Vernon Etzler

Vernon Eugene Etzler, age 73, of Middle Point, OH, died 12:56 PM Thursday, June 16, 2016 at St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima, OH. He was born July 23, 1942, in Van Wert County, to the late Wilber and Mary (Knittle) Etzler.

On October 30, 1990 he married the love of his life, Barbara K. (Wilson) Hoghe-Etzler who survives. A graduate of Van Del High School, Vernon was a self-employed carpenter and enjoyed restoring tractors and Cushmans. In addition to being a member of the Emmanuel Lutheran Church, he was also a member of the Van Wert Area Cushman Club, Van Wert Area Sportsman's Club, American Motorcycle Association, Vintage Motorbike Club and the National Rifle Association.

Also surviving are his sister: Bonnie (Dave) Evans of Middle Point; brother: John (Pat) Etzler of Middle Point; three step-daughters: Tracy (Mark) Bishop of Convoy; Tina Eley and Tonya Hoghe, both of Middle Point; 3 step-grandchildren: Tyler Hoghe of Van Wert; Jackie (Eli) Wagler of Richwood; Ayla (Jared) Myers of Columbus; 6 step-great-grandchildren: Aryonna Hoghe; Abri Wagler; Brynn Hoghe; Kendall Hoghe; Graydyn Wagler; Finnick Myers; 3 nieces: Betsy (Logan) Welker; Caressa (Jesse) Noffsinger; Avery Etzler; 2 great nieces: Braylee & Eliza Welker and 1 great nephew: Lane Noffsinger and special Aunt, Joan Sousley.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-son: Troy Hoghe.

Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Monday, June 20, 2016 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert, OH with Rev. Al Joseph officiating. Interment will follow in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point, OH.

Visitation will be Sunday from 2-4 and 6-8 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory, Van Wert.

Memorial contributions may be made to Middle Point Fire Department or the Emmanuel Lutheran Church.