Robert D. Lentz

With a journey that spanned times of war and times of peace, times of plenty and times of want, Robert Lentz lived a life of purpose while holding his loved ones near. He was a man of honor, courage, and strength who was deeply devoted to the community he called home. Bob was a loving husband and father, but there was nothing he cherished more than becoming a grandfather and great-grandfather to the youngest members of his family tree. Life will never be the same without him here, but he leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever hold near and dear to their hearts.

It was great to be an American during the decade that we recall as the Roaring Twenties. Innovation was leading the way to new technology that changed the way we lived our everyday lives. Radios, washing machines, and motion pictures in both color and sound were all signs of the time, and the days were primarily prosperous ones for the majority of the decade. Amidst this exciting time was a time of great anticipation in the lives of Otto and Ester (Birkhold) Lentz as they were eagerly awaiting the birth of their new baby as the beauty of fall unfolded in Payne, Ohio, in October of 1928. The big day finally arrived on October 23rd when the baby boy they named Robert drew his first breath. He was one of five Lentz children as he was raised in the family home alongside his siblings, Zola, Paul, Ordean and Edna.

In many ways, Bob was a typical young boy for the youth of his generation. His father was a farmer while his mother had more than enough to keep her busy at home. When Bob was going somewhere, he never rode a bike, rather, he rode a horse instead! He attended local schools including Payne High School. As a teen, Bob was quite the football player as he even played semi-pro football for the St. Joe Saints in 1948.

After graduating from high school, Bob was eager for all that life had in store. His life was forever changed when he met the young woman of his dreams. Her name was Donna McCurdy, and they met when she lived in town in Payne while Bob lived in the country. They began dating, and it wasn't long before the couple found themselves deeply in love. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Bob and Donna were married on June 23, 1951, at St Mark’s Lutheran Church in Van Wert because the pastor at their church had died. The reception that followed was held in her parents’ home. Together Bob and Donna welcomed two children, Vicky and Kevin, into their hearts and home. As a family they enjoyed time in Florida and vacationing at the lake. Later on, Bob enjoyed being a grandfather, and as a sports fan he especially enjoyed following his grandchildren’s sports.

Shortly after they were married, Bob and Donna were separated for a time when he was sent overseas as a soldier in the United States Army. His time in the military spanned from February 9, 1951, to December 27, 1956. For the rest of his life, Bob was so proud to have served his country during a time of need. He was an Ohio State Buckeye fan, and he also liked watching harness racing. Within his community, Bob spent 46 years working at Dana Corporation until retiring in 1994 and was so proud of his longtime service and dedication to his work. In addition, he was a member of the Van Wert American legion Post 178 and the Masonic Lodge.

All who knew Robert Lentz would agree that he was one of the nicest people around. He was hardworking and kind with a big heart and genuine concern for all who were near. Bob was deeply devoted to his loved ones, and his family was his greatest source of pride and joy. Deeply loved, he will never be forgotten.

Robert Lentz, of Van Wert, OH, passed away Sunday, April 29, 2018, at Vancrest of Van Wert. Bob’s family includes his wife, Donna (McCurdy); children, Vicky Huebner of Convoy & Kevin (Betty) of Fort Wayne; sister, Edna Donnell of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Nathan & Justin Huebner; and great grandchildren Jerica & Jace Huebner. Bob was preceded in death by his siblings, Zola Doering and Paul & Ordean Lentz.

Service is Wednesday, 11 am, Dooley Funeral Home, 5761 SR 500, Payne, with viewing one hour prior. Viewing is also Tuesday, 5 - 8 pm at Dooley Funeral Home.

He will be laid to rest in Lehman Cemetery, with military honors.

Memorials are to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 6727 OH-49, Convoy, OH 45832 or the American Heart Assoc.

Fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com

Robert D. Lentz, 89, of Van Wert, OH, passed away Sunday, April 29, 2018 at Vancrest of Van Wert.

Robert was born in Payne  on October 23, 1928 a son of the late Otto & Ester (Birkhold) Lentz.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1956. Bob worked at Dana Corporation for 46 years, retiring in  1994. He was an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan and enjoyed watching harness racing!

He was a member of the Van Wert American legion Post 178 and the Masonic Lodge. 

Bob will be sadly missed by his wife, Donna (McCurdy) whom he married June 23, 1951; children, Vicky Huebner of Convoy & Kevin (Betty) of Fort Wayne; sister, Edna Donnell of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Nathan & Justin Huebner and great grandchildren Jerica & Jace Huebner.

He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Zola Doering & Paul & Ordean Lentz.

Service is Wednesday, 11 am, Dooley Funeral Home, 5761 SR 500, Payne, with viewing one hour prior. Viewing is also Tuesday, 5 - 8 pm at Dooley Funeral Home.

He will be laid to rest in Lehman Cemetery, with military honors.

Memorials are to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 6727 OH-49, Convoy, OH 45832 or the American Heart Assoc.

Fond memories may be shared at www.dooleyfuneralhome.com