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Lillian Day "Lillie" (Miner) Sheaks Little was born on one of four dates provided by historical sources -- July 20, 1882 - July 20, 1883 - Jan. 25, 1883 - or July 1884 -- in Sidney, Shelby County, OH. She was the daughter of Joseph and Mary Jane (Courtney) Miner. 

As a young teenager, Lillie lived with her widowed mother and older brothers in Lafayette, Hardin County, near the Allen County border. In a tragic event in November 1895, she witnessed her mother and brothers Simon and William fatally beating a neighbor, William Rumbaugh, who had come to their home to reclaim a stove. During the confrontation, Simon told Rumbaugh that he wasn't going to get the stove, and that they would kill him. William pulled a revolver from his coat and said, "We intend to kill you and now is as good a time as any other." 

Neighbor William Stell took the gun away from William, but in the scuffle that ensued, the mother was knocked to the ground. Simon jumped on Rumbaugh, and beat him senseless, inflicting a fatal brain hemorrhage. Said the Kenton Republican, "After Rumbaugh had received his death blow at the hands of Simon Miner, the mother and other son [William] sprang upon his almost lifeless body and beat him with clubs and a hoe handle." Daughter Lillie screamed, quot;Don't kill him, mother!" and Mary Jane replied, "Yes, I will kill the ---." 

The mother and Simon were sentenced to 10 years of hard labor in the Ohio state penitentiary in Columbus, although the mother's sentence later was reduced in March 1896 to three months in jail.

Charles Little- courtesy Darin Beemer

When the opportunity arose to marry and leave home, Lillie jumped at the opportunity. While she was 14 years old at the time, Lillie disclosed her age as 16 when she married 24-year-old Henry Hiram ("Harry") Sheaks (Aug. 7, 1873-1930), also spelled "Sheets," on June 30, 1897. Justice of the peace S.J. Goodman performed the ceremony in Putnam County. A scribbled note on their marriage license shows that Lillie's mother signed her consent to the union, with the additional note that "said Lillian is likely soon to be com a mother." Interestingly, marriage license applications for this couple also have been found in Van Wert County and Port Clinton, Ottawa County. Henry was the son of Christopher and Rhoda Catherine (Decious) Sheaks.

Lillie and Henry produced one son, Curray Rollo "Curry" Sheaks, born in October 1897.

Lillie's first marriage ended quickly in divorce. Rumors abounded that Hiram had been imprisoned for receiving stolen ducks in Auglaize County, but no evidence has been located. He married again to Amanda Vorhees and Sally Caldwell and resided at 112 Motts Street in St. Marys, Auglaize County, OH. He died there pf paralysis at the age of 57 on Dec. 28, 1930, with burial in Elm Grove Cemetery.

Lillie supported herself as a single mother by working as a servant girl in a private household in Auglaize, Noble County. She wed again, at age 18, to 27-year-old Charles Andrew Little (1873-1963), a resident of Kalida, Putnam County, OH and the son of James Thomas and Sarah E. (Hight) Little. The nuptials were performed by H. Parson, a Methodist Episcopal minister of the Gospel, on Nov. 19, 1900, in Putnam County. Charles was tall and slender, with blue eyes and brown hair.

Miner reunion, Kalamazoo, with Lillie and Charles kneeling near center Courtesy Darin Beemer

Lillian and Charles cut a cake. Courtesy Darin Beemer

Lillie and Charles together bore eight known children -- Frederick "Gleadus" Little, Huldah Elizabeth Underwood, Zella Dove Kirkendall, David Little, Lillian Katherine Margaret Little, Jeanetta Carder, James Little and William T. Little. 

Heartache rocked the family over and over -- starting when newborn son James died of spasms on Dec. 12, 1910, at the tender age of 21 days; when four month-year-old daughter Lillian died of cholera infantum caused bottle feeding on Sept. 24, 1919; and when son William died at the age of two months of bronchio-pneumonia, on Jan. 29, 1923. The little ones were buried in the cemetery in Kalida.

When the federal census was enumerated in 1910, Lillie and Charles and their children lived in the village of Kalida, Putnam County. Charles' occupation was as a railroad laborer. Charles registered for the military draft during World War I, in September 1918. He was age 45 at the time, employed as a "laborer" by John T. Nartker of Kalida, and his nearest relative was "Lula Day Little" of Kalida.

By 1920, when the census of Putnam County again was taken, Charles was listed as a "laborer - clearing land." 

The census of 1930 indicates that the Littles lived on Plum Street in Kalida, with Charles laboring at a local stone quarry. Only their two youngest children resided under their roof that year. 

Grandchildren recalled fond memories of Lillian enjoying rocking in her chair, smoking a cob pipe and spitting tobacco in a spittoon while listening to the Grand Ole Opry. When the grandchildren would climb his trees, Charles would use his cane to prod them into coming back down.

By 1940, the United States Census shows that Charles at age 66 had no occupation and that their nest in Kalida was empty.  

Above and below: Miner reunion in Kalida, OH, year unknown, but apparently taken the same day judging by everyone's outfits. Courtesy Darin Beemer

Lima News, 1963

In 1956-1959, Lillie made her home in Kalida, and was mentioned in a Kalamazoo, MI newspaper obituary of her sister Martha Conner and the Lima News obituary of her sister Sarah Josephine Moore. She was a member of the Kalida Methodist Church. 

Sadly, at the age of 83, Charles died in 1957. His grandsons Rev. Donald McClintock and Rev. Russell Kirkendall jointly presided over the funeral rites. Interment was in Kalida Cemetery, with an obituary appearing in the News. The obituary said he was "a retired laborer, and native of this community" and among his survivors were his sisters Mrs. Xenia Good of Kalida and Mrs. Lester Felkey of Lima.

Lillie outlived him by six years. After enduring "an extended illness," reported the News, she died at home on Jan. 22, 1963, at the age of 79. Funeral srvices were held in the Pentecostal Mission in Continental. The News disclosed that she was survived by 23 grandchildren and 51 great-grandchildren and that Kalida had been her home for 65 years..

Curray and Beatrice Sheaks

~ Son Curray R. "Curry" Sheaks Sr. ~

Son Curray Rollo "Curry" Sheaks Sr. (1899-1964) was born on Oct. 9, 1897 (or 1898 or 1899) in Union Township, Putnam County, OH. 

He was raised with his mother, step-father and half siblings in Kalida. His employer in 1918, when he registered for the military draft during World War I, was as a laborer for the Grant Motor Car Corporation of Findlay, OH.

At the age of 25, he resided in Kalida, and made his living as a laborer. 

On Aug. 11, 1924, Curray was united in matrimony with Beatrice Genevieve Decker (1906-1993), daughter of William M. and Cora (Felkey) Decker of Kalida. Because Beatrice was legally underage, her father appeared in court before a judge to declare his approval of the union. Rev. C.L. Buckler, of the Kalida Methodist Episcopal Church, officiated. Curray was age 25, and Beatrice 17, at the time.

The couple produced five children -- Wanda Elaine Beemer, Patsy Imogene Fought, Curray Rollo "Junior" Sheaks Jr., Adam Dorain Sheaks and Larry Lee Sheaks.

Circa 1950, when the federal census enumeration was made, Curray earned a living as a hoistman for the France Stone Company. For another 22 years, Curray was employed by Baldwin Lima Hamilton Corporation and retired from the company. 

They resided in the Kalida/Columbus Grove area and were members of the Methodist Church.

When his mother died in 1963, he was named in the newspaper obituary. 

Curray died at home on Sept. 8, 1964 at the age of 65. Burial was in Ridge Cemetery following funeral services in the family church, with obituaries appearing in the Lima News and the Fremont News-Messenger. 

Beatrice outlived her husband by almost three decades. She joined the Assembly of God Church in Bryan and was active with the congregation's ladies group. She grieved at the deaths of her adult children Adam, Junior and Patsy.

At the end she resided in the home of a daughter in Continental. The angel of death spirited her away at the age of 86 n Aug. 29, 1993. An obituary was printed in the Lima News. Her survivors included 24 grandchildren, 53 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Officiating her funeral were Rev. Mike Wengerd and Rev. Steve Crabeck. Interment was in Sugar Ridge Cemetery.

Wanda Beemer Courtesy Darin Beemer

Daughter Wanda Elaine Sheaks (1927-1994) was born on Jan. 30, 1927 in Woodville, OH. On June 19, 1943, when she was age 16 and he 17, she entered into marital union with farmer Donald Eugene Beemer (Nov. 2, 1925-2021), son of Grover and Liola (Noirot) Beemer of North Creek, OH. Their wedding was held in Putnam County, by the hand of Rev. Russell Hawk of Vaughnsville. Donald served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Later, the couple lived for many decades in Continental. They were the parents of LaDonna Rose Beemer,  Rhonda Jo Beemer, Richard Eugene Beemer, Gary Lynn Beemer, Thomas Dean Beemer and Timothy A. Beemer. Donald was employed by Central Transport in Lima and retired from the position. They belonged to Bryan First Assembly of God Church, where she taught Sunday School. Sadness cascaded over the family when son Timothy died at birth in Defiance City on Feb. 10, 1969. Interment of the tender remains was in Monroe Cemetery, with an obituary appearing in the Lima News. At the age of 67, Wanda passed away on Nov. 24, 1994 as a patient in St. Rita's Ambulatory Care in Ottawa. Her obituary in the News said that burial was in Monroe Cemetery following funeral rites led by Rev. Steven Scrabeck in the family church. The widowed Donald wed a second time on Sept. 2, 1995 to Jane Smith ( ? -2009). They remained together for14-plus years until her passing on Jan. 15, 2009. Donald remained in Continental to the end and joined Empowered Church in Findlay, OH. He surrendered to the angel of death at the age of 95 on June 9, 2021. He was survived by 11 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. Pastor Leonard Roessler officiated the funeral service, with burial following in Monroe Cemetery, Continental.

• Granddaughter LaDonna Rose Beemer (1951- ? ) was born in 1951. She married Jim Burk. Circa 1994-2021, they lived in Continental.

• Granddaughter Rhonda Jo Beemer (1956- ? ) was born in 1956. She was joined in wedlock with Pastor Leonard Roessler ( ? - ? ). They made a home in 1994 in Lima, OH and in 2021 in Bluffton, OH.

• Richard and Paula - courtesy Darin Beemer

  Grandson Richard Eugene Beemer (1946-living) was born in 1946. On July 24, 1965, in nuptials held in Wisterman, OH, he wed Paula Sue Wagner (July 27, 1947-2009), daughter of Paul and Margie (Springer) Wagner. The pair settled in Cloverdale, OH. Their three offspring were William E. Beemer, Darin L. Beemer and Melissa A. Moore. Paula Sue at one time was a church minister and a Sunday School teacher. Her passions were raising flowers and gardens, cooking, vacations and hosting her family. Said an obituary, "She was a constant source of strength to her family and had a burden for those in need. She freely and joyfully gave to those without food, money and constant prayer." They belonged to the Free Christian Church of Continental. Sadly, as her health failed, Paula Sue was admitted to St. Rita's Medical Center in Lima. There she died at age 61 on March 21, 2009. Her remains were lowered under the sod of Monroe Cemetery in Continental, with the funeral led by the hand of Rev. Jim Fry at the family church. The widowed Richard has remained in Cloverdale.

  Great-grandson William Eugene Beemer (1966- ? ) was born in 1966. He married Marissa. In 2009, they lived in Ottawa, OH. 

  Great-grandson Darin Lee Beemer (1968-living) made his home in 2009 in Cloverdale, OH. He graciously has provided valuable content for this biography. 

  Great-granddaughter Melissa A. Beemer (1972-living) was born in 1972. On Nov. 7, 1998, she was joined in wedlock with Leroy Henry "Lee" Moore III (Aug. 21, 1975-2022, a native of Morehead, KY and the son of Leroy Henry and Bonnie (Teckle) Moore Jr. They were the parents of Tristan and Rowan Moore. Leroy was an alumnus of Bluffton University. For years, he was employed in Bluffton, OH by SRK. The Moores resided in Ottawa, OH. Said an obituary, "Lee enjoyed reading, especially anything Tolkien, hiking, gaming, listening to a wide variety of music and playing disc golf with his family. He never missed a chance to spend time with his family [and] enjoyed cooking with them and occasionally dancing with Melissa in the kitchen. Lee's incredible sense of humor was treasured by his family and attracted others to him. He had a way of making people laugh, even when they didn't feel like laughing. Lee also had a strong faith in God and never failed to lean on Him, praying daily for others, but also asking for prayer, especially toward the end of this life. His favorite verse was John 3:16 and he kept it in his pocket or near him, even to his passing day." Grief cascaded over the family when, at age 46, Leroy passed away after a battle with cancer in Ottawa, OH on July 17, 2022. Funeral services were conducted by Pastor Marcella Ciccotelli in the Trinity United Methodist Church. Inscribed on the back of his black grave marker in Monroe Cemetery is this epitaph by author J.R.R. Tolkien: "All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us." 

• Grandson Gary Lynn Beemer (1953-living) was born in 1953. On Sept. 15, 1973, he was joined in wedlock with Sandra L. "Sandy" Spencer (Aug. 31, 1955-2021), daughter of Wilbur H. and Anna L. (Oglesbee) Spencer. Their wedding nuptials were held in Wisterman, OH. Sandra was an alumna of Kalida High School. The couple dwelled in Bryan, OH and together produced a duet of two daughters -- Melania Coy and Christa Johnston. Her working career included positions as a sales clerk for Lion and Lamb Christian Book Store, Ringer's Pharmacy/GNC, Gorny-Winzeler, Current Office Solutions in Bryan and finally as secretary at Fountain City Christian School. They attended Family Christian Center in Defiance for decades. In her free time, Sandra liked to fish as well as to decorate and make gift baskets. They endured the heartbreak of the deaths of eight small grandchildren. Sadly, at the age of 65, Sandra passed away on June 3, 2021. Pastor Tim Tracy led the funeral service in the family church, followed by interment in Brown Cemetery, Bryan. In an obituary, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to Jewish Voice Ministries.

  Great-granddaughter Melanie Beemer wed Adam Coy. Two children born in this family were Malachi Coy and Timothy Coy. They were in Ney, OH in 2021. 

  Great-granddaughter Christa Beemer married Joel Johnston. The pair settled in Bryan, OH and became the aprents of Simeon Johnston, Seth Johnston and Elianna Johnston. 

• Grandson Thomas Dean Beemer (1964- ? ) was born in 1964. He entered into marriage with Tammy. They put down roots in Bryan, OH followed by Continental.

Daughter Patsy Imogene Sheaks (1930-1992) was born in 1930. On March 5, 1948, she was wed to Henry Fought (March 29, 1928-2010), originally from Ottawa, OH and the son of Joseph Franklin and Nellie Jane (Johnson) Fought and stepson of Daniel Buckmaster. The Foughts resided in Ottawa and produced a brood of four offspring -- Marilyn Meyer, Sandy Verhoff, Tammy Schroeder and Jack Fought. During World War II, Henry served with the U.S. Navy Construction Battalions (Seabees). He was employed for 39 years by Louisiana Pacific in Ottawa. He was a member of the United Brotherhoods of Carpenters and Joiners of America, serving in the roles of president and vice president. He also belonged to the Leipsic Fishing and Hunting Association, the Ottawa posts of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the National Rifle Association. The family is known to have attended the Family Christian Center in Ayersville. Said an obituary, Henry "was an avid hunter and fisherman, loved playing cards with friends and going on casino trips. He had a green thumb with gardening and enjoyed making fishing lures. His favorite food was the Kewpie Special." Sadly, Patsy succumbed to the spectre of death on Oct. 17, 1992. The funeral was conducted by Rev. Tim Tracy. Her remains sleep for the ages in Harman Cemetery in Gilboa, OH. Henry outlived his bride by 18 years. He passed away at Elmwood Health Care Center at the Springs in Green Springs, OH at the age of 82 on Aug. 22, 2010. An obituary in the Lima News said he was survived by nine grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at the New Creation Lutheran Church, Ottawa, led by longtime pastor Rev. Tracy.

• Granddaughter Marilyn Fought was united in matrimony with Gilbert Meyer. They have lived in Ottawa, OH for years.

• Granddaughter Sandra "Sandy" Fought (1953- ? ) was born in 1953. She married Richard H. Verhoff (June 16, 1948-2001), son of Herman and Bernadine Verhoff. They together bore a trio of children -- Samuel H. Verhoff, Dennis Verhoff and Julie Verhoff. In 1992, their homeplace was in Ottawa, OH. Sadly, Richard's health failed, and he first was treated at St. Rita's Hospital in Lima. He then was transferred to Ohio State University's Medical Intensive Care Unit, where he died on Sept. 29, 2001. His remains were transported back to Gilboa for burial in Harman Cemetery. The widowed Sandra sued the attending physician, with allegations that their negligent care and treatment caused him to ""to suffer intra-abdominal damages and bleeding resulting in the development of sepsis and his wrongful death." The court eventually ruled that the physician was acting within the scope of his responsibilities in his treatment. (Verhoff v. Ohio State University Medical Center, Court of Claims of Ohio [2003 Ohio 4795]). Later, she wed again to Harold Schnipke ( ? - ? ) and made a home in Ottawa. Grief again shattered the family when son Samuel was killed in an automobile accident in November 2011.

  Great-grandson Samuel H. Verhoff (1977-2011) was born on Dec. 2, 1977 in Lima, OH. He did not reproduce. He was a 1996 alumnus of Ottawa-Glandorf High School and received a degree from Rhodes State College in Lima. Samuel earned a living over time as a factory worker in Lima and as a registered nurse at Toledo Hospital. he liked to create art, landscape and garden, and redecorate and remodel buildings. Tragically, he was killed in an automobile accident at the age of 33 on Nov. 19, 2011. The Putnam Sentinel reported that the accident occurred on State Route 65 and County Road P in Putnam County. He apparently was driving southbound at 5:20 a.m. when his 1995 Oldsmobile veered off the west side of the Route 65. Burial was in Harman Cemetery, Gilboa, with Rev. Jerry Meyer leading the service.

  Great-grandson Dennis Verhoff married Jeanette. They were in Ottawa in 2011.

  Great-granddaughter Julie Verhoff dwelled in 2011 in Ottawa. 

• Granddaughter Tammy Fought wed Kevin T. Schroeder, son of Thomas and Rosemarie (Drerup) Schroeder of Glandorf, OH. The pair has dwelled for decades in Ottawa, OH.

• Grandson Jack G. Fought was joined in wedlock with Ann D. ( ? - ? ). Their home in 1992-2010 was in Ottawa, OH.

Continental's North Main Street, early 1900s

Son Curray Rollo "Junior" Sheaks Jr. (1932-1990) was born on Aug. 22, 1932. He made his home in Kalida. He was married to Rita Joann Shaw (Aug. 24, 1934-2003), daughter of Thomas and Mabel (Johnson) Shaw and a native of Dayton, OH. Whether or not he wed anyone else is not yet known but he was divorced at least once. The five offspring he fathered were Curray Ronald Sheaks Jr., Rosemary Lester Stateler, Cathy Lawhorn, Roxanne Sanford and Carol Burgel Warnecke. Curray earned a living as a machinist for Clark Equipment Company of Lima. He made news in February 1963 when he "was beaten and robbed of his wallet and automobile," reported the Lima Citizen. He "was found by a taxicab driver at 10th Street and Reese Avenue and was taken to the police station... Sheaks told police he was beaten, his wallet containing two or three dollars was taken and he was thrown out of his car by two youths." Sadly, on Jan. 25, 1990, at the age of 57, he was pronounced dead on arrival at a Lima hospital. Details are not yet known. The remains were lowered into the sacred soil of Monroe Cemetery in Continental. Rita went on to marry two more times, first to George Klett. Through that union she gained a son or stepson, Joseph Klett. After Klett's death, she tied the cord with Ransom Holdbrook. She died at the age of 68, on June 5, 2003 as a resident of the Calvary Manor Nursing Home in Glandorf, OH. An obituary was printed in the Lima News, saying she was a homemaker, attended St. Michael Catholic Church in Kalida and belonged to the Continental American Legion Auxiliary. Her funeral mass was sung in her church by the Rev. Peter Chiodo. The headcount of her survivors was 19 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and four step-great-grandchildren. 

• Granddaughter (?) Sheaks (1953- ? ) was born on May 17, 1953 at St. Rita's Hospital in Lima. 

• Grandson Curray Ronald Sheaks Jr. made his dwelling-place in 1990 in Cloverdale, OH and in 2003 in Kalida.

• Granddaughter Rosemary Sheaks wed her first husband, (?) Lester. She settled in Ottawa, OH. Later, she married (?) Stateler.

• Granddaughter Cathy Sheaks married Roger Lawhorn. They too put down roots in Cloverdale, OH.

• Granddaughter Roxanne Sheaks tied the knot with Rodney Sanford. The pair relocated to Wichita, TX. She remained in Texas i 2003. 

• Granddaughter Carol Sheaks was joined in wedlock with John Burgel. Circa 1990, they were in Cloverdale, OH. By 2003 the pair moved to Columbus Grove, OH.

Son Adam Dorain Sheaks (1934-1984) was born on Oct. 27, 1934 in Putnam County. On May 31, 1958, when he was 23 years of age, he entered into marriage with Nondys Beemer ( ? - ? ), daughter of Grover S. and Viola V. (Noirot) Beemer of Continental. Seven children were born to the couple, among them Mark A. Sheaks, Richard "Rick" Sheaks, Jeffrey Sheaks, Darlene Rittenhouse, Cheryl Hill, Jill Branham and Robin Adkins. They resided in Continental and belonged to Wisterman Evangelical United Brethren Church, later renamed the United Methodist Church. Adam earned a living in Defiance at the Central Foundry Division of General Motors Corporation. After what the Lima News called "a sudden illness," he died in Defiance Hospital at age 49 in February 1984. Interment was in Monroe Cemetery, with the funeral performed by the hand of Rev. James Fry. Nondys survived her spouse by many years. She suffered the untimely deaths of son Mark in 1992, daughter Cheryl in 2007 and grandson Jeremy in 2014. In 2014, she lived in Continental.

• Grandson Mark A. Sheaks (1959-1992) was born on Feb. 15, 1959 in Defiance, OH. At the age of 23, in 1982, he was united in wedlock with Diana Bodenbender ( ? - ? ). The couple's two sons were Adam Sheaks and Shawn Sheaks. They made a home in Continental and belonged to the Free Christian Church of God in town. Mark earned a living through his work at Powertrain. The family was plunged into mourning when Mark died at the age of 33, on Feb. 23, 1992, in Lima Memorial Hospital. Funeral services were officiated by Rev. James Fry. The remains were lowered into eternal repose in Monroe Cemetery, Continental.

• Grandson Richard "Rick" Sheaks ( ? - ? ) was twice-wed. His first spouse was Brenda Coleman ( ? - ? ). They were the parents of Jeremy D. Sheaks, Nicholas Sheaks, Michele Anderson and Sarah Sampson. After a divorce, Richard wed again to Robin ( ? - ? ) and made a home in Ottoville and Cloverdale, OH. They bore a daughter of their own, Lindsey Sheaks.

Great-grandson Jeremy D. Sheaks ( ? -2014) was born in (?). He dwelled in Spring City, TN and may have been afflicted with cystic fibrosis. Jeremy is not known to have reproduced. Sadly, he died at the age of 39 on Dec. 5, 2014. The remains were laid to rest in Spring City Cemetery. In a Lima News obituary, the family asked that any memorial donations be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Great-grandson Nicholas Sheaks lived in Ottawa, OH in 2014.

Great-granddaughter Michele Sheaks married (?) Anderson. They have resided in Harriman, TN.

Great-granddaughter Sarah Sheaks entered into marriage with (?) Sampson.  

Great-granddaughter Lindsey Sheaks grew up in Cloverdale, OH. 

• Grandson Jeffrey Sheaks made a home in Continental in 1992. He wed Deb ( ? - ? ).

• Granddaughter Darlene Sheaks married Kevin Rittenhouse, son of Elmer Dean and Barbara (Foust) Rittenhouse. They settled in Defiance, OH.

• Granddaughter Cheryl Sheaks (1960-2007) was born on July 13, 1960 in Defiance. When she was 17 years of age, on April 15, 1978, she entered into marriage with Robert C. Hill (June 20, 1952- ? ). The pair put down roots in Cloverdale, OH. He brought three stepchildren into the union with Cheryl -- Jeremy Hill, R.J. Hill and Tami Hill. The pair then bore two children of their own -- Brian Hill and Jamie Hill. Cheryl was employed as housekeeping supervisor for Paradise Oaks Quality Care Center in town. She also owned her own embroidery business. The family belonged to Family Christian Center in Defiance. Sadness covered the family when Cheryl passed away at the age of 46, in Lima's St. Rita's Medical Center, on April 14 2007. Services were held in the family church, led by Rev. Jerry Myers, with burial in Monroe Cemetery.

• Granddaughter Jill Sheaks was joined in wedlock with (?) Branham. She resided in 1992 in Continental. By 2007, she appears to have taken back her maiden name.

• Granddaughter Robin Sheaks was united in matrimony with Alan Adkins. They dwelled in Oakwood, OH in 1992.

Son Larry Lee Sheaks (1944-2017) was born on Aug. 24, 1944 in Kalida. He was an alumnus of Kalida High School. His first wife was Sharon ( ? - ? ). They became the parents of three -- Christine De Santis, Daniel Sheaks and Douglas Sheaks. The couple divorced, and Sharon moved to Myrtle Beach, SC, while Larry dwelled in Cloverdale. His employment in 1980 was with General Motors in Defiance. At the age of 35, on July 19, 1980, he was joined in the bonds of holy wedlock with Laura Spencer ( ? - ? ), daughter of Wilbur Spencer. Their nuptials were held in the Lord of Life Assembly of God in Bryan, presided by Rev. William Reese. Laura also was a Kalida High graduate. They made a home in Defiance, OH. As his health declined, Larry was admitted to St. Luke's Medical Center in Maumee, OH. He passed away there at the age of 73 on Dec. 20, 2017.

• Granddaughter Christine L. "Chris" Sheaks (1972-2015) was born two days after Christmas 1972 in Defiance, OH. She was an alumna of Tinora High School. On her own, she relocated to Myrtle Beach, SC after high school graduation. There, she received further education in hospitality management at Horry-Georgetown Technical College. She also was active as a deacon at First Presbyterian Church. Christine appears to have been twice-wed. Her first spouse was (?) Horne ( ? - ? ). They bore one son, Zackary Horne. Later, she entered into marriage with Peter De Santis ( ? - ? ). They produced two daughters of their own -- Carly De Santis and Chelsea De Santis. The family maintained a residence in Myrtle Beach. They were plunged into anxiety when, at about age 40, Christine was diagnosed with an aggressive type of brain cancer known as "blioglastoma." She underwent treatment for two-and-a-half years and at the end was stricken with bleeding on the brain. She died on March 1, 2015, at the age of 42, in Grand Strand Hospital. Her obituary was printed in the Sun News, which said that she "will be remembered for her abundant, steadfast and unconditional love of her family and especially her three children... Even as her struggle intensified in the end, Chris' whole focus and concern was on her children and not herself.."  The widowed Peter has resided in Myrtle Beach.  

• Grandson Daniel Sheaks is known to have been in Atenas, Costa Rica in 2015-2017.

• Grandson Douglas Sheaks married Kelly. Their home in 2015-2017 was in Valdosta, GA.

~ Son Frederick Gleadus "Chick" Little ~

Son Frederick Gleadus "Chick" Little (1901-1986) was born on July 25, 1901 in Kalida, Putnam County. 

On Sept. 8, 1933, he entered into marriage with Anna Julia Horvath (June 12, 1908-1990), a native of Racine, WI and the daughter of John and Julianna (Asboth) Horvath. The wedding was held in Kalida.

They were the parents of Donald G. Little, John A. Little, PhD and Marilyn Bittner Gallaher.  

The Littles resided for years in Woodville, Sandusky County. For three decades, Gleadus worked as a crusher operator for Martin-Marietta Corporation. He retired from the company in 1966. He also earned income for 19 years as custodian for the village of Woodville. 

In the 1960s, the Littles dwelled on North Perry Street in Woodville. They belonged to the Woodville United Methodist Church, where Anna was active for 50 years with its Gleaners Sunday School class. Frederick held a membership in the Athletic Boosters Association.  

At the age of 84, on July 21, 1986, Frederick passed away in the home of his daughter Marilyn on Fostoria Road in Pemberville. His obituary was published in the Fremont (OH) News-Messenger, which noted that the headcount of his survivors was 12 children and eight great-grandchildren. Rev. Richard L. Thomas officiated the funeral service, with burial in Westwood Cemetery.

The widowed Anna maintained her residence at 953 Lima Road in Woodville. As her health failed she was admitted to the Countryside Continuing Care Center in Fremont. She lived there for almost four years. Death swept her away there at the age of 82 on Oct. 8, 1990. Her obituary also appeared in the News-Messenger and in the Port Clinton News Herald.

Son Donald G. Little (1936- ? ) was born in about 1936. He made a home in 1986 in Woodville, OH and in 1990 in Galena, OH.

Son John Andrew Little, PhD (1937-2024) was born on Aug. 22, 1937 in Sandusky County, OH. He received both a master's of business administration degree and a doctorate in physics from Ohio State University. John was twice-married. His first spouse was Rita Guss ( ? - ? ). Their union ended in divorce. His second brice was Frances Pandolfo ( ? -living). John was the father of Shawn Dickerson and the adoptive father of John "Andrew" Little II. The Columbus Dispatch said that among his accolades were as an 'English Bulldog breeder, exhibitor, and Judge, twice past President of the Bulldog Club of American, past President of the Buckeye Bulldog Club, National and International Bulldog Judge, and original board member of the BCA Charitable Fund for the research of Bulldog health; Author of The Bulldog Monograph as well as multiple publications in Quantum Physics, super conductivity, infrared, electrodynamics, and general relativity; Founder, President and CEO of Monotronics and several other corporate ventures as well as a board member and advisor to several others; Antique car enthusiast (REO Club member and owner); Consummate world traveler who adored Mexico City and their Bulldog Club'." He was in Dublin, OH in the mid-1980s, in Galena, OH in 1990 and at the end in Washington Court House, OH. Sadly, at the age of 86, he died on Feb. 28, 2024. An obituary was published in the Dispatchin which the family requested that any memorial contributions be made to the Buckeye Bulldog Club or the Bulldog Club of America.

• Granddaughter Shawn Little married (?) Dickerson and Roger Allan. Her two known children are Dana Dickerson and Deven Dickerson.

• Grandson John "Andrew" Little II ( ?-living) is believed to be the father of Brooke Little and John "Andrew" Little III.

Daughter Marilyn Little (1940- ? ) was born in about 1940. She was a 1957 graduate of Woodville High School. She appears to have been twice-wed. Her first spouse was Darryl C. "Speed" Bittner (Feb. 9, 1941-2022), son of Ellsworth and Viola (Smith) Bittner of Linden, MI. They together produced these known children, Stacia Pigman, Julie Rose and Richard Bittner. Marilyn filed for divorce in 1976. She moved to Woodville with Darryl staying in Genoa. Marilyn supported herself during this time as a truck driver and lived in Woodville. Then in about May 1982, she was joined in wedlock with 57-year-old truck driver Carnell Raymond Gallaher ( ? - ? ). News of their marriage license was printed in the Fremont News Messenger. Circa 1986, she resided on Fostoria Road in Pemberville, OH. By 1990, she had relocated to Perrysburg, OH. Former husband Darryl married again on April 5, 1980 to Sharon (Colyer) Potridge ( ? - ? ). She brought a trio of stepchildren into the second marriage -- Lisa Stringham, Michelle Smith and Ronald Potridge. He was employed by J&S Industrial Machine and for 22 years was a member of the Genoa Village Council and 17 years on the Allen-Clay Joint Fire District Board. Said an obituary, Darryl "was a 60+ year member of the Genoa Masonic Lodge and lifelong [National Rifle Association] supporter. He loved his garden and mowing his grass and also mowing for others as well. Darryl would help anyone in need." He died on May 4, 2022 at home in Genoa.

• Granddaughter Stacia Bittner married David Pigman. They resided in Holgate, OH in 2022.

• Granddaughter Julie Bittner was a 1983 graduate of Woodmore High School. She entered into marriage with Dennis Rose and relocated to Berea, KY. 

• Grandson Richard Bittner was united in matrimony with Pam. They have planted themselves in Bowling Green, OH.

~ Daughter Huldah Elizabeth (Little) Underwood ~

Daughter Huldah Elizabeth Little (1902-1951) was born on Oct. 27, 1902 in Kalida, Putnam County. 

At the age of 16, she married 21-year-old Olen Russell Underwood (1899-1970). The couple resided in rural Woodville Township in Sandusky County, OH. 

They were the parents of at least three children -- Evelyn L. Alexander, Olen F. Underwood and Betty Jean Geisbuhler. 

The 1930 census shows this family in Woodville Township, with Olan's occupation given as "laborer - lime plant." 

Huldah passed away at St. Vincent Hospital in Toledo, Lucas County, OH at the age of 47, on Aug. 7, 1951. Funeral rites were conducted in the Evangelical United Brethren Church by the hand of Rev. Parker C. Young. She was laid to rest in the Union Cemetery in Oak Harbor, OH. The Woodville News printed an obituary.

Olen outlived his bride by 19 years. Death claimed him in 1970.      

Daughter Evelyn L. Underwood (1921-1976) was born on April 21, 1921 in Kalida. She was married twice. Her first husband was William Penn Alexander (Sept. 16, 1921-1949), a native of Pittsburgh and the son of Charles D. Alexander. They tied the knot on Sept. 16, 1942 in the United Brethren Church in Woodville, OH. Evelyn and William settled in Monclova Township, Lucas County, OH. Together they bore a duo of children -- William F. Alexander and Janice Lynne Kennedy. William was a graduate of Oak Harbor High School and earned a living in sales with Jewel Tea Company. the pair held a membership in the Maumee Methodist Episcopal Church, with William singing in the church choir and teaching a Sunday School class. Sadly, their union only lasted for eight years until cleaved apart by death. Burdened with heart problems, William was admitted to a hospital in Perrysburg, OH where at age 27 he died on April 4, 1949. Leading the funeral service was Rev. Lloyd F. Holloway of the Maumee Methodist Church. Interment was in Oak Harbor Union Cemetery. The Fremont (OH) News-Messenger carried an obituary. After mourning for three years, she entered again into marriage in 1952 with her late husband's older brother, David Carroll Alexander (1917-1998). The pair appears to have borne a son, Joel Alexander. David was a 1950 graduate of the University of Toledo, having received a bachelor's degree in engineering. He then served for 31 years as a records engineer with Columbus and Southern Electric Company, with retirement in 1982. He enjoyed genealogy and was a licensed ham radio operator. David belonged to the Ohio National Guard 37th Infantry Division, 148th Infantry in Oak Harbor and the Howitzer Company of Defiance, and took part in the U.S. Army Persian Gulf Command. She died in Toledo on Oct. 22, 1976. Her remains sleep for the ages in Oak Harbor Union Cemetery in Ottawa County, OH. David survived Evelyn by more than two decades. He worked for a time as a short-order cook in Las Vegas at the Old Town Bar-B-Que. His final years were spent in Toledo on Whiteacre Road. He passed away at the age of 80 on April 26, 1998. Burial was in Union Cemetery in Oak Harbor.

• Grandson William F. Alexander married Sharon. They resided in 1998 in Temperance, MI.

• Granddaughter Janice Lynne Alexander wed Larry Kennedy. Circa 1998, they were in Marietta, GA.  

Son Olen Frederick "Shorty" Underwood (1922-2003) was born on Sept. 11, 1922 in Kalida. He grew up in Woodville, Sandusky Township, OH and as a young man worked there for the Standard Lime and Stone Company. He stood 6 feet, 7 inches tall and weighed 210 lbs. Olen joined the U.S. Army during World War II. When he was 21 years of age, on Oct. 9, 1943, Olen was united in matrimony with Virginia M. "Grandma Shorty" Veley (June 23, 1923-2008), a Toledo native and the daughter of Dewey S. and Frances L. (Sams) Veley. Rev. R.A. Powell officiated the wedding ceremony. Virginia was a 1941 alumna of Libbey High School. The couple settled in Maumee, Lucas County, on the outskirts of Toledo. They remained in Maumee for good. Three daughters produced by this union were Sandra Kay Underwood, Barbara Keahey and Janet DeWese. They grieved at the death of daughter Sandra in 1967. The family belonged to the Somerset Evangelical United Brethren Church, later becoming the New Hope United Methodist Church, and Virginia served there in a number of volunteer roles. She also met regularly with high school friends for an extraordinary 67 years, a group known as "Just Us Girls." She enjoyed baking, especially apple pies, and had "a quick wit, often having a simple joke to tell that made you smile," said Toledo Blade. Sadly, Olen died on June 13, 2003 and rests for all of eternity in Toledo Memorial Park. Virginia outlived him by a little more than five years. She was carried away by the angel of death at age 85 on Oct. 5, 2008, as a patient in Hospice of Northwest Ohio.

• Granddaughter Barbara Underwood married (?) Keahey.

• Granddaughter Janet Underwood wed Douglas DeWese.

Daughter Betty Jean Underwood (1927-2005) was born in 1927. On June 3, 1950, in a wedding held in Woodville, OH, she entered into marriage with Paul Geisbuhler (1927-1974). Two children born into this family were Shelly Moherman and Dr. Timothy Geisbuhler. Betty earned a living with Ohio Bell in Toledo as a data processor. The family held a membership in the Solomon Lutheran Church in Woodville. Betty also belonged to the Woodville Fireman's Auxiliary, the Woodville Gad-a-Bouts and the Telephone Pioneers. The pair enjoyed traveling in their recreational vehicle. Sadly, Paul passed away on Nov. 12, 1974. Betty endured as a widow for more than three decades. With her health in decline, Betty became a patient in Bay Park Community Hospital in Oregon, OH, and passed away there at the age of 77 on April 27, 2005. The remains were laid to rest in Westwood Cemetery, Woodville. Her obituary was published in the Fremont News-Messenger. 

• Granddaughter Shelly Geisbuhler married Thomas Moherman. They settled in Ashland, OH.

• Grandson Dr. Timothy Geisbuhler wed Brenda. The couple relocated to Missouri and in 2005 were in Kirksville, MO. Evidence suggests that he received a Ph.D. degree in medical biochemistry and is an associate professor at A.T. Still University in Kirksville.  

~ Daughter Zella Dove (Little) Kirkendall ~

Daughter Zella Dove Little (1908-1986) was born on Feb. 4, 1908 in Kalida, OH. 

On Nov. 21, 1927, at age 19, she wed 23-year-old Rev. Noah "Lavern" Kirkendall (Sept. 25, 1904-1974), a laborer of Greensburg Township, Putnam County. He was the son of Noah and Mary (Crone) Kirkendall. Three years after their marriage, the Kirkendalls lived in Greensburg, Putnam County, where Lovern worked at "odd jobs."

They together bore three known children -- Gleadus L. "Jim" Kirkendall, Marguerite F. "Marge" McClintock and Rev. Russel Andrew Kirkendall.

For decades, the Kirkendalls made their residence at 336 Spruce Street in Fremont, Sandusky County, OH. Zella's aged mother lived in their home and passed away there in 1963.

Zella earned a living for two decades as a seamstress for Howard Zink Corporation. She held a membership in the Word of Faith Fellowship. The couple's address in 1974 was 336 Spruce Street in Fremont.

Sadly, Lavern was stricken at the age of 70 and taken to Memorial Hospital on Oct. 28, 1974, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. James Martin. Interment was in Riverside Cemetery, Oak Harbor.

Zella survived her husband by a dozen years. She surrendered to death at home on Feb. 10, 1986, just six days after her 78th birthday. An obituary in the Fremont News-Messenger noted that the headcount of her survivors was 18 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Rev. Donald Goodwin Jr. led the funeral service, with burial taking place in Oak Harbor's Union Cemetery.

Son Gleadus L. "Jim" Kirkendall (1928-1992) was born on Aug. 6, 1928 in Kalida, OH. He attended Woodville High School. Gleadus' first wife was Lucille Long (Jan. 6, 1930-1976), daugher of Ralph and Irma (Zickafoose) Long. They were wed on July 4, 1947. The couple became the parents of Gleadus "Butch" Kirkendall, Rev. Margaret Lucille Kirkendall, Virginia Poston and Janet Jones. Circa 1961, the Kirkendalls were in Washington, DC. They relocated back to Fremont, where as of 1965 Gleadus worked as a molder. Gleadus and Lucille separated by 1962 and divorced in January 1965, with both parties charging and counter-charging "neglect and cruelty," reported the Fremont News-Messenger. She was granted custody of three of the children, and he of one. On June 12, 1965, when he was 37 years of age, he entered into marriage with practical nurse Betty June (White) Palm ( ? - ? ), widow of Jesse Palm and a resident of Green Creek Township. She brought two stepsons into the union, John Palm and George Palm. The pair bore two more offspring of their own, Karen Louise Ottney and James Kirkendall. They dwelled on Drew Lake in Clyde, OH. For 45½ years, he was employed by the automotive parts supplier Kelsey Hayes Company and retired on New Year's Day 1992. A few days before Christmas 1983, he was pictured in the News-Messenger, working outside in below-freezing temperatures, clearing debris from a sidewalk at the plant as co-workers installed a new roof. Socially, he held a membership in the Eagles lodge in Fremont. The family was plunged into mourning when stepson George Palm was killed in an automobile accident on Dec. 16, 1990. Sadly, at the age of 64, Gleadus died in Memorial Hospital on Nov. 2, 1992. His obituary was printed in the News-Messenger. He was survived by 18 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Interment of the remains was in McPherson Cemetery in Clyde. The widowed Betty remained in Clyde. Former wife Lucille married again to Charles Jeffries, lived in Toledo and produced at least one son. Lucille died at the age of 46 on Dec. 3, 1976.

• Grandson Gleadus Lavern "Butch" Kirkendall Jr. (1950-1987) was born on Dec. 13, 1950 in Fremont. He was a 1968 graduate of Northwood High School. Gleadus tied the knot with Karen Stevens ( ? - ? ). They put down roots in Oregon, OH. Gleadus was the father of Stephanie Lynn Kirkendall, Erica Lee Kirkendall, Kelley Sue Kirkendall and Kacey McAran Kirkendall. He made a living through his work for the Chessie System railroad. The family grieved when Gleadus passed away at home at the age of 37 on Dec. 29, 1987. His obituary was published in the Fremont News-Messenger. The remains were lowered under the sod of Willow Cemetery in Oregon.

  Great-granddaughter Stephanie Lynn Kirkendall grew up in Bowling Green, OH. 

  Great-granddaughter Erica Lee Kirkendall was in Bowling Green, OH in 1987.

  Great-granddaughter Kelley Sue Kirkendall grew up in Fremont, OH. 

  Great-granddaughter Kacey McAran Kirkendall spent her childhood in Fremont, OH.

• Granddaughter Rev. Margaret Lucille Kirkendall (1948-2021) was born on May 6, 1948 in Clyde, OH. She was a 1966 graduate of Fremont Ross High School. Margaret entered into marriage with (?) Ratliff ( ? - ? ). Together they bore one daughter, Marcella Ratliff. Margaret lived in Fremont in 1976 and was in Toledo in 1987. At some point she relocated to New York and was a regular attendee of New York Yankees baseball games. In about 1999, she was diagnosed with cancer and endured the illness for the remaining 22 years of her life. She pursued a doctoral degree in biblical and theological studies and, on April 30, 2017, was ordained in the Rivers of Living Water Ministries in Fremont. Her final years were spent in Cleveland. She passed away at home on Jan. 19, 2021, with an obituary appearing in the Fremont News-Messenger. She was survived by 17 great-grandchildren.

  Great-granddaughter Marcella Ratliff is the mother of Timothy Yates, Marie Yates and Rikki Baily. Her home in 2021 was in Arkansas.  

• Granddaughter Virginia Kirkendall (1954- ? ) was born in about 1954. She resided in Toledo in 1987. She married (?) Poston. In 2021, she dwelled in Arizona.

• Granddaughter Janet Florine Kirkendall (1960- ? ) was born in 1960. News of her birth was printed in the Fremont News-Messenger. Janet was united in matrimony with (?) Billups and (?) Jones. She has made a home in Fremont (1987-1990) and Toledo (1992-2004).

• Granddaughter Karen Louise Kirkendall (1961-2004) was born on Aug. 10, 1961 in Washington, DC. She grew up in Fremont, OH and was a 1979 graduate of Clyde High School. As of 1987, she was wed to (?) Stoll and made a home in Fremont. On March 25, 1994, at age 32, Karen married Anthony W. Ottney ( ? - ? ). She made a living as a cook, working at a variety of nursing homes in the Fremont area and finally at the 818 Club. She was an active greeter and usher at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Clyde. Sadness blanketed the family when Karen died at home at the age of 42 on Feb. 19, 2004. Evidence suggests that cancer was the cause. Her funeral service was held in her church, with an obituary appearing in the Fremont News-Messenger.

• Grandson James Kirkendall lived in Connecticut in 1987, in Florida in the early 1990s and in St. Petersburg, FL circa 2004. 

• Step-grandson George C. Palm (1948-1990) was born on Nov. 1, 1948 in Clyde, OH. In childhood he attended school in Thompson and Clyde, OH. His only known daughter was Loretta Kimmet. For 24 years, he was employed by Kelsey-Hayes in Kingsway, OH. He belonged to the Eagles lodge in Fremont and the Moose lodge in Clyde. Tragically, at the age of 42, he was critically injured in an automobile accident near Fremont, OH and died en route to Fremont Memorial Hospital. His obituary was printed in the Fremont News-Messenger. Burial was in McPherson Cemetery, following funeral services led by Rev. John Ferne.

• Step-grandson John Palm dwelled in Clyde, OH in 1990. 

Daughter Marguerite F. "Marge" Kirkendall (1929-2008) was born on Dec. 9, 1929 in Kalida, OH. She was joined in wedlock with Donald McClintock ( ? - ? ). They remained married for 29 years and were the parents of six -- Donald McClintock, Clyde McClintock, Kevin McClintock, Rhonda Stanley, Evelyn Daniels and John McClintock. Circa 1974-1992, the family dwelled in Rockford, IL. At some point Marguerite obtained a bachelor of science degree in accounting from Belin Memorial University. She put her education to good use in a professional career with Waterside Financial Group and then a dozen years of employment by Southern Imperial. She was given an honorary membership in the Living Word Ministries in Loves Park. She liked to crochet, knit and sew and give her creations away as gifts. She also enjoyed reading the Bible and novels. At the age of 78, she passed away on March 7, 2008. Her survivors included 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Interment was under the sod of Sunset Memorial Gardens, following funeral services by the hand of Pastor Gordy Smith of Heartland Community Church. An obituary was printed in the Rockford (IL) Register Star.

• Grandson Donald McClintock wed Brenda.

• Grandson Clyde McClintock married Mary.

• Grandson Kevin McClintock entered into marriage with Heidi.

• Granddaughter Rhonda McClintock was joined in wedlock with Chris Stanley.

• Granddaughter Evelyn McClintock was united in matrimony with Russell Daniels.

• Grandson John McClintock married Star.

Son Rev. Russel Andrew Kirkendall (1931-2021) was born on July 17, 1931 in Kalida, OH. In the early 1950s, he attended Pentecostal College in St. Louis and Beeland Bible Institute. From there he went on to a six-decade career as a church pastor for 10 different congregations in Missouri, Ohio and Michigan, preaching in more than 200 locations. While in college, he is known to have held revival services at the Middle Creek Baptist Church near Roselm, OH as part of his training. On Feb. 4, 1950, Russell married Wanda Lee Cortson (Nov. 8, 1931-2016) in a ceremony held in Benton Harbor, MI. She was a native of Senath, MO and the daughter of Louis and Maude (Morgan) Corson. The Kirkendall's marriage endured the ups and downs of an extraordinary 66 years. Their brood of four known children includes Shirley Missie Yerkes, Rev. Jack Lamar Kirkendall,  Rev. Andrew Phillip Kirkendall and Judy Kay Fowler. Russell served for a term on the Michigan District Board as the presbyter of the north eastern section. They made a home in Benton Harbor, MI in 1957, Buchanan, MI in 1974 and Galien, MI in 1976. He was installed in January 1983 as pastor of the Pentecostal Church of God in Port Clinton. The Kirkendalls moved once more, this time to Genoa, IL in the mid-1980s and remained into the 1990s. Their home in the early 2020s was in Fostoria, OH. In her own right, Wanda earned a living for years as a nurse's aide at Riverview Nursing Home, Oak Harbor. She also was employed in Benton Harbor with Voice of Music. Russel enjoyed horses and vacations with Wanda to see lighthouses. Sadly, Wanda surrendered to the angel of death on Dec. 18, 2016. Russel outlived her by four-and-a-half years. At the age of 89, he passed into glory on May 28, 2021. A headcount of his survivors included 24 grandchildren and a large number of great-grandchildren. Burial was in Union Cemetery in Salem Township, Oak Harbor.

• Granddaughter Shirley Kirkendall has been twice-married. Her first spouse was Gilbert Missie ( ? - ? ). The pair dwelled in Toledo, OH in the early 1980s. Her second husband was (?) Yerkes ( ? - ? ). She made a home in 2021 in Fostoria, OH.

• Grandson Rev. Jack Lamar Kirkendall wed Miriam. They lived in Cleveland, TN in 1983.and in Sedalia, MO  Two offspring born into this union were Alicia Dawn Black and Timothy Paul Kirkendall. Grief blanketed the family when their married daughter Alicia died in 2019 at the age of 43. In Oct. 2017, the husband-and-wife pastoral team was installed at the Hill Street Church of God in Greenville, TN.

  Great-granddaughter Alicia Dawn Kirkendall ( ? -2019) was born in St. Louis, MO. She was a 1993 alumna of Smith Cotton High School in Sedalia, MO. She married Samuel Black ( ? - ? ) and their union lasted for 16 years until the separation of death. The pair's only son was Clayton Walker Black.. In about 1999, Alicia relocated to Cleveland, TN and remained for good. She was employed as an administrative assistant at Blythe-Bower Elementary School in Cleveland and belonged to the South Cleveland Church of God. Said an obituary, she "was a writer, speaker, author, songwriter, involved in Women’s Ministries and her church choir. Her heart was helping people." Sadly, while at home on May 26, 2019, she died at the age of 43. Funeral services were held in the family church, jointly led by Rev. Edwin Lipsey and Rev. Dawn Lipsey. An obituary was printed in the Chattanoogan.

  Great-grandson Timothy Paul Kirkendall entered into marriage with Lori. The two daughters they produced together are Taylor Madison Hyman and Abigail McKinley Kirkendall. Their home in 2019 was in Charleston, SC.  

• Grandson Rev. Andrew Phillip Kirkendall ( ? - ? ) followed in his father's footsteps and became an evangelist with the Pentecostal Church of God. Circa 1976, he was joined in wedlock with Kaylene Ann "Kay" Hannan ( ? - ? ), daughter of William and Carol Hannan of Petoskey, MI. Their nuptials were held in the Alanson (MI) Full Gospel Church. In announcing the marriage, the Petoskey News-Review said that Kaylene wore "a modified A-line chiffon gown for her wedding, featuring a French collar and long bouffant sleeves of chantilly lace and a long chapel length train. A V-shaped overlay of chantilly lace from shoulders to waist was trimmed with seed pearls. Her mantilla veil of illusion was trimmed with chantilly lace and attached to a lace covered crown." Kaylene was a graduate of Petoskey High School and also trained as an evangelist. Andrew in 1976 gave a series of sermons in the Trinity Pentecostal Church of God in Boyne City, MI. Then in 1980-1983 the couple resided in her hometown. By 2021, they relocated to Virginia Beach, VA.

• Granddaughter Judy Kay Kirkendall grew up in Michigan and Ohio. She entered into marriage with Rev. Gerald D. Fowler ( ? - ? ), son of Rev. James F. and Mary J. (D'Ostroph) Fowler of Coshocton, OH. Circa 2021, they dwelled in Sparta, GA.

~ Son Rev. David Leon Little ~

Son Rev. David Leon Little (1912-1991) was born on March 7, 1912 in Kalida. 

He first was united in matrimony with Elsie Lenore Hadding (1914-1979).

Seven known offspring of the pair were Charles Little, Phillip L. Little, James Little, Michael David Little, Daniel E. Little, Bobby Don Little and Rebekah DeSote.

David stood 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighed 194 lbs. He was required to register for the military draft during World War II. He disclosed that they dwelled in Woodville, Sandusky County, OH and that his employer was Standard Lime and Stone Company. 

/td>

Humorous Kalida greetings in a German-American dialect

Circa 1950, when the federal census enumeration was made, David and Elsie and sons shared a home with David's parents on Main Street in Kalida. At that time, he earned a living manufacturing tubes.

The Littles lived in Kalida, Putnam County in the 1960s. For more than three decades, he was employed by Clark Equipment as a group leader and setup man, and retired in 1974. 

He also was an ordained minister and in 1961 presided over the funeral services of his infant grandson Jeffery Layne Little and his uncle Charles Harrison Miner.

Sadly, Elsie passed away in April 1979. 

The widowed David wed a second time on June 6, 1981 to Helen C. Morris (1913- ? ). She appears to have brought two stepsons into the second union, William Collins and Orvilla Collins. 

By 1986, they relocated to Lima, OH. 

He died in Lima's St. Rita's Medical Center at age 78 on Feb. 18, 1991. Burial was in Union Township Cemetery, Kalida. The Lima News printed an obituary which gave the headcount of his survivors as 29 grandchildren, nine step-grandchildren and "many" great-grandchildren.

Son Phillip Leon Little Sr. (1935-1999) was born in about 1935. He is known to have served in the U.S. Navy. Phillip tied the marital cord with Loretta J. Young ( ? - ? ), daughter of Donald Young of Lima. They were known to have been in Kalida in 1961. Five offspring of this couple were Phillip Leon Little Jr., Tina Darlene Little, Roberta Sue Little, Ivy Rose Little and Jeffery Layne Little. Heartbreak swept over the family at the death of their son Jeffery in childbirth in Lima St. Rita's Hospital on June 27, 1961. The infant's funeral was led by his grandfather Rev. David Leon Little, with the tender remains laid to rest under the sod of Hasson Cemetery in Hancock County. In 1991, the Littles dwelled in Lima, OH. Phillip died on July 15, 1999. The remains were lowered into eternal repose in Kalida's Unon Township Cemetery. 

• Grandson Phillip Leon Little Jr. ( ? - ? ) grew up in Kalida, OH.

• Granddaughter Tina Darlene Little ( ? - ? )

• Granddaughter Roberta Sue Little ( ? - ? )

• Granddaughter Ivy Rose Little ( ? - ? )

Son Michael David Little (1949-1993) was born on Sept. 16, 1948. He settled in Big Rapids, MI and was there in 1991. Death enveloped him at age 44 on Jan. 30, 1993. He sleeps for the ages in Woodland Cemetery in Reed City, MI. 

Son Daniel E. Little (1953-2019) was born on Oct. 10, 1953 in Lima, OH. When he was 18 years of age, in 1971, he entered into marriage with Gail Goodwill ( ? - ? ). Their nuptials were held in St. Charles, MI. Together, the couple produced three children -- Chris Little, John Little and Traci Wohlfert. For 25 years, Daniel earned a living as a corrections officer. He sported a full bushy beard with tattoos on both arms. Daniel and Gail enjoyed hosting Sunday dinners and encouraging lively debate. In his free time he liked to camp, fish, hunt and tinker in his garage. As of 1991, their dwelling-place was in Carson City, MI. Sadly, at the age of 66, Daniel passed away on Dec. 23, 2019.

• Grandson Chris Little ( ? - ? )

• Grandson John Little ( ? - ? )

• Granddaughter Traci Little married (?) Wohlfert. 

Son Bobby Don Little ( ? - ? ) resided in Lima, OH in the early 1990s.

Daughter Rebekah Little (1942-1996) was born on July 15, 1942. On May 28, 1957, when she was 15 years of age, she married John DeSote Sr. (Nov. 14, 1935-2011), son of Adolf and Mary Frances (Ball) DeSota. Seven offspring born in this family were John N. DeSote Jr., Laura Phipps, Penny Dangler, Stanley DeSote, Donna Lara, Mark DeSote and John N. DeSote II. The DeSotes' home in 1991 was in Blanca, CO. Sadly, Rebekah died at the age of 54 on April 23, 1996. Burial of her remains was in Blanca, with the grave marker inscribed as though John would join her there someday. In fact John survived her by 15 years. He earned a living with the Laborers International Union Local 329 in Lima and retired from the position. He belonged to Pleasantview Missionary Church of Junction, OH. His final residence was in Cecil, OH. He surrendered to the angel of death in CHP Defiance Area In-Patient Hospice Center on Dec. 1, 2011. His remains are at rest in Monroe Cemetery in Continental. Survivors included 20 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

• Grandson John N. DeSote Jr. wed Karen and made a home in Ohio City, OH.

• Granddaughter Laura DeSote married Timothy Phipps. The pair was in Cecil, OH in 2011.

• Granddaughter Penny DeSote was joined in wedlock with Leonard "Len" Dangler. They settled in Ottawa, OH.

• Grandson Stanley DeSote has made a home in Lima, OH and married to or a companion of Joan Cole.

• Granddaughter Donna DeSote was united in matrimony with Juan Lara. They put down roots in Blanca, CO.  

• Grandson Mark DeSote was deceased by 2011. 

• Grandson John N. DeSote II dwelled in Lima, OH in 2011.

~ Daughter Jenetta (Little) Carder ~

Daughter Jenetta "Juanita" Little (1914-1999) was born on May 15, 1914 in Kalida. 

When she was 18 years of age, on Oct. 20, 1932, she wed John N. Carder (Aug. 14, 1909-1957), son of Silas and Eva (Hartoon) Carder of near Continental, OH.

Four offspring were born to this couple -- Nelson Eugene "Sunshine" Carder, Robert Carder, Bob A. Carder and Teresa Lynn Howard Okuly.

Sadness covered the family when son Robert died in infancy in 1935. 

John earned a living in the Sylvania Electric factory located in Ottawa, OH. 

Further heartache disrupted their lives when, at the age of 48, John passed away in St. Rita's Hospital in Sept. 1957, bringing an end to their union of 25 years. An obituary said he had been ill for a year. His remains were laid to rest in Monroe Cemetery, with his wife's nephew Rev. Russel Kirkendall officiating..  

For the balance of her life, the widowed Jenetta made her home in Continental, Putnam County. She obtained employment with her husband's workplace, Sylvania in Ottawa, OH and worked there until retiring in 1979. She was admitted to the company's Quarter Century Club.

With her health failing, Jenetta was admitted to Lima Memorial Hospital, where she passed away on Nov. 1, 1999. She was survived by five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. The funeral was led by Jenetta's nephew, Russel. An obituary appeared in the Lima News.

Son Nelson Eugene "Sunshine" Carder (1933-2019) was born on July 10, 1933 in Continental and grew up in the town. In manhood he established a home in Ney, OH. On June 3, 1959, he was joined in holy matrimony with Bonnie Jean Batt (1937-2009). Their union endured for a remarkable half-century. The couple's trio of children were LuAnn DeNoi, Lisa Morman, Mark Carder and John William Carder. They lost son John in infancy in 1963. During the course of his working career, Nelson was employed by Hancock Brick and Tile in Ottawa, followed by General Motors in Defiance and Stine Lumber Company. From there he joined the streets department of the City of Bryan, OH and remained there for 20 years, until retirement in 1996. He also held a variety of part-time jobs, including at the Oberlin-Ford Funeral Home and Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, and for 41 years as a reserve officer for the Bryan Police Department. In his free time he spent 44 years coaching the same Little League baseball team. The family belonged to St. Patrick Catholic Church, with Nelson giving his time for Saturday evening masses as a greeter and usher. Sadly, Bonnie Jean passed away on Oct. 10, 2009.  Nelson survived his bride by a decade. At the age of 86, on Aug. 21, 2019, he passed away at home. Burial of the remains was in Evansport Cemetery.

• Granddaughter LuAnn Carder wed Thomas DeNoi. The pair was in Bryan, OH in 2019.

• Granddaughter Lisa Carder entered into wedlock with Gary Morman. They settled in Archbold, OH. 

• Grandson Mark Carder was joined in marriage with Ruth. Their home in 2019 was in Ney, OH.

Son Bob A. Carder relocated to California and was there in 1999.

Daughter Teresa Lynn Carder appears to have been married twice. She entered into marriage with Terry Howard. They dwelled in Continental in 1999.  By 2019, she had wed (?) Okuly ( ? - ? ).