Dennis Lynn Hirn

VAN WERTDennis Lynn Hirn, 68, of Ridge Township, Van Wert County, joyfully celebrated Christmas with his family and unexpectedly died Dec. 25, 2011.He was born March 25, 1943, at home in Spencerville to Karl Englehart “Bud” and Juliana Louise “Dottie” Miller Hirn. His father died from injuries suffered in World War II. At age 6, he moved to rural Venedocia when his mother married E. Vaughn Morgan. They both preceded him in death. On Aug. 24. 1963, he married Joyce R. McCleery, who survives.Mr. Hirn was in the first graduating class of Lincolnview High School and attended The Ohio State University and Columbus Business University. He was employed at Lima J.C. Penney for 10 years and later managed two J.C. Penney stores in Toledo. He served as a women's fashion merchandiser for the Detroit district, coordinating with the New York office, and as a personnel interviewer for the eastern region. Returning full time to Van Wert, he joined the Winkle car dealership as sales manager and general manager. Later he worked for Anchor Propane as office manager. In recent years, he worked with S.I. Distributing in sales and transportation. He also assisted with planting and harvesting on the family farm. He was a member of Bethel United Methodist Church, where he served as administrative board chairman, worship chairman, financial secretary and Sunday school teacher. He was a member of bowling and softball teams, a choir and quartet member and a lifetime soloist for area churches. He was a legacy contributor to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center. Besides his singing and appreciation for vocal harmony, he was passionate throughout life about his study of vehicles, particularly the classic cars; plus traveling to state and national parks, bicycling, and enjoying his pond and the local reservoir with his family and dogs.Survivors include a son, Colby Lynn Hirn, of Columbus; two brothers, Janic Lee (Patricia) Hirn, of Clarkston, Mich., and Karl Dean (Kathleen) Hirn, of Lima; six nephews and their families, Donald (Judy) Hirn, of Michigan, Brent (Lauren) Hirn, of New York, Jeffrey (Stacey) Hirn, of Florida, Darrin Hirn, of Kentucky, and Brandon and Bryan Hirn, both of Lima; and 10 great-nieces and -nephews.He was preceded in death by a sister, Judith M. Hirn; and a nephew, Justin Hirn. A sister-in-law, Sharon (James) McConnell, of Wellington, and brother-in-law Ronald (Joy) McCleery, of Van Wert, survived him but have since died.A Celebration of Life Memorial Service and visitation are planned for 2 p.m. July 1 at Bethel United Methodist Church, 12493 Mendon Road. The Rev. Greg Wack will officiate. The church is handicap-accessible.Friends may call from 1 to 2 p.m. and after the service in the church social room.Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel Church or the Van Wert County Foundation, either for the Van Wert County Park District Bike-Walking Trail or the Hirn Community Music Fund.Arrangements are by Cowan and Son Funeral Home, Van Wert.