James Edward “Jim” Auer, age 69, currently of Mansfield, died naturally yet unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at his home.
Jim was born February 11, 1956 in Shelby to the late Edward Patrick and Charlotte M. (Stine) Auer. He graduated from Shelby High School in 1974 and lived many places throughout his life always loving to travel. A true “jack of all trades, master of none”, Jim was a talented handyman.
Survivors include his son: Chad (Megan) Auer of Ashland; grandchildren: Julia, Baylee, Dylan, Jaxson, and Grant; great granddaughter: Ariella; sisters: Jean Auer of Galion and Teresa (Tim) Armstrong of Shelby; and 2 nieces, a nephew, and their families. His parents preceded him in death.
Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 1 pm at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery, Shelby. Care for Jim and his family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Margaret M. Kromer, age 93, of Mansfield, passed peacefully Friday morning, March 28, 2025 at The Waterford at Mansfield where she resided.
Margaret was born June 3, 1931 in Tiffin to the late Roman and Helen (Schultz) Burger. She graduated from Tiffin Calvert High School where, as a musician, she enjoyed playing drums, classical piano, and clarinet. Following high school, a job as a bank teller and later their family-owned shoe store preceded her marriage to Bernard Kromer on October 12, 1950. It was then that her career and life was focused on being an outstanding homemaker raising her family.
Margaret enjoyed gardening and canning what she grew. She also enjoyed cooking and trying new recipes, having quite a collection ready to share with others. When she was not cooking, she made crafts including elaborate photo albums and Afghan blankets for her family. Additionally, Margaret sewed and made many of her children’s clothes. She was especially good at always finding ways to stretch a dollar.
Margaret was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Mansfield and later attended Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Bethlehem, Shelby Settlement, with her son and daughter-in-law. In her downtime, she enjoyed reading and was faithful to saying her prayers and Rosary. Margaret peacefully departed for her heavenly home, to be reunited with her family, after listening to the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary recited by her son. The last words she heard were, “It is ok to go. Your family is waiting for you. I love you, Mom.”
We will all always love and miss you, until we meet again. Survivors include her children: Alan (Sandi) Kromer, Kathleen Frye, David (Becky) Kromer, Brenda (Mike) Stickney, and Elaine Cybulski (Jeremy Borkowski); grandchildren: Daniel Kromer, Matthew Kromer, Trevor Frye, Lance Frye, Daniel Frye, Brett Frye, Erin Mendenhall, Brian Kromer, Sarah Stickney, Donald Ball, and Zoe Cybulski; 9 great grandchildren; sister: Dorothy Frank; sister-in-law: Miriam Burger; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by her husband, Bernard, on August 12, 1994; their stillborn daughter: Mary; son-in-law: Michael Frye; and siblings: Dr. Thomas Burger, Alice Jean Crowner, Atty. Robert Burger, and John Burger.
The family would like to extend special gratitude and appreciation to Dr. Ajay Chawla and staff, The Waterford of Manfield Staff, and OhioHealth Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion.
Family and friends are welcome on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 from 10-11 am at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 60 S Mulberry Street, Mansfield, OH 44903. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow the visitation at 11 am. Fr. Jeff Smith, Pastor, Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church, Bethlehem, Shelby Settlement, will celebrate the Mass with burial following in Mansfield Catholic Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter’s Catholic Church.
Care for Margaret and her family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences may be left on Margaret’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Asia Michelle (Burton) DeWalt, age 35, of Shiloh, died unexpectedly Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
Asia was born March 9, 1990 in Springfield, TN. Adopted at the age of 9 by her loving parents, Richard L. and Katherine D. (Wadley) Burton, they moved to Shelby when Asia was in middle school. Attending Shelby City Schools, she graduated from Goal Digital Academy. She later earned an associate’s degree in human services from North Central State College. Asia always had a passion for helping kids and people, something which paired well with her kind and caring nature.
Asia was a voracious reader- a hobby and passion she had her entire life. In fact, as a child, she even had a miniature library where friends could come and check out books which she shared for reading. She loved gardening and flowers, specifically roses and cherry blossoms, and always had an affinity for Asian culture and anime, especially Sailor Moon.
Asia is survived by her husband, Dustin R. DeWalt, whom she wed June 24, 2011; her children who she absolutely adored and loved: Alyssa Naomi Sue DeWalt and Abel Lynn DeWalt; her parents: Richard and Kathy Burton of Shelby; her biological mother: Joyce (Clay) Long; brother: William (Jennifer) Casey; nephews: William and Caleb; in-laws: Vicky DeWalt and Roger DeWalt; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents: Jack and Betty Nothacker.
Family and friends are welcome on Monday, March 31, 2025 from 3-5 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where funeral services will immediately follow at 5 pm. Rev. O. Douglas Tackett will officiate the services. Memorial contributions may be made to the Richland County Humane Society (https://adoptourstrays.com/donate/).
Elizabeth Ann “Liz” Hupp, age 59, of Shelby, passed away naturally yet unexpectedly on Friday, March 21, 2025 at her home.
Liz, affectionately known as “Red” to many, was born July 2, 1965 in Parma Heights, Ohio to the late Paul Edward Hupp and Shirley L. (Hawkins) McPeek. Liz spent nearly 14 years working at Cornell’s IGA in both the deli and bakery where she served as the general manager respectively. Recently she worked at Stanley Black and Decker in Shelby.
Throughout her life, Liz demonstrated what strength truly was. From raising her daughter in a single parent home to proving she could accomplish anything life threw her, Liz took each day as a challenge to succeed. She many times proclaimed her greatest accomplishment in life was raising her child. She loved sharing life lessons with others and left this world without knowing how much she genuinely impacted those around her. Liz, who had a deep affection for animals, particularly her dog Loki who recently passed away, made a significant impact on everyone she encountered. Liz believed all paths ultimately lead to God and took something from every form of religion.
Liz is survived by her daughter: Nova Liner (fiancé Lunette Ramos), brother: Paul (Christy) Hupp of Clarksville, TN; sister: Tammy (Steve) Martin of MI; aunt; Janice (Jimmy) Cole of Shelby; and numerous nieces, nephews, as well as many aunts and uncles who she dearly loved. She was preceded in death by her parents. After losing her mom, Liz made sure to remember her in all she did, carrying her memory with her always.
At Liz’s request, calling hours and funeral services will not be observed. Care for Liz and her family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, OH 44875.
Online condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuner-alHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Carl Francis Sifferlin, age 93, of Shelby, died early Friday morning, March 21, 2025 at Mill Creek Nursing and Rehab in Galion. His death follows a brief illness.
Carl was born August 1, 1931 at the family home in Shelby to the late Francis and Cornelia T. (Maag) Sifferlin. A 1950 graduate of Shelby High School, he then served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict for nearly four years (January 1951-October 1954) as an engine machinist aboard the USS Randall (APA-224). Upon his return to Shelby, he worked as a tool and die maker for the Shelby Spring Hinge Company and Millers Standard Tube prior to his career at Ohio Seamless Tube. Throughout his many years of service at the Tuby, Carl served as maintenance supervisor over both Plant I and II. He retired in 1995.
Carl married the former Margaret Catherine Ensman on June 25,1955. Together, Carl and Marg had a life of happiness and joy. They loved to dance, no matter the genre- from polka to square dancing to ballroom dancing. They did it all. Carl’s hobbies and interests were extensive. A true “Mr. Fix-It,” there was not anything he could not fix or build- construction, electrical, automotive, or anything in between. Together with his best friends, Dick and Butch Friebel, they manufactured thousands of cornhole boards via their company, BC&D. Carl was crafty in many ways and was especially well known for his birdhouses and Adirondack Chairs amongst many other projects. Perhaps his most cherished project was their family home he built himself, where he and Marg lived their entire married life, raised their family, and created many wonderful memories. Marg preceded Carl in death on August 19, 2022.
Carl loved to golf, having belonged to the Shelby Country Club for many years where he played in the Thursday night Twilight League. He thoroughly enjoyed attending all his children and grandchildren’s activities having coached his son’s first place Little League team. Carl was faithful to watching his grandchildren play basketball, football, soccer, golf, and running.Carl was a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Shelby his entire life. Over the years he served on Parish Council, St. Mary School Board, Maintenance Committee, and was an usher. Additionally, he was a member of the Shelby Knights of Columbus, Moose, American Legion, and Mansfield Liederkranz.
Simply put, Carl loved life. He had a fondness for engaging with individuals, dedicating his time to conversing and appreciating each person’s company. Although his reunion with those gone before him is certain to be joyous, he will be very much missed by all who love him.
Carl is survived by his children: Dan (Kathy) Sifferlin of Wooster, Mark (Elena) Sifferlin of Minneapolis, MN, Carla (Denny) Arnold of Shelby, Nancy (Todd) Baird of Ontario, and Sandy (Chris) Kelly of Powell; grandchildren: Karianne (David) Gerber, Samuel Sifferlin, Alexandra Sifferlin (Matthew Zeitlin), Francesca Sifferlin (Micah Carithers), Chad (Jenifer) Arnold, Cory (Amanda) Arnold, Garrett (Brooke) Arnold, Scott (Annie) Baird, Dr. Andrew (Alyssa) Baird, Rex Kelly, Cate Kelly, and Riley Kelly; great grandchildren: Calvin, Grady, Beau, Gabriel, Emmett, Adelaide, Ryder, Ensley, Drew, Matthew, Henry, and Quinn; brother: Ray (Ruthie) Sifferlin; in-laws: Sue Sifferlin, Carol Ensman, and Norbert Ensman; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Carl was preceded in death by his grandson: Eric Baird; and siblings: Dr. John Sifferlin, Roy Sifferlin, Sr. Bernadette (Viola) Sifferlin, OSF, and Rosemary Bricker.
Family and friends are welcome on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 from 5-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where a rosary will be recited at 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 10:30 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby with Fr. Chris Mileski celebrating. Military honors will be conducted by the Richland County Joint Veteran’s Burial Detail with burial following in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the church.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Penny Jo Mosley, age 73, of Shelby, passed peacefully Wednesday morning, March 19, 2025 at her home.Penny was born December 28, 1951 in Shelby to the late Aril “Fuzz” and Ella (Jenkins) Argo. Penny spent her life caring for others. She was a dedicated nurse aide at Heritage Care Center in Shelby. She loved caring for people- it was her true passion and calling. She retired following 38 years of care.
As a hobby, Penny loved to go for walks and was a member of Mansfield Baptist Temple. Penny loved her family deeply and always had a soft spot for her animals.
Penny is survived by her children: Jerry Mosley, Jr. of Shelby, Jason Swank of Shiloh, and Tammy Gayheart of North Carolina; 13 grandchildren; Toni Mosley, Railynn Mosley, Jaxstin Mosley, Jason Swank II, Lexus Swank, Cheyenne Swank, Jacob Swank, Sierra Swank, Ardrion Collins, Eli Swank, Isaiah(Mikayla) Gayheart, Richard Black, Jr., Erin Gayheart; 10 great grandchildren: Avery, Dillon, Emery, Blake, Samuel, Sebastain, Shelton, Spencer, EverLee, Larkin; siblings: Debbie (Charlie) Eshelman of Shelby, Rex (Donna) Argo of Shelby; Ron Argo of Florida, and Sandra Mount of Florida; sister-in-law: Virginia Argo; and numerous other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents, Penny was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law: Doty Swank; son-in-law: Greg Gayheart; former husband and friend: Jerry Mosley, Sr.; brothers: Don Argo and Gary Argo; sister-in-law: Diane Argo; brother-in-law: Jack Mount; and niece: Heidi Mount.
At Penny’s request, calling hours and funeral services will not be observed. Burial will be in Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery, Shelby. Care for Penny and her family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, OH 44875.
Online condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Edward M. “Ed” Craft, age 74, of Shelby, passed away peacefully, with family by his side, following a five-year courageous battle with cancer. He lived a humble and quiet life and he was genuine in every way.
Ed was born on November 29, 1950 in St. Marys, Ohio to Frank and Leola Craft. Moving to Shelby as a teenager, Ed graduated from Shelby High School in 1969. Ed’s life was one of devotion to his family, faith, and community. In 1968, Ed met the love of his life, Regina (Detillion) Craft, at Arlin Football Field. Their first date on a hayride marked the beginning of a lifelong love story that would span more than five decades. On February 28, 1970, Ed and Regina were married, and they recently celebrated 55 years of marriage.
Ed took great pride in his career. He retired from General Motors in 2008 after 28 years of service as a First-Class Stationary Steam Engineer. He was also deeply involved in his community. A faithful Catholic and member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Ed proudly served as Grand Knight at the Shelby Knights of Columbus Council #1968. Ed’s legacy is one of love, faith, family, and hard work. His best days included riding his Harley Davidson, farming, hunting, and boating. His family, friends, and all who knew him will remember him for his unwavering commitment to those he loved, and for his generosity of spirit, and good jokes.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ed’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of his wife: Regina; children: Teresa (John) Ensman, Sharon Gunder, Edward (Shawna) Craft II, and Ryan (Roselyn) Craft. Ed was a proud grandfather to seven wonderful grandchildren: Joshua (Jasmine) Ensman, Derek (Becky) Ensman, Rachel Ensman, Andrew (Alexandra) Craft, Samantha (Christian) Ballengee, Jacob Craft, and Damien Craft. He also had the joy of five great-grandchildren: Oliver & Jack Ballengee, Alaina & Ellie Ensman, & Asher Craft. His sister, Juanita DiGiorgi, also survives, along with other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his brother & sister-in-law: William and Joyce Craft; his great-granddaughter: Ruby Ballengee; and nephew: Scot Detillion.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to all who helped Ed and their family throughout the past five years including doctors, nurses, and the staff at The Willows at Willard.
Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, March 20, 2025 from 4-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 10:30 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby with Fr. Chris Mileski celebrating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the church.
Condolences may be made on Ed’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Margaret Anne Fuller, age 82, of Mansfield, died Wednesday afternoon, March 12, 2025 at Ontario Estates. Her death follows a year-long battle with breast cancer.
Margaret was born April 12, 1942 at home in rural Wood County, Ohio to the late Clarence W. and Beulah A. (Maidment) Snyder. A 1960 graduate of Union Local High School, she then attended Mansfield General Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1963. She began her nursing career at Mansfield General followed by The Ohio State University Hospital in Columbus.
At a New Year’s Eve party in 1964, Margaret met Daniel C. “Dusty” Fuller. They were engaged by March of 1965 and married on May 1 of that same year. Dusty was in the Air Force, eventually stationed in France, which is where their marriage began. Upon returning home, a job in Akron took the couple there where they lived nearly 40 years of their married life.
Margaret worked as an RN in Akron but primarily was a homemaker. She loved crafting of all kinds, especially quilting, crocheting, and knitting. Her projects varied from dolls and stuffed animals to Christmas stockings and hats/mittens for all her nieces and nephews. And she certainly made many quilts throughout her life and was a proud member of the Mansfield Quilters group.
Those who knew Margaret knew her as a straightforward person who spoke her mind. Some would say she was feisty or sassy, but all could agree she was always very real and true. Dusty’s death in 2004 prompted Margaret’s return to Mansfield from Akron to be closer to family. She found fellowship with her church family at Mansfield First Church of the Brethren and was active with the church’s women’s ministry group, God’s Angels.
Margaret is survived by her sister and dear friend: Mary Cairns of Mansfield; sisters-in-law: Marcia Snyder of AZ and Alice Snyder of Shiloh; nephews and niece: Rodney (Kelly) Snyder, Joe (Kristie) Snyder, Ben (Michelle) Snyder, Amanda (Mike) Brazeal, Paul Snyder, and Jason (Lynn) Snyder; numerous great and great great nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Margaret was preceded in death by her brothers: Bruce Snyder and Frank Snyder; infant brothers: Donald and Leland; and brother-in-law: Danny Cairns.
Family and friends are welcome on Saturday, May 3, 2025 (PLEASE NOTE EXACT DATE) from 10-11 am at the Mansfield First Church of the Brethren, 889 Grace Street, Mansfield, OH 44905. Funeral services will immediately follow at 11 am with Pastor Tina Hunt officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the church or to the Pat Kracker Breast Cancer Fund, PO Box 3552, Mansfield, OH 44907 (HelpMePat.org/help-fight-breast-cancer/#donate).
Care for Margaret and her family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home in Shelby. Condolences may be left on Margaret’s obituary on their website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Martha Jean Grimwood, age 87, of Shelby, died Wednesday morning, March 12, 2025 at Crestline Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.
Martha was born July 31, 1937 in Shelby to the late Ray Jefferson and Esther (Briner) Laser. A lifelong Shelby resident, Martha graduated from Shelby High School in the Class of 1955 and maintained lifelong friendships with classmates. These friends stayed incredibly active attending numerous activities, dinners, and reunions. On July 25, 1959 she married Walter I. Grimwood and together they celebrated nearly 43 years of marriage before his passing on December 27, 2001.
Throughout her life Martha had been employed at Shelby Mutual Insurance Company, Sandy and Andy Children’s Clothing in downtown Shelby, and finally in Pioneer Career and Technology Center’s Early Childhood Education Center in baby care. Martha lived an active, full, and social life. She was a lifelong active member of First United Church of Christ in Shelby where she served as an Elder and was on church council for many years. Additionally, she was a longstanding member of TOPS.
Beyond social activities with family and friends, Martha’s hobbies were extensive. If it was a craft you could do with your hands, she did it- sewing, needlepointing, knitting, and crocheting. If it could be canned, she canned it- especially if it was from her garden. She also enjoyed caring for birds at her home on Grimwood Drive, which she loved. Above all, Martha loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. She looked forward to attending every and any activity they participated in.
Martha is survived by her children: Deb (Randy) Fidler of Shiloh, Mike (Deb) Grimwood of Shelby, and Terri (Roger) Niese of Shelby; grandchildren: Owen (Katlyn) Niese, Kelsey (Josh) Dotson, Adison Niese (Graham Lescallette), Olivia Fidler, and Kimberly (Paul) Sheaffer; great grandchildren: Eli and Avery Dotson, Grayson Niese, and Daniel High; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Martha was preceded in death by siblings: William (Sandy) Laser, Marjorie (Jacque) Donnenwirth, and Alice Reinke.
The Grimwood family would like to thank the staff at Crestline Rehabilitation and Nursing Center and Pathways Hospice for the care they provided to Martha.
Family and friends are welcome on Friday, March 14, 2025 from 5-7 PM at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 1030 AM. Pastor James Robinson will officiate the services with burial following in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby. Memorial contributions may be made to First United Church of Christ, 23 Church Street, Shelby, OH 44875.
Condolences may be made on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Nancy Rudd Nealis, age 71, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Nancy was born on June 14, 1953 in Mount Sterling, Kentucky to the late Paul J. and Ruth Elizabeth (Henry) Rudd. She graduated from Montgomery County High School in 1971. On October 21, 1972, Nancy married Tommy Ray Nealis. They were married for nearly 3 years before Tommy’s tragic death during the Vietnam War on May 13, 1975.
Nancy worked various jobs throughout her life. She began working at Bluegrass Industries and later at the Recreational Commission of Montgomery County. Nancy found her niche working for Caswell Prewitt Realty as an office manager. She genuinely loved her job as well as her coworkers who remained loyal, lifelong friends including Omar Prewitt.
Nancy is survived by her aunt: Sue Wetz; numerous cousins and their families including special cousin and caregiver: Gloria Turner; and numerous close friends including Karen McCarty-Tegt, Florence Huffman, and Michelle Apfeld.
Graveside services will be held on a future date at Machpelah Cemetery in Mount Sterling, Kentucky where she will be laid to rest next to her loving parents. Care for Nancy is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby.
Condolences may be left on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).