On Friday evening, the community of Indian Lake gathered at Indian Lake High School to remember the EF3 tornado that devastated the region on March 14, 2024.
The ceremony, organized by the Logan County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), marked the one-year anniversary of the storm and provided an opportunity for residents to reflect on the past year, honor those affected, and celebrate the progress made in recovery.
The event was a time for the community to come together, remember the impact of the tornado, and recognize the strength and resilience that followed.
As the speakers shared their thoughts, common themes like hope, teamwork, strength, and sacrifice were mentioned repeatedly.
The tornado had left its mark, but the community’s determination to rebuild and support one another was evident throughout the evening.
Speakers for the evening included:
- Helen Norris
- Ben Vollrath
- Elaine Fagan-Moore
- Randy Dodds
- Michael Thompson
- Joe Freyhof
- John Huffman
- Logan Brown
- Steve Reid
- Joe Ferryman
- Tara Cascioli
Three people lost their lives as a result of the tornado:
- Marilyn L. Snapp, 81, of Lakeview, OH, passed away due to injuries sustained in the tornado. Born on June 13, 1942, in Stokes Township, Logan County, Marilyn was a beloved figure in her community. She was a life member of the Doyle R. Miller Amvets Post #39 Auxiliary, where she held various offices over the years, serving her fellow veterans with dedication. Marilyn was known for her cheerful nature and kind-hearted spirit, always offering a smile and a kind word to those around her. She enjoyed hobbies such as collecting mushrooms, working on jigsaw puzzles with her niece Valerie VanGundy, and was an avid fan of Elvis Presley and Tom Cruise. Marilyn retired from Fisher Cheese in Wapakoneta, OH, and was predeceased by her brother, Carey Snapp, and four sisters, as well as her dear friend Darla Williams.
- Darla Kay Williams, 70, also of Lakeview, OH, tragically lost her life in the same tornado. Darla, born on November 18, 1953, in Lima, OH, was a loving mother, grandmother, and sister. She had a deep connection to her family, which was a central part of her life. Darla was a 1972 graduate of Indian Lake High School and went on to earn an associate degree in social work from Clark State Community College. She retired from Siemens and had also worked as a social worker, dedicating her life to helping others. Darla enjoyed spending time outdoors and tending to her plants, but her greatest joy came from being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Darla is survived by her daughter Amy Doty of New Carlisle, OH, her son Chad Doty of Lakeview, and many beloved family members, including six grandchildren and a great-grandchild. She was predeceased by several siblings and relatives, and her loss has left a deep void in the hearts of her family.
- Neal Alan Longfellow, 69, a resident of Russells Point, OH, was another victim of the tornado. A proud veteran of the U.S. Marines and the U.S. Navy, Neal had a lifelong commitment to service. A member of the Eagles (F.O.E.), Neal was known for his love of roller skating, billiards, and camping. He was preceded in death by his parents, William Franklin and Rosemary Longfellow, and his brother Tom Longfellow. Neal is survived by three sons, Derek, Neal “Frankie,” and Aaron Longfellow, as well as his brother Dale Longfellow and his former wife and friend, Deanna Hallam. Neal’s community remembers him for his outgoing personality and his dedication to his country.
Michael Thompson talks about how he sees the community one year later:
The night was filled with a sense of gratitude for all those who had worked to restore the area and provide assistance during the toughest days.
Despite the hardships, the event focused on the future, with a shared belief that the community would continue to grow stronger and more united.
The ceremony also highlighted the importance of resilience.
Even in the face of such destruction, the people of Indian Lake had shown remarkable strength and determination.
With each passing day, the community had taken steps forward, overcoming obstacles and embracing the support of others.
As the evening concluded, there was a strong sense that the journey wasn’t over, but that the future was filled with hope and the promise of brighter days ahead.
The Logan County EMA will continue working to support recovery efforts, ensuring that the community remains focused on rebuilding and moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose.
Logan Brown, Indian Lake EMS recalls that night:
After the ceremony, many students and community members gathered at the Indian Lake Rollerina for a night of celebration, food, and safe entertainment provided by the community.
Tara Cascioli on community:
Attendees raised $2,766 for the Indian Lake Community Church Tornado Relief Fund, where it will continue to help those affected.
At the end of the day, it was a great day to reflect, remember, honor, but most of all….remain Anchored in Hope.
