Franciscus C. Bentlage

Frans C. Bentlage of Oak Harbor, passed away peacefully at his home on January 14, 2025. He was born on February 3, 1950 in Eindhoven, Netherlands to Petrus and Elizabeth (Spaninks) Bentlage. The family moved to the United States in 1956, and settled in Grove City, Pa.

Frans graduated from Grove City High School in 1968, and Grove City College in 1975, with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. He enjoyed music, traveling, sports, and spending time with his family. In earlier years, Frans sang and played the guitar in several bands. He was an avid runner, often competing in 10K and 10-mile events. He played basketball and enjoyed downhill skiing. He was excited to ski the Rockies while there on business.

Frans began his career as Director of Health and Safety for Speed Queen in Ripon, Wisconsin. He then worked for Alcan in Oswego, NY, and later Alcoa Corporation in Warren, Ohio. He moved his family to Sidney, Ohio and was the the Manager of Safety and Health for Stolle Corp.

Prior to retirement, Frans worked 20 years for Tenneco Automotive in Monroe, Michigan, as the Corporate Manager of Safety, Health and Environmental for their North American operations. This position enabled him to travel nationally, and internationally to six continents.

He was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Boniface Catholic Church in Oak Harbor.

In addition to his beloved wife of 52 years, Deborah (Puntureri), Frans is survived by his sons, Christopher (Jordan) Bentlage, and Matthew (Christina) Bentlage, and his grandson Liam Bentlage, whom he adored.

He will also be missed by his sisters Ria (Tony) DiBiase, and Fran Williamson, both of Hartville, Ohio, his brother-in-law William Lawry of Slippery Rock, Pa. and his sisters-in-law, Patti Kirsch of Oak Harbor, and Ann Puntureri of Mercer, Pa. Also numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces, grand nephews, and cousins.

Frans was also “Pop” to many of both of his sons’ friends and always enjoyed their company.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Petra Lawry, and his brothers-in-law Carl Puntureri and Larry Williamson.

Private services for family will be conducted. There will be a celebration of his life for family and friends at a later date.

Memorial contributions in memory of Frans, may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.com

The caring people at Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory, Oak Harbor are assisting the family with arrangements.