Class Notes

Kenneth R. Uschelbec of Columbia, died Friday, August 4, 2023 at Generations of Irmo. He was 84 years old. Ken was a native of Cleveland, OH. After graduating from Fairview High School, he attended Muskingum College where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree. 

After over 40 years in Sales, he retired as a Regional Sales Manager for Morton Powder Coatings.

After retiring, he and his wife of 60 years, Marianne, were able to travel extensively. His love for his wife was like no other. He was active in the Coast Guard Auxiliary; State Constable, where he volunteered for courtroom security; a proud member of the Masons; member of the Elks, Jaycee’s, and a lifelong supporter of the NRA.  Ken was known for his quick wit and a great sense of humor. He was especially proud of his kids and grandkids. His hobbies included shooting sports, knife sharpening, and boating on Lake Murray.

He is survived by his wife, Marianne, Class of 1962; daughter, Beth (Jeff) Teague; son, Jim (Lainie) Uschelbec; sister, Kathy (Jay) Dawson; grandchildren, Matthew, Adam and Griffin Uschelbec; Amanda Teague and Lydia Teague. He is preceded in death by his parents Emil and Helen Uschelbec, and Gretchen and Heidi, his beloved Doberman’s.

Ulster fraternity brothers, family and friends of David W. Litt ’78 established a memorial fund in Dave’s honor. The David W. Litt Memorial Fund recently granted $1,750 scholarships to Patrick Kline and Andrew Schneider for the 23-24 academic year. Grants are given to students who demonstrate a marked improvement in their academic performance while at Muskingum and who are involved in leadership activities or otherwise active in campus life. Those wishing to contribute to The David W. Litt Memorial Fund may send their checks payable to Muskingum University, Office of Institutional Advancement, 163 Stormont St., New Concord, OH 43762. Questions may be directed to advancement@muskingum.edu or 740-826-8130. 

Mollie Montgomery, kind and loving mother and grandmother who loved to travel and help others, died peacefully at her home in Oak Harbor, Washington, on April 25, 2023, from Parkinson’s disease.  She was surrounded by family.   

Mollie was born on January 31, 1937, in New Concord, Ohio, where her father, Dr. Robert Montgomery was president of Muskingum College and her mother, Ruth Kelley, was a pianist.  Mollie grew up in New Concord and graduated from Muskingum in 1960.  She met her husband Gordon Brunner at the college and they eventually had four children together: Debbie, Jeff, Susan and Julie. 

After college, Mollie worked as a special ed teacher in Pennsylvania.   Mollie and Gordon eventually settled in Darnestown, Maryland where Mollie did the bookkeeping for the family’s Val-Pak business for over 20 years.  She simultaneously raised the four children and managed the household.  She was a loving mother and everyone’s biggest cheerleader. Always home to greet the kids after school, she played an active role in their lives—from Girl Scout leader to helping with homework to attending high school swim and football events.  She was a volunteer parent with the international exchange program AFS, hosting over 10 students while her children were in high school.  She kept in close touch with her German son Bijan for over 40 years. 

Mollie was active in the Darnestown Presbyterian Church and the Oak Harbor Presbyterian Church, organizing fundraising craft fairs and assuming other leadership roles.  She was skilled at crafting and enjoyed making corn husk dolls and assisting with workshops.  She helped raise thousands of dollars for the Oak Harbor Boys and Girls Club by decorating beautiful Christmas trees for the annual Festival of Trees event in Oak Harbor.

Mollie was an avid traveler.   She had the opportunity to travel around the world in 80 days with her parents while still in college.  Later, she and her family enjoyed many trips together.  After her divorce in 1995, Mollie moved to the Pacific Northwest to live near her daughters, but she kept her house in the Florida Keys that she loved and that allowed her to visit her son in Florida more easily.  She took each of her grandchildren on a Roads Scholar trip visiting Italy, France, South Africa, Spain, United Kingdom, and Costa Rica.  On the Harry Potter trip to London, she was the only grandparent who read all of the books and in Costa Rica, in her 70s, she was the only grandmother who did all 12 zip lines!  She travelled on several church mission trips to Rwanda, where she got to see the famous mountain gorillas. 

Mollie will be greatly missed.  The world was a more compassionate and kinder place with her in it.

Survivors include her four children and their spouses:  Debbie (George Thompson) Brunner, Jeff (Arwen) Brunner, Susan (Michael) Briddell, Julie (Joe Gaydos) Brunner, and eight grandchildren: Megan, Sidney, Brandon, Mollie, Ridgely, Hannah, Olivia, Celestine.  Sister and Brother in law: Gail and Ian Baird and two nephews, Dale and Scott Baird, and her second husband Glenn Anthony.  Her first husband Gordon Brunner and nephew Jeff Baird precede her in death.

Katharine Alma Spikes, 53, passed away peacefully at her home in Westfield, NJ, on July 25, 2023, after a long-fought battle with cancer. Born in New York City to Dr. James L. and Judith Doolin Spikes, she was raised in Larchmont, NY. After college, she lived in New York and Jersey City before moving to Westfield in 2011. Katie graduated from Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio. Just out of college, she began a long and illustrious career in television, first on the CBS News overnight shift and then as a talent producer for CNN's Larry King Live in Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles. In 1997, she returned to CBS News, where she went on to become an Emmy award- winning producer and then a Senior Story Editor at "60 Minutes." Katie was a treasured colleague, mentor, and friend, whose sound judgment, unwavering optimism, and eternal wisdom enriched the lives of all who knew her. She loved spending time outdoors with family and friends, whether skiing in Vermont, hiking in the woods with her beloved dog Splash, or swimming at Barnegat Light. Katie had a passion for historic preservation and was a longtime member of the Westfield Historic Preservation Commission. Katie is survived by her loving husband, Donald E. Furrer; her two sons, James Joseph Furrer and Owen Doolin Furrer; her stepson, Brandon Scott Furrer; her parents, Judith Doolin Spikes and Dr. James L. Spikes; her sister, Sarah Spikes; and numerous cherished nieces, nephews, colleagues, and friends. 

Mary Eleanor (Steele) Bowlus passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on Thursday, July 20th, 2023, at Brookdale Senior Living Center of Mt. Vernon, Ohio. She was born June 29, 1926, in New Concord, Ohio to Harford and Mary Belle (Sharrock) Steele. She graduated from New Concord High School in 1943. She worked at the Bureau of Juvenile Records while attending Muskingum College. She graduated in 1946 and spent a year as a home missionary for the Methodist Church serving at Kingdom Settlement House in St. Louis, Missouri. She was married Aug.27, 1947 to Dr. Edward L. Bowlus who she met in the 6th grade and with whom she has celebrated 75 years of marriage. She worked at The Ohio State University while her husband attended Veterinary School. After moving to Fredericktown, she became a math teacher and later, a guidance counselor, with the Fredericktown Local School District. She retired in 1984 after 21 years of service. After retirement Eleanor got her real estate license and worked briefly for Burch Reality selling real estate. Eleanor was an avid reader, learner, and traveler. She and her husband traveled to numerous states including Alaska and Hawaii as well as many countries including England, Scottland, France, Austria, Switzerland, Greece, Egypt, Russia, and China. Eleanor was active in the former Fredericktown United Methodist Church now, Cornerstone Community Church serving in various positions and as a Sunday School Teacher. Eleanor had a heart for social justice. Eleanor quilted for over thirty years and gave away over five hundred quilts. She also loved to knit and made caps for new born babies. Even in her nineties, you could find her quilting socks for her family. She loved her family and enjoyed family get togethers and discussions around the dinner table. To quote her, "She loved her family and friends dearly-especially her 'Forever Friends'," a group of friends who met together for a meal then played cards. This group met for decades. She lived by John Wesley's motto "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can."In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Edward L. ("Doc") Bowlus and her sister, Joan Elaine Buchanan. She is survived by sons, David (Michelle) Bowlus, John (Bonny) Bowlus, and daughter, Mary (Bill) Elder; Grandchildren, Scott Bowlus (Deb Chute), Scott (Julie) Holtje, Dawn (Mike) Jones, Jessica (Brian) Anderson, Liz (Joe) Hayford, Laura (Jamie) Sanders, and Tim (Heather) Elder; Great Grandchildren, Bailey, Lucy, Haley, Haden, Spencer, Ella Grace, Tatum, Brady, Kay, Rene, Josie, Elli, Levi, Ana, Aly, and Ian; and one sister, Janet May Smith.

Wilbur D. "Bill" Thomas, Jr., 87, passed away on July 7 at home. He was the husband of the late Eleanor R. (Loudon) Thomas. Born in Washington, D.C., the son of Wilbur D. Thomas, Sr. and Beulah M. (Hiteshew) Thomas, Bill earned his bachelor's degree at Muskingum University. His professional career included executive positions with Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Fleet Bank, Drake Beam Morin, and executive search firm, The Search Alliance. For 30 years, Bill was choir director at the First Congregational Church in Canton. He also performed with many choral and orchestral groups, and held multiple lead roles in musicals staged by Canton Benefits. Bill loved aviation and the community of lifelong friendships he found through flying. In addition to being a private pilot, he built and flew two airplanes. Since 1980, he played a key leadership role in the growth and success of the annual Simsbury Fly-In. At the heart of Bill's world was his family. He radiated steadfast love and kindness as a husband, father, father-in-law, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Bill leaves his son Stephen and his wife, Laura; his daughter, Debra, and her husband, John; and his son Kenneth and his wife, Pamela. He was the proud grandfather of nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He also leaves his nieces, Mary Ann Viveiros and Janet Berlincourt, both of Mayfield Heights, Ohio. The Thomas family is grateful to Charlotte Morgan for the care and companionship she provided Bill this past year.

Thomas Bainbridge Eager passed away on July 9, 2023 surrounded by family. He was 71 years old. He was born on January 14, 1952 the son of the late Marilyn and Henry Eager in Watertown, NY. He grew up in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY. He attended Muskingum University where in his senior year he was a student aboard World Campus Afloat and spent a semester at sea exploring the Pacific Basin. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business in 1974. He began working for American Airlines in 1976 where he met the love of his life and wife of 44 years, Betsy. They moved to the Dallas Fort Worth area where they raised two sons. He had a 39-year career with American Airlines and Sabre as an Information Systems Director. He retired in 2015 and moved to the Eastern shore of Maryland. Summers were spent at his beloved family cottage on Lake Ontario. He was a Boy Scout Leader, the president of Homeports, member of Rebuild Together and Elder at the Presbyterian Church of Chestertown. He will be remembered for his calm demeanor and ability to listen to others. Always the voice of reason. He is survived by his beloved wife, Betsy (Reed) Eager; 2 sons, Tristan Eager (Amy) of Dallas, TX and Kevin Eager (Jackie) of Corpus Christie, TX; a sister, Mary Cline (Jim) of Victor, MT; 3 grandchildren, Julian, Hudson and Dylan and one grandpuppy, Hobie.

Marilyn Marie (Meeth) Lundquist, age 91, of East Grand Rapids (EGR), MI passed away on July 12, 2023. Marilyn graduated from Ottawa Hills High School, attended Muskingum College (New Concord, OH) and then graduated from Michigan State University (MSU) in 1954 with a B.A. in Education. She taught junior high school in La Mesa, CA and Evanston, IL. In 1961 she moved back to Grand Rapids with her husband, Dr. William C. Lundquist, and her family as he took over a periodontal practice here. Marilyn served her community by giving countless hours of volunteer service to state and local dental auxiliary organizations, Mayflower Congregational Church, EGR parent/teacher organizations, EGR city/school election campaigns, EGR Aquatic Club (Waves) 8 years chairperson, EGR Recreation Commission 7 years chairperson, Women's City Club president 2007-2009, Sweet House Foundation at the Women's City Club president 2011-2015. She assisted her husband in his dental office for 19 years. She was preceded in death by her father Arie A. Meeth, mother Irene M. Meeth, stepmother Florence D. Meeth, sister Gloria (Meeth) Kress, twin brother Robert Meeth. She is survived by her husband of 68 years Dr. William C. Lundquist; three children, Janet Korn, Robert (Nancy) Lundquist, and Peter (Debbie) Lundquist; and seven grandchildren, Jenny Gray, William Korn, Kelly (Fred) Millett, Robert (Taylor) Lundquist, Michael Lundquist, Molly (Jordan) Norville, and Emily Lundquist; and several nephews, nieces, and cousins. 

Richard Lee Bassetti, 77, of New Philadelphia passed away peacefully at Cornerstone Hospice, The Villages, Florida, with his wife of 53 years by his side, on January 30, 2023.

Born in Dover on August 4, 1945, he was the son of the late Florence Margaret (DeSerio) and Anthony Bassetti, who were local restaurateurs of Bassetti’s Restaurant in New Philadelphia.

Dick graduated from St. Joseph High School, continuing his formal education at Muskingum College, playing baseball for both schools. At Muskingum, he was a proud member of the MACE Club fraternity and pursued a career in teaching. During his sophomore year of college, Dick was named to the Ohio Conference All-Star Team for his baseball achievements.

Most significantly, it was at Muskingum where he met and fell in love with his wife, the former Lynne Wentz. Together, they were blessed with the birth of their children, were active in their children and grandchildren’s lives, loved to travel, and wintered in Florida.

Professionally, Dick taught Science for the New Philadelphia School District for 35 years. He began his career at Central Elementary and later at Welty Middle School before retirement. While teaching, he completed his Master Degree in Education from the University of Akron. He had the privilege of teaching thousands of students in his career with the goal of making learning enjoyable while having a positive impact on their lives.

When he wasn’t teaching, Dick could be found at Tappan, Leesville, or Atwood Lake with a fishing rod in his hand. He passed his love of the sport onto his son, Christopher, his daughter, Carolyn, and grandsons, Grant and Dean. He loved being on the water, so he served as a patrolman at Atwood Lake and was a board member for the MWCD. He was an avid Cleveland sports team follower throughout his lifetime.

Dick’s memory will be forever cherished by his wife, Lynne of New Philadelphia; his children, Christopher (Jan) Bassetti of North Canton and Carolyn (Tony) Moscardelli of St. Joseph, MI; his grandchildren, Grant and Dean; his brother-in-law, Greg (Nancy) Wentz; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Bassetti Olczak.

Tiffany R. Wehr, age 43, of Caldwell, Ohio, died Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at the home of her mother in Ava. She was born February 6, 1980, in Zanesville, daughter of Theresa E. Perkins Rayner of Ava and the late Bryan E. Rayner, who died in 2013. She was a 1998 graduate of Shenandoah High School, Washington State Community College and Zane State University. She earned both a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in special education from Muskingum University in New Concord and was employed as an Intervention Specialist by the Coshocton County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Tiffany attended the Ava Free Methodist Church. She was devoted to her family, especially her husband and her boys. She considered her students extended family.

In addition to her father, she is preceded in death by her grandparents, Shine Rayner and Dwight and Dorothy Perkins.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband Ryan A. Wehr, whom she married June 19, 2004; her sons, Christopher D. Wehr and Zackary G. Wehr, both of the home; her sister, Emily J. (Michael) Yonker of Ava; her grandmother, Evelyn Rayner of Ava; 3 nieces, 6 nephews; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Wayne Elton Roberts, 72, of Columbia Station, born January 15, 1950, died at home on Sunday, November 20, 2022 following a lengthy illness. Wayne was born to Elton and Stella Roberts of Olmsted Falls, who preceded him in death.

He and his wife owned Roberts Flower Supply in Columbia Station. He loved orchids and teaching people how to grow them. He was a member of the Greater Cleveland Orchid Society, Westshore Orchid Society and Greater Akron Orchid Society. He was also a chemist and enjoyed woodworking.

He graduated from Olmsted Falls High School. In his younger years, he played football and was an avid chess player.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Nancy Kay Roberts of Columbia Station; sons, Will Elton Roberts and his wife, Yvonne of Elyria and Fred Samuel Roberts and his wife, Courtney of Cleveland, and three grandchildren, Timothy, Jonathan, and Lydia. He loved his second family of Orchid Societies.

Helen Haley Beams of Xenia, Ohio, retired teacher and wife of the late Rev. Kenneth Beams, passed away on July 1, 2023 in her home. Helen was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on December 12, 1927, and grew up in suburban Mt. Lebanon, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School in 1945, graduating with honors for academic distinction and school activities. She then attended Muskingum College, graduating in 1949 with honors. While at Muskingum, Helen served on the Judiciary Board, which oversaw violations of the honor code, and was one of ten students tapped to meet with the college president's wife to discuss issues of concern to students and the administration. After graduating from Muskingum, Helen went to work for Gulf Oil at its Pittsburgh headquarters, working as secretary to a Vice-President. Helen married Rev. Kenneth Beams in 1950 at the Twin Towers Presbyterian Church in Mt. Lebanon. They moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where her husband was serving as pastor to the Second United Presbyterian Church. Helen's four children were born during their time in Cleveland. In 1961, Helen and family moved to Xenia, Ohio, where her husband would serve as pastor to the Second United Presbyterian Church. After several years in Xenia, Helen decided to return to college in order to become an elementary school teacher. She graduated from Central State University summa cum laude with a degree in education, and began her teaching career in the Xenia City Schools at Spring Valley School in 1968. She taught first or second grade students for twenty-five years, first at Spring Valley and then at Cox School, retiring in 1993. In 1983-1984, Helen was selected as a Jennings Scholar, a program of the Martha Holden Jennings Foundation. In the year Helen retired, she was chosen by the Xenia High School valedictorian as the teacher she wished to honor for her influence on her education. Helen grew up in a loving and stable home, with wonderful parents and a beloved sister. When Helen became a wife and mother, she never tired or failed in her commitment to assure a loving and supportive home for her husband and four children. Her support for the work of the Christian church and her husband's ministry was a constant in her life. That support was especially valuable to Rev. Beams in the years following the destruction of his church building by a tornado in 1974. After her husband passed away in 1984, Helen served as an elder in Memorial Presbyterian Church in Xenia (now Xenia United Presbyterian Church). Helen had a lifelong love of music and the fine arts, which she often shared with her family around a piano in their home. In retirement she served as a volunteer usher for many performances at the Schuster Center. She also served for a number of years as a volunteer at Greene Memorial Hospital. Helen deeply loved America; both her father and her husband were wounded veterans of the world wars of the past century. She often worked as a volunteer at Xenia precincts on election days. Those who loved Helen will forever remember her unfailing love for her family and friends; the integrity of her commitment to the Christian faith; her keen intellect, and unwillingness to be mean-spirited in any circumstance; her success in holding herself to the highest standards in the important facets of her life and career, while characteristically deflecting attention and praise to others for the good she achieved; her enthusiasm for scholarly learning, and her sharing of that enthusiasm with her own children and the many students she taught; and her abiding sense of the wealth of happiness and humor available in hours spent with family and friends. Helen's family and faith were the lights of her life. She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth and her son Jeffrey. She is survived by her daughter Joyce, her son Greg, and her son Mark (Ann); her grandchildren Clare (Finn), Owen (Eden), and Haley; her great-grandchildren Madelyn, Tess, Cadence, and Joanna; her sister Alice Harmon, and nephew James Harmon. Her family loved her dearly and will greatly miss her. 

Jane Anne Oliver Hansen, of Lake Worth, FL, was born on August 20, 1921, in Portersville, PA. She died peacefully in her sleep on February 16, 2023, at age 101, surrounded by her family.

Jane graduated from Muskingum College in 1943 and did her residency at Massachusetts General Hospital to become a Registered Dietitian. She was a Dietitian in the Air Force during World War II and then for different hospitals throughout the 1970s and 1980s. As a WWII Veteran, she took part in laying wreaths at War Memorials in Washington DC, Tunisia, and Normandy.

She had a long and active life playing tennis well into her 90s. She was once interviewed by Tennis magazine because she loved the channel so much. The tennis community in Boynton Beach, FL, will miss her immensely, as her friends repeatedly called her their hero. Her daughter, Alyn, was able to play doubles with her competitively for many years.

Jane and Allen, her husband of 58 years, along with their three young daughters, traveled extensively during Allen’s career, living abroad in Afghanistan and the Philippines with the Peace Corps. Later, she traveled to many different countries with Allen, and then after he died in 2006, she continued traveling to visit her daughters and grandchildren and travel abroad with her oldest daughter.

Her secret to longevity is “Everything in Moderation,” including ice cream and pie! She is also remembered for her advice of “First Things First.”

Some things about Jane that make us smile are that she played saxophone in high school and college, played first base on an all-male baseball team in 8th grade, and hunted squirrels in her youth on her farm.

She is survived by her daughters Alyn Hansen, Jill Waugh (Godfrey), Debbie Gilbert (John), grandchildren Ross, John, Jessica, George, Emily Waugh, Emily Gilbert Montanye, and Gracie, her nephew Charles Cheeseman, and her nieces, Madelyn Sue Walker (Paul) and Molly McClymonds (Wayne).

Timothy Reed Hutchinson
July 10, 1951 ~ January 26, 2023 (age 71)

There's a little less magic in the world today. Timothy Hutchinson was born July 10, 1951 and lived most of his life in Defiance, Ohio, a community he loved and in which he formed many deep connections. He participated in community life through serving on the board of the Public Library and the Tuttle Museum and as a member of The First Presbyterian Church of Defiance.  He balanced small town life with many travels and friendships around the world. 

Tim earned his undergraduate degree from Muskingum College in 1973. He obtained his Juris Doctorate degree from Lewis and Clark Law School in 1979, taking a year off between studies to spend 6 months travelling in Europe as well as some time working on a fishing boat in Alaska.   Following graduation, Tim moved to San Francisco, CA and began his career as a clerk for City Hall. Following the passing of Tim’s father, Reeder Hutchinson in 1982, he decided to move back to Ohio, passing the Ohio Bar in 1988. He worked for 12 years as the Assistant Defiance County Prosecutor for Defiance County. In recent years, Tim provided specialized legal support on a contractual basis for a Defiance law firm.

One of Tim’s favorite past times was holding court with anyone he was with, retelling the stories of his adventures in early adulthood, from his years traveling in Europe, working on deep sea fishing charter boats and living in fun cities. Tim had an encyclopedic knowledge of almost any topic of conversation and if you spoke with him about something he didn’t know much about, you could be sure that by your next conversation he would. Tim loved to do research and was always reading. He didn’t just read about things that interested him though, he went out of his way to learn about things that were important to the people he cared about. He was known for subscribing to newspapers in other cities, just so he could keep up with what was happening in the places where his friends and family were living.

His other passion was magic and he loved delighting people with his tricks. Children especially loved his tiny foam bunnies that he would make disappear and multiply. He had fond memories of going to magic shows with his father, Reeder Hutchinson, who was also a magician, and he formed friendships with other magicians all over the country.
Tim dedicated his life to helping his mother, Mildred, and doting on his surviving nieces and nephew, who never got tired of his stories and his magic tricks. He was always ready to assist with advice on how to get the best possible deal for any major purchase; cars, electronics, phone plans- he put his incredible research skills to great use. He also spent years researching and travelling to map out extensive family genealogies and could explain the complexities in detail from memory. Tim had friends across the country with whom he kept close contact and traveled to see regularly. Despite distance and the busyness of life, he made sure to keep in touch with the people he loved. 

He is survived by his nieces and nephew, Leana Tank, Audrey Hutchinson and Reed Befus. He was preceded in death by his father, Reeder Hutchinson, his mother, Mildred Hutchinson and his sister, Barbara Befus. 

We certainly weren’t ready for you to go, Tim, but your magic will live on forever with the people who love you.

William "Bill" Louis Hoffmire January 17, 1939 - June 23, 2023 McKinney, Texas

William "Bill" Louis Hoffmire of McKinney, Texas, passed away on June 23, 2023. He was born on January 17, 1939 in Mt. Gilead, Ohio to Carl Hoffmire and Luella Broiler. He was the fourth and youngest child. Bill was preceded in death by his brother Milton Hoffmire (Thelma), and his two sisters Dorothy Hazelrigg (Jim) and Nancy Dreyer (Rudy). He is survived by his two children Ann Riding (Dennis) and Roger William Hoffmire. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren Melinda Hortin (Robert), Russell Riding (Jamilyn), Scott Riding (Micheala), Suzanne Riding, Emily Smith (Andrew), Christopher Riding, Kathryn Riding (Savannah), and Thomas Riding, along with his ten great grandchildren. William graduated from Mt. Gilead High School in 1957. He attended Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1962. He received his Masters degree in Business Administration from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1970. He worked the majority of his professional career for Western Electric, which became AT&T, from 1965 to 1998 beginning as a staff trainee and ending as a customer process manager and consultant. This work moved him and his family to many amazing places including Ohio, Washington, Alabama, Georgia, and Texas. As an avid outdoorsman Bill enjoyed golf, camping, boating, hunting, fishing and skiing, all of which were best done with family and friends. He passed his love of skiing on to his eight grandchildren who he would visit and teach to ski. He had amazing friends from his time working at AT&T and later after retirement in his Texas neighborhood. His friends took incredible care of Bill, and he reciprocated by helping where he could. He was a religious man who cared for those around him and did all he could to help others. Bill will be remembered for his love of travel and family. He would travel for all major life events for his children and grandchildren including weddings, graduations, holidays and birthdays. It brought joy to his life to be with his family and friends. His smile and laugh were infectious and he was willing to listen and offer support and advice where he could. Bill loved to be around people and enjoyed just chatting. He touched everyone he came across and will be missed by many people. His family is eternally grateful to those who befriended and helped to take care of our beloved father, grandfather and friend.

Llewellyn C. "Tom" Thompson,a beloved educator and family man, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2023, in Damascus, Ohio. Born in Cambridge, Ohio on April 16, 1940, Tom lived a life full of love, laughter, and learning, leaving behind an indelible legacy. Tom was the cherished son of the late Llewellyn C. Thompson Sr. and Doris (Baker) Thompson. He was the caring brother of Sally Prouty and John (Karen) Thompson, and the late Bill Thompson. His family was the center of his world, and he was a loving husband of 60 years to Linda (Beamer) Thompson, and devoted father to his four children; Tommy Thompson III, Mace Eric Thompson, Heather (Gregg) Thompson, and Connon (Melissa) Thompson including a special daughter-in-law Claudia (Jeff) Thompson Malarick. Tom was also the proud grandfather of eight; Danielle, Kaela, Gavin, Payton, Gates, CJ, Liam, and Paige Thompson, and the great-grandfather of Lucy, Kenny, and Alice. He held a special place in his heart for his brother-in-law and sister's-in-law and was an adored uncle to many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Tom was a graduate of Muskingum College and later received his Masters from Westminster College. His commitment to education was unwavering, dedicating over four decades of his life to the noble profession. His journey began and concluded at West Branch Local Schools, with a significant 29-year tenure at the Louisville City School District along the way. Tom's dedication to his students was unparalleled, and he left a deep impact on many young lives. Outside of his professional life, Tom was a man of many passions. He loved fishing and gardening, finding peace and joy in the simplicity of nature. However, his favorite pastime was attending his children's and grandchildren's events. His presence at these events was a testament to his unwavering support and love for his family. Tom's life was a testament to the power of love, education, and the human spirit. His legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched, both within his family and the countless students he taught. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, as a loving family man, a dedicated educator, and a true friend.

Jean Elizabeth Adams passed away peacefully with family by her side on June 10, 2023. Jean was born June 25, 1929 in the Bronx, New York City to Thomas I. and Helen Carter McCormack. Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, J. Robert Adams. Jean is survived by her children Cathy Dooley (John), Mark Adams (Sue), and Thomas Adams (Beth). Also her grandchildren Erin Kate McGuire (Jonathan), John Robert Dooley (Jennifer), Kate Friedman (Aaron), Maggie Andyjohn (Tim), Hannah Adams, and Sarah Adams; along with 8 great-grandchildren. Jean had an ornery smile and a hearty laugh and her blue eyes would sparkle when she told stories about her family. Jean was an avid gardener, a loving pet owner, and an award-winning artist. Jean left New York City, to the great concern of her mother and sister, to attend college at Muskingum College at New Concord, Ohio. There, she met Bob and graduated in Home Economics. During Bob's pharmacy school at Ohio Northern, Jean was employed as a home economist for Ohio Power in Lima. After finishing Bob's military commitment in Missouri, the couple settled in Troy, Ohio where their children were born. They moved to Worthington, Ohio where Bob owned a pharmacy. After the pharmacy was sold in 1978, they lived in many places in Ohio including Fredericktown, Findlay, and Columbus. Jean very much enjoyed country living in Fredericktown, where she and Bob built a house and she cultivated a beautiful, sprawling garden. She was a good friend to the local Amish community and continued those friendships throughout her life. Jean seemed to make friends everywhere and excelled at keeping long friendships, turning vacation acquaintances into lifelong friends and pen-pals. Jean was well-loved by her family and friends will be very dearly missed.

William “Bill” Louis Hoffmire of McKinney, Texas, passed away on June 23, 2023. He was born on January 17, 1939 in Mt. Gilead, Ohio to Carl Hoffmire and Luella Broiler. He was the fourth and youngest child. Bill was preceded in death by his brother Milton Hoffmire (Thelma), and his two sisters Dorothy Hazelrigg (Jim) and Nancy Dreyer (Rudy).

He is survived by his two children Ann Riding (Dennis) and Roger William Hoffmire. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren Melinda Hortin (Robert), Russell Riding (Jamilyn), Scott Riding (Micheala), Suzanne Riding, Emily Smith (Andrew), Christopher Riding, Kathryn Riding (Savannah), and Thomas Riding, along with his ten great grandchildren.

William graduated from Mt. Gilead High School in 1957. He attended Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in 1962. He received his Masters degree in Business Administration from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1970.

He worked the majority of his professional career for Western Electric, which became AT&T, from 1965 to 1998 beginning as a staff trainee and ending as a customer process manager and consultant. This work moved him and his family to many amazing places including Ohio, Washington, Alabama, Georgia, and Texas.

As an avid outdoorsman Bill enjoyed golf, camping, boating, hunting, fishing and skiing, all of which were best done with family and friends. He passed his love of skiing on to his eight grandchildren who he would visit and teach to ski. He had amazing friends from his time working at AT&T and later after retirement in his Texas neighborhood. His friends took incredible care of Bill, and he reciprocated by helping where he could. He was a religious man who cared for those around him and did all he could to help others.

Bill will be remembered for his love of travel and family. He would travel for all major life events for his children and grandchildren including weddings, graduations, holidays and birthdays. It brought joy to his life to be with his family and friends. His smile and laugh were infectious and he was willing to listen and offer support and advice where he could. Bill loved to be around people and enjoyed just chatting. He touched everyone he came across and will be missed by many people.

Llewellyn C. "Tom" Thompson,a beloved educator and family man, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2023, in Damascus, Ohio. Born in Cambridge, Ohio on April 16, 1940, Tom lived a life full of love, laughter, and learning, leaving behind an indelible legacy.

Tom was the cherished son of the late Llewellyn C. Thompson Sr. and Doris (Baker) Thompson. He was the caring brother of Sally Prouty and John (Karen) Thompson, and the late Bill Thompson. His family was the center of his world, and he was a loving husband of 60 years to Linda (Beamer) Thompson, and devoted father to his four children; Tommy Thompson III, Mace Eric Thompson, Heather (Gregg) Thompson, and Connon (Melissa) Thompson including a special daughter-in-law Claudia (Jeff) Thompson Malarick. Tom was also the proud grandfather of eight; Danielle, Kaela, Gavin, Payton, Gates, CJ, Liam, and Paige Thompson, and the great-grandfather of Lucy, Kenny, and Alice. He held a special place in his heart for his brother-in-law and sister's-in-law and was an adored uncle to many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

Tom was a graduate of Muskingum College and later received his Masters from Westminster College. His commitment to education was unwavering, dedicating over four decades of his life to the noble profession. His journey began and concluded at West Branch Local Schools, with a significant 29-year tenure at the Louisville City School District along the way. Tom's dedication to his students was unparalleled, and he left a deep impact on many young lives.

Outside of his professional life, Tom was a man of many passions. He loved fishing and gardening, finding peace and joy in the simplicity of nature. However, his favorite pastime was attending his children's and grandchildren's events. His presence at these events was a testament to his unwavering support and love for his family.

Tom's life was a testament to the power of love, education, and the human spirit. His legacy will continue to live on through the many lives he touched, both within his family and the countless students he taught. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him, as a loving family man, a dedicated educator, and a true friend.

Richard "Dick" Patton May 31, 1942 August 23, 2019. Dick was raised in Hubbard and attended Hubbard schools, graduating high school in 1960. He went on to further his education at Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio, graduating in 1964. 

Rev. Robert Laing Montgomery, age 87, of Tallahassee, Florida passed away on Tuesday, June 6, 2023.

Michael John Korba, Sr (Mike) was born in Canonsburg, PA on May 11, 1944, the beloved son of Michael and Anna (Dubinsky) Korba. He was a 1962 graduate of Canon-MacMillian high school where he ran track, and played trumpet in the band. Mike went onto graduate from Muskingum College, New Concord, OH in 1966. Mike was a proud officer in the United States Navy serving from 1966 to 1988 in various posts in Vietnam, the Philippines, onboard the USS America, the Naval Security Group Headquarters, and at the National Security agency. When Mike retired from the Navy in 1988, he built a 20+ year career as a defense contractor working for various firms. Mike adored his family, and was a loving husband to Alyce, the 2 sharing 50 years of marriage; proud father to Leigh Maxson (Mike), Erin Weseloh ((Liam) and Michael Korba, Jr (Laura). He was the doating grandfather to Sophia Maxson, Logan Weseloh, Abigail Korba, MacKenzie Weseloh, and Graham Korba. All of whom he loved beyond words. Mike was the beloved brother to Joyce Dreeland, and Helen Cesari (predeasced), and was a fun loving brother-in-law, uncle, and cousin. Loved by everyone who met him. 

Matthew Robert Huffman, 67, passed from this life peacefully, surrounded by his entire family on Friday, June 16, 2023. He finished his battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at The James Cancer Hospital at The Ohio State University. He was born in Greenville, Ohio on April 7, 1956 to R. Dean and Phyllis K. (Elliott) Huffman. He attended high school at West Jefferson High School, Bucyrus High School, and graduated from Cory-Rawson High School in 1975, where he played football, basketball, and ran track. He was an All-Ohio athlete in football his senior year and played in The Big 33 Ohio-Pennsylvania All Star game in 1975. He then attended Muskingum College where he was All-OAC for football in '77 & '78, became a member of the MACE Club and graduated in 1979, earning a degree in Elementary Education. He began his teaching career at Mt. Sterling Elementary in 1979 and coached football at Madison Plains High School. He remained there for four years before assuming a Memorial Middle School teaching position in West Jefferson, Ohio, where he taught for 31 years until his retirement in 2014. At West Jefferson, he coached football for the majority of his career and remained an avid Roughrider football fan, attending almost every game with his good friend Skeeter Nelson after his retirement. In addition, he also coached basketball and baseball and served as the Middle School Athletic Director for several years. While teaching at West Jeff, he earned his Master's Degree in Education from Wright State University in 2004. During retirement, he enjoyed playing rounds of golf across Ohio with his brother, Jeff, and good friend Greg McPherson. Matt worked in catering for the suites in Nationwide Arena for Delaware North, as well as many weddings and celebrations at the Columbus Zoo. As an active member of Sts. Simon and Jude Parish, he served the church as a choir member, Extraordinary Minister of The Holy Eucharist, usher, and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus in the parish. He particularly enjoyed the fellowship of the "Morning Mass group" in his retirement years where his faith and friendships deepened. Matt loved his family and was the best husband, father, and Pap Pap. He loved traveling with Val, his wife of 43 years, supporting their children and grandchildren, and spending time with all of them. He was their biggest fan, attending every football game, gymnastics meet, and event he could. Having the family together for holidays, birthdays and vacations to the beach were his favorite and most memorable times. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Phyllis (Elliott) Huffman, parents-in-law Donald and Cynthia (Chenos) Brake, and brothers-in-law Donnie Brake, Tony Bruno, and Tim Grice. He is survived by his wife Valerie, sons Adam (Katie) Huffman, Ian Huffman, daughter Hilary (Jake) Watts, and son Seth Huffman, grandchildren Addie, Ellie, Matthew, Sarah, Mia and Macen, as well as siblings Jeff (Gayle) Huffman, Carol Grice, and Rita Huffman, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends from all over. The family would like to give a special thank-you to the staff and care team at The James for their tremendous support, knowledge, and compassion during the past few weeks. 

On Friday, June 9, 2023, Rev. Judith A. Moore, loving sister, dear aunt, loyal friend, inspiring teacher, and devoted minister, passed away at the age of 79. Born in East Cleveland, Ohio Judith graduated from Muskingum College in 1966, received her Master of Arts in Theater at Kent State University in 1974, and then graduated from Colgate Theological Seminary in 1984. Her early career was spent teaching in Wellsville and Baltimore and then at the Willoughby School of Fine Arts, where she taught and directed theater. Ordained at Grace Episcopal Church in Willoughby, Ohio in 1986, Judith was welcomed there as an associate pastor. She later simultaneously served three churches while living in northwest Ohio including Trinity-Episcopal Church, Bryan, OH and Grace Episcopal Church, Defiance, OH. As she was winding down her career, she served as a supply minister to churches in Columbus, Ohio her favorite being St. Philip's Episcopal Church. Her golden days were spent in Albuquerque, NM. While ordination fulfilled Judith's lifelong calling to be a minister in her beloved Episcopal church, during the time she waited for the church to welcome women into the ministry, she flourished as a teacher and a director. She brought a unique perspective to everything she did. Her love of storytelling made her sermons come alive. Her heart for people made her a true friend who was skilled at celebrating others joys and supporting them in their troubles. Those lucky enough to visit the coffee house she started in Wellsville or attend one of her open houses on the longest night of the year will carry fonder memories still. And maybe now she's teaching the three wise men to play canasta or bridge. Judith was preceded in death by her parents, Peg and Herbert Moore. She is survived by her sister Nancy Baxter (Bruce), her brothers Paul (Judy) and John (Susan), eight nieces and nephews, ten great nieces and nephews, and one great-great nephew. 

Myron Thomas Stiers, 95, of Salesville, passed away Thursday (June 15, 2023) at his home. He was born November 10, 1927 in Salesville, son of the late Thomas Earl Stiers and Fidessa M. (Rich) Stiers. Myron graduated from Senecaville High School in 1946 and from Muskingum College in 1951. He was a lifelong farmer and also a school teacher for thirty years at Cambridge City Schools. He enjoyed hunting, shooting, and woodworking. He also enjoyed masonry work. In his lifetime, Myron built nine houses! He was a member of the Senecaville United Methodist Church and a member of the Farm Bureau. Myron was a US Army veteran, having served in Germany from 1946 to 1948. He was a rifle expert during his military serviceIn addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth J. (Allen) Stiers, who passed away January 8, 2015. They were married June 4, 1950. Also deceased are two brothers, Wilford Stiers and Ronald Stiers. Myron is survived by a son, Matthew A. (Debra) Stiers; a daughter, Elizabeth "LizAnne" (Richard) Chumney; two sisters-in-law, Geraldine Stiers and Rebecca Stiers Oliphant; five grandchildren, Joshua (Jenny) Stiers, Suzanne (Chris) Clark, Kassandra (Brian) Shafer, Tom (Jenna) Chumney, and Adam (Lacey) Chumney; three step-grandchildren, Franklin (Allison) Gadd, Timothy (Jessica) Gadd, and Julie Gadd; nine great-grandchildren; and six step-great-grandchildren

Ann (McGlashan) Schindel Ann was born on August, 2nd, 1968 in Normal, Illinois to Linda and Scott McGlashan. She grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and later attended college at Muskingum University in Ohio. While living in Pittsburgh, the McGlashan family frequently vacationed at their lake home in Battle Lake, MN. In 1996 Ann moved to Minnesota where she met the love of her life, Martin. The two married in 1997 and moved to Ramsey, MN. Martin and Annie were blessed with two beautiful children, Brock and Morgan. Nothing was more important to Ann than her family. Annie worked in the sales and customer service industry for most of her adult life. After Martin and Annie opened their own business in 2011, Annie played a vital role in managing the finances and operations. Ann enjoyed catching up on and sharing her version of community news when she ran into customers at local businesses. Her passions included spending time with family and friends boating, sitting around a campfire or watching a Viking's game. Everyone who met Ann was touched by her contagious, bright and energetic personality. Ann was the best wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend one could ask for. She will be dearly missed by many! Ann was preceded in death by her father Scott McGlashan and brother Chris McGlashan. She is survived by her husband Martin, son Brock, daughter Morgan, grandson Leo, mother Linda (McGlashan) and many extended family members and friends who love her dearly. 

Ann Huffman Shetler, age 86 of Willoughby Hills formerly of Mentor, Ohio passed away June 7, 2023, at Hillcrest Hospital in Mayfield Heights, OH. She was born October 29, 1936, in Dover, OH. Ann graduated from Muskingum University in 1958 with a Bachelor's Degree in Education. Shortly after, she married West Point graduate John Shetler in their hometown of Strasburg, Ohio, and began her journey as a devoted military wife traveling and living all across the US as well as Europe. Mrs. Shetler was an avid and remarkable bridge player through the final days of her life as well as enjoying arts and crafts, puzzling, boating at their home of 30 years in Roaming Shores and simply hanging out with her family and friends. She had been a co-chairman, along with her husband, of the Mentor PTA Circus for many years as well as holding numerous leadership positions with the Mentor Women's Club, Wildwood Garden Club, the Mentor Miscellany Club, and numerous other volunteer positions. Ann had also enjoyed her work at May Company in the '80s serving as a credit manager for the organization. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, John; daughters, Phyllis (Jim) Waud and Susan (Danny Cardina) Mullins; grandchildren, Taylor, Blake, Erin, and Kelly (Austin Adams); and other loving family members. She was preceded in death by her brother, James Huffman.

Randy Engle, 74, of Salem, Ohio, passed away in Cocoa Beach, Florida, on January 9, 2021. Born November 28, 1946 in Canton, Ohio, he was the son of Bill and Dorothy Engle.

Raised in New Alexander, Randy graduated from United Local in 1965. He attended Muskingum College, played football for the Muskies and graduated in 1969.

Randy spent the majority of his educational career in The Salem Schools, first as high school principal and retiring in 2000 as Superintendent of Schools. He loved his Salem Quakers.

He was first married in 1965 to Linda Conser. He had two daughters, Diane and Jennifer.

In 1983, he married Melissa Meissner Huffman, who survives.

In retirement he loved cooking and decorating the outside of his home for holidays. He just loved being around people. He and his wife wintered in Florida for the past eight years.

Survivors include two brothers, Rick (Peg) Engle of Lebanon and Rex (Kim) Engle of Amherst and their families, daughter Jennifer of Salem, sister-in-law, Linda (Ron) Ferguson of Kissimmee, and brother-in-law, Frank (Barb) Meissner of Salem.

A daughter, Diane, passed in December 2020.

DOUGLAS B. "Max" VAUGHAN from North Olmsted, alumnus of Bay Village High School and Muskingum College, died at the age of 69 Sunday, June 11, joining his son Brett. He is survived by his wife of 48 years Carol, his daughter Kate Vaughan, his son-in-law Bill Ward, and grandchildren Braeden and Emma. He is remembered by all who knew him as one of the kindesst and loving of people. Always hungry for adventure, thoughtful, engaging, and open, he will be greatly missed.

Irwin Jennings's passing on Wednesday, March 22, 2023 has been publicly announced by Neidecker, Crosser & Priesman Funeral Home & Cremation Service - Peninsula in Lakeside Marblehead, OH.

Alexandra M. Sons, Wife of Kristopher EW Sons, daughter of Thomas C Wiederhold and Lori Clark Wiederhold, daughter in law of Joe Lainhart and Keren Lainhart, sister of Tyler (Elizabeth) Wiederhold, beloved aunt of Grayson Wiederhold died June 1, 2023.Ali is survived by her maternal grandparents, Bernard and Jeannette Clark and paternal grandparents, Charles and Eileen Wiederhold. Ali is survived by a large extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins and in-laws.Ali graduated from McNicholas High School and Muskingum University with a degree in education and completed a master's degree at University of Cincinnati. She enjoyed teaching kindergarten at Batavia Local School district for the past 10 years. Her second family was that of her building. Ali believed in and loved the doctors and nurses that treated her at Christ. They also became family through her 2.5 year battle with cancer.

Alan R. Keirn, 80, passed away in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 27, 2023, at Dublin Methodist Hospital. Alan "Al" was born March 28, 1943, in Massillon OH to Dr. Arthur Keirn and Mary Keirn Richey. He married Rosanna Hurley on November 20, 1966. She survives as do five children: Heather (J) Keirn-Swanson of Berea, OH, Holly (Todd) Hall, John (Kelly) Keirn, all of Marysville OH, Laura (Brian) Keirn-McCreanor of San Diego CA, and David (Andrea) Keirn of Chicago IL. He has eight grandchildren: Paige and Brody Hall, Alaina and Jyoti Keirn-Swanson, Max and Weston Keirn, Jennings and Tennyson McCreanor. A son, Brett Andrew, was stillborn in 1970. Al is also survived by a brother, David (Saralee) Keirn, Tucson AZ, and special friends Mike and Gene Farley. Al graduated from Hudson High School and Muskingum College. He began teaching at Indian Lake Jr. High School in Lewistown OH. He then taught at West Liberty-Salem where he was also a coach. He coached wrestling, girls' track, and girls' cross country, in which he had a state cross country champion. After retiring from teaching, he worked for Ridgemont Schools as a night janitor and as a substitute teacher during the day. He really enjoyed his year as the substitute shop teacher for Ridgemont. Al was a member of the First Christian Church, Bellefontaine for 57 years where he served first as a deacon and later as an Elder. He taught a variety of Sunday school classes from 5th-grade to adults for 50 years. During the summer VBS program, he directed the recreational time for the children. In 2022, he was named an Elder Emeritus. Al also served as church custodian for several years. Through the years, he has enjoyed Monday morning coffee chats with Bob Notestine and Joe Smucker. 

Leonard M. Thomas, age 91 of Cambridge, passed away on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 at Astoria Place. He was born on September 26, 1931 in Cambridge, a son of the late Merrill A. Thomas and Edna G. (Patterson) Thomas. Len graduated from Cambridge High School at age 16 then went to Muskingum College for his Bachelors, and Boston University for his Masters. He then served his country in the U.S. Army and played sousaphone in the band. Upon his return from the service, Len worked in Zanesville as a parole officer and was a church choral director with five choirs. Three years later Len became director of choral music in Brooklyn, New York at McKinley Jr. High School for 11 and a half years. Len was best known as a performer, soloist, accompanist and arranger for Fred Waring and the Pennsylvanians. While with the Pennsylvanians, Len played at the White House and Carnegie Hall and toured the U.S. and Europe. After Fred's passing, he was the editor and arranger at Shawnee Press for 17 years. Len was a life-time member of the American Legion in East Stroudsburg, PA. After retiring from Shawnee Press, he came back and worked at Muskingum University first directing their concert choir then continued on as an accompanist and often giving piano lessons. Even in retirement, he still performed many area events including the Muskingum Jazz Group, Cambridge Singers and various church and community opportunities. Len was a lifetime member of the First Christian Church in Cambridge and had most recently attended Christ United Methodist Church. He was inducted into the first class of the annual Cambridge High School Distinguished Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Guernsey County Hall of Fame in 1999. He had also received the Sinfonia Lifetime Achievement Award. Len's focus was to mentor and serve others with a passion to influence people, whether through words or music, to trust in the Lord, Jesus Christ He is preceded in death by: his parents; his siblings, June Armstrong, William Thomas, Betty Ronshausen, Patricia Jones, and Lowell Thomas; and a nephew and a niece Surviving are: 21 nieces and nephews and multiple great nieces and nephews.

Ralph S. Hodgdon, Jr. passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 in Wooster, OH surrounded by his family. Ralph was born on June 12, 1941 in Canton, OH to Ralph Hodgdon, Sr. from Canton and Dorothy Nixon Hodgdon from Magnolia, OH. He was their only child and grew up just north of Zoar, OH. He married Connie Gaeth Hodgdon on June 17, 1967. She survivesHe was a graduate of Sandy Valley High School and attended Muskingum College for two years before transferring to Mount Union College to complete a degree in biology and chemistry in 1963. He then took a job as assistant dorm director at Muskingum College where he and Connie met. He later attended the Ohio State University, where he earned his MA in Educational Administration with a major in counseling psychology. He began his professional life as an instructor of Psychology at Brevard Junior College in Cocoa, FL where he and Connie began their married life. They later moved back to Ohio where he began employment with Ernst & Young and later progressed to a position with Family Motor Coach Association. He then started a research laboratory business, WIL Labs, in Cincinnati, which grew to be a successful business. Later, after moving to Wooster, OH he switched gears and went into nursing home administration. He then worked with Altercare Integrated Health Services as a Nursing Home Administrator until he retired. One of Ralph's greatest loves was flying airplanes and he could often be found at the Wayne County Airport with his flying buddies. He owned a small, private plane for several years and had many adventures flying the family to vacations in Florida. Other interests included motorcycles, cars and boating. He was most content throughout his life when he had activities that included motorized vehicles and bodies of water. The family has memories of lake and sea fishing as well as water skiing and pontoon rides with Ralph as the captain, and the dog by his side. He started each day by reading the Wall Street Journal over coffee and was often up before anyone else. In recent years, he enjoyed spending time with his daughters Jenny and Cathy and his four grandchildren at their vacation home at Apple Valley Lake in Howard, OH. He was also a shooting enthusiast and enjoyed an afternoon at the shooting range with friends at Fin, Feather & Fur. He loved to read and was self-educated on a variety of topics, including Christianity, reincarnation, cosmic studies, politics and finance. He was a believer in the power of prayer and spiritual connections. Surviving in addition to his wife, Connie, are his daughters Jenny (Jorge) Diaz of Perrysburg OH, Cathy (Everett) Ross of Columbus and grandchildren Elizabeth Diaz, Nathan Ross, Alexander Diaz and Owen Ross. He was preceded in death by his parents. Ralph will be remembered by his family for his grounded demeanor, good nature, sense of humor and spirit of adventure.

Ralph S. Hodgdon, Jr. passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 in Wooster, OH surrounded by his family. Ralph was born on June 12, 1941 in Canton, OH to Ralph Hodgdon, Sr. from Canton and Dorothy Nixon Hodgdon from Magnolia, OH. He was their only child and grew up just north of Zoar, OH. He married Connie Gaeth Hodgdon on June 17, 1967. She survivesHe was a graduate of Sandy Valley High School and attended Muskingum College for two years before transferring to Mount Union College to complete a degree in biology and chemistry in 1963. He then took a job as assistant dorm director at Muskingum College where he and Connie met. He later attended the Ohio State University, where he earned his MA in Educational Administration with a major in counseling psychology. He began his professional life as an instructor of Psychology at Brevard Junior College in Cocoa, FL where he and Connie began their married life. They later moved back to Ohio where he began employment with Ernst & Young and later progressed to a position with Family Motor Coach Association. He then started a research laboratory business, WIL Labs, in Cincinnati, which grew to be a successful business. Later, after moving to Wooster, OH he switched gears and went into nursing home administration. He then worked with Altercare Integrated Health Services as a Nursing Home Administrator until he retired. One of Ralph's greatest loves was flying airplanes and he could often be found at the Wayne County Airport with his flying buddies. He owned a small, private plane for several years and had many adventures flying the family to vacations in Florida. Other interests included motorcycles, cars and boating. He was most content throughout his life when he had activities that included motorized vehicles and bodies of water. The family has memories of lake and sea fishing as well as water skiing and pontoon rides with Ralph as the captain, and the dog by his side. He started each day by reading the Wall Street Journal over coffee and was often up before anyone else. In recent years, he enjoyed spending time with his daughters Jenny and Cathy and his four grandchildren at their vacation home at Apple Valley Lake in Howard, OH. He was also a shooting enthusiast and enjoyed an afternoon at the shooting range with friends at Fin, Feather & Fur. He loved to read and was self-educated on a variety of topics, including Christianity, reincarnation, cosmic studies, politics and finance. He was a believer in the power of prayer and spiritual connections. Surviving in addition to his wife, Connie, are his daughters Jenny (Jorge) Diaz of Perrysburg OH, Cathy (Everett) Ross of Columbus and grandchildren Elizabeth Diaz, Nathan Ross, Alexander Diaz and Owen Ross. He was preceded in death by his parents. Ralph will be remembered by his family for his grounded demeanor, good nature, sense of humor and spirit of adventure

Thomas Best, age 71, of High Bridge, NJ, passed away Tuesday, May 23, 2023. Tom was born on April 8, 1952, in Elizabeth, NJ, to Irma (Koos) Best and the late Thomas Best. Tom was a graduate of Arthur L. Johnson Regional High School in Clark, NJ and went on to continue his education at Muskingum University in Ohio, where he earned his Bachelor's degree. He also attended various technical institutes where he earned certifications to further his education and career. He most recently worked as a Multicraft Maintenance Mechanic at Sanofi-Aventis Pharmaceuticals in Bridgewater, NJ, up until his retirement in 2012. He married the love of his life, Mary Mulligan Best, on May 4, 1985.Together they raised three children; Sara, Brian, and Lukas. As his children grew, Tom was very active in coaching their sports and being there through many life achievements. Tom was always the life of the party, loud and charismatic. He enjoyed many evenings sitting at his neighbors' houses telling stories and having laughs. He also enjoyed tinkering with his motorcycles. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his four grandchildren who brought him great joy. Thomas will be forever missed by his loving wife, Mary Best; daughter, Sara Laster and her husband Chase; sons, Brian Best and his wife Brooke, Lukas Best and his wife Natalie; and his four grandchildren, Sawyer, Saylor, Ava and Quinn. Tom is also survived by his sister, Joan DeCosimo, her husband Paul DeCosimo and their children Lauren and Chris; his mother, Irma Best and his aunt, Elinor Blore. 

Jane L. Castor, 97 of New Concord, passed away on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at Genesis Hospice, Morrison House. Jane was born on March 5, 1926 in Springfield, Ohio. She was the daughter of Samuel M. and Mary Luella (Pollock) Laing. As a minister's daughter, Jane lived in various cities including Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Nashville. She graduated from Muskingum College in 1948 with an elementary school teaching degree. She then married Donald McCall Castor in 1949, taught school for several years, and then worked in the family business, Zanesville Pottery. She and her husband started White Pillars Christmas House in 1981 where she worked until her retirement. Jane also dedicated her time to the New Concord Mother's Club I where she had many lifelong friends. Jane was a member of the College Drive Presbyterian Church where sang in the choir for over fifty years. Above all, Jane enjoyed and cherished the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and she always loved to have a dog around. Jane is survived by her loving children, Kim Laing (Carolyn) Castor and Brenda (Michael) Higgins; grandchildren, Michael (Julie) Castor and Katherine (Graham) Hamblin; five great-grandchildren, Samuel, Zachary, Benjamin, and Gabriel Castor, and Cora Jane Hamblin; and several nieces and nephews. Jane is preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, Donald M. Castor, who passed away on October 8, 2016; as well as her brother, Samuel M. Laing II. 

Kathryn (Kay) Naomi Farquhar Tanno, 96, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 6, 2023, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was born on February 10, 1927, in Cleveland, Ohio to Pilgrim Robert Farquhar and Lucie E. (Pracejus) Farquhar. Kathryn attended The Andrews Institute for Girls High School in Willoughby, Ohio and earned a degree in Art. In 1948, Kay graduated from Muskingum University in New Concord, Ohio with a Home Economics degree. After college, Kay moved to Cincinnati, Ohio to pursue a career as a market researcher with Proctor & Gamble. She returned to Cleveland, Ohio working as a florist and married Lewis Oliver Tanno on July 26, 1952. Kathryn had many talents and interests and stayed active her entire life. She was an accomplished painter, potter, entertainer, decorator, and traveler. In 1986, The Tanno's moved from Mt. Sterling, Kentucky to Dade City, Florida when Lewis was called as rector of St. Mary's Episcopal Church. Kathryn embraced the move, becoming very active in the church and the community. Kay was an avid walker and a member of Volksport, an international walking association completing walks all over the world. She was a long-time member of the Dade City Garden Club Hollyhock Garden Circle and a HPH Hospice volunteer. Kathryn was a beloved wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend. She will be greatly missed by many. Kathryn was preceded in death by her husband The Rev. Lewis O. Tanno and her grandson Donald Eugene Armstrong III (Trey). She is survived by their three daughters, Jessica Armstrong (Donald) of Stuart, Florida, Laura Boison (Mark) of Lexington, Kentucky, Roberta Tanno (Jeffrey Pond) of Cincinnati, Ohio, and grandchildren, Raines Tanno Mielcarek of Lexington, Kentucky, Captain Cole H. Mielcarek, USMC of Lexington, Kentucky and Kathryn Claire (Mielcarek) Littrell (Allister) of St. Petersburg, Florida. 

Neva Jean Harden, 97, of Harrisburg passed away peacefully on Friday, May 19, 2023, at Carolyns House, Hospice Residence. Jean was born on October 25, 1925, in Beaver Falls, PA, and was the daughter of the late John and Joletta Ritchey Anderson. She graduated from Aliquippa High School in 1943 and Muskingum College in 1948 with a degree in home economics, which she put to excellent use in taking wonderful care of four generations of her family. In 1947, Jean met Ralph Harden under Kaufmann's Clock in Pittsburgh for a marathon first date, which included a Pirates doubleheader, a movie, and dinner. And so began their family's story. After their marriage, they lived in Hollidaysburg for thirteen years and later in Huntingdon, where they built a community of dear friends and spent their time attending sporting events, hosting family gatherings, and on Sunday mornings worshipping in the eleventh pew of Huntingdon Presbyterian Church. Following her husband's passing in 1996, Jean moved to the Harrisburg area to be closer to her daughters and their families. Her life was always focused on her family and her faith. She was active in her church and was a substitute teacher for several years. She spent countless hours watching sports (especially Duke basketball and Pittsburgh teams), doing crossword puzzles, and reading. She excelled at the domestic arts, sewing beautiful dresses for her daughters and granddaughters and creating beautiful counted cross-stitch. She was a tremendous cook and baker, and her family fondly remembers the many tins filled with her homemade cookies, always making sure everyone's favorites were included. She loved family gatherings and celebrations and enjoyed following her grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their activities. Jean was the very definition of strength, dignity, and grace throughout her life, even into her last days. She will be missed dearly by all who knew her. Jean was predeceased by her husband Ralph Harden and her brother James Anderson. She is survived by her daughters Terry (Donald) Cornish, Susan (Kerry) Brightbill, Nancy (William) Latimore, Karen (Jacqueline) Harden and Cheryl (Michael) Caplan; her grandchildren Kate (Adrian) Murray, Laura (Jerome) May, Gregory Brightbill, Sarah Latimore, David (Marissa) Latimore, Alex (Fiancee, Carolyn) Caplan, and Hannah Caplan; her great-grandchildren August, Kian, and Noble Murray and Neva, Josie, and Lila May.

Margaret Ann “Peggy” Hamilton, 91, of Barrington, Illinois, formerly of Coshocton passed away at The Garlands of Barrington on Sunday, December 4, 2022.

Peggy was born in Fresno, Ohio on August 22, 1931, to the late Russell H. and Grace C. (Thomas) Wyler.  She was a lifelong resident of Coshocton County until she moved to be closer to her family at age 89.  She grew up on a farm in Fresno helping her family with the chores even while attending classes in college.

She graduated from Fresno High School in the class of 1949 and received her bachelor’s degree in education from Muskingum University.  Peggy was an elementary school teacher throughout her life. She had a special bond with her students and treasured the memories she created with them. She retired having taught over 35 years in Coshocton County, mostly at Lincoln Elementary School, and she taught up to three generations within a family.  She was a member of Grace United Methodist Church since 1973.

Peggy was also involved with the West Lafayette Chapter of Eastern Star, 1969 Delta Kappa Gamma, Trirosis Club, Historical Club, Jennings Scholar (1974-1975), served on the Board of Directors of Coshocton County Memorial Hospital from 1990-2002, and was a life member of NEA, OEA and ORTA.

She enjoyed painting her late husband’s carved wooden characters, playing bridge, hausey and golf.  Peggy treasured her moments cheering on her girls and granddaughter in their activities and sporting events.  After retiring, she and her husband traveled to visit her girls more often, enjoying time with their families and their pets. She was their number one cheerleader!

Peggy is survived by her daughters Sue (John) Beardslee of Cody, WY and Diane (Brian) Ferron of Hawthorn Woods, IL; granddaughter Katie Beardslee of Littleton, CO; sister-in-laws Arlene Wyler, Norma (Jim) Shroyer, brother-in-law Robert (Leann) Hamilton; numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and nephews.

Along with her parents and brother, Tom Wyler, she is preceded in death by her husband Harold R. Hamilton whom she married June 5, 1952, Harold passed away on March 19, 2018.