Jeff Apling

Jeff Apling, 67, of Oak Harbor, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on August 6, 2025. Born on July 14, 1958, to Albert Henry and Delores June (Kern) Apling, Jeff lived a life marked by hard work, generosity, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of home, friendship, and the outdoors.

Jeff retired as the head of maintenance at Dublin Commercial Property/Erie Industrial Park, where he worked faithfully since 1984. Known for his dedication and hands-on expertise, Jeff was the go-to guy for anything that needed fixing and was respected by all who worked alongside him.

On March 13, 2008, Jeff married the love of his life, Sue, after being together since 2000. Their home in Oak Harbor was Jeff’s sanctuary—the place he loved most in the world. It was also the site of his beloved Wednesday “safety meetings,” where friends gathered to share stories, laughter, and sometimes, more than a few cold Busch Lights. These gatherings were more than tradition—they were a reflection of Jeff’s warm heart and the deep value he placed on friendship.

Jeff was happiest outdoors, whether he was cutting wood, tinkering in his barn, or simply enjoying the peace of his property. He had a lifelong love of farming and took great pride in designing his own dike pumps, a testament to his creativity and problem-solving spirit. He was always working on something, always helping someone, and always making others feel welcome. In his younger years, he enjoyed square dancing, a nod to his fun-loving nature.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife, Sue; children, Justine (Richard Grine) Tarris, Robert (Heather) Tarris Jr., Niki (Aaron) Foster, and Deric (Nicole St. Clair) Wing; grandchildren, Karsen, Hayden, Autumn, Alex, Landon, Myles, Maci, Connor, Phoenix, Sebastian, Bowen, Ember, and Brooklynn; siblings, Diann (Norman Anzures) Apling, Gary (Linda) Apling, Dave (Tammy) Apling, and Lisa (Bill) Rauch; aunt, Ethel Kern; many nieces and nephews; his first wife and constant friend, Barb Apling; and his beloved dogs, Missy and Mo.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Jake Apling, whom he missed terribly and is now reunited with.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Robinson-Walker Funeral Home, 165 E. Water Street, Oak Harbor, OH, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and again from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Following the service, Jeff will be laid to rest at Locust Point Cemetery, near his beloved son and parents. While at the cemetery, a special “Safety Meeting” will be held in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Jeff’s family.