Marilyn (Mel) Heckler, 84, of Defiance, born October 29, 1932, peacefully passed away surrounded by family and friends on Saturday, December 10, 2016 at Defiance Mercy Hospital. She was the daughter of Herbert and Ella (Klein) Heckler of Malinta, Ohio.

She was loved and will be missed by her sister, LaMar Hahn, of Malinta, and long-time devoted friend, Ann Kruse. She enjoyed spending time with her nieces and nephews. Tim (Brenda) Bartels of Liberty Center, LeAnn (Bob) Hall of Napoleon, Greg (Marilyn) Bartels of Palmetto, Florida, Lynn (Mike) Hoops of Malinta, along with 12 great-nieces and nephews and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Thelma (Walt) Bartels of Palmetto, Florida, and brother-in-law Frank Hahn, Malinta.

Mel was retired from the Zellers Corporation in Defiance, after working 42 years on the production line. She was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Defiance. Mel was a superb athlete and one of her most cherished accomplishments was to be honored as an All-American by the Amateur Athletic Union Girls Basketball in 1960. She also participated locally in bowling and softball teams.

She delighted in hand crafts and enjoyed making gifts for family and friends. She was famous for her delicious peanut brittle and turtles.

Mel was a great neighbor and friend to many, not only in the Defiance area, but also during her winter months in Palmetto, Florida. She will always be remembered for her kind, generous spirit.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 am on Saturday, December 17, 2016 at Schaffer Funeral Home, 529 Jefferson Avenue in Defiance. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday at the funeral home, with Rev. David Brobston officiating. A Private Burial will be held at Forest Hill Cemetery in Napoleon.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks memorials be made to The Defiance Humane Society, 7169 St. Rt. 15, Defiance, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.