Merivene Heldt Bower

Merivene Heldt Bower, 82, of Genoa, died Tuesday morning, February 5, 2008, in the Genoa Care Center. Merivene was born May 31, 1925, in Wood County to John and Iva Selfe Heldt. She was a graduate of Lake High School and on August 10, 1946, in Genoa she married LaMar Bower, who survives her. Merivene worked in the school cafeteria at Genoa Schools for 14 years retiring in 1993 and served on the Board of Elections for over 20 years. She was baptized, confirmed, and married in the old church of St. Johns United Church of Christ in Genoa. Merivene enjoyed bowling and golf, and for many years she and LaMar enjoyed camping. She was a charter member of the Tressta Club in Genoa as well as a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and a charter member of the Clay-Genoa Firettes. Merivene was also an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan. In addition to her husband, Merivene is survived by her daughter, Diana Bower, sons, Wade Bower, Sr. and Neil Debby Bower all of Genoa and grandchildren, Wade Bower, Jr. and Nadine Bower. Her parents and brother, Loren Heldt, preceded her in death. Visitation will be 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Friday, February 8, 2008, in St. Johns United Church of Christ, Genoa, with the memorial service to follow at 1:30 p.m. Burial will take place in Clay Township Cemetery. The family has suggested memorials for Merivene to St. Johns United Church of Christ, Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Perrysburg, or Lake High School Scholarship Fund.