Martha Louise Clark, age 89, of Shelby, passed peacefully early Sunday morning, May 18, 2025 at the Crestwood Care Center in Shelby.
Martha was born July 12, 1935 in Shelby to the late Byron and Ethel (Lybarger) Clark and graduated in 1953 from Union High School. A longtime employee of Kenyon College, Martha worked in the registrar’s office. While working full-time, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in religion from- something which was no small task and celebrated by her peers at the college. She later retired from Kenyon.
Martha’s love of traveling took her on many adventures- her greatest being white water rafting. She enjoyed reading and was an excellent seamstress, making many of her children’s clothes when they were younger amongst numerous other projects. Martha was a proud member of the First Lutheran Church in Shelby and often volunteered for many community programs and events including the Christmas/Angel Tree program.
Martha is survived by her devoted daughter and best friend, Susan Johnson of Shelby, and her son, David Johnson of Mount Vernon. In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by her brothers Ray Clark and Gene Clark.
Per Martha’s request, services will not be held. Care for Martha and her family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences may be left on Martha’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Elbert Roy “Butch” Amert, Jr., age 77, of Shelby, died early Saturday morning, May 10, 2025 at OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital. His death follows an extremely brief and unexpected illness.
Butch was born December 16, 1947 in Shelby to the late Marguerite E. “Marge” (Gambee) and Elbert Roy Amert, Sr. A 1965 graduate of Shelby High School, Butch enlisted in the United States Air Force in May of 1967 and served his country in Vietnam during the war. After his honorable discharge, Butch returned home and began working at United Telephone Company while also working at Shelby Rhythm Bowl. It was at Rhythm Bowl where his passion for bowling aligned with fate, as he met his future wife, Patty Durkin. The couple married on July 17, 1981.
His bowling hobby continued throughout his life, even having coached Youth Bowling Association for many years. Although his work at the Rhythm Bowl continued over 20 years, following 5 years with the telephone company, Butch began working for the railroad. He retired in 2007 from CSX following 32 years of service.
Although Butch’s hobbies and interests were extensive, his love for playing poker, specifically Texas Hold’em, was at the top of the list. He loved the game, often playing daily, and hosted and ran many games and tournaments especially with his Old Man’s Club poker group. He avidly studied poker etiquette, honing his skills and applying what he learned. Other interests included golfing, coin collecting, mushroom hunting, and a lifelong admiration for classic cars, particularly Corvettes. Unashamed of his sweet tooth, Butch had an undeniable weakness for pies and cookies.
Family was at the heart of Butch’s life, and he was a steadfast supporter of his children and grandchildren. The family shared over 40 years of camping adventures; a tradition passed on to his children despite Butch later admitting he merely “tolerated” the activity. He was, however, a lifetime member of the Lost Dutchman’s Mining Association- the premier gold prospecting and camping club in America. Proud of his service and the service of their children, in 2008 Butch and Patty were founding members of The Friends of the 179th Family Readiness, a program which collects and raises funds to assist families of servicemen and servicewomen at the Mansfield 179th. He was also a member of the Shelby Eagles where he served as a trustee, Shelby Knights of Columbus, a lifetime member of the VFW, and had been a member of the Shelby Moose and Owls clubs.
Butch is survived by his wife of nearly 44 years: Patricia S. “Patty” (Durkin) Amert; children and grandchildren: Becky Neuenschwander of Shelby, Christopher (Tara) Amert of Mansfield and their children Olin and Vada, David Amert (Kelly Dawson) of Shelby and their children Addison, Brayden, and Andrea Amert, and Jason (Shawna) Amert of Mansfield and their children Wilson, Karli, Erin, and Madelyn; uncle: David Amert; in-laws: Maggie Van Wagner and Tim (Mary) Durkin; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to his parents, Butch was preceded in death by his siblings: Bev Howell, Gary Amert, and Sally Sanders.
Military honors will be conducted by the Richland County Joint Veterans Burial Detail on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 5 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. All are welcome to attend. The family will greet guests immediately following the military honors at the funeral home where a casual and brief service will be held at 7 pm to conclude visitation. Pastor Ron Bolden will lead the service.
Leora Margaret Merritt, age 86, of Shelby, passed peacefully Wednesday night, May 7, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loving family.
Margaret was born February 26, 1939 in New Straitsville, Ohio to the late Joseph and Helen (Clark) Downs. She demonstrated a lifelong dedication to serving others, which was evident in her role as a server at The Coffee Shop in downtown Shelby and subsequently at Bob Evans until her retirement. On September 4, 1954 she married David L. Merritt. Together they celebrated 32 years of marriage until his death on September 12, 1986.
Margaret was the ultimate caregiver, always making sure that those she encountered were fed and clothed. She loved spending time outdoors and had a strong passion for gardening, meticulously caring for her garden and flowers. She enjoyed using garden produce to cook for loved ones and preserve for future use. Listening to music brought Margaret great joy, especially Elvis. She loved the Lord and often spent time reading scripture.
Margaret is survived by her children: Kathy Merritt, David Merritt Jr., Rock Merritt, Margie Tackett, Nathan Merritt, and Mark Merritt all of Shelby; numerous grandchildren including: Bethany; numerous great and great great grandchildren including: Owen, Clover, and Luca; brother, Bill (Betty Jo) Downs; and numerous other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Margaret was preceded in death by her granddaughter: Kristie Hirt; grandson: Caleb Merritt; and daughter in law: Pamela Merritt.
Per Margaret’s request services will not be held. Private burial will be in Ganges Cemetery, Shelby Ganges Road, Ganges.
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
Virginia Ellen “Ginny” Utz, age 96, of Shelby, died early Tuesday morning, April 29, 2025 at Mill Creek Nursing and Rehab in Galion.
Ginny was born on October 10, 1928 in Howard, Ohio to the late Clyde and Mary Catherine (Cochran) Biggs. A 1946 graduate of Howard High School, Ginny continued her education at the Mount Vernon Business College. A homemaker while raising her children, Ginny later worked at Shelby Business Forms as a credit manager, retiring under the Uforma ownership.
On December 31, 1948, Ginny married Mahlon Franklin Utz, and they celebrated nearly 37 years together before Mahlon’s passing in 1985. Ginny was a member of the First Christian Church where she served as Treasurer and proudly sang in the church choir. A long-time member of the Blackfork Players, she enjoyed reading and also loved sewing, having made many of her children’s clothes over the years.
Ginny is survived by her children: Janet Laubie, Cathie (Kenny) Albert, and Michael Utz; grandchildren: Scott (Sarah) Laubie, Tom (Miranda) Laubie, Mark (Ellen) Laubie, Matt (Brandie) Albert, Kristie (Brandon) Walp, Jeff (Jessica) Albert, Craig (Samantha) Utz, and Katelyn Utz; great grandchildren: Parker, Braden, Kellan, Cooper, Myles, Juliet, Blake, Owen, Jack, Cole, McGwire, Marek, Marleigh, Kendra, Karlie, Barron, Audi, Quinton, and Elliott; sister; Bonnie Ornduff; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Ginny was preceded in death by her son in law: Jim Laubie; daughter in law: Denise Utz; and brothers: John, Dale, and Carl Biggs.
Graveside services will be private at Oakland Cemetery, Shelby, where Ginny will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Mahlon. Calling hours will not be observed. Care for Ginny 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).
Maci Elizabeth Westmeister, age 20, of Shelby, passed away on Saturday, April 19, 2025 in Mansfield. Her passing came as a sorrowful surprise to her family and friends, leaving a void in their hearts.
Born June 9, 2004 in Mansfield, she graduated from Shelby High School in 2021. Maci’s artistic talents were evident from a young age. With an innate ability to create masterpieces from the simplest materials, she excelled in freehand drawing, cooking, sewing, and painting. Her talents extended beyond mere handiwork; she transformed everyday items into extraordinary works of art.
Maci’s great sense of humor endeared her to all who knew her. Her love for cats was evident in the joy she found in their companionship. Much like a chameleon, she had an incredible knack for adapting and seamlessly joining any group or activity.
Maci is survived by her loving parents: Shawn and Lynn Westmeister; her Godfather: Fr. Nick Cunningham; grandparents: Maggie Fetzer, John and Rita West, and Kimberly and Mark Meister; great grandparents: Herbert and Rebecca Coon; aunts and uncles: Eddie (Liz) Fetzer, Marc Fetzer, Zach Perry, Travis Meister, Amanda (Jake) Rhine, Mikatlyn (Kyle) Beninghof, and Johnny West; and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her grandfather: William Fetzer; and an uncle: Jeremy Perry.
A private funeral service was held. To honor her life, the Maci Westmeister Scholarship has been created. For those wishing, contributions may be at any Civista Bank location in the name of the Maci Westmeister Memorial Fund or via the following link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-to-the-maci-westmeister-memorial-scholarship
Care for Maci and her family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences may be left on Maci’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Terry Lee Winters, a beloved muscle car enthusiast, passed away Saturday, April 12, 2025 peacefully in his home.
Known for his exceptionally talented automotive restoration projects where he primarily focused on first generation Chevy Camaros, Terry loved attending car shows, riding his Harley, and talking shop about anything automotive. He especially enjoyed talking about his favorite car ever owned – a 1967 Corvette, 427, 3 speed, tri-power, convertible with AC, black with red interior (1 of 100) – and reminiscing about how he towed his jet boat to the lake with it. He also enjoyed any time he got to spend with his grandchildren and was excited about becoming a great-grandfather this summer.
Terry was born November 8th, 1953, in Shelby, OH, and attended Pioneer before graduating from Shelby Sr. High School in 1972. He worked for Gorman Rupp for more than 30 years before retiring to Sebring, FL.
He is survived by his children: Theresa, Trever, Teren (Steph), Trent (Krissy), Tara (Kyle), and Tyler; siblings: Dan (JoAnn), Linda, Paul (Karen), and Mike; grandchildren: Kaitlynn (Caden) Payne, Taylor Winters, Kindsey Gregory, Oaklyn Reber, Kam Reber, and Norah Winters; and one great grandchild due this summer along with many nieces and nephews.
Terry was preceded in death by his nephew, Ian Winters; his mother, Marilyn (May) Winters; and his father, Merle Winters.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Piston Foundation, pistonfoundation.org (whose mission is to bring more young people into the collector car industry).
Care for Terry and his family is being provided by the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, OH 44875. Online condolences may be made on Terry’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Shane Michael Douglas, age 52, fought cancer like a Spartan but God saw fit to take him home on his shield on Thursday, April 10, 2025.
Born December 4, 1972 in Shelby, Ohio to Eddie and Debbie (Lewis) Douglas, Shane was a 1991 graduate of Shelby High School. His working years began at Mansfield Memorial Park and later served as a corrections officer at NCCI and MANCI for 8 years. Shane returned to school and obtained a bachelor’s degree in B.B.A. business from Mount Vernon Nazarene College. He then began a career at JB Hunt Transport as an Operations Supervisor. His time with JB Hunt would take him to many places including Ohio, Kentucky, Washington, and Utah where he ultimately worked as an Area Risk Manager.
A faith filled man with a strong relationship with Jesus, Shane’s mission in life was to be a witness to God’s goodness. He found joy in sharing God’s love with others, even in difficult times and wanted those he encountered to experience this same love. He was currently an active member of the Salmon Assembly of God where he stepped into any role that was needed.
Shane loved sports from a young age. During high school Shane excelled in basketball and baseball. Shane treasured his time playing in softball leagues, following in the footsteps of his grandpa and dad. A die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, he continued to engage in sports by coaching his son in baseball and basketball, dominating in fantasy football leagues, and lifting in the gym. He would discover his passion for elk and deer hunting when moving west. He enjoyed his time on his motorcycle, traveling to various destinations, and admiring God’s work in everything he encountered.
On November 23, 1999, Shane married Shawna (Barclay) Douglas, whom Shane described as his rock and strong, gentle partner. Shawna survives along with children: Mason Douglas of Alabama and McKenna Douglas (Cory Goddard) of Idaho; grandchildren Karson, Harper, and Holly Douglas; parents: Eddie and Debbie Douglas of Lexington, Ohio; sister: Christen (Aaron) Albrecht of Lexington, Ohio; and numerous other relatives and friends. Shane was preceded in death by his first wife, Holly (Sweeting) Douglas in 1998; maternal grandparents: Kennel and Martha Lewis; and paternal grandparents: Curt and Deloris Douglas.
Family and friends are welcome on Thursday, April 17, 2025 from 5-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will be held on Friday, April 18, 2025 at 10 am. Pastor Art Kennard will officiate the services. Burial will immediately follow in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby.
Condolences may be made on Shane’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
Dennis John “Denny” Herlihy died peacefully with his only son, Scott, by his side in Austin, Texas on Sunday, March 23, 2025. He had just celebrated his 90th birthday on March 8, 2025 with Scott and Scott’s wife, Amanda.
Named after his grandfather Dennis who immigrated from Skibbereen, County Cork, Ireland through Ellis Island in 1872, Dennis was born on March 8, 1935 at Shelby Hospital in Shelby, Ohio, the youngest child of James Michael & Catherine Cecelia (Metzger) Herlihy. Growing up at 32 Raymond Avenue, he attended St. Mary’s School just across the street and was a 1953 graduate of Shelby High School. Following in his older brother Bill’s footsteps, he enrolled at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, graduating in 1957 with a B.A. in Education and later received a master’s degree in Guidance and Counselling in 1967 from Miami.
Denny served in the US Army and was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. He took his first teaching position at Hamilton Junior High School in Hamilton, Ohio.
On August 19, 1967, Denny married Barbara Richter. To this union was born one son, Scott, who survives along with his wife Amanda, of Austin, Texas.
Denny taught in public schools in Skokie, Illinois, was the Assistant Principal in Kenosha, Wisconsin, then High School Principal in Burlington, Wisconsin. He went on to serve as the Assistant Principal at Alvin Junior High School in Alvin, Texas, then as the Assistant Superintendent for both the Galveston and Bryan, Texas school districts. He retired in 1996.
After moving to New Orleans in 1996, Denny worked as a supervisor of college students doing their practice teaching at local elementary schools, passing along his years of experience to the next generation of educators. He lived in New Orleans until 2021, when he moved to Austin, Texas.
He enjoyed many cultural and civic opportunities while living in New Orleans and was very involved with the Uptown Triangle Neighborhood Association. He also enjoyed cooking, collecting first-day-issue commemorative stamp covers, watching old movies, going to local coffee shops, and spending time with his faithful and beloved miniature Schnauzer, named “Girl.”
Also surviving are one sister, Anne C. (Emile) John of Willard; sister-in-law Joanne Herlihy of Middleburg Heights, Ohio, and numerous nieces, nephews, great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, and many friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings: Rosemary (John) Bertka, James (Edna) Herlihy, and William “Bill” Herlihy.
Denny’s memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 11 am at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 29 West Street, Shelby, OH 44875 with Fr. Jeff Smith celebrating. Family members and friends are welcome to gather at the church, prior to Mass, beginning at 10:30 am. Dennis will be laid to rest next to his parents and among his deceased siblings at Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Cemetery, Shelby.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sheeran-Crowley Trust https://www.sheerancrowley.org/donate; the Uptown Triangle Neighborhood Association, P.O. Box 850105, New Orleans, LA 7018; or to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Gary Goss Dvorak, age 75, formerly of Shelby, passed away Monday morning, April 7, 2025 at his beloved cabin in Perrysville. His death follows a courageous three-year battle with cancer.
Gary was born on December 13, 1949 in Lakewood, Ohio to Willis and Virginia (Goss) Dvorak. He graduated from Lakewood High School in 1968. From his class of over 700 students, Gary always remained proud to be chosen to represent all the Lakewood High School athletes at a banquet for the Fellowship of Christian Athletics his senior year. He then attended Ashland College, graduating in 1972 with a degree in health and physical education. While there he was a member of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity and was a student coach for the Ashland Eagles football team.
His first teaching job was in Shelby where he met the love of his life, Sally, in a kindergarten classroom following a teacher volleyball game. They married on September 1, 1973. After their marriage, Gary’s love of the outdoors and nature took him to The Ohio State University where he briefly pursued a degree in park and recreational management. However, the lights and sounds of Friday night football drew him back. After a year as physical director of the Galion YMCA, he was hired as the defensive coordinator of the Colonel Crawford Eagles football team. Eventually he became the head coach, making many long-lasting friendships. While there, he also coached swimming and track.
In 1985, Gary returned to Shelby, taking a job teaching physical education and coaching football and track. He was also incredibly involved with “Mad Dog Gym” where he instructed weightlifting, as well as lifting himself. His passion for lifting began in junior high as he and his friends would gather to lift in “Tighe’s Shed.” In his later years, Gary was the OWA teacher at the high school, retiring in 2008.
After retiring, Gary bought a motorcycle and, together with friends, formed a group fondly called “The Mild Hogs.” This crew enjoyed both short and long trips together and many still gather to enjoy morning coffee and Wednesday night dinners.
In 2010, Gary and Sally built a log cabin in Mohican and, in 2015, moved there permanently- heading back to the outdoors. Gary frequented Planet Fitness where he was called “the mayor” because of his knack for meeting new people and making new friends, something he did quite well.
Gary and Sally traveled to Cocoa Beach, FL with their entire family every two years. They also visited Alaska, Hawaii, Glacier National Park, Charleston, and Savannah with dear friends. In 2010 they went with colleagues to the Rose Bowl where Ohio State beat Oregon to win the National Championship. Gary called this official Ohio State Alumni Tour a “spiritual experience” because of his love of football and The Ohio State Buckeyes.
The most enjoyable part of his retirement was spending time with family and following grandchildren in their activities and sports which include football, basketball, volleyball, golf, and soccer. While watching, Gary was the photographer, and Sally used the photos to make countless scrapbooks of the activities.
A career in teaching and coaching gave Gary the opportunity to guide students and athletes and show them not only how to learn skills, but also shared his philosophy of life: God, Family, Friends, and School/Work. He valued the many friendships made over his life that remain in place to this day. In appreciation for his 35 years of coaching, Gary was awarded a Lifetime Coaching Award by Jim Tressel.
Gary is survived by his family whom he cherished, his beloved wife: Sally J. (Hanno) Dvorak; daughters: Kristin (Jason) Goon of Ashland, Kari Blanchard of Lancaster, and Katie (Brent) Bird of Galena; grandchildren: Kameron Goon, Kenedi Goon, Karter Goon, Logan Blanchard, Ashlynne Blanchard, Ellie Bach, Emin Bach, Elin Bach, Tyler Bird, and Clara Bird; sister: Lynn Beveridge of Brecksville; nieces and their families: Heather (Mike) Onorati and Betsy Beveridge; and other relatives and numerous friends. In addition to his parents, Gary was preceded in death by his in-laws: Harold and Winnie Hanno; and brothers-in-law: David Beveridge and Steve Hanno.
Family and friends are welcome on Friday, April 11, 2025 from 4-7 pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby where funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 10:30 am. Milan Lewis, Chaplain and a former player of Gary’s, will officiate the services with burial following in Oakland Cemetery, Shelby. Memorial contributions may be made to the Shelby Whippet Athletic Boosters, c/o Cathy Dodge, 145 Mansfield Avenue, Apt. 7, Shelby, Ohio 44875
Online condolences may be made on Gary’s obituary on the funeral home’s website (PenwellFuneralHome.com) or their Facebook page (Facebook.com/PenwellFuneralHome).
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).
