Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory

Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory is proud to be the preferred funeral provider serving Van Wert and the surrounding areas since 1903.
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Joseph Norman Detwiler JrJoseph Norman Detwiler Jr. - everyone knew him as Norm - passed away peacefully on November 20,...
11/23/2025

Joseph Norman Detwiler Jr

Joseph Norman Detwiler Jr. - everyone knew him as Norm - passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025. He was born in Van Wert on March 3, 1950, and spent his life rooted in the community he loved.

Norm is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Pamela (Tindall) Detwiler; his sons, Aaron Detwiler and his wife Lara, and Luke Detwiler and his wife Carrie; and his sisters, Joyce Thatcher and Johnna Roberts. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Dixie Detwiler of Van Wert, as well as his brothers, Jeff Detwiler and Nick Detwiler.

For more than 40 years, Norm served as an elder in the Van Wert and surrounding congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses, where he was known for his warmth and humor, and willingness to help anyone in need. His kindness left a lasting impression on friends and neighbors - he could hardly walk through a store without seeing many people who knew him.

Norm owned and operated Quality Services, a janitorial company, for decades. Whatever he was doing, he was always willing to stop and chat or just listen. He had a deep love of the Bible and his faith was evident to everyone he met.

Norm will be remembered for his love for his family, his dedication to Jehovah God, and the gentle way he touched the lives of so many.

Services are scheduled for 2:00PM Saturday, November 29, 2025, at Vantage Career Center, 818 N Franklin St. Van Wert, OH 45891. Visitation will be one hour prior, starting at 1:00PM.

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

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

View Joseph Norman Detwiler Jr's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Delbert Dwight CooperDelbert Dwight Cooper,84, of Van Wert, passed away on November 21, 2025, at his home. He was known ...
11/23/2025

Delbert Dwight Cooper

Delbert Dwight Cooper,84, of Van Wert, passed away on November 21, 2025, at his home. He was known for his easy-going nature and his unwavering dedication to hard work throughout his life. Dwight served as a lead man at Federal Mogul and Aeroquip, contributed to farming, and even worked as an apprentice surveyor at one point in his varied career.

He was born August 1, 1941, in Van Wert, to Dale E. and Hildred Bell (Snyder) Cooper. On December 10, 1960, he married the love of his life, the former Marybelle Mosier.

An avid horseman and member of the Ohio Horseman's Association, Dwight found great joy in the equestrian world. He and his beloved wife Marybelle moved to Lawrence, Kansas, in 1986, where they engaged deeply in trail riding competitions and became active members of numerous riding associations. Dwight played a vital role in supporting Marybelle's lifelong passion for long-distance riding, always there by her side to transport horses and encouragement. Together, they were a dynamic team who shared a love for travel, exploring all 50 states in their RV, and celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in Hawaii.

Dwight was also a devoted supporter of young people and agriculture, backing the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H throughout his life. He has left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Dwight is survived by his two sons, Denny Cooper and Anthony Cooper, both of Kansas; his sister, Dianne Foltz of Van Wert; a brother, Roy (Betty) Cooper of Van Wert; his grandchildren, Dalton (Shelby) Cooper, Trevor Cooper, Anthony (Lindsey) Cooper, Justin (Latasha) Cooper, and Nathan (Charlie) Cooper; and great-grandchildren, Jaxon Edward, Elliana Marie, Solara Belle, Jace Lee, Charlize Maxine and Dean.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Hildred; and his wife, Marybelle.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00pm on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert. Private family burial will be held at a later date.

Visitation will be from 10:00am-12:00pm on Friday, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed to a 4-H group of the donor's choice.

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

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

Delbert was preceded in death by: Marybelle Cooper, Hildred Cooper, Dale Cooper

View Delbert Dwight Cooper's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Holly DonnellHolly Michelle Donnell, 62, of Van Wert, Ohio passed away unexpectedly November 20, 2025 at her home. She w...
11/22/2025

Holly Donnell

Holly Michelle Donnell, 62, of Van Wert, Ohio passed away unexpectedly November 20, 2025 at her home. She was born December 30, 1962 and was the daughter of the late William and Dorothy Jean (Rice) Army.

Surviving are Holly's son, John (Ashley) Linser of Van Wert, three brothers, Kim (Carol) Army, Rick (Monica) Army, and Ron (Michelle) Army; and two sisters, Sue (Mike) Price, and Robin (Mitch) Kraner, all of Van Wert,

Also surviving are four grandchildren, Damien (Anna Partin) Linser, Blaze Linser, Dimitri Linser, and Jaydarose Linser; and two great grandchildren, Alister Linser and Nikolai Linser, who were Holly's entire world.

In keeping with Holly's wishes, all services will be private.

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

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

View Holly Donnell's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Kevin SmithKevin Jay Smith, 65, of Van Wert, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025, just days before his 66th birth...
11/22/2025

Kevin Smith

Kevin Jay Smith, 65, of Van Wert, passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025, just days before his 66th birthday. Born in Van Wert to the late Ralph J. and Ormal (Shaw) Smith, Kevin grew up with a zest for life that remained with him throughout his years.
A 1978 graduate of Lincolnview High School, Kevin attended Van Wert Schools prior to moving out of the district. Kevin began a fulfilling career at Progressive Stamping in Ottoville, later working at Eaton before returning to Progressive Stamping, where he retired in October 2025.
Kevin was a proud member of his community, formerly a member of the American Legion and more recently a member of the Moose Lodge. Known for his quick wit and love of nicknames, he brought laughter and joy wherever he went. His grandchildren knew that if grandma said no, grandpa would be ready with a "yes," creating memories that will be cherished forever.
He loved camping and cheering on his favorite teams-the Michigan Wolverines and Green Bay Packers-and treasured time with his family above all else. Kevin was a devoted husband to his wife, Tina; a proud father to his son, Zachary; and an adoring grandpa to Conner and Braylon Smith, Reynah Stuckey, Kaylee, Xavier, and Hannah Okuly. He joyfully anticipated the arrival of three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Karla (David) Boyce and Sandy (Dana) DeCamp, along with 12 nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Kevin was preceded in death by his son, Dustin Stuckey.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Kevin's life and birthday at 6:00 PM on Monday, November 24, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel, 722 S. Washington Street, Van Wert, Ohio. Visitation will be held from 2 to 6 PM the same day.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed toward expenses to honor Kevin's memory. To share in Kevin's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory.

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

Charlene RickardWe are saddened to share the passing of Charlene Rickard, 65, on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Vancres...
11/21/2025

Charlene Rickard

We are saddened to share the passing of Charlene Rickard, 65, on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Vancrest Nursing Home. She was known for her kind heart and the way she could touch the lives of those around her. Even with the limitations she lived with throughout her life, she left an impression on everyone she met.

She is survived by her mother, Barbara (Ellerbrock) Rickard of Convoy; two sisters, Carolyn (Karl) Kill of Powell, Ohio and Rhonda Rickard of Chandler, Arizona; one brother, Gregory (Amber) Rickard of Convoy; nephews, Paul (Tyler) Rickard of Columbus, Ohio, Steven (Kaylee) Rickard of Van Wert, Chris Kill of Columbus, Mitchell (Kaitlin) Rickard of Van Wert and Kayden (Amber) Kill of Columbus; and two great-nephews, Rylan and Reece Rickard.

Charlene was prededed in death by her father, Marion Rickard; and her brother, David Rickard.

Her memory will remain with all who knew her.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

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

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

View Charlene Rickard's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Robin A. (Callow) BearRobin A. (Callow) Bear, 67, of Van Wert, died early Thursday morning, November 20, 2025, at her re...
11/20/2025

Robin A. (Callow) Bear

Robin A. (Callow) Bear, 67, of Van Wert, died early Thursday morning, November 20, 2025, at her residence.

In keeping with Robin's wishes, there will be no services.

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

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

View Robin A. (Callow) Baer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Linda M. JeknavorianLinda M. (Waldron) Jeknavorian, 84, of Van Wert, a very loved and devoted wife, mom, grandma and ser...
11/18/2025

Linda M. Jeknavorian

Linda M. (Waldron) Jeknavorian, 84, of Van Wert, a very loved and devoted wife, mom, grandma and servant to her Savior, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, November 18, 2025. She was born July 1, 1941, in Van Wert, to Arthur and Lelia (Harvey) Waldron.

Linda graduated from Van Wert High School in 1959. In 1960, she started at St. Rita's Nursing School and later graduated in 1964 as a Registered Nurse.

Linda joined the United States Army as a nurse in 1966 and was later honorably discharged as a First Lieutenant in November 1968. She served at Fort Sam Houston, Texas and was later transferred to Fort Belvoir, Virginia, where she met the love of her life, Roy A. Jeknavorian. After their military service, Linda and Roy moved to Glen Cove, NY and were married on November 22, 1968.

Linda retired from the Van Wert County Hospital in 1994, after 18 years of service. She previously worked at Manhasset Hospital in New York and, after moving back to Van Wert in 1970, at the V.A. Hospital in Fort Wayne.

Linda had previously attended First United Methodist Church, where she had been very active in the missionary ministry. She led the mission committee for several years and served on 4 adult mission trips to Mexico. In September of 2000, Linda and Roy participated in the "Walk to Emmaus" Christian spiritual renewal workshop. Over the years, they introduced many people to the teachings of Jesus Christ, through the "Walk to Emmaus" workshop.

In addition to her husband, Roy, Linda is survived by her three children, Roy (Tammy) Jeknavorian, Jr, Katrina (Scott) Steen and Laura (Wes) Palmer; her grandchildren, Tifanie (Ronnie) Roberts, Tyler Dirham, Stefan Dirham, Camille Dirham, Lelia Valle, Tony Valle, Kobe (Cora) Palmer, Zach (Carrie) Palmer, Morgan Jeknavorian, Trey Jeknavorian and Kelsey (Brandon) Cole; 13 great grandchildren; and her brothers, Michael Waldron and David (Marsha) Waldron.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Debra Berkebile.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, November 24, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor David To, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, with military honors being rendered by the Van Wert American Legion and V.F.W.

Visitation will be from 1:00-6:00 PM on Sunday, November 23, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Linda's honor may be directed to Fountain Park Home Healthcare or to the Van Wert Council on Aging.

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

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

View Linda M. Jeknavorian's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

David SheetsDavid R. Sheets, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the...
11/17/2025

David Sheets

David R. Sheets, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on September 29, 1945, in Decatur, Indiana, to the late Leland and Merle (Dull) Sheets, David was a proud member of the community he called home throughout his life.

David graduated from Crestview High School and furthered his education by earning an associate's degree from International Business College. He devoted many years of his life to his career as a machinist at Aeroquip, where he was respected for his craftsmanship and dedication. After retiring, he often reflected fondly on his time there, always sharing stories with an infectious enthusiasm that resonated with those around him.

On December 18, 1966, David married Sharon Swartz, who preceded him in death. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. David's warm and friendly nature meant that he never met a stranger; he possessed a rare gift for forming connections with everyone he encountered.

He found joy in simple pleasures, whether it was a day at the shooting range, a few rounds of euchre with friends, or sharing meals and stories over dinner at a restaurant. David's generous spirit and easygoing demeanor created lasting friendships and a legacy of kindness that will be remembered by all who knew him.

David is survived by his loving daughter, Stacia (Adam) Averill; his son, Devin (Shay) Sheets; as well as his treasured grandchildren: Anniston and Ainsley Burlingame, and Wade, Wren, and Will Sheets.

In addition to his parents and wife, David was preceded in death by his brother, Doyt Sheets.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate David's life during visitation at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel on Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service honoring his life will be held at the same location on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 10:00 AM. David will be laid to rest privately next to his wife in Ridge Cemetery.

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

View David Sheets's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Stephen McGannonStephen Lee McGannon, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturd...
11/17/2025

Stephen McGannon

Stephen Lee McGannon, beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on August 10, 1954, in Van Wert, Ohio, to the late Frank and Pauline "Polly" McGannon Jr. Steve spent his life in the embrace of the community he cherished, where he was known for his steadfast work ethic and deep devotion to family.

A 1972 graduate of Van Wert High School, Steve dedicated many years to his career as a tire builder at BF Goodrich, from which he later retired. His commitment to his work was matched only by his love for his family, especially after the loss of his wife, Tammy McGannon in 2012. As a single father, he raised his young daughter, Haley McGannon, with unwavering strength and compassion, instilling in her lifelong lessons of resilience and care.

Steve often reflected fondly on his childhood, particularly the fishing trips he took with his father-navigating the map on those adventures became a cherished rite of passage. In his leisure time, he found joy in golf, weekly card games with friends, and cheering on his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes. A man of simple pleasures, he also took great pride in keeping his yard clean and well-kept.

Steve's legacy lives on through his daughters, Haley McGannon and Karey (Ryan) Helle; his son, Derrick Sams; his sister, Linda (Denny) Zinn; and his brother, Ron (Donna) Stuckey. He was a proud grandfather to Raiden Sams, Delaney Wright, Payton Sams, Aaliyah Helle, and Kaylee Helle, and a great-grandfather to Bentley Foster. Each memory shared and moment cherished has woven a lasting tapestry of love that will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Steve's life at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be held at the chapel from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, prior to the service. Interment will follow in Woodland Cemetery.

As we gather to honor Steve's life, we reflect on the man he was-a hardworking, devoted father whose love and joy for life inspired those around him. His spirit will live on in the laughter of his grandchildren and the treasured memories held by his family and friends.

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

View Stephen McGannon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Tania S. KreischerTania S. Kreischer, beloved mother, wife, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away on Sunday, Nove...
11/11/2025

Tania S. Kreischer

Tania S. Kreischer, beloved mother, wife, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away on Sunday, November 9, 2025, surrounded by a house full of family and friends. She was born October 8, 1959, in Van Wert, to Homer H. "Dick" and Irene E. (Riley) Adams.

Tania lived a life full of joy and passion. She found solace in her flower gardens, relished time spent outdoors, and was an avid reader. Tania had a knack for piecing together jigsaw puzzles and enjoyed traveling, particularly to the beautiful Savannah, Georgia area. A true music enthusiast, she had a special fondness for the Eagles, which often accompanied her in her home. In her quieter moments, Tania loved to immerse herself in her favorite mystery and adventure television shows.

Most importantly, Tania's heart was filled with love for her family and friends, especially her cherished grandchildren. She spent her formative years attending Zion Christian Union Church with her loved ones and dedicated over 17 years of her career to Federal Mogul in Van Wert, having also worked at Teleflex in Van Wert and as a teacher's aide for Crestview Local Schools.

Tania is survived by her husband, Richard Kreischer of Convoy; her children, Joseph (Tammy) Motycka of Convoy, Jared Motycka of Ohio City, Adam (Yana) Lyons of Hilliard, Oh and Raven Kreischer of Convoy; her loving sisters, Cheryl (Frank Sr.) Bowen of Ohio City and Rosanne (Richard) Font of Paulding; and her treasured grandchildren, Ava, Reid and Owen Motycka and Daniel Lyons.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Richard Adams; her mother in law and stepfather in law, Gwendolyn and Paul Woods; and her father in law, William Kreischer.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, with Pastor Clark Williman, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Convoy I.O.O.F. Cemtery.

Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00PM on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in Tania's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

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

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

View Tania S. Kreischer's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Dessie (Adkins) Yoh ElstonDessie (Adkins) Yoh Elston, 84, of Grover Hill, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great gra...
11/11/2025

Dessie (Adkins) Yoh Elston

Dessie (Adkins) Yoh Elston, 84, of Grover Hill, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend, left this earth to join her Lord and Savior at 12:40 PM on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Vancrest of Delphos, with family by her side.

She was born on December 17, 1940, at home in Jackson County, Ohio, to James Edward and Opal Marguerite (Crabtree) Adkins. On June 28, 1959, Dessie married Rev. Richard T. "Dick" Yoh. He preceded her in death in 1988.

Dessie is survived by her 5 daughters, Deanna (Timothy) Brewer, Janna (Jon) Greenwood, Lori (Scott) Grosenbaucher, Karen (Jeff) Hager and Jaclyn (fiance`: Chad) Lambert; grandchildren, Andy Brewer, Aaron (Holly) Brewer, Ethan (Sarah) Brewer, Jonathan (Kelsey) Greenwood, Joel (Madison) Greenwood, Joseph (Madelyn) Greenwood, Chris (Jeanette) Hager, Nick (Audrey) Hager, Nate (Amy) Hager, Cori (Nick) Fields and Emily Lambert; 11 great grandchildren; brothers, Loren Adkins and James (Linda) Adkins; sisters, Reba (Louis) Herman, Edna (Jerry) Stacey, Patty (Edwin) Cavinder and Pamela Adkins.

On January 28, 1995, Dessie married Don R. Elston and he survives in Grover Hill. When Dessie married Don, she joyfully inherited 4 more adult children, 7 additional grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

Dessie was a Godly woman who loved the Lord and His word. She was a powerful believer who found strength from reading her Bible, joy in praying and peace in the promise of eternal life through the blood of Jesus Christ her Lord. Dessie enjoyed spreading joy and sharing the Gospel throughout her life.

Dick was drafted into the U.S. Army and while he was stationed in San Antonio, Texas and Fort Knox, Kentucky, Dessie worked as a beautician- a skill which served her well raising 5 daughters. She was always available to share her beauty tips and advice. She shared many stories about her time spent on those Army bases. she was also a bookkeeper at the Grover Hill Grain Company. Dessie was a small business owner- having owned a Gospel Gift Shop, a cake decorating business, she was a seamstress, doll maker and designed doll clothes. She was quite gifted finding projects and making homemade patterns from memory. She also served as a Postmaster, a foster mother, a farmer's wife, a Pastor's wife and was the Director of Ministry for a women's prison. Dessie was an avid crafter, a creative quilter, a crocheting master and was brilliantly creative in many ways.

Dick and Dessie were active in starting area Good News clubs, Bible Institutes for young pastors, youth groups and mission work. She would sew school uniforms for Haitian orphanages, all while working to translate the Holy Bible into the children's native language. At home, she housed many missionaries over the years and structured many of their weekly Bible studies.

Throughout her life, Dessie enjoyed traveling, visiting National Parks and museums, bird watching and gardening. She knew her flowers just as well as she could quote scripture! She could also be found attending women's Bible studies and church functions. Dessie enjoyed the love of her family most. she encouraged family time and cherished having all of her grandchildren visit 1 week out of the year- her annual "Kuzins Kamp". These "Kamps" would consist of field trips, daily chores with a "Kuzin" and learning about God's word through Bible based lessons and memorization.

In addition to her first husband, Dick, Dessie was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Harold Adkins (in infancy), Melvin Adkins, Clyde Adkins and Wayne Adkins; and a sister, Norma Hunt.

A celebration of Dessie's life will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Grover Hill Zion Community Church with Pastor Nathan Ferrell, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Middle Creek Cemetery, Grover Hill.

Visitation will be from 11:00am-1:00pm on Saturday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to LifeWise Academy or to Zion Community Church Women's Group.

Dessie lived out her faith by showing compassion and kindness to others.

"For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago". (Ephesians 2:10)

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

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

View Dessie (Adkins) Yoh Elston's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Brandon Lee BartzBrandon Lee Bartz, age 49, of Delphos, Ohio, passed away on November 7, 2025. He was born on February 2...
11/11/2025

Brandon Lee Bartz

Brandon Lee Bartz, age 49, of Delphos, Ohio, passed away on November 7, 2025. He was born on February 27, 1976, in Van Wert, Ohio, to Tom E. and Paula J. Bartz. On November 24, 2015, he married the former Brenda Schulte.

A 1994 graduate of Van Wert High School, Brandon had a lifelong passion for sports. He loved bowling, baseball, softball and golf. He supported the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame football and his beloved Atlanta Braves. Brandon's enthusiasm for sports was shared with his family and friends.

He was the service manager at Rable's Auto Service in St. Marys, Ohio.

Brandon is survived by his wife, Brenda Bartz; his father, Tom E. (Tammy) Bartz; his mother, Paula J. (Ron) Kline; his children, Austin Fast, Alexandrea (Korbin) Slade, Caleb (Christina) York, and Mackenzie Bartz; his grandchildren, Paisley and Grayson Slade; his step children, Aaron (Cammie) Deffenbaugh, Alexis (James) Gee and Nash Deffenbaugh; his step grandchildren, Cashtyn, Rowan and Dara; his sister, Kristy (Terry) Boyd; his step-brother, Matthew (Kimmi) Jay; his step-sister, Kristen (John) Maenle and his step sister in law, Kelli Wood.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Verne and Marilyn Sue Bartz; his maternal grandparents, Paul and Evelyn Martz; his step brothers, Chad Jay and Anthony Jay; and a step sister, Jennifer Jay.

Visitation will be from 1:00-4:00pm on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert.

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

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

View Brandon Lee Bartz's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

Address

722 S. Washington Street
Van Wert, OH
45891

Opening Hours

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

Telephone

+14192381112

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