1948-2026
Richard “Dick” Elliott Wildermuth, a devoted family man, proud veteran, and deeply faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026, at the age of 78 after a brave three-year battle with a brain tumor resulting from his exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War.
A Life of Service and Dedication
Born on April 23, 1948, in Logan County, Dick was the beloved son of the late Norman and Leona (Elliott) Wildermuth. He grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep love for his community, graduating from Indian Lake High School in 1968. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army. Dick served honorably for 15 months in Saigon, Vietnam, followed by 15 months in Stuttgart, Germany.
Upon returning home. Dick built a beautiful life grounded in hard work and love. On August 31, 1973, he married the love of his life, Mary Jane (Steenrod), with whom he shared over 50 years of marriage, laughter, and devotion. Dick was a dedicated employee, spending 27 years working faithfully at Airstream.
Heart for Community and Family
Dick’s life was defined by what he gave back to others. He was an active, familiar face in Logan County, helping coach T-Ball, serving on the Logan County Fair Board for 12 years, and assisting 4-H members at the fair. He spent many happy hours cutting wood with his son and helping his father on the family farm. An avid sports fan, he loved watching games, taking trips with his son to OSU games, and playing for 12 years on the Grace Lutheran Dartball team. He also found peace and joy in the simple things: gardening, attending auctions, and spending time with his dogs.
Above all, Dick’s greatest joys were his faith and his family. He had a profound, unwavering love for his God, which guided him through life's triumphs and his final illness. He was an incredibly proud father and grandfather, and nothing brought a brighter smile to his face than watching his grandchildren play sports and sharing quiet moments during family time.
Those Who Carry His Legacy
Dick is survived by his devoted wife, Mary Jane Wildermuth; his loving children, son Andy Wildermuth, and daughter Kim Wildermuth and her partner Danny Dawson. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his cherished grandchildren, Dylan Lumpkin, Lauren Lumpkin, and Tristan Dawson.
He is also survived by his siblings, brothers Dan Wildermuth of Lewistown and Don Wildermuth of Tipp City, and his sister Deanna Apgar of Sidney, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his brother, Dale Wildermuth.
Dick faced his final years with immense bravery, wrapped in the comfort of his favorite scriptures and the promise that nothing could separate him from the love of God. His warmth, his quiet strength, and his generous heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him.
Pastor Rod Brower will begin funeral services at 11:00 am, Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Shoffstall Funeral Home, 205 S. Main St, Lakeview, with military rites performed by the Logan County Veterans Honor Guard. Visitation will be Tuesday, September 8th from 2-4 and 5-7 pm, at the funeral home, and one hour prior to services on Wednesday.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given in Dick’s memory to Wilson Hospice Care at https://www.wilsonhealth.org/hospice.
Arrangements are in the care of Shoffstall Funeral Home, Lakeview, OH. Condolences may be expressed at shoffstallfuneralhome.com.
