W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH Obituaries

About W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH

Located in the heart of Celina, Ohio, W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH is a trusted and respected funeral home that has been serving the community for generations. With a rich history and a commitment to providing exceptional service, this funeral home is dedicated to helping families say goodbye to their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A History of Excellence

Founded by W.H. Dick, the funeral home has been family-owned and operated since its inception. Over the years, the business has grown and evolved, but the core values of compassion, integrity, and professionalism have remained unchanged. Today, W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH is proud to be one of the most reputable funeral homes in the region, with a team of experienced and dedicated professionals who are committed to providing outstanding care and support to families during their time of need.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Jerry D. Clay - February 12, 1942 - March 28, 2024

Departed: 03/28/2024 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Jerry D. Clay, age 82, of Mendon, passed away Thursday, March 28, 2024, at OhioHealth in Van Wert.

He was born February 12, 1942, in Greenville, to the late Darrel W. "Boogie" and Alberta M. (Rider) Clay.

Jerry and Sheryl Diane Butcher were married on November 30, 1963, and she preceded him in death November 22, 2022.

Surviving are their children: Tim Clay of Haviland, Terri Jutte of Celina, and Traci (Kevin) Mendenhall of Scott.  A son, Todd Allen Clay, passed away in 2007.

Also surviving are Jerry's brother: Tom Clay, of Mendon, 8 grandchildren: Chandler Clay, Katie Clay, Kaylie (Devin) Joseph, Rachel Jutte, Jared Jutte, Cody (Madison) Hagaman, Seth (Erika) Mendenhall, and Taylor Hagaman, and 7 great grandchildren.

Sheryl's brothers and sister: Dallas Butcher, Jack Butcher, Jim (Donnetta) Butcher, and Deb (Mike) Schumm, also survive.

He was preceded in death by sisters-in-law: Marcia Clay, Marie Butcher, and Lois Butcher, and Sheryl's parents: Gale and Wilma (Alt) Butcher.

Jerry was a 1961 graduate of Mendon-Union High School.

He had worked at Spriggs Olds in Celina.  For 34 years, Jerry was the Co-Owner/Operator of Clay Automotive in Mendon.  After retiring from the automotive shop, he worked for Belna Petroleum in Rockford for 5 years.

Jerry was very devoted to helping his wife Sheryl, first with all her creative building and decorating projects, and then as a caregiver as her health declined.

He enjoyed attending his grandkids and nieces and nephews sporting events.

Jerry loved the outdoors, camping, fishing, and coon hunting, and in later years, just watching wildlife.

Visitation for friends and family will be held on Monday, April 1st, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon.

Burial will take place at a later date at St. Paul's Lutheran Church Cemetery in Liberty Township.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, ASPCA, or any local Humane Society.

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Joseph "Wheeler" Houser - June 09, 1957 - January 28, 2024

Departed: 01/28/2024 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Joseph M. "Wheeler"  Houser, age 66, of rural Mendon, passed away at his home on Sunday, January 28, 2024.

He was born June 9, 1957, in St. Marys, to James D. Houser and Thelma A. (Sampson) Houser, who are both deceased.

"Wheeler", as he was known by many, was a father, friend, brother, and grandpa.  He leaves behind his son, Joey Houser of Mendon, and ten grandchildren.  Also surviving is his life partner, Tammy Houser, and six brothers and sisters: Rick (Debbie) Sampson of Forest, OH, Patrick Houser and Daniel (Shyla) Houser of Mendon, Deb (Jim) Dotson of Pensacola, FL, Lynn (Roger) Sell of Rockford, and Shirley Dicke of Mendon.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers: Dennis Houser and Terry Houser.

After attending Mendon-Union High School, Joe later received his GED.  A "Jack of All Trades", Wheeler could do most anything.  Over the years, he worked as a mechanic, carpenter, and entrepreneur.  He also worked on oil wells and in construction.

A big man with a big heart, Wheeler loved the outdoors.  He was known for his love of hunting mushrooms in the springtime, crappie fishing, and for making the best flavored moonshine around.

Wheeler was a beloved member and current President of the St. Marys Chapter of the Barbarians Motorcycle Club.  He dearly loved his Biker family.

He will be in our hearts forever, and missed by all who knew him.

Calling Hours will be held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, on Saturday, February 3rd, from 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., to be followed by the Funeral Service, starting at 3:00.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Mercy Health - St. Rita's Hospice, 545 W. Market St., Lima, OH 45805.

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Robert D. Fields - December 28, 1942 - April 26, 2023

Departed: 04/26/2023 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Robert Devon Fields, age 80, of Mendon, passed away Wednesday evening, April 26, 2023, at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital in St. Marys.

He was born December 28, 1942, in Portland, Indiana.  His father, Charles Fields and mother, Ruby Reynolds Uhrick, preceded him in death.

Bob married Vicky L. Dynes, who survives along with their son and daughter-in-law, Raymond & Catina Fields of Celina, and 3 grandchildren: Heather Fields (Tyler Schick), Ashley (Matt) Biederman, and Tyler Fields.

His sister-in-law, Chris Uhrick of Mendon, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Rocksand (Joby) Hollinger, Stoney Dynes, and Donna Dynes, all of Greenville, and Cheryl Dynes of Ansonia, also survive, along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceding Bob in death was his brother, Raymond L. Fields, half-brother, Allen Uhrick, and brothers-in-law: Bobby Dynes and Rick Dynes.

A graduate of Versailles High School, he served for 4 years with the U.S. Army in Vietnam.  Bob retired from Goodyear in St. Marys after many years of service.  He enjoyed using the computer to play games, look-up recipes, and research genealogy.

Bob also liked to make photo and music CD's for the family.  He loved to spend time outdoors, and in his younger years, enjoyed fishing.  Bob could talk for hours about his service in Vietnam, particularly working on the Huey Helicopters.

Funeral Services will be held at 4:00 PM on Monday, May 1, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, with Pastor Randy Christian officiating.

Following the service, Military Rites will be conducted at the funeral home by members of Celina VFW Post #5713 and American Legion Post #210.

Calling Hours are before services on Monday, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM, at the Mendon funeral home.

Burial will take place at a later date at Mendon Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to a charity to benefit Vietnam War veterans.

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Helen Rolsten - January 30, 1945 - April 14, 2023

Departed: 04/14/2023 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Helen L. Rolsten, age 78, formerly of Mendon, passed away peacefully at the Vancrest of Holgate nursing home on Friday, April 14, 2023.

She was born in Van Wert County on January 30, 1945, to the late Elven & Edna (Uhrich) Slane.

On June 24, 1977, Helen married Jerry A. Rolsten of Mendon.  He preceded her in death September 11, 2020.

Helen leaves behind her nieces: Joyce (Walt) Theisen of New Bavaria and Ava (Gregg) Scheidt of Ohio City, nephews: Rudy (Ruth) Matthews and Wayne Matthews of Ohio City, great nieces and nephews: Tim (Tami) Matthews, Lorie (Philip) Garwood, Tammy (Kenny) Theisen, Alysha (Stan) Scheidt, Jordan (Rebecca) Scheidt, and Bob Friedrich, and 12 great-great nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her sister and brother-in-law, M. Marcile & Frederick Charles Matthews, her brother, Gerald Allen Slane, a niece, Deb Matthews, and great niece, Jamie Friedrich.

Helen had worked at the former Brady's Clothing Store in Van Wert and Walmart in Celina.  Through the years, she was a representative for various home parties, including: Home and Garden, Mary Kay, Tupperware, Avon and Pampered Chef.

She had attended Mendon United Methodist Church, and helped her husband Jerry with projects for the Mendon Lions Club.  In her free time, Helen enjoyed crafting and card making.

Calling Hours will be held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, on Monday, April 17, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon, followed by the Funeral Service beginning at Noon.  Pastor Don Clinger will officiate.

Burial will follow at Mendon Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.

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Orland D. Freewalt - June 01, 1930 - March 10, 2023

Departed: 03/10/2023 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Orland Dewain Freewalt, age 92, of rural Mendon, passed away on Friday, March 10, 2023, at Roselawn Manor in Spencerville.

He was born June 1, 1930, in Celina, to the late Edward and Nora (Smith) Freewalt.

Orland and Doris Washburn were married on December 31, 1950, and she survives in Mendon.  They recently celebrated their 72nd Wedding Anniversary.

Surviving are their three children: Larry (Cheryl) Freewalt of Ohio City, and Linda (Rick) Etgen and Edward K. Freewalt, of Mendon, five grandchildren: Jerry (Karen) Freewalt, Jason (Erika) Freewalt, Rachel Spencer, Darrell (Nancy) Etgen, and Shawn (Erika) Freewalt, and 18 great-grandchildren.

Other survivors are a brother-in-law, Don (Helen) Washburn, and sister-in-law, Tillie Washburn, of St. Marys.

Orland was preceded in death by a granddaughter, April Etgen Buckler, great grandson, Joshua Etgen, brothers: Forest Freewalt and Denver (Martha) Freewalt, a sister, Mary Jean (Howard) Lauth. Also, his parents-in-law: Harley and Violet Washburn, and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Mary (William) Houser, James Washburn, and Shirley (Donald) Clement.

A graduate of Spencerville High School, Orland served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  He was a member of the occupational force of Germany, where he guarded the Russian border.

Orland was a farmer, and had also worked at Ohio Deck in Spencerville, the Paper Mill in St. Marys, and retired from U.S. Metalcraft in Delphos.

He was a life member of Spencerville VFW Post #6772, and had attended Pleasant Grove Baptist Church near Mendon.

An avid outdoorsman, over the years Orland enjoyed fishing, hunting and trapping.  He also raised livestock, and put out a large garden, providing food for the family.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 15, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, with Pastor Randy Christian officiating.

Burial will follow at Mendon Cemetery, with military honors by members of the Spencerville VFW.

Calling Hours are 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00 PM, Tuesday, March 14, and one hour prior to services on Wednesday, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home, Mendon.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Mendon Union Fire Department, 103 Drake St., P.O. Box 38, Mendon 45862.

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Carole J. McGillvary - October 17, 1935 - January 17, 2023

Departed: 01/17/2023 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Carole J. McGillvary, age 87, of Mendon, passed away Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at The Gardens at Celina.

She was born October 17, 1935, in Mendon, to Wilmer L. Clay and Hollies A. (Nolan) Dilbone.

Her mother and step-father, Willard B. "Red" Dilbone, and her father and step-mother, Margaret L. “Maggie” (Mosier) Clay, all preceded her in death.

Carole and Vermont D. “Montie” McGillvary were married on February 19, 1956, and Montie preceded her in death November 18, 2020.

Surviving are their 3 children: Greg (Amy) McGillvary of Livonia, Michigan, and Lori (Jim) Bader and Kari (Chris) Cron of Celina, 8 grandchildren: Hillary, Clay, Morgan, Brady, Kasey, Luke, Paige, and Aaron, and 5 great grandkids: Landon, Reese, Ella, Chester, and Dutton.

Carole is also survived by a sister, Audrey Snyder of Mendon, and half- brothers: Ricky (Deb) Clay and Jim Clay of Van Wert, and Scott (Christopher Johnson) Clay of Chicago.

Preceding her in death were a brother, Richard Clay, brother-in-law, Stephan Snyder, sister-in-law, Betty McGillvary, brother-in-law and sister-in-law: Ed & Judy (Huwer) McGillvary, and Montie’s parents: Orville Lee & Dorothy Dale (Skinner) McGillvary.

Carole was a 1953 graduate of Mendon-Union High School.  She had worked in the office at the Van Wert County Sheriff's Department, and was a School Secretary for the Mendon-Union and Parkway Local School Districts for many years.

She was a member of the Mendon Civic Club and Mendon First Church of God, and attended St. Paul Lutheran Church in Liberty Township.  Carole enjoyed growing flowers, rearranging home furnishings and collecting decorative items.

Her greatest joy was her family and she loved spending time with the grandkids and great grandkids.

Calling Hours are at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, on Friday, January 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by the Memorial Service, beginning at 1:00, with Pastor Robin Owen officiating.  Burial will take place at a later date at Mendon Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Paul Liberty Lutheran Church, 9380 Wabash Rd., Rockford, 45882, or EverHeart Hospice, 1350 N. Broadway, Greenville, 45331.

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Terry Sullinger - December 15, 1947 - November 29, 2022

Departed: 11/29/2022 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Terry L. Sullinger, age 74, of Mendon, passed away on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, in the Emergency Department at Wayne HealthCare in Greenville.

He was born December 15, 1947, in Celina, to Robert Sullinger and Kathryn S. (Leonard) Sullinger, who both preceded him in death.

Terry and E. Elaine Lugabihl were married on April 4, 1970.  Elaine survives, along with their daughter, Julie Sullinger of Columbus, and son, Josh Sullinger (Larry Miller) of Lewis Center.

Also surviving is his sister, Lois Studer of Celina, a brother-in-law, James Lugabihl of Elida, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Terry was also preceded in death by Elaine's parents: Helen & Leonard "Bus" Lugabihl, and a sister-in-law, Carol Lugabihl.

A 1966 graduate of Mendon-Union High School, Terry served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam, and was awarded a Purple Heart.  After his military service, he earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Wright State University.

Terry was the retired Owner/Operator of Val Aerospace of Ohio, located in Mendon.  He was a member of Mendon United Methodist Church.  Terry enjoyed reading books and watching old movies, particularly those with Western themes, and loved Gold Wing motorcycles.

Calling Hours will be held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, on Sunday, December 4, from 1:00 to 4:00 P.M.  A Prayer Service will follow at 4:00, with Pastor Rob Glenn, presiding.

A private burial will be held at Mendon Cemetery, at a later date.

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Sheryl Diane Clay - December 21, 1945 - November 22, 2022

Departed: 11/22/2022 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Sheryl Diane Clay, age 76, passed away at her home near Mendon, on Tuesday, November 22, 2022.

She was born December 21, 1945, in Decatur, Indiana, to the late Gale and Wilma (Alt) Butcher.

Sheryl and Jerry Clay were married on November 30, 1963.  Jerry survives, along with their children: Tim Clay of Haviland, Terri Jutte of Celina, and Traci (Kevin) Mendenhall of Scott.  A son, Todd Allen Clay, passed away in 2007.

Also surviving are 8 grandchildren: Chandler Clay, Katie Clay, Kaylie (Devin) Joseph, Rachel Jutte, Jared Jutte, Cody (Madison) Hagaman, Seth Mendenhall and Taylor Hagaman; 6 great grandchildren; Sheryl's 3 brothers and a sister: Dallas (Marie) Butcher, Jack Butcher, Jim (Donnetta) Butcher, and Deb (Mike) Schumm; and a brother-in-law, Tom Clay.

She was also preceded in death by sisters-in-law: Lois Butcher and Marcia Clay, and Jerry's parents: Darrell "Boogie" and Alberta Clay.

Sheryl graduated with the Parkway High School Class of 1963.  She had worked at Walmart in the Pharmacy and Sewing Departments for 17 years.  Sheryl was very talented in decorating.  She repurposed antique furnishings and used them creatively in her home.

For 30 years, she participated in a monthly card club with a group of Mendon area ladies.  They enjoyed the food and fellowship as much as the card games.  Sheryl loved the Christmas season and all the decorations.  Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with her family, grandkids and great grandkids.

Memorial Services will be held at 3:30 p.m., Sunday, December 18, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, with Pastor Kevin Hall officiating.  Calling Hours are from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m.

In Sheryl’s honor, Memorial Contributions may be made to: The Alzheimer's Association, Northwest Ohio Chapter, 480 Dussel Dr., Suite 150, Maumee, 43537 (Attn: Findlay-Lima Office) or Community Health Professionals Hospice, 816 Pro Drive, Celina 45822.

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Dan I. Butler - November 19, 1947 - November 02, 2022

Departed: 11/02/2022 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Dan Irvin Butler, age 74, of rural Rockford, passed away Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at Tranquility of Rockford.

He was born November 19, 1947, in Celina, to Charles "Irvin" and Marilyn (Morgan) Butler, who both preceded him in death.

Dan is survived by two sisters and a brother: Jane Barber of Van Wert, Joan (Steve) Ditmer of Jacksboro, Tennessee, and Dennis (Rose) Butler of Rockford, 9 nieces and nephews, and a number of great and great-great nieces and nephews.

A 1966 graduate of Mendon-Union High School, Dan was a member and had been named an honorary President of Rockford Eagles Lodge #1292.  He enjoyed socializing at area restaurants and coffee shops.  One of Dan’s favorite interests was horses.

Calling Hours will be held at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, on Monday, November 7, from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 p.m.  Funeral Services will follow at 2:00, with Pastor Marc Phillips officiating.

Burial will take place at Tomlinson Cemetery in Union Township.

Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Rita's Hospice.

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Margaret A. Krogman - May 30, 1923 - September 09, 2022

Departed: 09/09/2022 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Margaret Alice Krogman, age 99, passed away at her home in Mendon, on Friday, September 9, 2022.

She was born May 30, 1923, in Allen County, Ohio, to Delbert & Belva (Moorman) Sawmiller.

Margaret and Glenn W. Krogman were married on August 8, 1942.  Glenn passed away May 26, 1992.  She was also preceded in death by their sons: Larry D. Krogman on January 27, 2011 and Jerry W. Krogman on May 21, 2013.

Surviving is her daughter-in-law, Linda Krogman of Mendon, six grandchildren: Terry (Andrea) Krogman and David (Marcia) Krogman of Mendon, Matthew (Erin) Krogman of San Bernadino, California, Bart Krogman of Columbus, Nikki Hollowell of Avondale, Arizona, and Misty Rockwood of Lima, and four great grandchildren: Clarissa, Andrew, Xavier, and Scarlet.

Margaret was the Salutatorian of her graduating class at Spencerville High School.

She was a homemaker, and also worked for a time at First National Bank in Mendon, then later at the St. Marys branch.  She had served as a volunteer for many years at Colonial Nursing Home in Rockford.

She was a member of Mt. Tabor Church of God, Celina, and the Spencerville VFW #6772 Auxiliary.  Margaret was a 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star, first belonging to Mendon Chapter #259, then joining Spencerville Chapter #130.

She enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, and the Gaither's television programs, and liked to knit, read, and do crossword puzzles.  Margaret was affectionately referred to as the "Family Glue".  Her home was the gathering place for all the Holidays.

Funeral Services will be held at Mt. Tabor Church of God, 9744 US 127 North, Celina, at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 16, with Pastor Darwin Dunten, officiating.  Burial will follow at Mendon Cemetery.

Calling Hours are 2:00-4:00 & 6:00-8:00 p.m., Thursday, September 15, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, and 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Friday, at Mt. Tabor Church.

Memorial Contributions may be made to any Veteran's group or to EverHeart Hospice.

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Duane Allen Shellabarger - September 07, 1967 - April 21, 2022

Departed: 04/21/2022 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Duane Allen Shellabarger, age 54, of Mendon, passed away at 4:48 P.M., Thursday, April 21, 2022, at the Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio.

He was born September 7, 1967, to his parents Wayne & Martha (Berry) Shellabarger.

Preceding him in death were his father, on June 20, 2016, and a brother, David on November 16, 2015.

Duane's Mother survives in Mendon, along with his Brother & Sisters: Deborah (Phil) DuChamp of Rockwall, Texas, and Don (Lori) Shellabarger and Diane (Steve) Snyder, both of Mendon.

Also surviving are his Nieces, Nephews, and Great Nieces & Nephews: Brandon (Allison) Ralston and daughters Eliza & Eva; Brooke (Nick) Daniel, daughter Marshall, and sons Wes & Miles; Dan (Brandi) Shellabarger and daughter Aubree; Abby (Fiancée Grant) Shellabarger; Faith Shellabarger; Erika (Steven) Martin and daughters Avery & Willow; Derik (Jordan) Snyder and daughter Sloane; and Kylie (Seth) Owens and the boys Aiden, Izayah, Jahzayah & Jaxson; Step-Nephew: Philip DuChamp II, Step-Nieces: Beaelisa (Kyle) Unruh, daughter Naliya Martin, and sons Kenny, Beauden & Crawford; Nelia (Junior) Njoku; and Christy (Jacob) Kucharski.

A 1986 Graduate of Mendon-Union High School, Duane was employed at Wright State University, Dayton, in the Maintenance Dept.

Duane always enjoyed watching and following his favorite sports teams, the Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Browns and of course the mighty Ohio State Buckeyes!!!!  His true favorite thing to do for relaxation time, was to be watching the Old Western movies.

He immensely enjoyed getting together with his close group of “buddies”. They shared lots of fun times and adventures together.  He loved them all. Thanks, guys, for sharing Duane’s life, as true friends to him.

Another favorite pastime was keeping up on all his Nieces & Nephews sports and activities through the years.  Duane was a very proud Uncle and Great-Uncle, and loved all his Nieces and Nephews greatly.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M., Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, with his Niece, Kylie Owens officiating.

Burial will follow at Mendon Cemetery.

Calling Hours are from 11:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 27, 2022, prior to the service, at the Mendon Funeral Home.

Memorial Contributions may be made to The Gideons International, and sent to: The Gideons International Processing Center, P.O. Box 97251, Washington, DC 20090-7251.

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Larry D. Hamilton - July 04, 1933 - April 06, 2022

Departed: 04/06/2022 (Mendon)

Obituary Preview: Larry D. Hamilton, age 88, of Mendon, passed away Wednesday, April 6, 2022, at Divine Rehabilitation and Nursing at Shane Hill, Rockford.

Born July 4, 1933, in Mendon, he was the son of Ronald D. & Edna I. (McMichael) Hamilton.

Larry married Betty M. Long on March 5, 1961, and she preceded him in death March 1, 2016.

He is survived by a son, Michael Hamilton of Mendon, a daughter, Beth (Tom) Hoenie of Celina, four grandchildren: Lisa Hoenie, Katie (Jeff) Vian, John Hoenie and Joshua Hoenie, two great granddaughters: Jenna May and Alexis Renee Vian, his sister, Deanne (Norman) VanTilburg of Rockford, and many nieces & nephews.

Preceding him in death were brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Robert & Eva Ritchie Sr., Jennie & Lewis Merkle Jr., and Viola & Ril Miller.

Larry was a 1951 graduate of Mendon-Union High School.  A retired farmer, he had also owned and operated the Hamilton Stockyard in Mendon, and attended Mt. Tabor Church of God, Celina.

Larry enjoyed sharing stories of local history.  He particularly enjoyed telling the adventures of "Elmer the Cat".  Elmer, a cross-eyed calico cat, from the Hamilton Stockyard, was chosen from hundreds of cats nationwide to travel to Hollywood.  Elmer, accompanied by Larry, were treated to an elaborate 11-day trip to California, where Elmer appeared in the television series "The Millionaire" in 1958.  Larry received media attention from all around the area, due to Elmer's celebrity status.  Larry treasured his scrapbooks of articles, photos and memorabilia from this occasion.

Larry enjoyed horse racing and traveled throughout the area to fairs and racetracks such as Scioto Downs and Chicago.  He owned and raced several pacer horses over the years, but his horse, "Banta", was one of his favorites.

Larry enjoyed gardening with his wife Betty, especially growing sweet corn.  He loved spending time with his grandkids, taking them out for rides and treats.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 11, at Mt. Tabor Church of God, 9744 U.S. 127 North, Celina.  Pastor Tom Powell is officiating, with Pastors Darwin Dunten and Kyle Stoker, assisting.

Burial will follow at Mendon Cemetery.

Calling Hours are 2:00-4:00 & 5:00-7:00 p.m., Sunday, April 10, at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth Funeral Home in Mendon, and 10:00-11:00 a.m. on Monday, at the Church.

Memorial Contributions may be made to EverHeart Hospice or Mt. Tabor Women of God.

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Services Offered

W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH offers a wide range of services to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. From traditional funerals and memorial services to cremations and celebrations of life, their experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's memory. They also offer pre-planning services, allowing you to make arrangements in advance and ensure that your wishes are carried out.

The Facility

The funeral home is located at 218 West Market St., Celina, OH, 45822, and features a warm and welcoming atmosphere that provides a comforting environment for families to gather and pay their respects. The facility is tastefully decorated and well-maintained, with ample parking and easy accessibility for all visitors.

The Staff

The team at W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH is comprised of compassionate and experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to families. From licensed funeral directors and embalmers to administrative staff and bereavement counselors, every member of the team is committed to ensuring that your needs are met with kindness, empathy, and understanding.

Community Involvement

W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH is deeply committed to giving back to the community they serve. Through partnerships with local organizations and charities, they strive to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them. From hosting educational seminars and workshops to participating in fundraising events and charity drives, this funeral home is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others.

Bereavement Support

Losing a loved one can be a difficult and overwhelming experience, but it doesn't have to be faced alone. W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH offers bereavement support services to help families cope with their grief and find ways to heal. From individual counseling sessions to group support meetings, their experienced bereavement counselors are here to provide guidance, comfort, and support during your time of need.

Why Choose W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH?

When it comes to choosing a funeral home, there are many options available. So why choose W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH? The answer is simple: their commitment to excellence, their passion for serving others, and their dedication to providing personalized care and support set them apart from other funeral homes in the area. By choosing W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH, you can rest assured that your loved one will receive the dignity and respect they deserve, and that you will receive the care and support you need during your time of grief.

Contact Information

If you would like more information about W.H. Dick & Sons-Hellwarth FH or would like to speak with a member of their staff, please don't hesitate to contact them at (phone number) or visit their website at (website URL). Their office hours are (list office hours), but they are always available 24/7 to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any other relevant details.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or mortuaries may also offer assistance in writing and publishing obituaries.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also mention any notable achievements or accomplishments.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the wishes of the family. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs.

Can I include photos or other media in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include photos, videos, or other multimedia elements in an obituary. This can help to make the tribute more personal and engaging.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. You can usually find submission guidelines on their website or by contacting their customer service department.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

Yes, there may be a fee associated with publishing an obituary in a newspaper or online platform. The cost varies depending on the publication and the length of the obituary.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to have control over how they are remembered. This can also help to reduce the burden on their loved ones during a difficult time.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, typically including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that provides more information about the person's life.

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries are meant to be a celebration of the person's life, so including humorous stories or personal anecdotes can help to make the tribute more engaging and relatable.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The time it takes for an obituary to be published can vary depending on the publication and their deadlines. Online platforms may publish immediately, while print newspapers may take several days or even weeks.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it has been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it has been published. However, this depends on the publication's policies and procedures.

What if I want to keep the obituary private?

If you want to keep the obituary private, you can request that it not be published publicly. Some funeral homes or online platforms may offer private or password-protected options for sharing obituaries with select individuals.

Can I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes! Including information about charitable donations or memorial services can provide friends and family with a meaningful way to honor the deceased.

How do I handle errors or inaccuracies in an obituary?

If you notice an error or inaccuracy in an obituary, contact the publication or platform immediately. They will work with you to correct the mistake as quickly as possible.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, it may be possible to republish an obituary at a later date, such as on the anniversary of the person's passing. Check with the publication or platform for their policies on republication.

What if I want to write an obituary for someone who was not well-known?

An obituary can be written for anyone who has passed away, regardless of their level of public recognition. It's a way to honor their life and share their story with others.

Can I include quotes or poetry in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including quotes, poetry, or other literary elements can add depth and meaning to an obituary.

How do I ensure that an online obituary remains available indefinitely?

Some online platforms guarantee that obituaries will remain available indefinitely. Check with the platform for their archiving policies and procedures.

What if I'm unsure about what to write in an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider seeking guidance from a funeral home or professional writer. They can help you craft a meaningful tribute that honors your loved one's life.

Can I include links or URLs in an online obituary?

Yes! Including links or URLs can provide additional information about the person's life or legacy.

How do I know if an online obituary has been viewed by others?

Some online platforms provide metrics or analytics on views and engagement with online obituaries. This can give you insight into how many people have read and shared the tribute.

What if I want to create a memorial website or page in addition to an obituary?

This is a great idea! Creating a memorial website or page can provide a dedicated space for friends and family to share memories and condolences.

Can I include audio or video recordings in an online obituary?

Yes! Including audio or video recordings can add a personal touch to the tribute and allow others to hear or see the person's voice one last time.