Mary J. Bahler

Mary J. Bahler, 102, of New Philadelphia, died peacefully on Saturday, August 12, 2017.

Born October 2, 1914 in New Philadelphia she was a daughter of the late John and Lela Rankin March. Mary was also preceded in death by her husband, Herman C. Bahler on November 18, 1987, and eight brothers and sisters. She and Herman were married June 7, 1936, and were able to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

Mary was a dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church in New Philadelphia for over 77 years. She was well known for her artistic floral arrangements, with flowers from her own garden that would grace the altar at the church. She, along with Jean Corwin and Bob Miller were the last members of the Old Homebuilder’s Class. She was a skilled seamstress who enjoyed creating clothing for her family, and she loved to travel, especially flying to California to visit family. Mary was also a lifetime member of the Lady Elks. She was honored as the matriarch of the New Philadelphia High School class of 1955 and attended their events.

She will be sadly missed by her daughters, Janice Fitzgibbons of Santa Barbara, California, Judy (Daniel) Miller of Port Washington; five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Her lovely personality has drawn many people close to her. She is known for being a generous and loyal friend.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 16 at 11:00 am in the First United Methodist Church at New Philadelphia with Rev. James Humphrey officiating. Interment will be in the Evergreen Burial Park. Friends can call in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover on Tuesday from 5-7 pm.

As Rev. James Humphrey stated: “We were all truly enriched and loved by our connection with Mary. What a Saint!!”