VAN WERT — John J. Freund, 92, of Van Wert, died Tuesday afternoon, June 17, 2025, in Van Wert. He was born Sept.29, 1932 in Delphos to Elmer and Mable (Mox) Freund. In April of 1953, he married the former Marlene Oehrtman.

John owned and operated Freund’s Nursery in Van Wert with his wife for 37 years.

He was a member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, in Van Wert, and the Van Wert Men’s Garden Club. 

After retirement, John enjoyed learning the art of stained glass, growing and painting gourds and tending to his backyard.

John is survived by his children, Naomi (Jeff) Freund-Greenlee of Boulder City, Nevada, Dan (Lori) Freund of Van Wert, Beth (Steve) Ward of Townsend, Montana, and Ed Freund of Van Wert; seven grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of nearly 72 years, Marlene L. Freund; and four siblings.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Thursday, June 26, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, Van Wert, with Rev. William Haggis, officiating. Burial will immediately follow in Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert.

Visitation will be held from 3-6 pm on Wednesday at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory. Also, one hour prior to services Thursday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Bell Fund at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, 722 S. Washington St, Van Wert, Ohio.