Paul E. Bockelman, age 95, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at Brookview Healthcare Center in Defiance. He was born on April 28, 1928 to the late William and Alma (Baden) Bockelman in Defiance, Ohio. He was a graduate of Jewel High School. On April 28, 1962, he married the love of his life Dorothy Hutchins, who survives. Paul was a faithful member of St. John Lutheran Church. He was a lifelong farmer and took great pride in his work. Paul loved his family and was very proud of his children and grandchildren and their accomplishments. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Paul is survived by his loving wife Dorothy Bockelman of Defiance, his son, Chris Bockelman of Bryan, OH, his daughter, Julie (Troy) Meyer of Defiance, his grandchildren, McKendry, Payton, Greyson, Lucas, Bryce and Aubrey, and his sister, Yvonne (David) Walewski. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Paul W. Bockelman, brothers William and Norman Bockelman, and his sisters, Lulu Zoll and Louise Opdyke. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2023 from 9:00 to 11:00 am at St. John Lutheran Church in Defiance. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the church, with Pastor Kurt Mews officiating. Burial will take place at Riverview Memory Gardens.

Schaffer Funeral Home was honored to assist the family with arrangements. Memorials are suggested to CHP Defiance Area Hospice, or St. John Lutheran Church. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.