek; and a brother, Larry Winhover.

Funeral services will he held at 2:00pm on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert, with Rev. Bill Halter, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Willshire Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 11:00am-2:00pm on Tuesday at the funeral home.

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.

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Scott CarpenterScott Ray Carpenter, born February 24, 1959, in Hicksville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 21,...
09/25/2025

Scott Carpenter

Scott Ray Carpenter, born February 24, 1959, in Hicksville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2025, at the age of 66.

Scott was known for his no-nonsense attitude and a temperament that could be described as... spirited. He spent years in the construction industry, particularly at Castle Construction, where he built more than just structures-he built a reputation for being blunt, reliable, and unapologetically himself.

Scott served in the Ohio National Guard and was always willing to lend a hand, though you might get a grumble before a "you're welcome." He had a knack for fixing small engines and often helped out at Crammer Repair, where his mechanical skills spoke louder than his words.

He had a soft spot for '60s music and a sharp memory for the good old days, though he rarely sugarcoated anything. Scott wasn't one for small talk or sentiment, but those who knew him understood that beneath the gruff exterior was someone who showed up when it counted.

He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, stubborn pride, and a life lived on his own terms.

He is survived by his partner, Linda Moore of Convoy; sisters: Becky Conley of Payne; Patsy Mayer of Fort Wayne; and Robin Carpenter of Decatur; along with his many nieces and nephews.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents, James Lenard and Maggie Elizabeth (Scott) Carpenter; infant sister, Minerva Carpenter; brothers: Rodger Carpenter, Ty Carpenter, Danny Carpenter, Bill Carpenter.

In keeping with Scott's preference for keeping things simple and avoiding any fuss, services will be private.

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

View Scott Carpenter's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Robert BaerRobert D. "Jake" Baer, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother, passed away peacefully on Wednesda...
09/25/2025

Robert Baer

Robert D. "Jake" Baer, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on January 21, 1933, in Van Wert, Ohio, Jake was a pillar in the lives of those who knew him. On April 28, 1956, he married the former Joanne Johnson.Jake dedicated over 30 years of his life to Tuttle Construction in Lima, where he earned a reputation as a hard-working and loyal carpenter. His craftsmanship and commitment to quality were a testament to his character.A proud United States Army veteran, Jake served during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955 and was a member of the Van Wert American Legion. His service to his country was an important part of his identity, and he carried the values of dedication and loyalty throughout his life.Jake was a humble man, known for his soft-spoken demeanor and his deep love for his family. He made it a priority to support his children and grandchildren, attending their athletic events and activities as often as he could. He took pleasure in simple joys, such as breakfast at The Orchard Tree restaurant. In his days playing high school basketball, Jake led Van Wert County in scoring in 1951.Jake is survived by his children, Bob (Jen) Baer of Cincinnati and Jayme (Jason) Bohyer of Van Wert; his grandchildren, Blake and Karly Bohyer; brothers, Donald "Murph" (Judy) Baer and Charles Baer both of Convoy; a sister, NaDonna Schumm of Bluffton, Indiana; and his special companion, Donna Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Annetta (Upp) Baer; his wife, Joanne E. Baer; a daughter and son, Rhonda Kay Baer and Bobby Joe Baer; brothers, Walter E. "Bud" Baer and Carl D. Baer; sisters, Juanita Black, Betty Wyandt, Bonnie Speelman, Jeanette Smith, Anna Kathryn Rase and Glendora Baer; a half sister, Vera Nortley; sisters in law, Linda Baer;; brothers in law, Ralph Schumm, Earl Speelman, Milo Wyandt, Ronald Rase and Donald Schaadt; sisters in law, Harriet Jean Baer, Betty Schaadt and Barbara Adams; and special nephews, Brent Adams and Ron Rase.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00pm on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Burial will immediately follow in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point, Ohio, where Military graveside services will be conducted by the Van Wert American Legion and VFW Honor Guard.

Visitation will be from 10:00am-12:00pm on Wednesday at the funeral home.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations 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 Robert D. "Jake" Baer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Sandra HirschySandra K. Hirschy, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on T...
09/25/2025

Sandra Hirschy

Sandra K. Hirschy, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the age of 78. She was born on April 30, 1947, in Van Wert, Ohio, and spent her life as a devoted homemaker.

Sandra is survived by her loving husband, Larry Hirschy of Convoy; her two children, Kevin (Annette) Hirschy and Teresa (Ron) Wells both of Van Wert; a sister, Pat Puckett of Muleshoe, Texas. She was proud of her grandchildren, Chad (Whittany) Hirschy, Craig Hirschy, and Cory (Taylor) Hirschy, as well as her step-grandchildren, Britni (Billy) Roth, Kayla (Brandon) Williams, and Hillary Wells. She also cherished her role as a great-grandmother to Kaelynn, Lea, Claire, Emmett, and Lottie Hirschy and to step-great grandchildren Corbett and Cooper Roth, Noah and Dalton Woodruff, Adilynn and Waylon Williams and Mason Boyd.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents, George and Thelma (Stegaman) Walls; and a brother, Robert Hartman.

In addition to her family, Sandra was a member of the Convoy Fox Hunters and found joy in playing bingo and cards. She loved being involved in her children's and grandchildren's lives, attending their activities, and supporting their endeavors.

The family will honor her memory with a funeral service at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 11:00 AM with Rev. Ron Johnson, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert. Visitation will take place on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Convoy or Wren E.M.S.

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

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

View Sandra Hirschy's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

J. Paul SilanceJames Paul Silance, affectionately known as Paul, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 21, 2025, at t...
09/24/2025

J. Paul Silance

James Paul Silance, affectionately known as Paul, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 21, 2025, at the age of 79. Born on August 12, 1946, in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, Paul made his way to Van Wert, Ohio, in 1966. It was there that he met the love of his life, Dorothy Douglas, and they tied the knot on February 16, 1967, embarking on a beautiful journey together.

Paul lived a fulfilling life dedicated to his family and work. He proudly served as a welder at General Dynamics for 30 years, where he was a valued member of the AUW. Retirement didn't slow him down; he obtained his CDL and drove a dump truck, a true testament to his hard working spirit. Paul was also known for his love of repairing vehicles; he and his father-in-law even ran a body shop from his garage, where he found joy in fixing things up.

Together with Dorothy, Paul traveled to every state east of the Mississippi River, where they enjoyed countless camping adventures. A member of the First United Brethren Church in Van Wert for many years, he was also an active participant in community organizations, including the American Legion and formerly the Eagles. Paul had a passion for keeping up with the world, often watching or listening to the news.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Dorothy; sons Kevin (Jozette) Silance of Pennville, IN and Steven Silance of Van Wert; grandsons Seth (Trequjuan) Silance and Ethan Silance, both of Van Wert; and sister Opel Padrick of Jacksonville, NC..

James was preceded in death by his parents, Marion Daniel and Beatrice (Jenkins) Silance; as well as eight siblings: Delores Thompson, John Silance, Jimmy Silance, CT Silance, Daniel Silance, Delbert Silance, Mary Ellen Silance, Marrie Shepherd.

The funeral service will take place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 10:00 AM, at the Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, followed by a committal service at Woodland Cemetery.

A visitation will be held on September 26, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel from 2:00 PM to 4:0 PM and from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM,

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

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

Harry LatimerHarry E. Latimer, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on September 22, 2025, at the age...
09/23/2025

Harry Latimer

Harry E. Latimer, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on September 22, 2025, at the age of 89. He was born on Mother's Day, May 10, 1936, in Payne, Ohio. On June 28, 1975, he married the former Nancy Dunlap. They celebrated 50 years of marriage this year.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, Harry served his country with honor. He retired from Duke Energy in Edgerton, Indiana after many years of dedicated service.

Harry attended Grace Bible Church in Van Wert, Ohio, where he found community and fellowship. His greatest joy came from his family, whom he loved fiercely. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Latimer of Van Wert; his sons, Bill (Maria) Latimer of Milton, Florida and John (Michelle) Latimer of New Haven, Indiana; his daughters, Lynette Latimer Baum of Van Wert, Ruth Anne Latimer of Columbia City, Indiana, and Tami (Tommy Gabric) Latimer Miller; along with 8 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy of love. He is also survived by his very close friends, Bob Barker and Willi Richardson; and many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John C. and Ruth E. (Zartman) Latimer; brothers, Herb and Don Latimer; father in law and mother in law, Charles and Donna Dunlap; sister in law, Liz Geist; brother in law, Jerry Dunlap; and niece, Kimberly Daniels.

Memorial services will be held at 3:00pm on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Grace Bible Church, Van Wert, Ohio. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Van Wert Council on Aging or to a Parkinson's research organization.

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

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

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

Charles BladenCharles E. Bladen, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, ...
09/21/2025

Charles Bladen

Charles E. Bladen, a beloved father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on June 13, 1935, in Madison, IN, to the late Lawrence and Elsie (Spivy) Bladen. Charles made his home in Van Wert and spent many years as a skilled mechanic.

Charles will be remembered for his love of life and his many passions. A former midget car racer, he enjoyed the thrill of the track and brought that same enthusiasm to the bowling alley and golf course. He also had a special talent for music, possessing a beautiful voice that lit up the room during karaoke nights. He loved sharing the standards, often with his own karaoke machine, bringing joy to those around him. Charles was also a proud member of the Elks and Moose, where he formed lasting friendships that enriched his life. As we celebrate his remarkable journey.

He is survived by his daughters: Elizabeth "Libby" (Randy) Shell and Glenna Kelsey; sons: Dave (Laurie) Bladen, Robert (Kelly) Bladen, and Stan Bladen; sisters: Betty Bradbury and Carol Ann (Jim) Gates; as well as 14 grandchildren and many great grandchildren. His presence will be greatly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Bladen, first wife, Frances Poynter Bladen; two sons:, Charles Albert and Louis Edward Bladen; and 9 siblings.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a graveside service at Woodland Cemetery on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 12:15 PM. Visitation will be prior to the graveside service on Tuesday, from 10 AM to 12 PM, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Wesley Church of Van Wert.

To share in Charles' online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory.

View Charles Bladen'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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