Ernest N. ‘Ernie’ Hengstler, 91

Ernest N. “Ernie” Hengstler, 91, of rural Wapakoneta, died 12:23 p.m., Friday, April 22, 2022, at his home, with his family at his side.

He was born Feb. 19, 1931, in Toledo, OH, the son of the late Carl Everett and Edna Ruth (Nelson) Hengstler. On Jan. 21, 1951, he married Marilyn Ann Shields, and she preceded him in death on April 9, 2022.

Survivors include, six children, Greg Hengstler of Wapakoneta, Cary Hengstler of Lima, Scott Hengstler of Wapakoneta, Rodney (Elaine) Hengstler of Petersburg, TN, Troy (Lisa) Hengstler of Lima, and Julie Hoelscher of Wapakoneta; 22 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; two sisters, Dawn Hosman, Napolean, OH, and Helen Bryer, Houston, TX; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Hengstler, and a granddaughter, Heather Madison “Maddie” Renee Hengstler.

Ernie proudly served in the U.S. Navy for four years on the U.S.S. Des Moines #134, which was the flagship of the battle group. He visited the Caribbean and Mediterranean Theaters. Ernie owned and operated two Texaco Service Stations in Wapakoneta. He also was a tank truck driver/ owner- operator for over 21 years. He was a faithful member of St. Paul United Church of Christ, Wapakoneta. Ernie was also a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Aerie #691, Wapakoneta V.F.W. Post #8445, and the American Legion Post #330, all of Wapakoneta. After retiring, Ernie drove the Auglaize Co. Veterans Service Office van taking area veterans to appointments for over 10 years. He enjoyed riding his motorcycles, traveling, camping, spending time visiting Alaska, and helping others. He most enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 28, 2022, at the Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, St. Rt. 501, Wapakoneta, with Mark Vaughn officiating. Burial is to follow in the Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapakoneta, where military rites will be conducted by the Wapakoneta V.F.W. Post #8445.

The family will receive friends 2-4 and 5-8 p.m., Wednesday at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Auglaize Co. Veterans Service Office or St. Rita’s Hospice. Condolence may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.