Gertrude Marie
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Gertrude Marie Mengerink, 104, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2022. She was born on July 8, 1917 in Holgate, Ohio, to William and Lena (Huber) Muntz. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Holgate.
Gertrude graduated as Salutatorian from Holgate High School in 1935. She went on to attend the Davis Business College in Toledo, where she graduated a year later. She worked as a legal secretary in Toledo and later in Napoleon.
Soon after completing high school, Gertrude began dating Cecil Mengerink and they were married on August 6, 1939, at St. Peter's. They had three daughters and a son: Susan (passed away in 2001), Linda (Gilbert) Duchow of Muskego, WI, Mary (James, who passed away in 2007) Schelby of St Mary's, OH, and David (Karen) of Delaware, OH. Gertrude and Cecil were blessed with 12 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.
Gertude often talked about the many places they lived, first while Cecil was on active duty with the Army Corps of Engineers during World War II, through his time as City Engineer in Bellefontaine and St. Mary's, Ohio. While living in Bellefontaine, Gertrude obtained her real estate license and worked as a successful realtor. Cecil retired and they later moved back to Holgate in 1978. Cecil drew up plans for a home that they built on the same land where Gertrude's childhood home stood.
Gertrude and Cecil were very involved in the community in Holgate. Together they administered the USDA Food Distribution at St. Peter's for many years. Gertrude served as treasurer at St. Peter's from 1983-1991, taught Sunday School for many years, and led many Bible studies. She was actively involved in the Gideon's Women's Auxiliary, distributing Bibles to schools. They were also involved in supporting the organizations that their daughter, Susan, attended including Quadco Rehabilitation Center and the Hope Senior Services.
Gertrude enjoyed spending time with family and friends, while sharing memories and stories of her life. Much of her life was dedicated to caring for her oldest daughter, Susan. Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Cecil, and her daughter Susan.
The family will hold a private graveside service. A memorial service for friends and family will be held later in the spring at St. Peter's Lutheran Church.
Memorials can be made to St. Peters Lutheran Church (Holgate, Ohio) Memorial Fund, Putnam County Hospice Memorial Fund, or Vancrest of Holgate Memorial Fund.
Snyder-Hoening Funeral Home, Holgate, has been entrusted with arrangements. Online expressions of sympathy may be made by visiting www.hoeningfuneralhome.com.