Helen Stateler

CONTINENTAL – Helen F. (Etter) Stateler, 97, of Continental, passed away at 6:45 a.m. on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at The Meadows of Kalida. She was born December 14, 1925, in Dupont, to the late Claud and Dortha (Michael) Etter. On April 27, 1946, Helen married Nyle Stateler, who also preceded her in death on August 9, 2016.

Surviving are her 3 daughters: Susan (Byron Dean) Manges, Patricia "Pat" Lehman, both of Ottawa and Judith "Judy" (Douglas "Doug") Kent of Lima and Fort Myers, FL; 6 grandchildren: Deana (Keith) Stechschulte of Windsor, CT, Bradley (Robert Stephens) Manges of Mt. Sterling, OH; Kyle (Kim) Lehman of Kalida, Emily Lehman of Ottawa, David (Katie) Kent of Tiffin and Lauran (Eric) Ward of Goshen, KY.

Also surviving are 9 great-grandchildren: Alexandra & Jacob Stechschulte, Tyler, Catie, Wyatt & Brady Lehman; Hayden & Ethan Ward; and Caroline Kent.

In addition to her parents and husband, Helen was also preceded in death by her infant twin sister; and a son-in-law, James Lehman.

Helen was the last remaining member of her high school graduating class form Continental High School in 1943. She survived being locked in the vault while working at The Continental Bank during a bank robbery. She retired from the Continental News-Review, which she and Nyle owned. She gave a yearly supply of hats and gloves to Continental Elementary School, so the kids could stay warm. In her retirement, she made and donated preemie hats to St. Rita's Hospital.

Helen was a long-time member of Continental United Methodist Church and participated in many activities and Bible studies over the years.

The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, November 3, 2023 at Heitmeyer Funeral Home, Continental with Pastor Charles Schmunk officiating. Burial will follow in Monroe Cemetery, Continental. Visitation will be from 12 noon until the time of the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Bridge Hospice of Findlay or Continental United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.heitmeyerfuneralhome.com.