Friday, March 30, 2012

Jacob F. “Jake” Etter (March 29, 2012)

Jacob F. “Jake” Etter age 94, of Springfield, Ohio and formerly of Versailles, Ohio passed away at 9:15 A.M. on Thursday, March 29, 2012 at the Ohio Masonic Home in Springfield, Ohio. Jake was born December 13, 1917 in Darke County, Ohio, to the late William K. & Annie (Forry) Etter.

Jake is survived by a son & daughter-in-law, Jeffrey & Susan Etter of Troy; daughter & son-in-law, Lennea “Lennie” & Richard Tinsky of Columbus; step sons, Jerrold Blackmore, Jr. of Florida, Jeffery Blackmore of Lebanon, Joel Blackmore of Lebanon and John Blackmore of Lebanon; step daughters, Elizabeth Blackmore or North Carolina, Rebecca Cawthorne of Florida and Amy Leigh Blackmore of Florida; grandchildren, Joshua Etter, Adam Etter, Jessica Etter, Sherri Carbo and Jennifer Tinsky; 17 step grandchildren and 17 step great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, Jake is also preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth J. “Betty” (Blackmore) Etter whom he married September 8, 1984; ex wife, Jean (Juliusson) Etter; son, David Etter; brothers, Henry and David Etter; sisters, Mary Balmer and Catherine Nadalsky; infant brother, John Etter and a infant sister, Susan Etter.

Jake retired in 1983 with 21 years of service at Mound Laboratory in Miamisburg where he was a sheet metal worker. Jake served in the U.S. Army Air Forces in WWII as an airplane pilot. He was a member of the Versailles V.F.W.; American Legion in Cuba, Illinois; Versailles Masonic Lodge No. 290 F&AM; and was a 32nd Degree Mason in the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Dayton.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, April 3, 2012 at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles with Rev. Dillon Staas officiating. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery in Versailles. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 11:00 to 1:00 P.M. at the funeral home. A Masonic memorial service will be conducted by the Versailles Masonic Lodge at 12:45 P.M. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Military graveside services will be conducted by the Versailles Veteran’s Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Home Health & Hospice, 949 North Main Street Urbana, Ohio 43078. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com


Helen L. Hawkey (March 18, 2012)

Helen L. Hawkey, 99, a long-time Greenville and New Madison resident, died peacefully on March 18 at Emeritus Assisted Living in Rancho Mirage, California where she had resided since 2009.

A long-time educator, she was began her career at Palestine School, and later taught music at New Madison and Butler Schools. At the age of 58, she received a master’s degree in education from the University of Dayton, and started a second career as guidance counselor at Tri Village. In 1983, she retired after more than 40 years. She took great delight in seeing and visiting the hundreds of former students whose lives she touched as a teacher and counselor.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lowell Hawkey, former Darke County Commissioner.

She was a member of the Greenville E.U.M. Church.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Ken Haraughty, of Palm Desert, California.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Jeanne S. Morris (March 28, 2012)

Jeanne S. Morris age 76 of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Wednesday March 28, 2012 at 10:40 AM as the result of an automobile accident. She was born April 22, 1935 in Greenville, Ohio the daughter of the late Edward A. & Generose (Schreel) Goubeaux Jr. She retired from teaching after 30 years. She taught in Highland Park, Illinois, & East school & Woodland Heights school in Greenville, Ohio.

She was a graduate of Northwestern University; she was a member of Pi Beta Phi at Ohio Wesleyan University and Northwestern University; she served on the Grenville Public Library Board, serving as Vise President and currently serving as secretary; she was a lover of the Arts, beautiful music, good food and wine, great books, politics & travel.

She is survived by her daughter: Mary Elizabeth Morris of Columbus, Ohio; Sister: Mary G. Keuchel of Tallahassee, Florida; & many dear friends who have brought joy to her life.

Services will be held on Tuesday April 3, 2012 at 10:30 AM at St. Paul Episcopal Church, 201 South Broadway, Greenville, Ohio with The Very Reverend R. James Lawsen officiating. There will be a gathering held at the church in the dining area immediately following the service. Burial will be held at 3:00 PM on Tuesday at Greenville Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made in Jeanne’s memory to the Greenville Public Library.

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


Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Caroline Elizabeth Rolfe (March 26, 2012)

Caroline Elizabeth Rolfe age 68 of Dayton, Ohio passed away on Monday March 26, 2012 at 2:33 AM at Hospice of Dayton. She was born August 27, 1943 in Columbus, Ohio the daughter of the late Henry & Neva Hildreth. She was a switchboard operator for Good Samaritan Hospital. She was a member of the quilting club.

She is preceded in death by her parents; & brother: Henry Clay Hildreth.

She is survived by her children: Hollie Rolfe of Dayton & Mark Rolfe of Dayton; & 4 nieces.

Services will be held on Friday March 30, 2012 at 2:00 PM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Burial will follow in Greenville Cemetery. Family will receive friends 1 hour prior to services on Friday at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the family to help defray funeral expenses.

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

Dale A. Tester (March 26, 2012)

Dale A. Tester, 52, of Greenville, passed away Monday afternoon, March 26, 2012 at Hospice of Dayton.

He was born August 18, 1959 in Dayton, OH, son of Lois (McKenzie) Tester of Greenville and the late Clyde J. Tester.

An avid Harley Davidson enthusiast, Dale was a Production Supervisor at Fram for the last 34 years.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Brenda (Shiverdecker) Tester, whom he married, March 6, 1996; children, Amanda (Mark) Armstrong of Arcanum, Mika (James Lantz) Barga, and Chase (Kelsey Swank) Barga both of Greenville; a grandson, Eli Dale; a sister, Robin (Jim) Jones of Troy; and a nephew Jason (Heather) Anderson.

Services will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, March 31 at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Wayne Morrison officiating. The family requests that casual dress be worn.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday from 11 a.m. till 3 p.m.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.oliverfloyd.com.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

John L. Leis (March 26, 2012)

John L. Leis, age 86, of Ansonia, Ohio, passed away on March 26, 2012, at Rest Haven Nursing Home in Greenville, Ohio. He suffered a severe stroke in December 2004.

John was born on October 17, 1925, near Rossburg, Ohio, to the late Lewis and Vonna (Landis) Leis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers Edwin, Ralph and Ernest, and sisters Ruth Campbell and Mary Sherry.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 64 years, Corrine (Connie) , whom he married on April 25, 1948. John is also survived by children, David (Connie J.) of Greenville, Susan (Dean) Butts of Greenville, and Steven (Jan) Leis of Ansonia; grandchildren SFC Darren John (Staci) Leis of Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Denea Butts (and fiance Brian Collier) of Toledo, Ohio, Cara Leis of Chicago, Illinois, Alisa (Stuart) Beisner and Ryan Butts of Greenville, Stephanie Leis of Columbus, Ohio, and Robert, Chelsea, and Nicole Leis of Ansonia. Also surviving are four great-grandchildren and sisters-in-law Elizabeth Leis of Union, Gertrude Leis and brother-in-law Richard Campbell, both of Ansonia.

John graduated from Ansonia High School in 1943 and served in the U.S. Army during World War II in the Phillipines and Korea. He became president of Leis Chemical Company, Ohio, and Leis Plant Foods, Indiana, and later a division manager of Custom Farm Services, Greenville. In 1975 he and nephew Don Leis founded Leis Realty Company in Greenville, and he served as a broker/realtor for 29 years. He was also president of Leis Farms, Inc. and a partner in S & J Farms, Ansonia.

John loved the Lord and was a member of the First Church of God in Ansonia where he served in numerous capacities and as a member of the Board of Trustees and chairman of the Building committee. He also participated in mission trips with the men of the church.

John loved to fly and earned his private pilot’s license in 1954. Later, he obtained his multi-engine and instrument ratings and logged over 6,000 hours as pilot. Throughout his life he flew his plane to many destinations across the U.S. including Alaska, and to Mexico, Canada, and Central America as part of the International Flying Farmers Association. He and Corrine were very active in this organization for over 50 years. He served as president of the Ohio Flying Farmer Chapter and in 1977, was elected president of the International Flying Farmers.

During his lifetime, John served as a member on the Wayne Hospital Board of Directors for 20 years and as its president for 2 years. He also worked on the Darke County Developmental and Disabilities board, Darke County Airport Authority, and president of both the Ansonia Kiwanis club and the Darke County Board of Realtors.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 30 at 10:30 a.m. at the First Church of God, 750 South Main, Ansonia, with Revs. Lee Wallace and Tim Schrock officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenville Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard at the Greenville Cemetery.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 29 from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio, as well as Friday one hour prior to the services at the church.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions can be made to the Mission Fund of the First Church of God, Ansonia, Ohio. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Nancy June Shoemaker (March 25, 2012)

Nancy June Shoemaker, age 89 of Greenville, Ohio and wife of V. Max Shoemaker passed away at 6:30 P.M. Sunday March 25, 2012 in her residence. Nancy was born December 7, 1922 in Redkey, Indiana and the daughter of the late Carl and Lila (Stone) Landauer.

Nancy graduated from Gray High School and Muncie Business College. She worked in offices in Dunkirk, Muncie, Lafayette, Ft. Wayne Indiana and Ocean Side, California.

Nancy was involved in her community and served on various boards and committees of the YMCA, United Way and First United Methodist Church. She belonged to Alpha Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, Coterie and Criterion Literary Clubs. She also delivered Meals On Wheels and was active with FISH for over thirty years. She loved to play tennis and bridge and was devoted to her family and church. Nancy never met a stranger in her life.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Lewis Carl Landauer who was lost over the Himalaya Mountains during WW II.

She is survived by her husband V. Max Shoemaker of Greenville. They were married July 6, 1945 in a Military Wedding which took place at the Marine Base Camp Pendleton, California. Also three sons and daughters in law Mark and Mary Shoemaker of Red Lion, PA; David and Roxie Shoemaker of Loveland, Ohio and John and Pat Shoemaker of Nashville, Indiana. There are eleven grandchildren, three great grandchildren and her sister Mary Ellen Arbuckle of Cincinnati, Ohio.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday March 29, 2012 in the First United Methodist Church 202 West Fourth Street Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Joe Payne officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenville Cemetery. The family will receive friends Wednesday from 5 P.M. until 8 P.M. in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio and on Thursday one hour prior to the services in the church.

It is the wishes of the family that Memorial Contributions be given to the State of the Heart Hospice of Darke County.

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

Monday, March 26, 2012

Adam Rufus "Ruke" Haynes (March 24, 2012)

Adam Rufus "Ruke" Haynes, 96, of Union City, IN, passed away Saturday evening, March 24, 2012 at Reid Hospital in Richmond, IN.

He was born July 3, 1915 in Fayette County, OH, son of the late Fredrick A. and Theressa (Argenbright) Haynes. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers, Phillip, Clifford, Fredrick, and Eugene Haynes; and sisters, Lucy Smith, Theressa Pitzer, Gertie Manning, and AlvertaThompson.

Adam was a retired machinist for General Motors where he had worked for 38 years. He was a veteran of the US Navy having served in WWII. He was a member of the Community United Methodist Church near Union City, the Masonic Lodge, Ancient Order of the Deep, and the Order of the Golden Dragon.

He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Olive M. (Rodeheffer) Haynes; a son, Bill R. and spouse, Mary Ellen Haynes of Lebanon, OH; grandchildren, Rachel and spouse, Michael Kafsky and their children, Gibson and Landis; and Joshua and spouse, Sara Haynes and their children, Maddie, Rylie, and Emily.

Services with full military honors by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard will be held at 2:30 p.m., Thursday, March 29 at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville. Burial will follow in the Teegarden Cemetery near Ansonia.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday from 1 p.m. till 2:30 p.m. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to State of the Heart Hospice.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.oliverfloyd.com

Dorothy E. Wood (March 24, 2012)

Dorothy E. Wood, age 92, a resident of Greenville, Ohio for 24 years, passed away on Saturday, March 24, 2012 at 3:04 PM at Maple Park Village in Westfield, Indiana. She was born on March 12, 1920 in Baltimore, Maryland to the late George C. & Effie E. (Richardson) Bauer.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband of 56 years Paul L. Wood Sr., and sister, Evelyn V. Bauer.

Dorothy is survived by her sons and daughters in law, Paul L. & Candi Wood Jr. of Noblesville, IN and George C. & Ardie Wood of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren, Martin (Beth) Wood, Sean (Melanie) Wood and Jennifer (Joe) Holloway; great grandchildren, Sean Madison, and twins Parker Meredith and Jordan McKenzie.

Dorothy was a homemaker. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church where she had been active in the Women’s Association including many years designing the annual PW Directory. She received the PW lifetime achievement award and a lifetime member of the Madeline Chapter of the Eastern Star in Vermilion, Ohio. Dottie and Paul were honored by the BPOE 1139 for their work in bingo and other Elk projections.

There will be a service held on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at 11:00 AM at the First Presbyterian Church, 114 East 4th Street, Greenville, Ohio, with Rev. Dr. John Person officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenville Cemetery, Greenville, Ohio. Family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at church. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio.

It is the wishes of the family that memorial contributions be given to the First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Richard “Dick” Crane (March 23, 2012)

Richard “Dick” Crane, 75, of New Paris, went to be with his Lord on March 23, 2012 at his residence. Dick was born May 8, 1936 in Liberty, Indiana the son of the late Raymond and Anna Bernice (Beetem) Crane. In addition to his parents, Dick is preceded in death by a brother, Raymond Crane, Jr. Dick graduated from Jackson High School in Campbellstown, Ohio and also attended Sinclair Community College. Over the years Dick worked at many places. He was a General Foreman for American Aggregates, a Superintendent for Middleboro Stone Company in Richmond, Bus Transportation Supervisor at Anthony Wayne and Wayne Industries and most recently was employed by Darke County Health Department until he retired. He was a member of the Darke County Fish and Game Club. Dick also proudly served our country in the United States Army. Dick had many hobbies. He loved to go camping and make buttermilk pancakes for breakfast. He loved to play poker, go fishing and search for treasures with a metal detector. Dick also enjoyed woodworking. He would build birdhouses and donate them to different organizations to auction off. He was an avid coin collector. Dick loved square dancing and he took classes to become a square dance caller. While he was involved in square dancing, he met his wife, Sandy Sandlin who survives him. Also surviving are his sons and daughter-in-laws, Jeffery Allen & Debbie of Greenville and Norman Lee Strader of Cora Peake, North Carolina; daughters and sons-in-laws, Kimberly and Allen Marshall of North Vernon, Indiana, Melina & Mark Kuhbander of New Madison, Misty (Strader) Law, of Richmond, Indiana, Amy and Rob Campbell, of New Madison, and Cassandra Crane of New Paris; 14 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; brothers and sisters-in-law, Ronnie & Sue Crane of Florida, Mervin & Dorothy Crane of Richmond, Indiana, Jerry Crane of Indiana, David Crane of Richmond, Indiana; a sister, Carolyn Berry, Richmond, Indiana. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at 7:00 pm at Braund Funeral Home with the Rev. Tony Price officiating. The family will receive friends and guests beginning at 5:00 pm until the time of the service. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Services are entrusted to Braund Funeral Home in New Madison.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Thomas L. "Tom" Miles (March 23, 2012)

Thomas L. "Tom" Miles, 78, of Greenville and formerly of New Paris, passed away late Friday evening, March 23, 2012 at his residence.

He was born September 8, 1933 near Eaton, OH, son of the late William A. and Bertha (Wysong) Miles. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brothers, Russell, Clarence "Shorty" and James Miles; and a sister, Ethel Shock.

Tom was retired from the former Corning Glass in Greenville where he had worked for 38 years. He had attended the Greenville Missionary Church and was a member of the Corning Retirees.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Margaret J. (Gehron) Miles; children, Terry & Carmelisa (Tuco) Miles of Hollansburg, Larry & Joyce (Weyant) Miles of New Madison, Jerry Miles of New Paris, Diane Pace of Greenville, and Donna & Guy Hammaker of Ansonia ; 13 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; brother, Paul Miles of Celina; and his in laws, Corda Leeper, Melvin Gehron, and Willard and Karen Gehron all of North Star; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, March 28 at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Gary Oser officiating. Private Burial will follow at a later date in the Greenville Cemetery.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Tuesday from 4-8 p.m. The family requests that memorial contributions be given to State of the Heart Hospice.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.oliverfloyd.com

Saturday, March 24, 2012

Willard “Bill” Foster (March 22, 2012)

Willard “Bill” Foster, age 65, of Greenville, Ohio, passed away on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 3:38 PM at Heartland of Greenville. He was born on April 2, 1946 in Adams County, Ohio, to the late Merle & Flora (Wilson) Foster.

He is survived by his wife, Dolores (Peters) Foster of Greenville, Ohio; sons and daughters in law, Terry & Elaine Foster of Greenville, Ohio, Tony & Brenda Foster of Union, Ohio, Troy & Jennifer Foster of Greenville, Ohio, and Mike Remer of Wisconsin; grandchildren, Anthony Foster, Courtney Hosey, Jennifer Byres, Lindsey Foster, Britney Foster, and Kim Pickette; great grandchildren, Sydni, Hunter, Ethan, Layla, Sophia, Logan, and Gage; brother and sister in law, Ted & Charlene Foster of Brookville, Ohio; and sister, Carolyn J. McCarty of Peebles, Ohio.

In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his sister, Wynona Lewis.

Bill was a truck driver for 30 years for various trucking companies when he retired in 2002. He was a member of the Greenville Moose Lodge.

There will be a memorial services held on Sunday, March 25, 2012 at 12:00 PM at the Greenville Moose Lodge, 1200 Sweitzer Street, Greenville, Ohio. A meal will follow. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio.

It is the wishes of the family that memorial contributions be given to the family. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.zecharbailey.com.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Gladys M. Pepiot (March 21, 2012)

Gladys M. Pepiot, age 81, of Versailles, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at 10:31 PM at Wayne HealthCare in Greenville, Ohio. She was born on June 24, 1930 in Darke County, Ohio, to the late William Jennings & Josie Pearl (Sharp) Rhoades.

She is survived by her husband, John Pepiot of Versailles, Ohio, whom she married on June 18, 1955; sons and daughters in law, Scott & Sharon Pepiot of Versailles, Brad Pepiot of Versailles, Ohio, and Jeff & Melanie Pepiot of Piqua, Ohio; daughter, Angie Pepiot of Loveland, Ohio; grandchildren, Andrew (Brittany) Pepiot, Jessalyn (Tyler) Slusser, Tyler Pepiot, Emily Pepiot, London Pepiot, Carry Wilson, Anastasia Wilson, Charlene Pepiot, and Alyssa Pepiot; 1 great grandchild; brothers and sisters in law, Harold & Betty Rhoades of Troy, Ohio and Lowell & Eileen Rhoades of Dawn, Ohio; sister and brother in law, Donna Kay & Don Fritz of Greenville, Ohio; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her son, Herman Doug Pepiot and brother, Chalmer Rhoades.
Gladys worked at the Buckeye Overall Factory in Versailles, Ohio. She was a member of St. Denis Catholic Church and loved gardening, reading, sewing, and was an excellent cook.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, March 26, 2012 at 10:30 AM at St. Denis Catholic Church in Versailles, Ohio, with Rev. Fr. David Vincent celebrant. Burial will follow in the St. Valbert Cemetery, Versailles, Ohio. Family will receive friends on Sunday, March 25, 2012 from 2-5 PM and Monday from 9-10 AM at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home, Versailles, Ohio.

It is the wishes of the family that memorial contributions be given to the Darke County Cancer Association. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Wilbur M. Karn (March 22, 2012)

Wilbur M. Karn, 86, of Greenville, passed away Thursday morning, March 22, 2012 at his residence.

He was born June 4, 1925 in New Madison, son of the late Herschel O. and Edna (Royer) Karn.

Wilbur was retired from Fram in Greenville. He was a veteran of the US Army having served in WWII. He was a member of the VFW Post 7262, the American Legion Post 140, AmVets, the Greenville Eagles Greenville Elk's #1139, and was a past Junior Governor of the Greenville Moose Lodge #329.

Wilbur is survived by his wife of nearly 52 years, Helen (Beisner) Karn whom he married June 18, 1960; children, Karen Booher of Ft. Myers, FL, Donna (Paul) Cline of Early, TX, Kenny (Coleen) Karn of Winchester, IN, Debbie (Paul Blankenbaker) Karn of Union City, OH, and Betty (Arlie) Lester of Tipp City, OH; 24 grandchildren; 37 great grandchildren; 17 great great grandchildren; a brother, Paul Karn of Arcanum; and a sister, Pauline Johnson of Greenville.

Services with full military honors by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 26, at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Gary Oser officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenville Township Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Sunday from 2-5 p.m. with the Moose Lodge offering a memorial service at 4:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorial contributions be given to State of the Heart Hospice.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.oliverfloyd.com.

Ardith M. “Shuff” Teague (March 21, 2012)

Ardith M. “Shuff” Teague, age 88 of Arcanum, Ohio passed away at 5:05 A.M. Wednesday March 21, 2012 in the Versailles Health Care Center. Ardith was born January 14, 1924 in Gettysburg, Ohio and the daughter of the late Howard and Marie (Strobel) Byram.

She was a homemaker, a volunteer at Wayne Hospital and member of the Ladies Auxiliary of both the Greenville Eagles Lodge and the Greenville American Legion.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by first husband Lowell Ditmer; second husband Byron Shuff; son Michael Shuff and several brothers.

Ardith is survived by her husband Homer Teague of Florida. Also daughters and son in law Shirley and Dick Baker of Arcanum and Sondra Dietrich of Florida. Her son Rollen Eugene Ditmer of Tennessee, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren, brother Jack Byram of Bradford, sister Barbara McCabe of Florida and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held 10:00 A.M. Saturday March 24, 2012 in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Therese Lehman officiating. Burial will follow in the Newcomer’s Cemetery Darke County, Ohio. The family will receive friends on Friday from 5 P.M. until 8 P.M. in the funeral home.

It is the wishes of the family that Memorial Contributions be given to Hospice of Darke County.

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

Betty F. (Grogan) Sheets (March 19, 2012)

Betty F. (Grogan) Sheets, 82, of Springfield, passed away on March 19, 2012 at Springfield Regional Hospital. Betty was born on November 14, 1929 in Widemouth, West Virginia to the late Leonard and Julia (Miller) Grogan.

Betty was a wonderful person with a kind and gentle personality. She was known for her smile and was loved by everyone she met. Betty was an avid bingo player at one time. Her biggest accomplishment was her family. Betty loved spending time with her family and was a loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother.

She is survived by her husband of 66 years, Arvie L. Sheets whom she married on December 24, 1945; six children, Ronald Lee Sheets, Edward M Sheets, Sr., Linda D. Daly, Anita F. and husband Jerry Smith, Donna L. and husband Jeff Daniel all of Springfield and Karensue S. and husband John Lemen of Opelousas, LA; five grandchildren, Edward James Sheets, Edward M. Sheets Jr., Corey Lee Sheets, Paige M. Daniel and Mindy Wilson; one great grandchild, Tiffany Osborne; one great, great grandchild Izzy Osborne; five siblings, Viola Pennington of West Virginia, Lula Mae of Lashmeet, West Virginia, Anna Lester of Matoka, West Virginia, Leona Thompson of Belair, Maryland and Paul Grogan of Lashmeet, West Virginia.

In addition to her parents, Betty is preceded in death by two brothers, William Grogan and Dennis Grogan.

A Celebration of Betty's Life service will be held on Friday, March 23, 2012 from 5 - 7 PM at the VFW, 2825 East Luffel Lane, Springfield, Ohio. Services entrusted to Braund Funeral Home in New Madison. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.braundfuneralhome.com.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Margaret M. (Ward) Ashman (March 18, 2012)

Margaret M. (Ward) Ashman age 91 of Greenville, Ohio passed away at 10:10 P.M. Sunday March 18, 2012 at Rest Haven Nursing Home. She was born September 30, 1920 in Versailles, Ohio and was the third daughter of the late Harry “Pete” and Florence (Deeter) Ward.

Margaret graduated from Versailles High School in 1938. She and her husband spent forty years of the married life in Tucson, Arizona. She was a member of the Methodist faith her entire life beginning as a member of the “Cradle Roll” as an infant. Transferring to the Methodist Church in Tucson, Arizona and at the present time was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Greenville, Ohio.

She was a Sixty-five year plus member of the Daughters of the American Revolution Greenville, Ohio. Also a member of the Heritage Club of the DAR.

Margaret had worked for Rike Kulmer in Dayton, Ohio for many years. She attended a Junior Business College in Tucson, Arizona. She was a member of the Darke County Genealogical Society and the First Families of Darke County, Ohio. Her hobbies were cooking and oil painting.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Reck Ashman August 12, 1954. Also by her two older sisters Helen H. Ward and June E. Marker.

Her only survivors are several cousins.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Thursday March 22, 2012 in the Zechar Bailey Funeral Home Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Joe Payne officiating. Burial will follow in the Greenlawn Cemetery Versailles, Ohio. The visitation will be Thursday one hour prior to the services in the funeral home.

Margaret’s wishes were that Memorial Contributions be given to the Charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Monday, March 19, 2012

Rebecca J. “Becky” Garland (March 16, 2012)

Rebecca J. “Becky” Garland, age 55, of Greenville, Ohio, passed away at 8:18 A.M. on Friday, March 16, 2012 at the Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus. Becky was born April 20, 1956 in Greenville, Ohio, to Jack & Joanne (Grow) Sharp of Greenville.

In addition to her parents, Becky is also survived by her husband, Jeff Garland whom she married July 5, 1986. She is also survived by her step children, Greg Garland & Amber Frilling of Versailles and Michelle Garland of Bloomington, Indiana; step grandchild, Cale Garland; brother & sister-in-law, Nathan & Karen Sharp of Greenville; father-in-law & mother-in-law, John & Marabelle Garland of Greenville; brother-in-law, Gregg Mendenhall of Union City, Ohio; sister-in-law, Elizabeth & Edmund Karas of Bloomington, Indiana; and nieces & nephews, Chad Anderson, Eric Mendenhall, Rachael Brunk, Ryan Sharp, Katie Sharp and Danny Karas.

Becky is preceded in death by a sister, Carolyn Marie Mendenhall on January 5, 2009.

Becky was a engineering manager for the Paramount Group in Versailles. She was a member of St. Paul United Church of Christ in Greenville.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Jim Vandermark officiating. Burial will follow in Greenville Cemetery New Section. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, March 20, 2012 from 2:00 to 4:00 & 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul United Church of Christ, 129 West 3rd Street, Greenville, Ohio 45331. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Leona O. Deeter (March 16, 2012)

Leona O. Deeter, age 87, of Versailles, Ohio, passed away at 7:30 P.M. on Friday, March 16, 2012 at the Versailles Health Care Center. Leona was born May 13, 1924 in Miami County, Ohio, to the late Ora E. & Ethel (Jackson) Ingle.

Leona is survived by a daughter-in-law, Linda Deeter of Versailles; grandchildren, Lisa Kenworthy of Pleasant Hill, Theresa & Tom Argabright of Piqua and Todd & Julie Deeter of Versailles; great grandchildren, Sascha Garn of Union City, Ohio, Chanda Robinette of Arkansas, Pete Argabright of Kuwait-U.S. Army and Ashleigh Deeter of Versailles; 4 great great grandchildren; brother, Donn Ingle of Laura; sisters, Delores Hicks of Troy and Vianna Brown of Los Angeles, California; brother-in-law, Walt Clingan of Michigan; sister-in-law, Miriam Ingle of Covington; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Leona is also preceded in death by her husband, Emerson J. “Bill” Deeter on January 16, 1980 whom she married December 23, 1939; son, Billy Deeter and a stillborn son, Gary Lee Deeter; brothers, Charles and Scott Ingle; and sisters, Clarabelle Hottle and Elenore Clingan.

Leona was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, great great grandmother and homemaker.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home in Versailles with Chaplain John Nunnally officiating. Burial will follow in Miami Memorial Park in Covington. The family will receive friends on Thursday, March 22, 2012 from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to State of the Heart Hospice or the Darke County Cancer Association. The family would like to say a special thanks to the Versailles Health Care Center, State of the Heart Hospice and Spirit Medical Transport for their special care of Leona. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Catherine Irene Thompson (March 16, 2012)

Catherine Irene Thompson, age 87, of Greenville, Ohio, passed away at 4:40 P.M. on Friday, March 16, 2012 at Rest Haven Nursing Home in Greenville. Catherine was born March 2, 1925 in Liberty Township, Indiana, to the late Stewart L. & Annetta (Cupp) Alley.

Catherine is survived by her daughters & sons-in-law, Carolyn & David Hoskins of Phillipsburg, Cynthia Spahr of Ellettsville, Indiana and Dianna & Robin Randall of Lehigh Acres, Florida; daughter-in-law, Sherri Thompson of Greenville; grandchildren, Sheryl & Brian Brunner, Michael & Annie Hoskins, Nathan Spahr, Stacie Male, Luke Thompson, Ryan Thompson and Amber Romanok; 12 great grandchildren; brother & sister-in-law, Harold & June Alley of Arcanum; and sister, Mary Kauffman of Greenville.

In addition to her parents, Catherine is also preceded in death by her husband, Lester E. Thompson on January 4, 1993 whom she married October 31, 1954; son, Edward L. “Ed” Thompson on February 25, 2012; granddaughter, Stephanie Utley; sisters, Ruby Resor, Elizabeth Cox, Verna Reck and Reba Lindamood; and an infant brother.

Catherine worked at Lambert Corporation in Ansonia for over 20 years. She was a member of the Greenville Evangelical United Methodist Church. Catherine was Past Senior Regent of the Greenville Moose Lodge.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Sylvia McKibben officiating. Burial will follow in Greenville Township Memorial Gardens in Darke County. The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 24, 2012 from 12:00 to 2:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to State of the Heart Hospice. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Priscilla L. Hartzell (March 15, 2012)

Priscilla L. Hartzell, age 73, of Greenville, Ohio, passed away at 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, March 15, 2012 at her residence. Priscilla was born March 27, 1938 in Darke County, Ohio, to the late Forrest N. “Frosty” & Elnora (Whittaker) Marshall.

Priscilla is survived by her husband of 56 years, John “Richard” Hartzell Jr., whom she married March 19, 1955. She is also survived by a son & daughter-in-law, Rodney & Betty Hartzell of Greenville; daughters & sons-in-law, Theresa & Carth Jones of Bradford, Pam & Brian Clum of Union City, Ohio and Patty & Brian Class of Greenville; grandchildren, Shawn Jones, Julie Neitzelt, James Jones, Sharon Jones Rostkowski, Rebecca Watson, Richard Clum, Ryan Class and Rachel Class; 13 great grandchildren; brother & sister-in-law, Joe & Debbie Marshall of Greenville; sisters & brother-in-law, Rae & Art Downey of Greenville and Kay Garland of Greenville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Priscilla was a homemaker.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville with Pastor Peter Menke officiating. Burial will follow in Greenville Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Monday, March 19, 2012 from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to State of the Heart Hospice or the Center for Neurological Development, 78 West Main Street Burkettsville, Ohio 45310. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Tannya Rhea Witter (March 14, 2012)

Tannya Rhea Witter age 80 of Bradford, Ohio passed away on Wednesday March 14, 2012 at 10:26 PM. She was born February 29, 1932 in Richmond, Indiana the daughter of the late John B. & Dolly G. (Goins) Cooper. She was a homemaker and worked as an RN at Reid Hospital for 6 years, at Wayne Hospital part time for 10 years and also at Rest Haven Nursing Home.

She was a member of Pleasant View Missionary Church; church treasurer and Sunday school teacher for many years. She graduated from Richmond High School, received her Nursing Diploma from Reid Hospital, & was president of her nursing class.

She is preceded in death by her parents; Husband: Billy A. Witter on March 8, 2012; brother: Gary Cooper.

She is survived by her children: Dan & Sandi Witter of Medway, Ohio, Jennifer & Randy Robinson of Gettysburg, Ohio, Julie & Gary Reed Christiana, Tennessee, John Witter of Richmond, Indiana, & Lorie & John Hatcliff of Manhattan, Kansas; Grandchildren & spouses: Joshua & Kim Witter, Rachelle & Jon Costello, Zachary & Lindsey Robinson, Hannah & Brian Walter, Abigail Robinson, Emily Reed, Sam Hatcliff, & Autumn Hatcliff; Great Grandchildren: Jacob Witter, Carris Walter, Luke, Levi, & Adelyn Robinson; brothers & sisters in law: Darrell & Terri Cooper of Mount Sterling, Ohio, & Reed & Karen Cooper of Fairborn, Ohio.

Services will be held on Monday March 19, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Rob Dauber officiating. Burial will follow in Spartansburg Cemetery, Spartansburg, Ohio. Family will receive friends from on Monday from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be given to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation 325 East Market Street, Akron, Ohio 44304

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

Marion E. Bridenbaugh (March 14, 2012)

Marion E. Bridenbaugh, age 89 of Arcanum, Ohio passed away on Wednesday March 14, 2012 at 11:40 PM at the Brethren Retirement Community. He was born July 7, 1922 in Greenville, Ohio the son of the late George & Sadie (Henninger) Bridenbaugh. He was a veteran of World War II serving in the United States Navy. He worked at B.F. Goodrich in Troy for 20 years.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Pitsburg, Ohio, A lifetime member of VFW Post 4161 Arcanum, Ohio. He loved John Deere tractors and gardening.

He is preceded in death by his parents; son: Danny Bridenbaugh; granddaughter: Jennifer Bridenbaugh.

He is survived by his daughters & so in law: Roberta & Jim Snyder of Arcanum, Ohio, Phyllis Bridenbaugh of Arcanum, Ohio; son & daughter in law: Marion E. & Kris Bridenbaugh Jr. of Myakka City, Florida; granddaughters & spouses: Sarah & Jay Herman of St. Petersburg, Florida, Jessica Snyder of Arcanum, Ohio, Stephanie Bridenbaugh & Brian Fielding of Sarasota, Florida; grandsons & spouses: Kevin & Leigh Bridenbaugh of Sarasota, Florida, Josh Bridenbaugh & Nicholas Bridenbaugh of Union City, Indiana; great grandchildren: William & Michael; daughter in law: Teresa Bercot; ex wife: Velma Johnson.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday march 17, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Mote Cemetery, Pitsburg, Ohio with Mark Oswalt officiating. There will be no visitation. Arrangements are being handled by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to State of the Heart Hospice.

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

Thomas Darin Powell (March 12, 2012)

Thomas Darin Powell, age 46, of Milton, Kentucky and formerly of Arcanum, Ohio, passed away at 10:46 P.M. on Monday, March 12, 2012 at the University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky. Thomas was born February 13, 1966 in Middletown, Ohio, to Aileen Mary (Hensley) Powell of Greenville and the late Homer Waldo Powell.

In addition to his mother, Thomas is survived by siblings, Carol & Richard Henry of Sweetwater, Tennessee, Michael & Judi Powell of Greenville, Melody Swartz of Greenville and Rhonda Powell of Greenville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father, Thomas is also preceded in death by a sister, Carla Wright.

Thomas was a graduate of Arcanum High School with the class of 1984. He was an electrician with Art’s Electric in Carrollton, Kentucky.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, March 16, 2012 at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville with Rev. Doug Baker officiating. Burial will follow in Abbottsville Cemetery in Darke County. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Monday, March 12, 2012

Anthony Martin “Tony” Cordonnier (March 10, 2012)

Mr. Anthony Martin “Tony” Cordonnier, age 69 of Cridersville, Ohio and formerly of Russia, Ohio passed away on Saturday March 10, 2012 at 7:00 AM at Cridersville Healthcare Center, Cridersville, Ohio. He was born November 25, 1942 in Russia, Ohio the son of the late Norbert N. & Margaret M. (Kloeker) Cordonnier. He worked for Clopay for 17 years. He was a member of St. Remy Catholic Church, Russia, Ohio.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Brother: Joseph Cordonnier; & Sister: Mary Ann in infancy.
He is survived by his Brothers & sisters in law: John & Sue Cordonnier of Kettering, Ohio, Frank & Bert Cordonnier of Russia, Ohio, Alli & Linda Cordonnier of Russia, Ohio, Leo & Martha Cordonnier of Dayton, Ohio, Michael & Zenilda Cordonnier of Chicago, Illinois, & Henry & Ann Cordonnier of Russia, Ohio; numerous nieces & nephews; Special friend: Steve Grogean of Russia, Ohio.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 AM on Wednesday March 14, 2012 at St. Remy Catholic Church, 108 W. Main St., Russia, Ohio with Rev. Fr. Frank Amberger Celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Remy Church Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday March 13, 2012 at Bailey Zechar Funeral Home, Versailles, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.

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

Ellen F. Peters (March 9, 2012)

Ellen F. Peters, 87 of Ansonia, passed away Friday, March 9, 2012 at Heartland of Greenville in Greenville, Ohio.

She was born September 5, 1924 in Lightsville, daughter of the late Charles S. and Nellie Rae (Davis) Hopper. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by a brother, Robert E.Hopper; and a sister, Onda Matthews.

A homemaker, Ellen had worked at many different jobs including rural mail carrier and bus driver. She was an avid fairgoer at the Darke County Fair. In her younger years she was very active in 4-H and had showed guernsey cattle for many years.

She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Paul P. Peters whom she married September 7, 1946; sons, Robert L. (Donna) Peters of Ansonia and Gene (Shelley) Peters of Arcanum; grandchildren, Lisa (Jason) Brandt, Dawn (Josh) Barnette, Scott (Cathy) Peters, Jesse (Stacy) Peters, Ann (Nathan) Rammel, and Sarah (Jake) Menzie; great grandchildren, Jayden and Kyra Brandt, Cameron Barnette, Collin, Ellen, and Emma Peters, Wyatt, Luke D., Trey, and Claire Rammel, Mora, Bohden, and Pete Menzie, and Colby D. Peters; sisters, Patricia L. (Ralph) Pottkotter of Celina, Myrna Detling of Liberty Township, OH, and Carol (Jim) Hart of Bradford; a brother-in-law, Robert E. Matthews of Greenville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, March 14 at the Oliver-Floyd Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Eric Fee officiating. Burial will follow in the Teegarden Cemetery near Ansonia.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. The family requests memorial contributions to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, 950 Michigan Ave., Columbus, OH 43215.

Condolences may be left for the family at www.oliverfloyd.com

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Billy A. Witter (March 8, 2012)

Billy A. Witter, age 80 of Bradford, Ohio passed away on Thursday March 8, 2012 at his residence. He was born October 19, 1931 in Glen Karn, Ohio the son of the late Ulric S. “Jack” & Esther (Thorn) Witter. He was a biology teacher at Greenville Senior High School and at Edison Community College. He was a veteran of the Korean War serving in the United States Army.

He was a graduate of Randolph Southern High School; he earned his Bachelors Degree at Indiana University, and his Masters Degree from Ball State University. He was a member of Pleasant View Missionary Church, he taught Sunday school for 50 years and a member of Friends of Israel; and Creation Research Institute. He loved the Cincinnati Reds & loved his fruit trees and gardening. He loved keeping in touch with his Army Buddies.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife: Tannya R. (Cooper) Witter of Bradford whom he married June 19, 1954; his children: Dan & Sandi Witter of Medway, Ohio, Jennifer & Randy Robinson of Gettysburg, Ohio, Julie & Gary Reed Christiana, Tennessee, John Witter of Richmond, Indiana, & Lorie & John Hatcliff of Manhattan, Kansas; Grandchildren & spouses: Joshua & Kim Witter, Rachelle & Jon Costello, Zachary & Lindsey Robinson, Hannah & Brian Walter, Abigail Robinson, Emily Reed, Sam Hatcliff, & Autumn Hatcliff; Great Grandchildren: Jacob Witter, Carris Walter, Luke, Levi, & Adelyn Robinson.

Services will be held on Tuesday March 13, 2012 at 10:00 AM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio with Pastor Rob Dauber officiating. Burial will follow in Spartansburg Cemetery, Spartansburg, Indiana. Family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Monday March 12, 2012 at the funeral home. Veteran’s Military services will be conducted by the Greenville Veterans Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be given to Mission Veterans to D.C., P.O. Box 569 Piqua, Ohio 45356.

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

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Silas Paul McGehee (March 7, 2012)

Silas Paul McGehee of Greenville, Ohio, went peacefully to be with the Savior whom he loved on March 7, 2012, at the age of 42. Paul was born on January 25, 1970 in Wichita, Kansas. He was preceded in death by both paternal grandparents and both maternal grandparents. He is survived by his wife Christy (Boevers) McGehee, and 6 children; Joseph Paul (15), Jacob Israel (13), Hanna Athele (11), Micah Daniel (8), Levi Silas (5), and Matthew Ethan (2); parents, Silas and Irene of Eldorado Springs, Missouri, and 7 sisters; Arlene McGehee of Overland Park, KS; Joyce (McGehee) Englund and husband Don of Overland Park, KS; Dorothy (McGehee) Purtle and husband Dwight of Mission, KS; Katherine (McGehee) Ravenscraft and husband Bob of Easley, SC; Carol (McGehee) Avery and husband Mark of Mexico, MO; Barbara (McGehee) Bland and husband Ralph of Eldorado Springs, MO; Elaine (McGehee) Simpson and husband Willis of Mission, KS, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, March 12, 2012 at the Church of God, 5065 State Route 49 South, Greenville, Ohio, with Brother Ray Tinsman officiating. Burial will follow in the Church of God Cemetery, Greenville. The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 11 from 6-8 P.M. at the church. Arrangements are under the direction of Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com.

Mary L. “Lutz” Harpest (March 8, 2012)

Mary L. “Lutz” Harpest, age 97 of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Thursday March 8, 2012 at 2:33 AM at Heartland of Greenville. She was born January 28, 1915 in Miami County, Ohio the daughter of the late Ora L. & Bessie M. (Smith) Oakes.

She worked in the administration office at the Brethren Retirement Community and was a preacher’s wife for 40 years. She was an active member of Oakland Church of the Brethren. She always had the ability to express gratitude for kindness, to always say I’m so glad to see you, and to keep busy.

She was a loving and devoted wife to her husband Lloyd Harpest who survives. She is survived by her sons & daughters in law: David & Irene Lutz of Roanoke, Indiana, Dennis & Farideh Lutz of Longmont, Colorado; Step son: Will Harpest of Chicago, Illinois; step daughters & son in law: Naomi Harpest of Aurora, Illinois, & Janice & Richard Priggie of Moline, Illinois; grandchildren & spouses: Joni Lutz , Jeff & Kelly Lutz, David Michael & Michelle Lutz, Andrew Dennis & Mia Lutz, David Harpest, Julie & Drew Collins, Laura Studebaker & Max Brueggermeyer, Christina Studebaker, & Katherine, Daniel, & David Priggie; 13 great grandchildren; brother in law: Russel Harpest of Greenville; numerous nieces & nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; 1st husband: Rev. D. Leonard Lutz on August 5, 1973; sisters: Edith Sotzing, Clara Mae Pierce; brother: David Oakes.

Services will be held on Monday March 12, 2012 at 10:30 AM at Oakland Church of the Brethren, 8058 Horatio Harris Creek Road, Bradford, Ohio with Pastor Pete Kontra officiating. Burial will follow in Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Pleasant Hill, Ohio. The family will receive friends from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM Sunday March 11, 2012 at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio and 1 hour prior to services on Monday at the church. Memorial contributions may be given to the Church of the Brethren Heifer Project or to Oakland Church of the Brethren.

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


Ronald "Klick" Klackner (March 3, 2012)

Ronald "Klick" Klackner, 58, of Greenville, passed away Saturday, March 3, 2012 at Heartland of Greenville. He was born in Franklin, Ohio on February 21, 1954 to the late John and Gladys (Christian) Klackner.

Klick retired after 38 years from UCBC/ Workhorse. He was a member of the united workers union local #494. a dedicated member and officer of the Moose lodge #329 in Greenville. Klick held an advanced Ham radio operations license and was an avid Harley Davidson enthusiast and rider and also one of the founding members of the Darke County Custon Motorcycle Club.

Klick is survived by a son, Mathew Klackner of Greenville; a daughter, Kristina Klackner-Lautzenheiser of Greenville; step son, Eric Burns of New Madison; step daughter, Mendi Burns of Greenville; 13 grandchildren, sister, Karen Sue Campbell of Eaton; his best fiend of 47 years, Glen Hardy and numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Klicks life will be held at 12 PM on Saturday, March 10, 2012 at Braund Funeral Home in New Madison with the Rev. Eric Fee being asked to officiate, friends may visit from 10 AM - 12 PM also on Saturday. The family request if you ride a Harley to ride it to the service. Family request memorial contributions be given to the Greenville Moose Lodge #329

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

Thelma I. Hiestand (March 5, 2012)

Thelma I. Hiestand, age 84 of Greenville, Ohio passed away on Monday March 5, 2012 at 4:40 PM at Wayne Healthcare. She was born March 25, 1927 in New Weston, Ohio the daughter of the late William & Ovella (Studebaker) Shook. She was a homemaker and a member of the Arcanum Lions Club.

She is preceded in death by her parents; Husband: Robert Dale “Bob” Hiestand.

She is survived by her sons & daughter in law: Howard & Pam McClain of Arcanum, William James McClain of Arcanum, Sister: Sarah Mae Gibbs of California; grandchildren: Howie McClain II, Marissa McClain, Chelsea McClain, Billy McClain, Jason & Kyle Gibbs; step sister: Phyllis Jean Markland.

There will be no services. Arrangements are being handled by Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be given to State of the Heart Hospice.

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

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Mrs. Margaret “Peg” Birt (March 5, 2012)

Mrs. Margaret “Peg” Birt, age 96, of Greenville, Ohio, passed away on Monday, March 5, 2012 at 6:34 PM at Greenwood Village Pavilion in Greenwood, Indiana. She was born on December 18, 1915 in Xenia, Ohio, to the late Charles E. & Edith J. (Wemhoff) Pilliod.

She is survived by her sons and daughters in law, Charles R. & Suzi Birt of Trafalgar, Indiana, James M. & Judy Birt of Copley, Ohio, and Thomas J. & Judy Birt of Aberdeen, Ohio; grandchildren, Heather (Aaron) Quach, Justin Birt, and Megan (Keith) Jones; great grandson, Mason Jones; step grandchildren, Justin Dean and Jamie Sheehan; step great granddaughters, Jaicee Melvin and Naomi Jones; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband, Robert J. Birt whom she married on June 25, 1947; sisters, Charlotte Meyers and Rosemary Pilliod.

Peg was a homemaker and had worked in the Darke County Courthouse. She was also a bookkeeper for Preble Memorial Gardens, Sunset Memorial Gardens, and her fathers business Union Foods on Front St. in Greenville, Ohio. Before moving to Greenville at a young age she lived in Piqua, Ohio for a short time. She was a member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, the Sodality of the church, life member of the Greenville V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary and a 1934 graduate of Greenville High School. She had many blue ribbons from the Darke County Fair for her canned pickles, chili sauce and grape jelly. She enjoyed collecting antiques and spending time with her family.

There will be a Mass of Christian Burial held on Friday, March 9, 2012 at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 233 West 3rd Street, Greenville, Ohio, with Rev. Fr. John White celebrant. Burial will follow in the Greenville Cemetery, Greenville, Ohio. Family will receive friends on Friday before mass from 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home, Greenville, Ohio.

It is the wishes of the family that memorial contributions be given to St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com

Linda Ann Deem (March 4, 2012)

Linda Ann Deem, age 69, of Greenville, Ohio, passed away at 10:05 P.M. on Sunday, March 4, 2012 at Heartland of Greenville. Linda was born July 12, 1942 in Kansas City, Missouri, to the late Carl Fred & Ethel F. (Batten) Deem.

Linda is survived by numerous cousins. Linda was a member of East Main Church of Christ in Greenville.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, March 8, 2012 at Zechar Bailey Funeral Home in Greenville with Pastor Jim Morehouse officiating. Burial will follow in Greenville Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the East Main Church of Christ 419 East Main Street Greenville, Ohio 45331. Condolences for the family may be expressed through www.zecharbailey.com