Gingrich, Paul L.
Smithville — Paul L. Gingrich, age 89, of Smithville, joined his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday, September 6, 2021, at his residence in Smithville, with his children by his side, following a long period of declining health.
Paul was born on March 4, 1932, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, to the late Rev. Joseph and Beatrice (Smith) Gingrich and graduated from Seville High School in 1949. He was married to Odema “Dee” Shane on October 4, 1951, at Sterling Grace Brethren Church in Sterling, Ohio, by his father, Rev. J. L. Gingrich, and they would have celebrated their 70th anniversary this year.
In the past he was a long distance truck driver for 30 years, and he had a love for farming. He worked on local farms into his 70’s, and enjoyed working at Rohrer Farms in Orrville, Ohio. He loved keeping a garden and enjoyed sharing what he produced with others, along with the beautiful flowers he grew.
Paul was a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, Sterling, Ohio. Those sitting near him would have enjoyed listening to his wonderful bass voice.
Surviving are two daughters, Cathy (Dale) Coe of Orrville, and Jackie (Danny) Nussbaum of Wooster; son, Tom Gingrich of Orrville; 12 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren; and sister, Doris (Jim) Beichler of Rittman.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Dee, on August 1, 2021; a son, John Paul Gingrich; brother, Hugo Gingrich; sisters, Miriam Gingrich and Gladys (Bill) Rowser.
A private graveside service will be held for the family at the Sherwood Memorial Gardens in Wooster, led by Pastor Stephen Olsen. A memorial service for Paul and Dee Gingrich will be held at a later date.
The family is grateful to the staff of hospice and the care and compassion they provided. Memorials may be made to Ohio’s Hospice LifeCare 1900 Akron Road, Wooster, OH 44691 www.lifecarehospice.org.
Auble Funeral Home in Orrville is handling the arrangements. Online registry and expressions of condolence may be made at www.aublefuneralhome.com.
