Arthur W. Germann Jr.

Arthur William Germann Jr., son of Arthur William Germann Sr. and Edna Irene (Weirich) Germann, began his lifelong residency in Henry County on July 21, 1934. Born into humble beginnings, in Grandfather Fred Weirich's plumbing-free house - he became well known as a preeminent builder of some of the finest homes in Henry County.

Starting as a shy, only child, Art blossomed into an engaged community leader. Art's leadership skills emerged early when he was quickly promoted at his first job at Kroger's.

From there he drove tanks as a proud member of the U.S. Army 69th Armor from 1955- 1958. Upon his return to Napoleon, he took up his tools and worked with his father at Napoleon Cabinet & Builders, building beautiful, lasting homes. Upon his father's retirement he continued as Germann Builders and later co-created LOLA Enterprises Development Company.

Art served on the City of Napoleon Board of Appeals and the ADA Board, as well as the Napoleon Chamber of Commerce. He held memberships in AMVETS Post #1313 and American Legion Post #300.

Art's passions included his nearly 70-plus years of marriage to Lois Jean Bixler, who he met and wooed at the Metropole. They raised three daughters, while successfully partnering in business for 30 years where they constructed "Not just buildings - Works of Art." The Bavarian Village Retirement Complex at the Lutheran Horne campus is one of his proudest achievements.

When Art wasn't on the golf course, shooting his age in his later years, he was cheering on his beloved Buckeyes, making birdfeeders, creating the woodshop at the Senior Center, and giving of his time and energy to Rotary, the Historical Society, Relay for Life, Humane Society, and numerous other worthy organizations.

Art was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran, where he served as a trustee supporting the congregation and the school. He was one of the few remaining original members of the Honest Farmers Club, which met for coffee and camaraderie for nearly five decades.

Art's life centered around creating hospitality through his home-building, his hearty, warm handshake, and his playful jocularity. Those who know and loved him will cherish his kindness, generosity, honesty, loyalty and integrity.

Art leaves a lasting legacy through his family, including daughters Kathy Germann, Marcella Hughes (John), Andrea Germann (Danny Greulich); grandchildren, Sara (Rob Johnson) John and Michael Hughes, Alanna (Matt) Bogert; and great-grandchildren, Clayton, Carly and Kevin.

Friends and family will be received at Rodenberger-Gray Funeral Home, Napoleon, on Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, from 2-6 p.m. A celebration of his life will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Napoleon, on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at 1:30 p.m., with an hour of visitation prior to services. Interment will follow services at Forest Hill Cemetery.

Memorials in his honor may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church and School.

Online condolences can be made for the family at www.rodenbergergray.com.