Witzler-Shank Funeral Home - Walbridge Obituaries

Witzler-Shank Funeral Home - Walbridge: A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Located in the heart of Walbridge, Ohio, Witzler-Shank Funeral Home has been a pillar of strength and support for families in their time of need. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this funeral home has established itself as a trusted partner for those seeking to honor their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A History of Service and Dedication

Witzler-Shank Funeral Home has a long and storied history that dates back to 1924, when it was founded by the Witzler family. Over the years, the funeral home has remained family-owned and operated, with a focus on providing personalized service and attention to detail. In 1995, the Shank family joined forces with the Witzler family, bringing together two esteemed funeral homes under one roof. Today, Witzler-Shank Funeral Home continues to build on its legacy of compassionate care, serving families from all walks of life.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Krista Lynn Douglas - July 12, 1987 - July 28, 2020

Departed: 07/28/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Krista Lynn Douglas Kos, 33, of Walbridge, passed away Tuesday, July 28, 2020 after an 8 year battle with breast cancer. She was born in Oregon, OH to Philip Douglas and Donna (Petruney) Readel on July 12, 1987. Krista was a 2005 graduate from Lake High School where she enjoyed playing softball, basketball, and volleyball. She has been with the love of her life, Mack Kos since their senior year of high school and have three beautiful children together.

Krista is survived by her loving fiancé, Mack Kos; children, Macen Alan, Kali Patricia, Kenzie Star; mother, Donna (Randy) Readel; father, Phil (Kelly) Douglas; siblings, Eric (Nichole) Douglas, Andrea (Don Bailey) Douglas, Darren (Rina Dominguez) Douglas; honorary parents-in-law, Michelle and Ken Kos; honorary brother-in-law, Calvin Kos; numerous aunts and uncles; many cousins; and countless friends.

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William "Bill" J. Cox - December 10, 1928 - July 11, 2020

Departed: 07/11/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: William “Bill” J. Cox, 91, of Toledo, Ohio passed away Saturday, July 11, 2020 at Kingston Residence of Sylvania. He was born in Toledo, Ohio on December 10, 1928 to Tom C. and Eunice L. (Pheils) Cox. Bill graduated from Waite High School in 1946.

Bill honorably served in the U.S. Navy from 1946-1948. When he returned home he attended DeForest Tech School, graduating in 1950 and worked at Toledo Edison for 39 years. He was a Masonic member for over 50 years. Bill enjoyed traveling, reading, collecting air guns, classic automobiles and motorcycles.

Bill is survived by his wife, Karen Woods-Cox; daughter, Kimberly (John) Hewett; sons, Bruce (Dawn) Cox and Tom Cox; step daughter, Lori (Murray) Gordon; step daughter-in-law, Andrea Woods; 8 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, 5 step grandchildren and 3 step great grandchildren; brother, Don (Sue) Cox; sister-in-law, LuAnn Cox; many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Agnes (Myles) Cox; brother, Robert Cox; stepson, David Woods.

The family wishes to express their gratitude for the care provided during Bill’s stay at Kingston Residence of Sylvania and the services of Promedica Hospice.

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Ronald L Wolf - October 13, 1941 - July 01, 2020

Departed: 07/01/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Ronald L. Wolf, 78, of Walbridge died July 1, 2020 at his residence. He ws born on October 13, 1941 to Chester (Edith) Nation) Wolf Sr. He was employed with the Local 8 as an union electrician. Ron served his country in the navy during Vietnam War.

Surviving are his children, Eric (Carrie) Wolf, Cheryl (Alan) Sparks, step-children, Frank Centeno and Molly (Marvin) Alvardo, the late Stacy and Stephanie Centeno, siblings, Chet (Sue) Wolf, Sandy (Bob) Tharp, Barbara Carter and the late James Wolf, many grandchildren, including Britnee Harris, many great-grandchildren.

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Sinclair Bryan - August 06, 1951 - June 20, 2020

Departed: 06/20/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Sinclair Bryan, 68 of Oregon, Ohio died June 20, 2020 at Bay Park Community Hospital. He was born in New York City on August 6, 1951 to John (Shirley Squire) Bryan. He was employed with the City of New York as a clerical worker.

Surviving are his sister, Delores (Darron) Bryan-Nelson, brother, David (Yolanda) Bryan, preceded in death by siblings Barbara Singleton, John Bryan, and Jeronto Bryan.

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Shirley Jean Shimman - March 15, 1937 - June 19, 2020

Departed: 06/19/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Shirley Jean Shimman, 83 was greeted in heaven on June 19, 2020 at Hospice of Northwest Ohio in Toledo with her daughter and granddaughter at her side. She was born on March 15, 1937 to Dora Schact. Shirley worked at Dana Corporation until she had to take a disability. She enjoyed remodeling houses, gardening, cooking, crafts of all sorts, and giving advise to everyone. She took great joy in being a grandmother and great-grandmother. Shirley is survived by her daughter, Jeanne (Matthew) Rogacki, grandchildren; Jason, Steven, and Angela Kester and 8 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by siblings; Ron Morton, Gary (Nancy) Morton, and Diane Pedersen. She was preceded in death by her son Jeff Shimman, parents, siblings Arthur Morton, Darlene Haehl, Joyce Houser, John Morton, and Sharon Zunk.

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Cynthia "Cindy" LouAnn Manteuffel - March 04, 1957 - June 16, 2020

Departed: 06/16/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Cynthia “Cindy” (Fix) Manteuffel, age 63, of Walbridge, Ohio passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2020. She was born in Toledo, Ohio on March 04, 1957.

One of Cindy’s biggest passions was her sewing and being able to create one of a kind items. When she was crafting, she was in her happy place. When she wasn’t sewing or crafting Cindy could be found tending to her garden that she spent decades perfecting, but more than anything she loved spending time with her family.

Cindy married Richard Manteuffel on October 26, 1974. He survives her along with their children, Richard (Jennifer Campbell) Manteuffel II of Toledo, OH, Melissa (Lenard) Gilbert of Columbus, OH, and Troy (Kelly) Manteuffel of Holland, OH; her two grandsons, Troy II and Kane Manteuffel; her siblings, James Fix, Laura Gust, Alison Smith, Joseph Fix, Constance Fix and Catherine Lowry; and many nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her mother, Sandra Neefe.

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Edward L Fisher - May 15, 1939 - June 15, 2020

Departed: 06/15/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Edward L. Fisher

Edward L. Fisher, 81, of Northwood, died June 15, 2020 at Parklcliffe Place in Northwood. He was born on May 15, 1939 to John (Beatrice Denslow) Fisher. He married Ica Fisher and she preceded him in death. He served his country in the Marines during the Korean War. He retired from Rodeway Express as a truck driver.

Surviving are his siblings, Bernice Comp, Frank ( Kathaleen) Fisher, and Sarah (Kirk) Zenisek.

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Beverly L Koenig - September 29, 1942 - June 13, 2020

Departed: 06/13/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Beverly L. Koenig

Beverly L. Koenig, 77, of Perrysburg Twp. died June 13, 2020 at St. Luke’s Hospital. She was born in Kenton, Ohio to Lloyd (Adrian Duhl) McKinley. She married Lyle J. Koenig on November 14, 1959 in Toledo and he survives.

Also surviving are her children, Karole (Paul) Shope, Penny Eischen, and Linda Staifer, Grandchildren, Paul Shope Jr., Adrienne Shope, Vincent Eischen, Kyle Eischen, Angela Staifer, and Christopher Staifer, 6 Great- Grandchildren, sister of, Rita (Keith) Ebbeskotte, and the late Rodney McKinley.

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Barbara A Peters - July 21, 1935 - June 07, 2020

Departed: 06/07/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Barbara E. Peters, 85, formerly of Walbridge, died June 7, 2020 at Oregon Heath Care. She was born on July 21, 1934 to Harold (Venora Shuler) Elvey. She was employed as a payroll clerk with L.O.F., retiring in 1968.

She is survived by her siblings, Betty (Gene) LaHote, Bonnie (James) Murawski, many nieces and nephews, and the late William, Robert, and Harold Elvey.

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Delcie R Reef - October 02, 1933 - May 30, 2020

Departed: 05/30/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Delcie Reef, formally from Moline,Ohio Died on May 30, 2020 at the age of 86 at Perrysburg Skilled Center. Delcie was born in Bradner, Ohio, to Michael Stahl and Helen Seiple. Delcie was a Homemaker. Delcie enjoyed crafting, puzzles and was a formerly den mother. She was a member of Moline United Methodist Church and loved spending time with her family.

Surviving are her Children Dennis, Reef, Amy (Greg) Smith, Carl Reef, Cindy Smithers, Rick (Patricia) Reef and Mark (Roberta) Reef. Her Sisters, Jane Stiger, Betty (Calvin) Linkey, Susan Wildman and her Brother George (Cindy) Stahl. She is a Grandmother of 6 Grandchildren, 7 Great Grandchildren, 3 Step Grandchildren and to 3 Step Great Grandchildren. Preceded in death by her Husband, Glen F. Reef, her parents Michael Stahl and Helen Seiple, her Siblings Nealy Stahl, John Stahl and Tom Stahl, Erma Reinhart, Lois Ruble, Doris Markel, Jean Stahl, and Ruby Bickford.

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Garry L DeLauter - August 13, 1960 - May 25, 2020

Departed: 05/25/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Garry L. DeLauter, 59, of Northwood died May 25, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Toledo, Ohio on August 13, 1960 to William (Carole Hirzel) DeLauter. Garry was an Iron Worker for Local 55, retiring after 35 years. He is survived by his children, Nathan (Stephanie) DeLauter, Matthew (Ashlee) DeLauter, and Nicholas DeLauter, three grandchildren, brother, Terry (Sue) DeLauter, sister, Sherri Warkentien.

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Lois Belle Grzechowiak - July 29, 1933 - May 24, 2020

Departed: 05/24/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Lois Belle (Mills) Grzechowiak, 86, of Walbridge, OH passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24, 2020 at Advanced Healthcare Center in Toledo, Ohio. She was born on July 29, 1933 to Emmett and Nannie Bell (Collins) Mills in Fredericksburg, VA. She loved playing bingo, going to the casino, collecting dolls and Coca-Cola memorabilia. She was a gifted singer and a long-time member of both her church choir and The Pride of Toledo Sweet Adelines Barbershop Chorus. She mostly loved spending time, going on vacations and camping with her family. She shared an extraordinary bond with her great-granddaughter, Kallie, who lovingly knew her as “GiGi”.

She was preceded in death by her Parents; Husband, Raymond Harry; Step-Son, Raymond Michael; and her four siblings.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Mark Old, Susan (Joseph) Musil; step-sons, Joseph (Francine), Robert (Chris); 8 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2020 from 3 pm – 7 pm at Witzler-Shank Funeral Home (419-666-3121), 701 N. Main St., Walbridge, OH. Funeral Services will take place at Witzler-Shank Funeral Home on Friday, May 29, 2020 at 10 am. Burial will follow at Lake Township Cemetery. There will be a wake after the service at the Sportsman’s Club 1420 Woodville Rd. Millbury, Ohio 43447.

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Mary Louise Bedee - December 23, 1922 - May 21, 2020

Departed: 05/21/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Mary Lou. Bedee, 97, formerly of Walbridge, died May 21, 2020 at Ebeid Hospice. She was born in Toledo, Ohio, on December 23, 1922 to (Frederick (Martha Ellington) Welty. She married Robert E. Bedee on July 26, 1940 in Toledo and he preceded her in death. Mary Lou was employed for 16 years with Toledo Scales.

She is survived by her daughter, Nancy L. Robertson, Mother of the late, Ronald and Douglas Bedee, Grandchildren, Beth Ann, Amy Sue, Robert, Douglas, Gregory, and Ronald, many great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren.

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Kathleen A Radeloff - October 23, 1961 - May 16, 2020

Departed: 05/16/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Kathleen A. Radeloff, 58, of Walbridge, died May 16, 2020 at Bay Park Community Hospital. She was born in Toledo, Ohio on October 23, 1961 to Fritz (Joan Knak) Radeloff. Kathy worked most of her life as a self-employed caregiver. She was a member of Solomon Lutheran Church in Woodville.

Surviving is her mother Joan (the late Fritz) Radeloff, sisters, Emmy Crump, Chris Zartman, nieces and nephews, Justin and Andy Zartman, Janelle, Jeanette, and Tyler Crump.

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Robert R Thompson - June 17, 1935 - May 15, 2020

Departed: 05/15/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Robert R. Thompson, 84 of Oregon died May 15, 2020 at St. Charles-Mercy Hospital. Bob was born in Belding, Mi., to Edward (Helen Burns) Thompson. Bob was a veteran of the Army during the Korean War. He was also a life member of the Walbridge VFW Post #9963, where he held the office of trustee for three years. Bob was a barber and owned Bob’s Barber Shop on Route 2 in Jerusalem Twp. Bob’s interest included boating, fishing, and spending time with his family. He was also well known for his canvas work and was an avid Cleveland Browns fan.

Surviving are is wife Margaret A. (Rodriguez) Thompson, Children, Laura Thompson, Douglas (Tracy) Thompson, Step-Children, Ricardo Rodriguez and Rebecca Reynolds . His five grandchildren, Melody, Leah, Andrea Thompson, A.J. (Katie) Reynolds, Josiah Heilman, and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, late wife Elizabeth, and step-son T.J. Reynolds. Visitation with be on Tuesday, June 2, 2020 from 3-7 PM with a VFW #9963 service at 6:30 PM. Please remember social distance will be observed. Arrangements are by Witzler-Shank Funeral Home, 701 N. Main St. Walbridge, Ohio (419-666-3121)

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Bonnie M Merrow - March 21, 2020 - May 11, 2020

Departed: 05/11/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Bonnie M. Merrow

Bonnie M. Merrow, 79, of Walbridge died on May 11, 2020 at Wood County Hospital.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband Walter and grandson Justin Wing. She is survived by her children: Kelly Euton-Herbert, Holly Euton-McGhee, and Penny (Doug) Euton-Cheadle, step-children Sue Shaw and Walter Merrow Jr. Ten grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

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John Wesley Ronnie Gray - September 26, 1946 - May 10, 2020

Departed: 05/10/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: John Wesley Ronnie Gray John Wesley Ronnie Gray, 73, of Millbury died May 10, 2020 at

St. Vincent-Mercy Medical Center. He was born on September 26, 1946 to Porter (Allie Estes) Gray in Dixon, TN. He married Sally Jo (Luce) on March 22, 1968 in Toledo. He served in the Air National Guard. John retired from The Local 50 as a plumber and pipefitter. He was a member of St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, Millbury, The Millbury Fire Dept. where he was a paramedic and worked on the arson task force. He was a member of the National Parks.

Surviving is his wife Sally Jo Gray, Sons, Jeffery (Kimberlie) Gray and Timothy Gray, Grandchildren, Jakob (Arely) Gray, Alexander, Jared, and Aiden Gray, siblings, Agnes Padget, Priscilla (John) Kincaid, and Peggy (Bill) Hudson.

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Robert L Miller - April 03, 1944 - April 27, 2020

Departed: 04/27/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Robert L. Miller Sr., 76, of Maumee, died April 27, 2020 at his residence. He was born in Charleston, West Virginia on April 3, 1944 to Harry (Doris Mullins) Miller. He served his country in United States Army. Robert was employed as a supervisor with U.P.S. and later with Tarta.

Surviving are his children, Robert (Linda) Miller Jr., Scott (Lisa) Miller, Todd (Amy) Miller, Sr., grandchildren, Todd (Chelsea) Miller Jr. and Owen Miller. Siblings, Cindi Barnes, Kathy Stambaugh, Robin Miller, and Abigail Miller.

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George H Baker - May 22, 1940 - April 20, 2020

Departed: 04/20/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: George H. Baker

George H. Baker, 79, of Elmore, died April 20, 2020 at his residence. George was born in Walbridge on May 22, 1940 to Kempton (Iona Herman) Baker, both of whom preceded him in death. George was employed first as a sixth grade/ PE teacher at Jerusalem Elementary and then as a principal with Horace Mann and Greenwood Elementary. After retirement from Greenwood, he worked in the private sector as a principal for Solomon Lutheran Church and then worked as a consultant and mentor for new teachers through the Monroe Public Schools. George also worked with the Oak Harbor Country Club as a ranger. He had a passion for golf and even had two holes in one.

His memberships included Zion Lutheran Church, Latcha where he taught Sunday school and served as church council president. He served on the Village of Walbridge Council for many years and was inducted into the Lake High School Hall of Fame for both basketball and baseball. He loved sports and was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles following high school and played baseball in Bluefield, West Virginia. Some of his fondest memories were playing baseball for Walbridge and Lake High School with his best friends and watching and coaching his kids later in life. He also loved BGSU and was a Falcon through and through. He and his family attended numerous football, basketball and hockey games since the 1970s.

George married Barbara Kuhlman on August 17, 1963 in Elmore, Ohio and she survives. Barbara and George enjoyed 56 years of a beautiful marriage and she was his best friend whom he loved like no other. Also surviving are their children, Kelley (David) Hill and Mike Baker. Grandchildren, Lt. Brian (Alexandra) Hill, Brittnee (Jonathan) Looney, and Brooke Hill, siblings, Gail Grimminger and Rebecca (James) Reinbolt.

George was a man of high integrity and honor who always treated all people with kindness and compassion. He loved his family more than anything else and always did things the right way. He loved his church and all his friends there and missed not being able to be there in his last days. He also will be forever missed by his best canine friend, Charlie.

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Pamela Spencer - January 18, 1957 - April 08, 2020

Departed: 04/08/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Pamela Spencer, 63, of Northwood, died April 8, 2020 at St. Charles-Mercy Hospital. She was born in Muncie ,Indiana on January 18, 1957 to Bruce and Cova (Burchett) McComis, both of whom survive. She married Mervin Spencer on August 18, 1975 in Middletown, Ohio and he survives.

Also surviving are her daughters, Holly Joyce (John Joyce), Julia Spencer, Granddaughters, Sindy Spencer, Eva Joyce, and Sadie Gerard, Brothers, Bruce (Patricia) McComis and Dan McComis.

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Robert P Rodela - February 24, 2020 - April 07, 2020

Departed: 04/07/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Robert P. Rodela, 64, of Genoa died April 7, 2020 at his residence. He was born to Victor (Isabelle Romero) Rodela. Robert retired from the Ford Motor Co. Robert also served as a chaplain for many of the area prisons.

Surviving are his children, Carlos (Sharlyn) Rodela, Melissa Warrens, Emiliano Rodela, Robert Rodela, Toycee Simpson ,and Tyshe Simpson. Six Grandchildren, Siblings, Trinidad (George) Dietz, Carlos (Linda) Rodela, and Wally Rodela.

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Betty J Enslen - April 07, 1927 - March 31, 2020

Departed: 03/31/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Betty J. Enslen, 92, formerly of Walbridge, died Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at Genoa Retirement Village. She was born in Spencerville, Ohio to Clifford (LaVerne McMillen) Metzger on April 4, 1927. Betty owned and operated Betty’s Beauty Shop in Elida, prior to moving to Walbridge.

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Ruth F. Mudryk - February 11, 1929 - March 23, 2020

Departed: 03/23/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Ruth F. Mudryk, 91, of Toledo, OH, passed away on Monday, March 23, 2020 in Bay Park Hospital. She was born February 11, 1929, in Maumee, OH, to the late Frank P. and Grace (Seeley) Jones. She was a 1949 graduate of Pemberville High School. On October 14, 1950, she married Steve Mudryk who preceded her in death on December 3, 1988. Ruth was employed with Commercial Mowing and later retired from Jobst Institute in 2004. She was a member of Main St. Church in Walbridge since 1955, but also attended Lemoyne Baptist Church in Lemoyne, Ohio.

Ruth was preceded in death by her daughter, Sandy McKomis; and siblings, Doris Pickett, Wesley Jones, Elma Freeman, Evelyn Biddle, Ileen Barrett, Lucille West, and Barbara Juergens.

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Kenneth H. Balduff - June 18, 1930 - March 23, 2020

Departed: 03/23/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Kenneth H. Balduff

Kenneth Harold Balduff, age 89, passed away at home in Sylvania Township, Ohio on March 22, 2020 surrounded by his children. Due to the current circumstances the funeral will be private. He will be laid to rest at Restlawn Memorial Park, joining his wife of 67 wonderful years, Joyce. A celebration of his life will be planned for a later date.

Kenneth was born in Toledo, Ohio to Albert and Ruby Balduff on June 18, 1930. After graduating from Lake High School in 1948, he joined the Air Force. During this time, Kenneth married Joyce Lorene Poole on December 29, 1951 and fathered six children. As the family grew, they got to experience parts of the United States and Asia through the Air Force and were stationed in South Dakota, Texas, New York, Japan, Massachusetts and South Korea. Upon retirement from the Air Force in 1969, Kenneth and Joyce set down permanent roots in Lake Township, Ohio, where they lived for 42 years. The pair moved to the current family home in Sylvania Township in 2012.

After retiring from the Air Force in 1969, Kenneth continued to lead a life of working in uniform. After short stints on the Chessie Railroad and Haughton Elevators, he worked various jobs as a security guard until he landed a position at Toledo Hospital. After retiring from Toledo Hospital, he went to work at Owens Corning until he retired permanently in 1995.

Kenneth had many passions that he filled his life with. While in the Air Force he loved to work on airplanes and fly. After buying his first home, he found that he enjoyed maintaining it and could often be found mowing his lawn or working in his garage. He also enjoyed spending time with his children and would go to visit them wherever they were in the world. He was an active member in the church and participated in the Feed Your Neighbor program and the choir. He loved to sing and could often be found quietly humming to himself. As much joy he found in these activities, there was nothing in his life that he loved more than his wife. Kenneth's love for Joyce was deeper than the ocean and will last longer than time itself. She was the love of his life, and he made sure that she knew it, telling her multiple times every day.

Left to love and remember Kenneth are his daughters, Sheila (Joseph) Lisk, Sharon Woodward and Elaine (Clinton) Gohl; and sons, Michael (Bonnie) Balduff, Wayne (Carolyn) Balduff and Paul (Laurie) Balduff. In addition, there are 24 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews too numerous to count.

Kenneth was predeceased by his parents, Albert and Ruby Balduff; brother, Clifford (Lillian) Balduf; sister, Marian (Harold) Schwamburger; brother, Carl (Rasma) Balduff; granddaughters Janett Lisk and Sarah Balduff; and grandsons, Kevin Woodward, Michael Balduff Jr, Brian Balduff and Jay Antles; and son-in-law John Woodward.

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Donald H. Dale - March 07, 1934 - March 22, 2020

Departed: 03/22/2020 (Walbridge)

Obituary Preview: Donald H. Dale, 86, of Walbridge died March 22, 2020 at his home. He was born on March 7, 1934 to Henry (Hazel Jones) Dale in Monroe, Michigan, both of whom preceded him in death. He was employed for 48 years as a custodian for Lake Local Schools. He married Helen C. Busch on October 8, 1955 in Latcha, Ohio. He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Latcha.

Surviving is his wife, Helen, Sons, Donald (Maria) Dale, Ronald (Sandy) Dale, Grandchildren, Gary Switlick, Randy Switlick, Heidi Bisbee, Kevin DeNunzio, Geraldine Ledo-DeNunzio, Justyn Dale, Jeremy Furden, Jason Furden, and twelve great-grandchildren.

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A Facility Designed for Comfort and Convenience

The funeral home's facility at 701 N. Main Street in Walbridge is designed to provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families and friends gathering to celebrate the life of a loved one. The spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while smaller rooms are available for more intimate services. Ample parking and easy accessibility make it convenient for visitors to attend services and visitations.

Personalized Funeral Services

At Witzler-Shank Funeral Home, every funeral service is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each family. From traditional funerals and memorial services to cremations and celebrations of life, the experienced staff works closely with families to create a meaningful and memorable tribute to their loved one. Whether you're planning ahead or facing an unexpected loss, the funeral home's caring professionals will guide you through every step of the process.

Cremation Services with Dignity

For those who choose cremation, Witzler-Shank Funeral Home offers a range of options to suit individual preferences. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, the funeral home's staff will ensure that your loved one is treated with dignity and respect throughout the process. Additionally, they offer a variety of urns and memorialization options to help families create a lasting tribute.

Pre-Planning: Taking Control of Your Final Arrangements

Planning ahead for your final arrangements can be a thoughtful gesture to your loved ones, sparing them from difficult decisions during a time of grief. Witzler-Shank Funeral Home offers pre-planning services, allowing you to make informed choices about your funeral arrangements and budget in advance. By doing so, you can ensure that your wishes are respected and your family is protected from unnecessary stress.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but you don't have to face it alone. Witzler-Shank Funeral Home understands the importance of grief support and offers resources to help families navigate their emotional journey. From bereavement counseling to support groups, the funeral home's staff is committed to providing ongoing care and guidance as you heal.

A Commitment to Excellence

Witzler-Shank Funeral Home is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of excellence in funeral service. As members of various professional organizations, including the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) and the Ohio Funeral Directors Association (OFDA), the funeral home's staff stays abreast of industry developments and best practices. This commitment to excellence ensures that families receive exceptional care and service during their time of need.

Serving Walbridge and Beyond

While Witzler-Shank Funeral Home is proud to serve the Walbridge community, its reach extends far beyond local borders. The funeral home has built relationships with other funeral homes and cemeteries across the region, allowing it to coordinate services for families with loved ones from out of town or out of state. Whether you're local or distant, you can trust Witzler-Shank Funeral Home to provide compassionate care and attention to detail.

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 family, accomplishments, and funeral or memorial services.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to share the news of a loved one's passing with friends, family, and community members. They provide an opportunity to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing essential information for those who wish to pay their respects.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased. However, it can also be written by a funeral home or other professional service provider.

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, and notable achievements. It may also include information about their family members, hobbies, and interests.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a short paragraph.

Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and some print publications allow you to include photos, videos, or other multimedia elements to enhance the tribute.

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

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

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

Yes, many newspapers and online platforms charge a fee for publishing an obituary. The cost can vary widely depending on the length of the obituary, the number of publications, and other factors.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to ensure that their life story is told accurately and in their own words.

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

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

Can I include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Obituaries can be a great opportunity to share stories and memories that capture the personality and spirit of the deceased.

How do I handle sensitive or difficult information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about how to address sensitive topics such as cause of death or family conflicts, it's best to consult with other family members or a trusted advisor for guidance.

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

Yes, many people choose to include information about charitable donations or memorial funds in lieu of flowers as a way to honor their loved one's memory.

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

The publication timeline can vary depending on the platform or publication. Online obituaries are often published immediately, while print publications may take several days or weeks.

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

Sometimes it's possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after publication. However, this may depend on the policies of the publication or platform.

What if I want to keep the obituary private or limited to certain individuals?

Some online platforms offer options for private or restricted access to obituaries. You can also consider sharing the obituary through private channels such as email or social media groups.

Can I reuse an obituary for multiple publications or platforms?

Yes, you can reuse an obituary across different platforms or publications. Just be sure to check their specific guidelines and formatting requirements.

How do I find archived obituaries from past years?

You can search online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites that specialize in collecting historical records. Local libraries or genealogical societies may also have resources available.

Can I create a digital archive of my loved one's obituary?

Yes, many online platforms offer options for saving and sharing digital copies of obituaries. You can also create your own digital archive using cloud storage services or personal websites.

What if I need help writing an obituary due to grief or emotional distress?

Dont hesitate to reach out to friends, family members, or professional counselors for support. You can also consider hiring a professional writer or using online resources that provide guidance and templates.

Are there any cultural or religious considerations when writing an obituary?

Yes, cultural and religious traditions may influence the content and tone of an obituary. Be respectful of these differences and consider consulting with community leaders or spiritual advisors for guidance.

Can I include quotes, poems, or other literary elements in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including meaningful quotes, poems, or lyrics can add depth and emotion to the tribute.

How do I ensure that my loved one's legacy lives on through their obituary?

By sharing stories, memories, and achievements in the obituary, you can help preserve your loved one's legacy for generations to come. Consider creating a memorial fund or charity in their name as well._