Michael Charles Oberholzer

Michael Charles Oberholzer (known by many as Obie), a lifelong Dennison, Ohio resident, passed away at the age of 81 on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Naples, Florida where he had enjoyed many happy winter seasons with his beloved wife, Kathy. He was born on August 23, 1944 in Dennison, Ohio, a son of the late John Charles “Jack” and Betty Jean (Witting) Oberholzer.

Obie was a member of Immaculate Conception Church and a 1962 graduate of St. Mary’s High School in Dennison where he had been a starter for the football team during their stretch of 33 consecutive victories. His prowess on the gridiron earned him a spot on the football team at Miami University of Ohio and an invitation from Coach Tom Landry to try out for the Dallas Cowboys.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in the mid 60’s, including a long term of service in the Army Reserves. Locally, Obie was a member of the Tuscarawas V.F.W. Post #7943. An avid shooter who especially enjoyed sporting clays, he had shared his expertise in marksmanship with many, including his children, grandchildren, and friends. He was a longtime member of Tusco Rifle Club, as well as the NRA.

He will be remembered for his long career in insurance as the owner of The Romig Agency from 1987 until his retirement in 2006. During his career, Obie was honored on multiple occasions for leading the company in life insurance sales. He had also served on the board of directors of First National Bank of Dennison for decades.

Always active in his community, Obie was a Fourth Degree Knight of the Dennison Knights of Columbus. He also enjoyed spending time with his many, many friends at the social clubs in the Twin City area where he was a member, including the American Italian Club in Dennison, the Uhrichsville Elks, and the Dennison Eagles. An avid fisherman, Obie was a member of the Quinnebog Fishing Club where he had held numerous offices over the years, including as a past president.

During his winters in Florida, Obie found many new recreational pursuits, including bocce. He was proudly a player on the championship team of the 2025 Marco Island Bocce Tournament. He also enjoyed frequenting Jack’s Lookout whenever they were in town.

Obie’s greatest pride and deepest joy was his family, whom he loved strongly and unconditionally. His larger-than-life personality and smile filled every room with laughter, warmth, and a sense of belonging, and he had a remarkable way of making each person feel special. A man of strong and steady faith, he led by quiet example, showing kindness, generosity, and devotion in both word and deed. Whether sharing stories, offering guidance, or simply being present, he created a legacy of love that will continue to live on through all who knew him.

On February 12, 1966, he married the former Kathryn Marie Szymialis with whom he celebrated 60 years of marriage just a month before his passing. In addition to Kathy, he is survived by their children, Michael (Mindi) Oberholzer, Lori (Amanda Lucas) Oberholzer, and Erin (Josh) Weirich; grandchildren, Jack (Sarah), Seth, and Lucy Oberholzer, and Peyton and Eliet Weirich; great-grandson, Dominic Oberholzer; his brother Pat (Sandy) Oberholzer; sister, Shelley (Ron) Morrison; sister-in-law, Barb Oberholzer; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, John Scott “Scottie” Oberholzer, as well as his parents.

Father Jeff Coning will celebrate the funeral Mass on Monday, March 23, at 10:00 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Church in Dennison. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery near Dennison with a military committal service. Family and friends are invited to call at the R. K. Lindsey Funeral Home in Dennison from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 22. Those wishing to honor Obie’s memory by a charitable contribution are encouraged to do so to Immaculate Conception Church and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, in lieu of flowers.