Gene W. Froelich, 80, of Defiance, passed away surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 22, 2018 at Kindred Hospital in Lima, Ohio. He was born on February 27, 1938 to Edward and Agnes (Berryman) Froelich in Defiance. On March 8, 1959  he married Peggy (Applegate) Froelich, who resides in Defiance.

Gene worked as a Millwright at General Motors for over 32 years until his retirement in 1998. In his leisure time he enjoyed working on projects, and was known to always have an immaculate yard. His greatest joy was spending time with his children and grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by his family and many good friends. Gene is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Peggy Froelich of Defiance, his children; Mike (Kathy) Froelich of Defiance, Barb (Hillard) Miller of Defiance, and  Bob (Carol) Froelich of Indianapolis, Indiana, seven grandchildren; Jenny (Jeff) Lichty, Kurt (Vanessa) Froelich, Amber Bernard, Denny Roehrig, Nick (Erica) Roehrig, Jessica (Zach) Lawson, and Nate Froelich, 12 great-grandchildren, brothers, Ed (Toni) Froelich and Leon (Barb) Froelich, and sisters, Dina Gallant and Charlene Donley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Gerald Froelich, and sister Bonnie Hasselswerth. Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 8:00 pm on Monday, November 26, 2018 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance. A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Ayersville Cemetery, with Deb Miller officiating. Memorials are suggested to Kindred Hospital, 730 W. Market Street, Lima, OH, 45801, or to a charity of the donor's choice.