DELPHOS – Michele C. Wittler, age 70, of Delphos, passed away Friday, June 27, 2025, at The Meadows of Delphos, with her husband by her side.
She was born on Dec. 17, 1954, in Lima to Hubert and Marty (Rinklin) Calvelage, who preceded her in death. On Aug. 19, 1972, she married David P. Wittler, who survives in Delphos.
Michele is survived by two daughters, Melissa (Justin) York of Dublin and Angela (Matthew) Kriegel of Shawnee; a brother, James (Phud) Calvelage of Delphos; two sisters, Barb (Bob) Foust of Findlay and Julie (Glenn) Bertling of Lima; brothers-in-law, Bruce Maag of Lima and Jeff (Sharon) Wittler of New Knoxville; two sisters-in-law, Diane (Jerry) Drake of Bowling Green and Linda (Randy) Goetz of Cridersville; and five grandchildren, Evangeline ‘Evie’ and Noah York, and David Jon ‘DJ’, Addison and Matthew (Jr.) Kriegel.
She was also preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Maag; and in-laws, Ralph and Mildred (Markward) Wittler.
Michele was a 1973 graduate of Delphos St. John’s. She married her husband and soulmate at a young age. The first time they met, Dave said, “I’m going to marry that girl” and he did. Although they married young, Dave and Michele built a marriage that lasted a remarkable 52 years and only death could tear them apart. Their partnership stood strong through every season of life. Together they raised two beautiful children and welcomed five beloved grandchildren, creating a family rooted in warmth and laughter. Michele had two girls and loved being a mother. She never missed a sporting event, not even indoor swim or all day softball tournaments in 90 degree heat. She disinfected scraped knees, put ice packs on bruises and talked down dramatic teenagers. Michele had a generous heart and an open door. She hosted an exchange student, Pieter, and quickly made him feel like one of the family.
She had three sisters, a sister-in-law and many nieces. She loved planning shopping trips, luncheons, cookie baking and family holidays. Michele saw the good in everyone and carried a light that brought people together- especially during the holidays when she united the Calvelage clan of more than 60. She loved to travel and especially loved to sit on the beach and sip a Bacardi and diet Pepsi.
Michele retired after working 40 years at OB/GYN Specialists of Lima. She began her career at the front desk, but worked her way to office manager. Although she loved her career, her real passion was spoiling her grandkids and was often accused of trying to steal Santa’s job. Michele loved her family, especially the grandkids. She had them over for sleepovers, picked them up from school to do homework, gave them all of the ‘num nums’ they wanted and was always ready for “one more mama.” After their children were grown, they decided to move to the country. Though she was not excited about living in the country, Michele grew to treasure the home she and Dave built. She spent most of her time on the back patio reading and cuddling with her dogs- Bubba and Max.
Michele’s life was a testament to love, resilience and unwavering joy. Her spirit was vibrant and unforgettable, her laughter contagious, and her presence a constant source of happiness for those lucky enough to know her. Everywhere she went, Michele made people feel loved and at home. Her light lives on in every heart she touched.
A Funeral Mass will begin at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 3 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 2-8 p.m. on Wednesday at Weber Funeral Home, Delphos, where a Parish Wake Service will be held at 7:45 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Delphos St. John The Evangelist School or Pink Ribbon Good. Online condolences may be shared at weberfh.net
