Nancy Gribler

Nancy L. Gribler, a beloved member of the Van Wert community, passed away peacefully, on February 29, 2024, at CHP Inpatient Hospice in Defiance while surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Van Wert, Ohio, on December 10, 1947, to her late parents, Loran and Ruth (Miller) Joseph. On June 24, 1967, Nancy married the love of her life, Karl Gribler. Together they shared nearly 57 years of marriage. 

Nancy was a dedicated professional who held various roles throughout her career, working in offices at Van Wert AAA, Teleflex, Van Wert Times-Bulletin, and Lee Kinstle Sales & Service. Even after retirement, she continued to contribute by working part-time in the Van Wert County Fair Office.

A proud graduate of Van Wert High School from the class of 1966, Nancy held a special place in her heart for her alma mater. She passionately supported the Cougars, especially the band, cheerleaders, basketball, and football teams. Her involvement extended beyond cheering; Nancy actively participated as a band booster officer and volunteered for numerous activities such as band camps, concession stands, fair booths, and chaperoning football game trips.

Beyond her professional and educational endeavors, Nancy's true joys in life revolved around family and community engagement. She dedicated much of her time to supporting her daughters' school activities and serving as a volunteer for the PTO to help run Bingo during the annual school penny suppers. Nancy took great delight in attending her grandchildren's sports events and school functions.

In her leisure time, Nancy found pleasure in playing Bingo, shopping trips, attending the Van Wert County Fair, and engaging with organizations such as TWIGS and the American Legion Auxiliary. Her commitment to service extended to volunteering at the thrift shop and assisting with funeral dinners through the American Legion Auxiliary.

Nancy was a lifelong member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church where she served on the altar guild, was Sunday School director for many years and helped with Vacation Bible School.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband, Karl of Van Wert; daughters: Brenda Frankart of Findlay, Susie (Brad) Sanderson of Van Wert; grandchildren: Shannette (Dalton) Thomas of Paulding, Ethan Frankart of Findlay, Chelsea Sanderson of Van Wert, Courtney (Ryan) Thompson of Van Wert; McKenzey Sanderson of Van Wert; great-grandchildren: Lilly, Grayson, Lincoln Thomas of Paulding; Elena Thompson of Van Wert.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Joseph.

Services to honor Nancy Gribler's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S Washington St, Van Wert, OH 45891, with Rev Will Haggis presiding. Interment will immediately follow in Woodland Cemetery. 

The family will receive friends from 2 to 7 PM on Wednesday, March 6th, 2024 at the funeral home, and again on Thursday, one hour prior to the funeral from 10 to 11 AM.

For those who prefer, memorial contributions in Nancy's name may be directed to St. Mark's Lutheran Church or to The Van Wert Fair Ag Society.

Arrangements entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home and Crematory. To share in Nancy's online memorial, please visit www.alspachgearhart.com.