LINDA ETZLER

On Sunday Oct. 20, 2024, Linda Etzler, a beautiful and compassionate wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at her home in Hubbard Lake. She was 78 years old. Her home was simply the place she loved the most, a place she purposely filled with love, laughter, and compassion for everyone who entered the door. At the time of her passing, she was beautifully surrounded by her husband and children.

Born on Sept. 14,1946 in Van Wert, Ohio. Linda was the daughter of the late Harry and Esther Michael. She was the youngest of six children: Connie (Rock) Taylor of Van Wert, Sandra (Dick) Caldwell of Van Wert, Janet (Larry) Smith of Bloomington, Illinois, John (Carmen) Michael of Convoy, Ohio, Jean (Bill) Lippi of Van Wert. Linda adored her family, where she remained a vivid and active part of their lives until her passing.

Linda married Gary Etzler of Van Wert, Ohio on Feb. 6, 1965. Linda and Gary were looking forward to celebrating 60 beautiful years of marriage in February 2025. Their bond was a source of strength and joy throughout her life, providing a wonderful example of love to their family and friends.

Linda’s two children were her heart. She was a devoted mother to Jason (Reanette) Etzler of Kennewick, Washington and Jennifer Barrow of Holly, Michigan. She poured her heart into raising them with love, wisdom, and compassion, always guiding them with a gentle hand and kind heart. Linda’s greatest joy came from her three grandchildren: Grant Etzler, Sydney Etzler, and Parker Barrow. Anytime they were with their “Nana,” the grandchildren knew they were the light of her life. She dedicated herself to being an active and loving presence in their lives through thick and thin.

Linda always rooted for the underdog and was as competitive as they came. She loved playing SKIP-BO, Phase 10, UNO and hearing the laughter around the table. She was the first to grab the snacks and slam the cards on the table when she won! She enjoyed gardening, shopping, and decorating for the holidays, especially the Christmas season. Her lunch dates with her amazing friends with “Action” brought much joy to her life. Linda was well known for her care for others in her community.

Her family and friends will remember her as a woman of grace, kindness, and an everlasting love for her family. She will be deeply missed, but her love and spirit will live on in all who knew her. A celebration of life will be held in the future, at her family home in Hubbard Lake.