LaVerne Beeler

LaVerne O. ?Larry? Beeler, 86, died May 3, 2010, at his residence. He was born July 21, 1923, in Elida, Ohio to Clarence and Elsie Verbryke Beeler, who preceded him in death. On November 18, 1956, in Columbus Grove, Ohio, he married Juanita M. Williams, who died September 12, 1997. Mr. Beeler retired as an automotive service adviser from Sears. He was the historian of Westgate Neighborhood Association. He was a member of Westside United Methodist Church. He was a graduate of Elida High School. He refereed Midget football for more than 25 years and was a basketball coach for High Street United Methodist Church. He was an avid fan of The Ohio State University athletics. He took pride in the city of Lima and volunteered for several neighborhood activities. Survivors include a son, Neal L. (Kathy) Beeler, of Hilliard, Ohio; a daughter, Nancy Kunkleman, of Lima, Ohio; a brother, W. Norman (Helen) Beeler, of Elida, Ohio; six grandchildren, Sarah (Greg) Horstman, Shawn (Cheryl) Kunkleman, Seth Kunkleman, Erin Beeler, Adam Beeler and Lori Beeler; and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Everett Beeler and Forrest Beeler. Services will begin at 11 a.m. Thursday at Chamberlain-Huckeriede Funeral Home. The Rev. William Cronk will officiate. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. today and one hour prior to services Thursday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Allen County Special Olympics, 1330 W. Shore Drive, Lima, OH 45805; or the American Cancer Society, 740 Commerce Drive, Suite B, Perrysburg, OH 43551. Condolences may be expressed at www.chamberlainhuckeriede.com.