Grace Van Rassen

Grace Marie Van Rassen, 95, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2025. Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio. She was the daughter of Jordan and Pena Evanoff and the beloved sister of Pat (Panka) Heffern. Grace’s life was defined by courage, compassion, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

Grace was a loving mother of five children and was preceded in death by two children, Janet (Doug) Neuendorf and Frederick Van Rassen, as well as her grandson Michael Kilcher and son-in-law, Mark Reeves. She is survived by her children Diane Reeves, David (Maureen) Van Rassen, and Michael (Cindy) Van Rassen. She was a proud grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and twenty-two great-grandchildren.In the late 1950s through the early 1970s, she owned and operated Buddy’s Tavern on Marmion Street in South Toledo—a beloved neighborhood bar, remembered for its welcoming atmosphere and for serving what many still fondly recall as the best hamburgers and chili dogs in Toledo.

In the 1970s through the 90s, Grace followed her calling to serve abroad as a missionary across seven European countries. She ministered to orphaned children, offered comfort and hope in challenging circumstances, and bravely smuggled Bibles behind the Iron Curtain, ensuring that faith and encouragement reached those who sought it, despite the dangers of the time. A woman of deep and steadfast faith, she was a devoted member of The Rock Assembly of God Church in Oregon, Ohio. Her church family was a treasured part of her life, and her belief in God guided every step she took. Grace’s generous spirit shone brightly through her love of sewing. Each year, by March, she had already chosen the handmade gifts she would create—always with love, always with someone in mind. From personalized aprons to more than 100 microwave cozies she crafted for Christmas 2024, Grace delighted in giving. Her joy came not only from making things, but from blessing others—family, friends, and even complete strangers—with gifts that carried her heart in every stitch. In her later years, she found companionship and happiness living with her sister Pat. The two shared countless hours watching Hallmark movies, playing endless games of Skip-Bo, and deepening the lifelong bond they cherished.

The family extends heartfelt thanks for the generous support of their church family at The Rock Assembly of God and for the compassionate care provided by Heartland Hospice. Their kindness and prayers were a great comfort during Grace’s final season of life. Her legacy is one of selfless service, boundless generosity, unwavering faith, and profound love for people across the world. Grace touched countless lives—both near and far—and her influence will continue to be felt in the generations she inspired. A memorial service honoring her life will be held on January 6, 2026 at The Rock Church in Oregon, Ohio. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m.-11a.m. with a service beginning at 11 a.m.