Thursday, July 30, 2009

Infant Arinne Lee Klosterman (July 27, 2009 - July 27, 2009)

Infant Arinne Lee Klosterman, passed away Monday, July 27, 2009 at 10:10 A.M. at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton. Infant Arinne was born on July 27, 2009 to Brad & Shelly (Cameron) Klosterman of Bradford.

In addition to the parents, Infant Arinne is survived by a twin brother, Evan A. Klosterman; paternal grandparents, Patrick & Susan Klosterman of Greenville; maternal grandparents, Terry & Kathy Cameron of Arcanum and Carolyn Fox of Vandalia; great grandparents and numerous aunts & uncles.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, July 31, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. at Greenville Cemetery in Baby Land. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville.

Wanda Roberts (January 14, 1935 - July 28, 2009)

Wanda L. Roberts, 74, of Arcanum, died Tuesday morning, July 28, 2009 at Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton. Mrs. Roberts was born in Dayton on January 14, 1935, the daughter of the late Joseph A. and Florence (Baker) Myers. Mrs. Roberts was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church, Arcanum, where she was a member of the Christian Service Guild, and member and former chairperson of the Mission Committee. She was the owner of Roberts Financial and Tax Service, Arcanum. Wanda is survived by her husband James E. Roberts, whom she married April 15, 1967; daughters Vicki Swain and husband Whit of West Virginia and Cindy Maxwell and husband Tim of Centerville; Grandchildren Taylor, Claire, and Spencer Maxwell, Ashleigh and Haldan Swain; Brother Jack Myers and wife Pat of Cartersville, Georgia. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 AM on Monday, August 3, 2009 at Faith United Methodist Church, Arcanum with Rev Paul Chastain officiating. Burial will follow in Abbottsville Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends Sunday 2 - 5 PM at the Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum. Family suggests memorial contributions to Faith United Methodist Church Camp Fund, 101 E. South St., Arcanum, Ohio 45304.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Stockton Shafer (December 20, 1921 - July 26, 2009)

Mr. (Jean) Stockton Shafer, age 87 of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Sunday morning July 26, 2009. Mr. Shafer was born in Muncie, Indiana on December 20, 1921, son of the late Max Reed and Helen (Parsons) Shafer. He lived in Greenville since 1950. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his twin sister Sara Peterson.

Stockton his survived by his wife Virginia, whom he married on New Years Eve in l964 and 3 stepsons—Freddie and David Dean of Greenville and Michael Dean of Troy.

Stockton retired from Checkers Theaters after more than 20 years during which time he managed theaters in Celina, St. Marys and Greenville where he will most likely be remembered as Mr. Shafer the manager of the old State Theater on West Third Street in Greenville. Before this he worked with his Dad in various areas of the milk business operating dairy stores in Circleville, Ashville and the Green Villa Confectionery on South Broadway in Greenville.

A Veteran of W.W. II serving in the U.S. Army and a graduate of Wilmington College of Ohio, he had been director of the Greenville Boys Club from 1958 to 1964 and helped Bob Hawes before it was moved from the basement of the Memorial Hall. He was the County Chairman of the Christian Rural Overseas Program (CROP) for six years and a member of the Greenville Rotary Club for more then 35 years. He was a member of the Greenville Masonic Lodge #143 and Fort Black Eastern Star for over 50 years and a member of the Greenville American Legion for that time as well.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday July 31, 2009 in the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church 201 S. Broadway Greenville, Ohio with Rev. Colin Barros officiating. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 5 till 8 P.M. in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio and on Friday l hour prior to the services in the church. Full Military Services will be held at 4:30 P.M. Thursday by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard and a Masonic Memorial Service will be held at 7:30 P.M. Thursday in the funeral home. The graveside service will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

Riley S. Brandon (July 3, 1924 - July 26, 2009)

Riley S. Brandon age 85 of Versailles, passed away at 4:40 P.M. on Sunday, July 26, 2009 at Versailles Health Care Center. Riley was born July 3, 1924 in Darke County, Ohio, to the late Charles & Hazel (Stoner) Brandon.

Riley was a contractor. He owned and operated Brandon Brothers Construction Company in Versailles. Riley served in the U.S. Army during WWII and received a Purple Heart Medal for his services. Riley was a graduate of Versailles High School with the class of 1942. He played ball for the Tigers.

Riley was an avid sports fan, particularly following all his grandchildren’s activities; he also loved to play cards with his grandchildren. He enjoyed collecting and refinishing antiques; collecting marbles; loved to mow and go to the Sweet Shop for coffee. Riley served on the Board of Directors at Versailles Savings & Loan for 27 years; and served 2 terms for the Versailles Development Association. He was a member of the Darke County Farm Bureau; Versailles V.F.W. and Greenville D.A.V. He was a past member of the Versailles American Legion, Versailles Athletic Boosters, Versailles Music Boosters and Versailles Alumni Association. Riley served on various founding committees for Versailles Poultry Days and was in charge of the group that built the first bleachers at Hole Field.

In addition to his parents, Riley is also preceded in death by his brothers, Kenneth & Ralph Brandon.
Riley is survived by his wife, Jeanne L. (Lyons) Brandon, whom he married January 28, 1950. He is also survived by a daughter & son-in-law, Kimberly & Jim Schulte of Versailles; grandchildren, John, Jessica and Kristen Schulte; and brother & sister-in-law, Richard & Wanda Brandon of Versailles.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at 10:30 A.M. at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles, with Pastor Dennis Wheeler officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Versailles. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. and Wednesday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home. Military graveside services will be conducted by the Versailles Veterans Honor Guard. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to State of the Heart Hospice or Versailles Christian Church.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Neva G. Troutman (April 16, 1918 - July 24, 2009)

Mrs. Neva G. (Fourman) Troutman, 91, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Friday, July 24, 2009 at 5:33 AM at Rest Haven Nursing Home, Greenville, Ohio. She was born on April 16, 1918 in Darke County, Ohio to the late Ray C. & Gladys (Dickey) Fourman.

Neva was a homemaker and a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by; husband, Thomas C. Troutman; infant brother, Walter Fourman; brothers, Cecil & Dale Fourman; sisters, Edith Fourman and Mildred (Fourman) Spencer; step children, Neva (Troutman) Brining, Leola (Troutman) Edger and Regina (Troutman) Geiger.

She is survived by; sisters, Lois (Fourman) Best of Greenville and Doris (Fourman) Ward of Greenville; niece, Marilyn McMiller of Greenville as well as numerous other nieces and nephews; step grandchildren, Carol (Edger) Landis of Greenville and Mary Ann (Edger) VanVickle of Greenville; close friend and caretaker, Susan (VanVickle) Weisenbarger of Arcanum, Ohio as well as several step great grandchildren and step great great grandchildren.

There will be a Memorial Graveside Service held on Wednesday July 29, 2009 at 2:00 PM at the Greenmound Cemetery in New Madison, Ohio with Pastor Lowell Miller officiating. There will be no public visitation. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Rest Haven Activity Fund. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Jackie Lee Holland, Sr. (September 14, 1936 - July 22, 2009)

Mr. Jackie Lee Holland Sr., 72, of Greenville, Ohio passed on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 5:00 PM as a result of an automobile accident. He was born on September 14, 1936 in Darke County, Ohio to the late Raymond L. & Marie (Goens) Holland.

He worked at Westing House in Union City, Ohio for 35 years. He was a member of the United States Army and Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He loved baseball and gardening. Jack successfully fought to prevent a Mega Dairy CAFO from establishing itself in Longtown.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by; son, Jackie Lee Holland Jr.; siblings, Eugene, Betty, Verlin, Jim and Bill.

He is survived by; wife, Vicki (Aiello) Holland of Greenville whom he married on December 4, 1999; sons, Daniel Dotson, Jamie Dotson, Brett Holland and Greg Holland; daughters, Barbara Gunkle and Lisa Holland-Walker; numerous grandchildren; brother and sister in law, Cecil & Charlotte Holland of Greenville; sister & brother in law, Donna & Phillip Clemens of Muncie, Indiana as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a service held on Tuesday July 28, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville with President Phil Garbig presiding. Burial will follow in the Bass Cemetery in Liberty Township, Ohio. Family will receive friends on Monday July 27, 2009 from 6-8 PM at the funeral home. There will be a Military Graveside service conducted by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard.

Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Ella M. Stevenson (June 7, 1926 - July 24, 2009)

Ella M. (Kay) Stevenson, 83, of Arcanum, died Friday, July 24, 2009 at Miami Valley Hospital, Dayton. Mrs. Stevenson was born in Joy, Illinois on June 7, 1926, the daughter of the late Marvin M. and Ella Mae (Kelsey) Walters. She was a retired Registered Nurse, a graduate of the Middletown Hospital School of Nursing; member of the Army Cadet Nursing Corp. She was a member of Faith United Methodist Church, Church Choir, and Christian Science Guild. Ella was a member of the Arcanum Criterion Club. She was preceded in death by her 1st husband John A. Kay who died December 11, 1973, 2 brothers Paul and Henry Walters. Ella was the loving wife of John E. Stevenson; Mother of Anne (Kay) Michel and husband Rev Dr. David of Huntertown, IN and Julie (Kay) Ullery and husband Daryl of Winchester, KY; Grandmother of Corrine, Allison, and Jon Michel, James Ullery and wife Brooke, Katherine Ullery; Sister of Ralph Walters and wife Alice, of Princeton, IN and Marvin Walters and wife Joanne of Altaloma, CA; and Aunt of many Nieces and Nephews. Graveside Services will be held 11:00 AM, August 14, 2009 at Buffalo Springs Cemetery, Stanford, KY with Rev Dr. David Michel officiating. A memorial service will be held August 15, 2009 at 10:30 AM at the Faith United Methodist Church, Arcanum with Rev Tom Hite and Rev Paul Chastain officiating. The family suggests Memorial Contributions to the Faith United Methodist Church Choir Fund or the Arcanum Public Library. Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum in charge of arrangements.

Marilyn K. Custer (April 18, 1947 - July 24, 2009)

Marilyn K. Custer, 62, of Arcanum, died Friday evening, July 24, 2009 at Vitas Hospice, Dayton. Marilyn had been in failing health. Mrs. Custer was born in Greenville on April 18, 1947, the daughter of the late Robert and Velma (Trick) Unger. She was a beautician working for the By All Means Beauty Shop. Marilyn was preceded in death by her son Michael Custer Jr., who died October 18, 2008 and her father-in-law Harold Custer. She is survived by her husband Michael Custer Sr., whom she married December 21, 1963; her daughter Sherry Rosenberger and husband Rob of Clarksville, IN; daughter-in-law Rita Custer of Greenville; grandchildren Michael and Matthew Custer; step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren; Mother-in-law Olive Mae Custer of Arcanum; and cousins. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM on Thursday, July 30, 2009 at the Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum with Pastor Dan Kuhbander officiating. Burial will follow in Castine Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends Wednesday 5 - 7 PM at the funeral home. The Family suggests memorial contributions to Cancer Association of Darke County, 209 East Fourth Street, Greenville, Ohio 45331.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Victoria L. Mathis (July 22, 2009)

Mrs. Victoria “Vicki” L. Mathis, 48, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 6:40 PM at her residence. She was born on August 4, 1960 in Bismarck, North Dakota to Margaret (Gatrill) Godown of Greenville, Ohio and the late Don Vaughn.

Vicki worked as a Social Worker at the Head Start in Union City, Ohio. She attended the Church in Fairborn in Fairborn, Ohio.

In addition to her father she is preceded in death by; sister, Lisa A. Vaughn; uncle, William Gatrill and step father Deo Godown.

In addition to her mother she is survived by; husband, David Mathis of Greenville whom she married on February 19, 1977; daughters and sons in law, Jessica & Jeremy Gonzalez of Greenville and April & James Davidson of Fairborn, Ohio; sons and daughter in law, David & Julie Mathis of Huber Heights, Ohio and Aaron Mathis of Greenville; grandchildren, Caden & Kaitlyn Gonzalez, Brooke Mathis, David Mathis and Camden Mathis; sister and brother in law, Debra & Eric Augustine of Greenville; nieces and nephews, Alicie Rossi, Tiffaney Gregory, James Augustine, Michael Augustine, Matthew Augustine as well as numerous nieces and nephews on her husbands side; step mother, Laura Vaughn, Lancaster, Ohio; mother in law, Treva Hockett of Greenville.

There will be a service held on Sunday, July 26, 2009 at 10:00 AM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio with Rev John McRoberts officiating. Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Ft. Jefferson, Ohio. Family will receive friends on Saturday, July 25, 2009 from 2-4 PM at the funeral home. The family would like to send a thank you to the Hospice of Dayton Crisis Care Nurses.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Donor’s Choice. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Eriel Luis Valde (May 19, 1986 - July 20, 2009)

Specialist Eriel Luis Valdes, 23, was a member of the 101st Airborne Infantry stationed at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. Eriel passed away on July 20, 2009 at 4:30 AM in Hopkinsville, Kentucky as a result of an automobile accident. Eriel was a originally from Greenville, Ohio before entering into the military.

He was born on May 19, 1986 in Miami, Florida to Diana (Sleppy) Valdes of Greenville, Ohio and Ozmani Valdes of Miami, Florida. Eriel was a member of the United States Army serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and has 3 purple hearts. He is a member of the American Legion, St. Mary’s Catholic Church and was an avid fisherman.

He is preceded in death by; maternal great grandparents, Kathryn Musselman, Wilbur Musselman, Russell Sleppy Sr., Catherine Small and Otho Small; aunt, Deb Sleppy.

In addition to his parents he is survived by; fiancée, Miranda Eisen of Greenville; brother, Joel Valdes of Greenville; maternal grandparents, Wilma Musselman of Greenville and Russell Sleppy Jr. of Greenville; paternal grandparents, Moriama Valdes of Miami, Florida and Carlos Valdes of Cuba as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, great aunts and uncles.

Services are pending at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. There will be a memorial fund set up at a local bank for contributions to be given to Eriel’s unborn child. We will have more details soon. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Nell G. McVay (November 14, 1919 - July 19, 2009)

Nell G. McVay, 89 of Southaven, Mississippi & formerly of Greenville, Ohio, died at the Landmark Nursing Home in Horn Lake, Mississippi where she was recovering from a fall at her son’s home where she had resided for the past 11 years. She was born in Greenville on November 14, 1919, where she and her deceased husband William C. McVay owned and operated McVay’s Newsstand and Gift Shop. She also worked at the Smart Shop and Bratemans.

In addition to her husband, she is also preceded in death by a daughter, Sandra K. Miller and a son, Michael C. McVay. She is survived by her son & daughter-in-law, William A. & Shirley McVay; granddaughter, Christina K. McVay; and step-grandsons, Christopher & Eric Daugherty.

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. at Greenville Cemetery in the new section, with Rev. Joe Payne officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville.

Susane Hinnes (May 9, 1931 - July 17, 2009)

Mrs. Susanne (Murphy) Hines, 78, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Friday, July 17, 2009 at 8:05 AM at Rest Haven Nursing Home, Greenville, Ohio. She was born on May 9, 1931 in Greenville, Ohio to the late Richard H. & Bernice (Ungericht) Murphy.

Susanne worked at Sheller Globe in Union City for 10 years and then Service America for 10 years. She was a member of the Trinity Wesleyan Church in Greenville and loved to read, ceramics, knitting and crocheting.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by; 1st husband, Jack Weybright Sr. whom she married in 1949; 2nd Husband, John Hines whom she married in 1976; and a sister, Francis Murphy.

She is survived by; daughters and sons in law, Gloria Weybright of Decatur, Indiana, Penny & Steve Clark of Greenville and Cindy & Rick Brown of Greenville; son and daughter in law, Jack & Rita Weybright Jr. of West Lafayette, Indiana; 19 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild; step sons and daughters in law, Randy (Shana) Hines of Piqua, Ohio, Terry & Tina Hines of Piqua, Ohio, and Mike & Becky Hines of Sidney, Ohio; step daughter and son in law, Penny & Brian Diltz of Covington, Ohio; brothers and sisters in law, Richard & Franciose Murphy of Greenville and William & Marcella Murphy of Greenville; sister and brother in law, Patricia & Jacque Durr of Exton, Pennsylvania as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a private graveside service held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial Contributions can be made to the Darke County Cancer Association. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Nelson T. Barga (July 29, 1922 - July 17, 2009)

Nelson T. “Birt” Barga age 86 of Frenchtown, Ohio, passed away at 8:20 P.M. on Friday, July 17, 2009 at Wayne Hospital in Greenville. Nelson was born July 29, 1922 in Versailles, Ohio, to the late Arthur & Carrie (Swartz) Barga.

Nelson formerly worked at Eldora Speedway and for 40 years he worked at GM in the Frigidaire Plant, retiring on January 1, 1986. Nelson was a Veteran of WWII, serving in the U.S. Army as a Tech. Sgt. with Company I, 22nd Infantry-4th Division. Nelson was among the first in the Invasion of France. Nelson received a Purple Heart for his service to his Country. Nelson was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Frenchtown. He was a life member of the D.A.V., V.F.W., and the American Legion in Greenville. He was also a member of the Greenville Elks Lodge, Versailles Eagles Lodge, and the Versailles Knights of Columbus.

In addition to his parents, Nelson is also preceded in death by his brothers, Marvin Barga in WWII and Richard Barga.

Nelson is survived by his loving wife, Susan M. (Baltes) Barga, whom he married June 23, 1955. Susan graciously appreciates Nelson’s care & support in helping her care for her parents. He is also survived by his sons & daughters-in-law, Keith J. & Donna Barga of Laura and Kent L. & Lisa Barga of Versailles; grandchildren, Andrea Barga and Eric Barga; brothers & sisters-in-law, Norman & Edna Barga of Union City, Indiana, and Thomas & Mary Lou Barga of Vandalia; sister & brother-in-law, Ann & Tim Wehrley of Greenville; and sister-in-law, Eileen Barga of Versailles.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Denis Catholic Church in Versailles, with Rev. Fr. David Vincent celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Valbert Cemetery in Versailles. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M. and Wednesday morning from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles. Military graveside services will be conducted by the Greenville Veteran’s Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to Versailles Emergency Medical Services.

Ross J. Miller (July 18, 2009)

Ross J. Miller, 84, of Greenville, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2009 at his residence.

He was born in Darke County, son of the late Grover A. and Wilma Leo (Ross) Miller. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis Faye (Martin) Miller; his second wife, Marian A. (Long) Brinley-Miller; a son, Terry Brinley; a great grandson, Isaac Brinley; and a brother, Jesse J. Miller.

Ross was a retired farmer as well as being retired from the former Westinghouse in Union City. He was a veteran of the US Army having served in WWII. He was a member of the Nashville Methodist Church, the American Legion Post #140 and the Darke County Farm Bureau.

He is survived by his children, Terry (Joyce) Miller, Randy (Susie) Miller, Roland (Brenda) Brinley, Mark (Vickie) Brinley; a daughter in law, Connie Brinley; grandchildren, Shelly Capetillo, Rhonda Reagan, Chris Brewer, Shanna Hines, Bret, Dane, Lisa, Matt, Josh, Jeff and Alyssa Brinley and Jaime Roseberry; great grandchildren, Hunter, Christopher and Elizabeth Jane; sister, Betty Brumbaugh and Ireta Beard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held Wednesday, July 22 at 10:30 a.m. at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville. Burial with full military honors will follow in the Greenville Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home Tuesday, July 21 from 5-8 p.m. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to State of the Heart Hospice.

Marion E. Loy (July 17, 2009)

Marion E. Loy, 94, of Greenville, passed away Friday evening, July 17, 2009 at Heartland of Greenville.

He was born in Darke County, son of the late Claud and Alga (Ware) Loy. In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by two brothers, Duane Loy and Robert Leon Loy; and a sister, Audrey Drew.

A 1933 graduate of Jackson School, Marion was a retired farmer having raised dairy cattle, sheep and miniature goats. He was a member of the Teegarden Congregational Christian Church near Ansonia for whom he had served as Sunday school Superintendent for several years. He had been a 4-H leader and was a member of the Miami Valley Milk Producers with whom he had held many positions, and various other agricultural associations.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Evelyn (Wenger) Loy whom he married July 2, 1938; his children, Dean (Jennifer) Loy of Greenville and Marilyn (Larry E.) Delk of Greenville; grandchildren, Stephanie (Ryan) Beisner, Nicole Loy, Jeffrey (Marie) Delk and Melissa (Greg) Schreck; a great granddaughter, Emily Schreck; and a brother, Gene Loy of Greenville.

Services will be held at the Teegarden Congregational Christian Church, near Ansonia, Tuesday, July 21, at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Eric Knight officiating. Burial will follow in the Teegarden Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville on Monday, July 20 from 6-8 p.m. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to the Teegarden Congregational Christian Church.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Bertha Fisher (February 15, 1926 - July 16, 2009)

Bertha Acton Fisher, age 83 of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Thursday July 16, 2009 at 7:42 PM at Heartland of Greenville. She was born February 15, 1926 in Richmond, Indiana the daughter of the late Campbell & Lucille (Lephart) Merritt.

She was a waitress at many local restaurants and worked for Troy Sunshade for 10 years. She was a life member of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

She is preceded in death by her parents, 1st Husband: James Garner, 2nd Husband: Alger Acton, 3rd Husband: Richard Fisher; Daughters: Lucille (Acton) Barhorst, Pam (Acton) Perez; Grandson: Victor Perez; Brothers: Campbell, Walt, Earl, Bob, & Jim Merritt; Sisters: Jane Jordon, Ethel Apperson.

She is survived by her Sons & daughters in law: David & Kathy Acton of Greenville, William & Jan Garner of Greenville, James & Pam Garner of Pitsburg; Several grandchildren & great grandchildren; Brother: Jon Merritt of Washington Courthouse; Special niece: Rosie Sanborn of Richmond, Virginia.

A memorial graveside service will be held on Tuesday July 21, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Gettysburg Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice.

Allison Bree Mills (July 14, 2009)

Allison Bree Mills, infant daughter of Brian Esser and Kenneth and Naomi Mills of Union City, Ohio passed away unexpectedly at the emergency room of Wayne Hospital in Greenville.

In addition to her parents, Allison is survived by her brothers and sister, Jeremy Harris, Jasmin Harris, Dillon Mills and Dante Mills; paternal grandparents, Lynn Mills of Pennville, IN, Darla Anderson of Union City, OH, John and Sue Esser of Greenville; maternal grandmother, Elaine Harper of Illinois; paternal great grandparents, Evelyn and Gary Sierer of Union City, OH and Mildred Turner of Greenville.

Graveside Services will be held Saturday, July 18 at 11 a.m. at the Union City Cemetery Babyland with Rev. Bruce Bryan officiating.

Obituary courtesy of Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home

Robert J. Cox (May 26, 1923 - July 16, 2009)

Robert J. "RJ" Cox, 86, of Arcanum, died late Thursday evening, July 16th, 2009 at Rest Haven, Greenville. Mr. Cox was born in Darke County May 26, 1923, the son of the late Clark and Marie (Jones) Cox. RJ graduated from Franklin High School in 1941. He served four years in the US Army Air Corp during WWII. Mr. Cox graduated from Ohio Northern University College of Law in 1951. He practiced law in Darke County for 50 years. RJ was the founder and president of the RJ Cox Company/Cox Trailers. He served on the Franklin Monroe School Board for 32 1/2 years and was a former member of the American Legion and Lions Club. Mr. Cox was preceded in death by an infant daughter and two brothers RB Cox and Herbert W. Cox. He is survived by his wife Virginia L. (Ross) Cox whom he married December 2, 1951; 3 daughters: Barbara Brumbaugh (Mike Romer), Susan Kakatolis and husband Peter both of Arcanum, Kathleen Cowest and husband Tom of Hokah MN.; 3 sons; Jim Cox and wife Claudia of Hurley WS.; John Cox and wife Sue, Joseph Cox and wife Mary both of Arcanum.; 11 grandchildren: Jessica (Matt) Kremer, Jarrod (Jill) Brumbaugh, Clarisa (Phil) Gunder, Tyler (Lindsey) Cox, Allie Cox and fiancé Scott Oswalt, Brian Cox and fiancé Jennifer Pertuset, Kelli (Derrick) Selhorst, Justin Cox, Elaina and Kaitlyn Kakatolis, Richard Meeker. 6 great grandchildren: Presley and Vail Cox, Addison Selhorst, Brylee Kremer, RJ Brumbaugh, and Maggie Gunder: sister-in-Law Deanna Puterbaugh, Greenville. Funeral Services will be held 10:00 AM, Monday July 20, 2009 at the Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum with the Rev. Samuel Hoeflich officiating. Burial will follow in the Newcomer Cemetery with the Greenville Veterans providing military graveside services. Family will receive relatives and friends 2 - 5 PM Sunday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers the family request contributions to the Franklin Monroe Alumni Scholarship Fund. Condolences may be sent to KreitzerFuneralHomeInc.com.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Novella Louise (Fisher) Puterbaugh

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Novella Louise (Fisher) Puterbaugh, 84, a resident of Springfield, Mo., since 1962, peacefully passed on to her new life after multiple illnesses on July 9, 2009.

She was born July 8, 1925, in Miami County.

She attended elementary and junior high school at Favorite Hill and South in Piqua, respectively. A 1943 graduate of Bradford High School, she was elected May Queen her sophomore year and marched in the band as majorette. After graduation, she worked as a telephone operator in Bradford and then in the correspondence department at WACO, a manufacturer of gliders, in Troy.

She studied nursing under the government's Cadet Nurse Program and proudly graduated in 1947 from Miami Valley School of Nursing in Dayton, with an RN degree. She practiced nursing after her marriage on April 18, 1947, at several hospitals - Miami Valley, Piqua Memorial and Dettmer in Ohio, and Burge in Springfield, Mo.

Known for her attention to detail and for "writing everything down," she was an expert cook and a passionate genealogist. She researched and wrote an account of the World War II Battan Death March in the Philippines describing the events in terms of her cousin Byran Fisher who perished there. An inveterate reader (she joined the book-of-the-month club with her first pay check), she especially relished the characters and language of Jane Austin. She also enjoyed sewing, quilting and collecting dolls. A loving and caring mother, she lived for her family and entertained them constantly with her acid wit.

She was preceded in death by parents Elsie Edith (Bodenmiller) and Jesse Lee Fisher; and parents-in-law, Hazel Angela (Noffsinger) and Forest T. Puterbaugh, all long-time residents of Miami County.

She is survived by her high-school sweetheart and loving husband, Forest J. Puterbaugh of Springfield, Mo., and daughters, Leslie (Puterbaugh) Blankenship and her partner, Sandoll A. Andromeda of Columbus and Sherry (Puterbaugh) Davison and her partner Ray Irwin of Springfield, Mo.; sisters and their spouses, Janice (Fisher) and C. J. Hocker of Bradford, Jewel (Fisher) and Bob Booghier (deceased) of Springfield and Joann (Fisher) and Ed Owen of Farmington, N.M.; brother, Chalmer and spouse June Fisher of Covington; brothers-in-law, Kenny and spouse Donna Puterbaugh of Livonia, Mich., and Harold (Joan, deceased) Schultz of Cincinnati; sisters-in-law, Helen (Paul, deceased) Puterbaugh of Bradford and Peg (Jim, deceased) Puterbaugh of Piqua; and many, many loving nieces and nephews, Chris Palsgrove, Jerry Hocker, Steve Hocker, Caren Cashell, Julie Lockard, Brad Coverdale, Curtiss Owen, Roger Owen, Steve Baker, Laura Baker, Scott Fisher and Jody Boehringer; and the children of deceased sisters-in-law and spouses, Cleata (Lester) Rhoades, Lenore (Paul) Finfrock, Evelyn (Waldo Rhoades, Morris Fine), Lois (Larry) Boyer and Joan (Harold) Schultz; and the children of deceased brothers-in-law and spouses, Stanley (Bert) Puterbaugh, Paul (Helen) Puterbaugh, Ivan "Buddy" (Pat) Puterbaugh, Jim (Peg) Puterbaugh and Joel (Karolyn) Puterbaugh.

Visitation was from 6-8 p.m. July 13, 2009, at Greenlawn South, Springfield, Mo., and from 6-8 p.m. July 16, 2009, at Stocker-Fraley, Covington. Services will be at 11 a.m. July 17, 2009, at Bridges-Stocker-Fraley Funeral Home, Covington. Burial will follow at Highland Cemetery, Covington. The family suggests that memorial donations be made to the charity of the donor's choice.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Linn A. Drake (February 4, 1923 - July 12, 2009)

Mr. Linn A. Drake, age 86 of Greenville, Ohio passed away at 7:54 A.M. Sunday July 12, 2009 in the Miami Valley Hospital Dayton, Ohio. He was born February 4, 1923 in York Township Darke County, Ohio. He is the son of the late Elmer and Opal (Sanders) Drake.

Linn was retired as a self-employed painter, having primarily worked in the Greenville and Darke County are also formerly owned and operated Drake Photography Studio in downtown Greenville. He was a Veteran of W.W. II serving in the U.S. Navy. He was a former member of the American Legion, V.F.W., Eagles Lodge and Moose Lodge all of Greenville. He enjoyed photography, bowling, playing his guitar and most recently his computer.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Frances L. (Martin) Drake September 19, 2004. Also by 2 brothers—Homer & Walter Drake.

He is survived by his daughter and son in law—Diana L. & Ron Thobe of Ansonia. Grandchildren—Jody Pipenger, Dean Pipenger and Naiesha Thobe. Great Grandchildren—Danielle Pipenger, Ashley Pipenger, Christopher Pipenger and Chancey Pipenger. Great Great Grandchildren—Mya Rehmert and Jayden Jess. Brothers and sister in law—Wayne & Ruth Drake of California and Ernie Drake of Greenville. Also numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Friday July 17, 2009 in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio with Rev. John Seeley officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenville Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 6 till 8 P.M. in the funeral home. Full Military Services will be conducted by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard.

Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

LaVerne Franklin Ditty (April 10, 1922 - July 12, 2009)

LaVerne Franklin Ditty, 87, of New Madison passed away Sunday, July 12, 2009 in Richmond, Indiana at the home of his granddaughter, Shannon.

LaVerne was born April 10, 1922 in Greenville, Ohio to the late Lloyd Mansel and Mary Catherine (Witters) Ditty.

LaVerne had numerous jobs throughout his life including construction, welding, factory and farming. He worked at Wayne Works as a body finisher before going into the Army. He was in World War II from 1942 until 1945 and traveled to many countries during this conflict, including Germany, England and France. He returned home and began working in Richmond, Indiana at Crosley which later became AVCO. There he was a set up man for screw machines. He was employed there for 28 years until they went out of business. LaVerne then worked at Hoffco before retiring to his farm and continued farming until 2004.

LaVerne is survived by his five children; Robert (Scherie) Peters of Greenville, James “Deacon” (Patty) Ditty, Marilyn Ditty and (Steve Schmidt) and Linda Woodyard all of New Madison, and Frank Ditty of Richmond, Indiana; an adopted son, Keith Oler of New Paris; 15 grandchildren, Robert (Kelli) Holsapple, Hope (Lyle) Eyer, Lisa (Troy) Porter, Jamey Woodyard, Christy (Robbie) Hager, Melinda (Andre) Ester, Kelly Peters, Sarah Ditty, Shannon (Dave) Wysong, Rachel Ditty, Jason Peters, Justin Peters, Daniel Ditty, Carlissa Ditty, and Matthew Woodyard; 21 great-grandchildren; a brother, Lloyd Ditty of Greenville; and many nieces and nephews.

LaVerne is preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Phyllis (Peters) in 1998; four brothers, Charles, Robert, Daniel, and Aaron Ditty; and a grandson, Brandon Peters in 2005.

The family will receive guests on Thursday, July 16, 2009 from 5-9 p.m. at Storch Braund Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Friday, July 17, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. also at the funeral home. Burial will be held in the Greenmound Cemetery, New Madison.

The family would like to thank Shannon Wysong, Melinda Ester and Matthew Woodyard for all the special care given to your papaw.

Memorial contributions may be made to Tri-Village Rescue, Rural Metro of Richmond or Reid Hospice.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.storchbraundfuneralhome.com. Services are entrusted to Storch Braund Funeral Home in New Madison.

Marilyn J. Weaver (November 3, 1936 - July 14, 2009)

Marilyn J. Weaver, 72, of Arcanum, died unexpectedly early Tuesday morning, July 14, 2009 at Wayne Hospital, Greenville. Mrs. Weaver was born in Arcanum on November 3, 1936, the daughter of the late Jesse and Mabel (Houdeshell) Strawser. She was a member of Faith United Methodist Church, Arcanum and a member of their Christian Service Guild. She worked as a clerk for the Arcanum Public Library for 28 years. Marilyn is survived by her husband Jon B. Weaver, whom she married September 24, 1957; daughters Holly J. Besecker of Greenville and Mary B. Weaver of Arcanum; Grandchildren Atlanta Moore, Tammy Cockerham, and Jessalyn Besecker; Step Grandson Jason Cockerham; Sisters Charlotte Laughman of Arcanum and Phyllis Jones and husband Bill of Hillsboro; Brother Don Strawser and wife Jeannie of Greenville; Brother-in-law Robert Albright of Columbus. Funeral Services will be held 10:30 AM on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum with Rev Paul Chastain officiating. Burial will follow in Ithaca Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends Friday 5 - 8 PM at the funeral home. Family suggests memorial contributions to the Arcanum Public Library or the American Heart Association.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Mary M. Gasper (December 7, 1925 - July 11, 2009)

Mrs. Mary Margarite (Wood) Gasper, 83, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2009 at 1:40 AM at her residence. She was born on December 7, 1925 in Darke County, Ohio to the late Clisba D. & Marguerite (Broughman) Wood.

Mary was a housewife and worked at Lamberts in Ansonia, Ohio for 10 years. She was a member of the Trinity Wesleyan Church, loved crafts, playing cards, crocheting, sewing, and being with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by; husband, Charles Gasper; sisters, Nadine Clemens and Cora Passon Ward; and brother, John Robert Wood.

She is survived by; son and daughter in law, Charles M. & Donna Gasper of Greenville; daughters and sons in law, Bonita & Roger Moyer of Greenville, Connie & Gary Bruner of Greenville and Darlena  Jeff Ringley of York, Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Kim (Brent) Fourman, Kelly (Mark) Altic, Lonnie Moyer, Kevin Bruner, Denise (Tim) Keller, Jenny (Nick) Diehl, Amber Ringley and Christopher (Anais) Ringley; great grandchildren, Kyle & Kaitlin Fourman, Sean Moyer, Logan & Levi Altic, Konner, Abby, Lance and Cooper Keller; sisters, Wanetta Wissinger of West Milton, Ohio, Edith Cook of Greenville and Avo Sleppy of Greenville as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

There will be a memorial service held on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Trinity Wesleyan Church, 1400 East Main Street, Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Elwood Stuart officiating. Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery, Ft. Jefferson, Ohio. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the services at church. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Lamp Lighter Sunday School Class or to Trinity Wesleyan Church. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Friday, July 10, 2009

Frank Graham (July 10, 1925 - July 9, 2009)

Mr. Frank J. “Potsy” Graham Jr., 83, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Thursday, July 09, 2009 at 6:50 AM at his residence. He was born on July 10, 1925 in Brown County, Ohio to the late Frank J. & Merle (Jefferis) Graham Sr.

Frank was the owner of Bakers Barbershop in Greenville from 1957 – 1970. Then he retired in 1981 from Massey Ferguson as a salesman. After retirement he went back to work at the Broadway Barbershop.

He was a member of the United States Navy CB. He was stationed in North Africa and South Pacific during WWII. He was an avid golfer and loved being with his family.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by; brothers, Charles, Lee, Carl and Joe Graham; son in law, Bill Fisher.

He is survived by; Wife, Patricia A. (Lindamood) Graham of Greenville, Ohio whom he married on December 7, 1952; daughters and sons in law, Denise (Jim) Purnhagen of Greenville, Tonya (Jeff) Dohme of Greenville, Carla (Randy) Swank of Greenville, Darla Fisher of Greenville, Jamie (Michael) Osborne of Germantown, Ohio and Tracey (Allen) Luce of Greenville; grandchildren, Ali (Mike) Honeyman, Lindsay Purnhagen, Kiley (Jeremy) Bronson, Meaghan (Gregg) Kutter, Tyler, Graham, and Haleigh Luce, Katie Beanblossom, Kelsey & Jordy Swank, Josh & Jacy Dohme, Adam & Zach Osborne and Ashton Dohme; great grandchildren, Keegan, Aidan, Ethan, Mikayla, Melanie, Brooklyn and Kaleb; sister, Glenda Howell of Atwater, California; brother and sister in law, Robert “Bob” & Sadie Graham of San Francisco, California; honorary pallbearers, Tyler Luce, Jordy Swank, Graham Luce, Robert Graham, Sam Lindamood, Mark Myers and Josh Dohme; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be a service held on Monday, July 13, 2009 at 10:30 AM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville with Mr. Randall Clay officiating. There will be a private graveside service held at the convenience of the family. Family will receive friends on Sunday, July 12, 2009 from 2-5 PM at the funeral home. There will be a graveside military service conducted by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions can be made to the State of the Heart Hospice or to the Darke County Cancer Association. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Betty H. Delk (October 29, 1923 - July 6, 2009)

Mrs. Betty H. Delk, 85, of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 2:30 PM at Quaker Heights Care Community in Waynesville, Ohio. She was born on October 29, 1923 in Darke County, Ohio to the late Roy & Treva (Bashore) Lecklider.

Betty retired from Fram Corp. of Greenville in 1976 where she had been employed for 19 years. She was a member of the Union City Eagles Ladies Auxiliary and the Greenville American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by; husband, Richard E. Delk whom she married on November 25, 1959; son, Robert D. Miller; brother, Kenneth Lecklider; and sisters, Thelma Drew and Ruth Lecklider.

Betty is survived by; daughters and sons in law, Connie & William Walters of Austintown, Ohio, Carol & Tim Reck of Arcanum, Ohio and Sharon Vogel of Waynesville, Ohio; 14 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

There will be a service held on Friday, July 10, 2009 at 2:30 PM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville with Pastor Hugh Hurley officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenville Cemetery, Greenville, Ohio. Family will receive friends on Friday from 12-30 – 2-30 PM at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the State of the Heart Hospice. Condolence for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

James W. "Jim" Brenner (July 7, 2009)

James W. "Jim" Brenner, 72, of Greenville, passed away Tuesday afternoon, July 7, 2009 at Wayne Hospital in Greenville.

He was born in Union City, OH, son of the late Everett Westly and Jennie Catherine (Shepherd) Brenner. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a brother, George "Bud" Brenner, and three sisters, Geraldine Byrum, Betty Bryant and Violet Kay Brenner.

A veteran of the US Army, Jim had retired from the former John May Chevrolet in Greenville where he had worked as a paint and body man. He was a member of the EUM Church in and Greenville. He was a member of the Greenville Moose Lodge where he obtained the Fellowship Degree and was a lifetime member of the Eagles Lodge in Greenville. He enjoyed driving in demolition derbies and was an avid Nascar fan. Jim's most enjoyment came from family campouts.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Linda (Keaser) Brenner, whom he married September 7, 1968; his children, Cindy (Chuck) Scheiding-Fitzgerald of Greenville, Cheryl (Richard) Scheiding-LaFuze of Navarre, FL, Tonya and friend Bruce Glaze) Scheiding-Beasley of Greenville, Tammy (Dennis) Scheiding-Cothran of Navarre, FL, Robin (Dean) Hunt of Winchester, IN, Charnell (Clay) Hough of Texas and Jimmy Brenner of Missouri; 13 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; and a sister, Margaret Spoor of Michigan.

Services will be held Friday, July 10 at 7 p.m. at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville.

The family will receive friends Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. with the Moose offering a Lodge of Sorrow at 7 p.m. The family requests memorial contributions be given to State of the Heart Hospice.

Marcella J. Brown (September 21, 1935 - July 7, 2009)

Marcella J. Brown, 73, of Arcanum died Tuesday afternoon, July 7, 2009 at Wayne Hospital, Greenville. She was born September 21, 1935 in Greenville to the late Herman and Margaret (Folkerth) Unger. Marcella was the comptroller of Ball Publishing, Greenville. She was a member of St. John Lutheran Church. Maecella was preceded in death by her husband Ronald E. Brown, son Dan Brown and her sister Georgia Shroyer. She is survived by her daughter Jennifer Ewing and husband Randy of Arcanum; son Dennis Brown and wife Sharon of Alabama; 7 Grandchildren Heather Sanders and husband Mark, Christopher Brown, Katlyn and Taylor McCowan, Brandon, Breanna and Samantha Ewing; 3 Great Grandchildren Kaden, Kaylee, and Madalynn Sanders. Funeral Services will be held 10:30 AM Saturday, July 11, 2009 at the Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum with Pastor Dan Kuhbander officiating. Burial will follow in St. John Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends 5 - 7 PM Friday at the funeral home.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Carl J. Subler (January 15, 1915 - July 6, 2009)

Carl J. Subler age 94 of Versailles, Ohio, began his longest journey, into eternity on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 10:35 P.M. Born in a farmhouse near Brock, Ohio, on January 15, 1915 to the late Felix and Estella (Bulcher) Subler. Mr. Subler was a traveler and entrepreneur from an early age. At 12 he became the chauffeur for his grandmother, at 14 he hitchhiked to Western Illinois to pick corn for $2.00 a day and at 16 rode his motorcycle 1500 miles to Western Kansas to assist a relative harvest wheat. This trip was made through the Great Dust Storms and over 1000 miles of gravel roads.

This piqued his interest in transportation and a career was born. At 18 he purchased his first truck transporting grain to Southeast Ohio and coal back to Darke County. Carl Subler Trucking inc. later grew into the 10th largest truckload carrier in the U.S.A., operating in all 48 states with over 600 trucks. He pioneered firsts in many areas including intermodal, transporting fresh orange juice from Florida in refrigerated tankers and the first truckloads of blueberries and sardines from Maine. Safety was first and foremost as he mandated speed recording devices in all power units, the first carrier to do this. At the same time he built a fresh fruit business in Versailles that was one of the largest in Western Ohio, selling retail and wholesale to customers in Ohio and Indiana.

He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Krista (Long) Subler, seven children, Tom, wife Nancy L., Marilyn Richters, Denis, wife Nancy A., Linda Borchers, husband Charles, all of Versailles, Kay Sandri, husband Darryl of Piqua, Steve, wife Charlene of Valrico, Florida and Mark of Richmond, Virginia; 17 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren. Also surviving are his brothers Kenneth Subler and Basil & Annabel Subler; sister Alverda Bohman; half brother John & Isabella Subler and a half sister Doris Monnin, all of Versailles. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by his first wife of 40 years, Pauline Marie (Barga) Subler in 1975; grandson Curt Subler in 1984; son-in-law, Hal Richters in 2003 and a half sister Mary Ann Berger.

During his years in business he was a quiet benefactor of the Versailles Community in improving its infrastructure. After retiring in 1982 he stayed busy planting a 900 tree orchard and then in 2007, at 92 completed a book on his life’s history. It is available at Worch Memorial Library. At 94 he was recognized by the Versailles Chamber of Commerce as “Citizen of the Year” for his many contributions.

He was also honored by the Ohio House of Representatives and Senate for those contributions to Versailles and to the commerce in Ohio. He will be remembered and missed by all.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, July 10, 2009 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Denis Catholic Church in Versailles, with Rev. Fr. David Vincent & Rev. Fr. Angelo Caserta celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Valbert Cemetery in Versailles. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 to 8:00 P.M. and Friday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to State of the Heart Hospice or to Versailles Emergency Medical Services.

Vesta P. DeLaet (October 7, 1915 - July 2, 2009)

Vesta P. DeLaet age 93 of Houston, Ohio died at 9:59 P.M. on Thursday, July 2, 2009 at Upper Valley Medical Center in Troy. Vesta was born October 7, 1915 in Miami County, Ohio, to the late Robert & Amelia (Martin) Weidner.


Vesta graduated from Houston High School in 1933. She was a homemaker and helped her husband farm. She drove school bus for Hardin-Houston Schools, was active in Farm Bureau, Houston and Pomona Granges, and was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Covington, Ohio.

In addition to her parents, Vesta is also preceded in death by her husband, Clarence R. DeLaet in 1961 and whom she married on April 25, 1936; and sisters & brothers-in-law, Marie & dale Noffisinger, Grace & Frank Earhart and Esther & Emory Thompson.

Vesta is survived by her sons & daughters-in-law, C. Robert & Marjorie DeLaet of Houston and Paul L. & Elaine DeLaet of Houston; grandchildren, Brian DeLaet, Chad DeLaet, Amy Bynum and Karen Stangel ; and 8 great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 2:00 P.M. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 200 East Bridge Street, Covington, Ohio, with Rev. Stephen L. Nierman officiating. Burial will follow in St. Remy Church Cemetery in Russia. The family will receive friends on Monday from 2:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles and Tuesday from 1:00 to 2:00 P.M. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Houston Rescue Squad or the charity of donor’s choice.

Charles A. Sackett (November 12, 1924 - July 5, 2009)

Charles A. Sackett, 84, of Greenville, died Sunday, July 5, 2009 at the Brethren Retirement Community. Mr. Sackett was born in Greenville, on November 12, 1924, the son of the late Charles A. and Mildred L. (Routson) Sackett. Charles was a former 57 year resident on Wildcat Road, Greenville. For the last year and a half he was a resident at Chestnut Village. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Pitsburg. Charles was a retired Farmer and retired Metal Finisher for Hobart Brothers, Troy and Union City Body Company. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, WWII. Charles was preceded in death by his infant daughter Tamara Sue Sackett, son Rick Sackett, Brother Robert Sackett, and Sister Kathryn (Pill) Powell. He is survived by his wife Patricia (Weaver) Sackett, whom he married September 11, 1943; daughter Charlotte Calandrelli and husband Terry of Arcanum; grandchildren Terry Sackett of Pitsburg, Brett Sackett and wife Bea of Greenville, and Sarah Calandrelli of Arcanum; Great Grandchildren Jade Hayes, Natasha Mader, Darian Sackett and Mason Sackett; sister Mary Lou Marker and husband Dale of Greenville; brother Bill Sackett Okeana, Ohio. Funeral Services will be held 11:00 AM on Friday, July 10, 2009 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Pitsburg with Rev Joene Herr, Pastor Terry Haworth, and Terry Calandrelli officiating. Burial will be held at 2:00 PM in Greenville Union Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends Thursday 5 - 8 PM at the Kreitzer Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church Building Fund.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Robert Lee Oehrtman, Ph.D. (July 1, 2009)

Robert Lee Oehrtman, Ph.D., 69, of Stillwater, OK died on Wednesday, July 1, 2009 in Stillwater.

He was born on July 24, 1939 in Greenville, OH to the late Clarence Oehrtman and Bertha Oliver Oehrtman. He married Anne Bigelow on December 19th, 1965 in Coos Bay, Oregon. They were married 37 years until her untimely death in 2003.

He graduated from Greenville High School in 1957 and attended Ohio State University graduating from Mechanical Agriculture Engineering in 1961. He acquired his post doctoral degrees from Oregon State University in Agricultural Economics (M.S.) in 1964 and his Ph.D. in Economics from Iowa State University in 1970. He accepted a position as Professor in Agricultural Economics at Oklahoma State University in 1970 were he remained until he retired in 2003 after 33 years of service to his students and the university, but continued his love of teaching as a professor emeritus after his retirement.

He dedicated a lifetime of service to the brotherhood of Álpha Gamma Rho fraternity, starting at Ohio State University as an undergraduate in Beta Chapter, serving there as House Management officer, Homecoming chairman, and assistant to the Rush program. Since 1979 he served as Pi Chapter Adviser at Oklahoma State University for 30 years until his passing. He also served as co-chair for numerous national convention committees and was recognized by the AGR fraternity nationally as an AGR Brother of the Century, Outstanding Adviser in 1983, 2000, and 2002, along with Outstanding AGR Alumni for Pi Chapter in 1986. In 2006, Bob received Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity’s highest honor, being inducted into their National Hall of Fame.

Dr. Oehrtman was well-known on the OSU campus for his challenging but effective instruction and was honored with over two dozen teaching awards from national associations and the OSU faculty, administration, and students. He was legendary as the only instructor for over 20 years in the introductory course AGEC 1114, Principals of Agricultural Economics. In this role, he educated and shaped the academic lives of thousands of OSU students, regularly generating over a quarter of his department’s teaching credit hours. During his academic career, Dr. Oehrtman also maintained an active research agenda authoring over 150 research papers in various areas of economics.

Bob became Scoutmaster of Troop 814 in the fall of 1982 and remained in that capacity for 27 years until his death. During his tenure, he guided 50 young men as they attained the rank of Eagle Scout. In addition to weekly meetings and monthly campouts, Bob (Mr. “O”), led the Troop on Summer Camps at Will Rogers Scout Reservation, Slippery Falls Scout Reservation, and high adventure expeditions to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. Young men of the Troop also served in youth leadership roles for National and World Boy Scout Jamborees, Philmont High Adventure Base and Sommers Canoe Base. Bob was involved in leadership roles for the Pawnee Bill District/Cimarron Council’s annual spring break backpacking event – the Ouachita Trek, serving as director of the event on several occasions and was awarded the Pawnee Bill District Award of Merit for his efforts. Bob was a Brotherhood member of the Order of the Arrow (a peer recognized honor and service organization in BSA), was awarded the District Scoutmaster Award of Merit, and was recognized by the Stillwater Rotary Club as Outstanding Stillwater Citizen of the Year for 2008-2009 for his contributions to Scouting. Mr. “O” will be remembered for his unique method of instruction and guidance, “the right way, the wrong way, and the Oehrtman way”.

Bob was a member of the First Christian Church where he continued his strong commitment to community service and dedication to his faith as deacon, elder, vice-chair and chair of the church board, along with chairman of Nominating, Worship, Organization and Regulations committees. While at First Presbyterian Church, Bob served also as Sunday school teacher, elder, and deacon.

Robert Oehrtman is survived by his two sons, Greg Oehrtman of San Diego and Michael Oehrtman of Tempe, AZ along with his daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Furnish, and granddaughter, Verena. He was a father figure to his nieces – Pat Clark, Jody Wilson, Melanie Hogan, and Lori Clem. He will be greatly missed as beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2009 at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville, OH with burial to follow in Greenlawn Cemetery, Versailles, OH.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to a scholarship fund for outstanding students of the Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity or fund to support the activities of the local troops of Boy Scout of America. Details of the scholarship will be available at the funeral services.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Emmett A. Todd (May 17, 1920 - July 4, 2009)

Emmett A. Todd, 89, of Arcanum, died early Saturday morning, July 4th, 2009 in Lewisburg. Mr Todd had been in failing health. Emmett was born in Cambridge, Ohio, May 17, 1920, the son of the late George Washington and Irene Jane (Chalfan) Todd. Mr Todd was a retired employee NCR, Dayton, retiring in 1972. He was a Veteran of the Army serving in WW II. Emmett was preceded in death by his wife Vera Todd who died April 25, 2006, and by 12 brothers and sisters. He is survived by 2 daughters, Patricia Parker and husband Orville and Karen Shiverdecker and husband Richard both of Lewisburg; 4 sons, James Todd and wife Carol of Lewisburg, Ron Todd of Clayton, Ed Todd and wife Sandy of Greenville, Thomas Todd and wife Angie of Arcanum; 17 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held Noon Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at the Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum with Pastor Rodney Todd officiating. Burial will follow in Miami Memorial Park, Covington where Military graveside services will be conducted by the Preble County Honor Guard. The family will receive relatives and friends 1 hour before the services, Tuesday. Condolences may be sent to Emmett A. Todd, 89, of Arcanum, died early Saturday morning, July 4th, 2009 in Lewisburg. Mr Todd had been in failing health. Emmett was born in Cambridge, Ohio, May 17, 1920, the son of the late George Washington and Irene Jane (Chalfan) Todd. Mr Todd was a retired employee NCR, Dayton, retiring in 1972. He was a Veteran of the Army serving in WW II. Emmett was preceded in death by his wife Vera Todd who died April 25, 2006, and by 12 brothers and sisters. He is survived by 2 daughters, Patricia Parker and husband Orville and Karen Shiverdecker and husband Richard both of Lewisburg; 4 sons, James Todd and wife Carol of Lewisburg, Ron Todd of Clayton, Ed Todd and wife Sandy of Greenville, Thomas Todd and wife Angie of Arcanum; 17 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren. Funeral Services will be held Noon Tuesday, July 7, 2009, at the Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum with Pastor Rodney Todd officiating. Burial will follow in Miami Memorial Park, Covington where Military graveside services will be conducted by the Preble County Honor Guard. The family will receive relatives and friends 1 hour before the services, Tuesday. Condolences may be sent to www.KreitzerFuneralHomeInc.com.

Friday, July 3, 2009

Frank W. Corcoran (May 17, 1944 - July 2, 2009)

Mr. Frank W. Corcoran, age 65 of Bradford, Ohio, passed away on Thursday July 2, 2009 at 7:45 PM at Wayne Hospital, Greenville, Ohio. He was born May 17, 1944 in Columbus, Ohio the son of the late Charles & Clara (Gaston) Corcoran. He was a telephone lineman for 35 years.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife: Linda (Rader) Corcoran of Bradford; Son & daughter in law: Charles & Ruth Corcoran of Bradford; Daughter & son in law: Dawn & Tony Sanders of Greenville; Grandchildren: Christopher Curry, Marcus Elleman, Noah Elleman, Sarah Sanders; Sisters: Clara Gilbert of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Dorothy Fluegelman, Cincinnati, Ohio, Marilyn Butterfoss, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Services will be held on Monday July 6, 2009 at 2:00 PM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Bob Boyd officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery West Alexandria, Ohio at a later date. Family will receive friends from 2:00 to 5:00 PM on Sunday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to State of the Heart Hospice.

Janet Patricia Warner (October 17, 1934 - July 2, 2009)

Mrs. Janet Pat (Farrell) Warner age 74 of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Thursday July 2, 2009 at 2:20 PM at Heartland Nursing Home, Greenville, Ohio. She was born October 17, 1934 in Springfield, Ohio, the daughter of the late Edward Leo & Mildred (LeFever) Farrell Sr.

She was a secretary and after retiring she started a Legal Document business out of her home.

She is preceded in death by her parents; 1st Husband: Kenneth Boggs; 2nd Husband: Roy Lawhorn; Brother: Edward Leo Farrell Jr.

She is survived by her husband: Jimmy Warner of Greenville, Ohio; Brother & sister in law: Gregory & Linda Farrell of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas; Sister in law: Gaylene Farrell of Springfield; numerous nieces & nephews & great nieces & nephews.

A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family at St. Bernard Cemetery, Springfield, Ohio. There will be no visitation. Memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Nursing Home, Greenville, Ohio Arrangements are being handled by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio.

Richard J. Fischer (August 7, 1925 - July 2, 2009)

Richard J. Fischer age 83 of Rossburg, died at 12:45 A.M. on Thursday, July 2, 2009 at Versailles Health Care Center. Richard was born August 7, 1925 in Montgomery County, Ohio, to the late John C. & Catherine (Steinmetz) Fischer.

Richard was a farmer. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Frenchtown and the Knights of Columbus in Versailles.

In addition to his parents, Richard is also preceded in death by a twin brother, Ralph Fischer in WWII.

Richard is survived by his brothers & sister-in-law, Carl Fischer of Rossburg and Arthur & Regina Fischer of Versailles; sister & brother-in-law, Mary & Herbert Dirksen of Uvalde, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 10:30 A.M. at Holy Family Catholic Church in Frenchtown, with Rev. Fr. David Vincent celebrant. Burial will follow in Holy Family Church Cemetery in Frenchtown. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 P.M. and Monday morning from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville. Memorial contribution may be made to State of the Heart Hospice or Holy Family Catholic Church.

Onda M. Beasley (July 1, 2009)

Onda M. Beasley, 85, of Ansonia, passed away Wednesday afternoon, July 1, 2009 at Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton.

She was born in Jay County, Indiana, daughter of the late Harry C. and Elymira (Armstrong) Bickel.

Onda was retired from Lambert's in Ansonia where she had worked for several years.

She is survived by her husband of 64 years, John H. Beasley, whom she married by her grandfather Samuel Armstrong on December 23, 1944; children, Dan (Ruth) Beasley of Rossburg, Dennis (Carol) Beasley of Greenville, and Donna (Jim) Maxfield of Cincinnati; grandchildren, Danny (Lin) Beasley, Lisa (Travis) Brown and Kara Maxfield; great grandchildren, Holly, Lucy, Amber, Garrett and Emma; a great great grandson, Adian; a sister, Erma Breymier of Versailles; a special niece, Connie Barnhardt of Versailles; and numerous other nieces and nephews.

Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, July 7 at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville. Burial will follow in the Arlington Cemetery near Brookville, OH.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, THE SOUTHERN OHIO CHAPTER, 2300 Wall Street, Suite H Cincinnati, OH 45212.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Paul N. Gariety (December 6, 1927 - July 1, 2009)

Paul N. Gariety age 81 of Russia, died at 1:53 A.M. on Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at his residence. Paul was born December 6, 1927 in Darke County, Ohio, to the late Leo & Teresa (Dapore) Gariety.

Paul retired from General Motors. He also enjoyed farming. Paul served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. Paul was a member of St. Remy Catholic Church in Russia; Russia Catholic War Veterans Post 661 and the United Auto Workers Local 696.

In addition to his parents Paul is also preceded in death by a son, Dale Gariety; daughter, Doris Gariety; and brother, Harold Gariety.

Paul is survived by his wife, Iona M. (Brunswick) Gariety, whom he married September 8, 1954. He is also survived by a son, Dennis Gariety of Russia; daughters & son-in-law, Diane Siegrist of Maria Stein and Darlene & Matt Monnin of Russia; grandchildren, Lindsey Siegrist, Justin Siegrist, Eric Siegrist, Amanda Monnin, Hillary Monnin and Olivia Monnin; brother & sister-in-law, Carl & Esther Gariety of Russia; and sisters & brothers-in-law, Mary & Jerry Thobe of Tipp City and Joann & Jack Shipley of Haymarket, Virginia.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 4, 2009 at 10:30 A.M. at St. Remy Catholic Church in Russia, with Rev. Fr. Eugene F. Vonderhaar celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Remy Church Cemetery in Russia. The family will receive friends on Friday from 2:00 to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday morning from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles. Military graveside services will be conducted by the Russia Catholic War Veterans Post 661.

God bless this veteran.

Monnodale Cooley (August 30, 1930 - June 30, 2009)

Monnodale Cooley age 78 of Versailles died at 5:50 P.M. on Tuesday, June 30, 2009 at Versailles Health Care Center. Monnodale was born August 30, 1930 in Darke County, Ohio, to the late Leonard A. & Echo A. (Wells) Mills.

Monnodale was a homemaker. She was a member of the Versailles Christian Church and the Versailles American Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

In addition to her parents, Monnodale is also preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Eugene Cooley and a son, Dennis Cooley.

Monnodale is survived by her sons & daughter-in-law, Steve Cooley of Versailles and Larry & Karen Cooley of Springfield; grandchildren, Ryan D. Cooley, Sara R. Cooley, and Evan & Mark Warner; and a great grandchild, Noah C. Warner.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 6, 2009 at 10:30 A.M. at Versailles Christian Church, 105 West Ward Street, Versailles, with Pastor Dennis Wheeler officiating. Burial will follow in Greenmound Cemetery in New Madison. The family will receive friends on Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 P.M. at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles and Monday morning from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Darke County Cancer Association or the Versailles Christian Church.

Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com.

Naomi E. Ditty (July 1, 2009)

Naomi E. Ditty, 82, of Greenville, passed away early Wednesday morning, July 1, 2009 at Wayne Hospital in Greenville.

She was born in Liberty Township, Darke County, daughter of the late Benjamin F. and Elvesta B. (Wolfal) Hittle.
Naomi was retired from the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville where she had worked as a nurse's aid. She had spent several years as an Avon Dealer.

She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Lloyd Ditty whom she married March 16, 1946; her children, Shirley (Marion) Price of Rockford, OH, David (Theresa Brodrick) Ditty of Greenville, Barbara (Donald) Back of New Madison, Duane Ditty of Greenville, Donald (Cindy) Ditty of Greenville and Carol (Todd) Garland of Greenville.

Grandchildren, Kimberly Green, Scott Price, Chad Price, Jeremy Price, Lorraine Holzapel, Michael Mann, Chris Back, Angie Brinley, Jason Ditty, Shawn Ditty, Ashley Bierly, Austin Ditty, Stacy Ward, Christina Hanes, Eric Garland, Joshua Shellhaas, Dustin Garland, Zachary Garland, Donald Hoffman and Mandy Langdon; 35 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild; and brothers, John (Janeva) Hittle of Greenville and Richard (Donna) Davis of St. Cloud, MN.

Services will be held Monday, July 6, at 2 p.m. at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home, Greenville, with the Rev. Dan Glover officiating. Burial will follow in the Hollansburg Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday from 2-5 p.m. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to the Cancer Association of Darke County.

Madonna M. Rhoades (January 12, 1928 - July 1, 2009)

Madonna M. Rhoades, 81, of Arcanum, died Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at her residence. Mrs. Rhoades was born in Albany, Indiana on January 12, 1928, the daughter of the late Fredrick and Lottie (Stafford) Whitehair. She was a Homemaker and Mother, and loved her children, grandchildren, and gardening. Madonna was a member of the Pitsburg Church of the Brethren, and former member of the Mississinewa Farm Bureau Council. She was preceded in death by her husband Harold Rhoades, who died October 30, 1990, and sisters Winona Shroyer and Betty Taylor, and brother Don Whitehair. Madonna is survived by daughter Teresa Wogomon and husband Cary and son Darwin Rhoades both of Arcanum; grandchildren Ryan Wogomon and wife Heather, Amy Huber and husband Craig, and Erin Tegtmeyer and husband Rob all of Arcanum, great grandchildren Mitchel and Madelyn Wogomon, Mikayla Gross, Tyler Huber, and Carson and Cooper Tegtmeyer. Funeral Services will be held 10:30 AM on Monday, July 6, 2009 at the Pitsburg Church of the Brethren with Pastor John Huffaker officiating. Burial will follow in Abbottsville Cemetery. The family will receive relatives and friends Sunday 2 - 5 PM at the Kreitzer Funeral Home, Arcanum.