Friday, October 17th, 2025
Dana Blanchard
Dana K. Blanchard, age 55, of New Bremen, passed away on Wednesday evening, October 15, 2025 at Mercy Health St. Rita's Hospital, Lima OH.
She was born December 16, 1969 in Coldwater to Gary and Emily (Harlamert) Wiedeman, both who survive in New Bremen.
Dana is survived by her daughter Lydia, her sister Shelly (John) Zeller of New Bremen, sisters-in-law Karla Wiedeman of New Bremen and Sheryl Wiedeman of Ft. Jennings, and her uncle Dean Harlamert from Alabama. Dana is also survived by nieces and nephew; Michael Bessette, Brianna Wiedeman, Zach Wiedeman, Tyler (Elaina) Wiedeman, Alyssa Wiedeman, Hayden Zeller, and Sieanna Zeller.
Preceding her in death were her brothers Neil and Russ Wiedeman.
Also surviving are Lydia's father, Aaron Blanchard of New Bremen and his family; his mother, Millie (Steve) Gast; father, Matt Blanchard Sr.; sister, Kim (Dave) Stump; and brothers, Matt Blanchard Jr. and Shawn Blanchard, all of the Lima area.
Dana was a member of The Church of the Holy Redeemer in New Bremen. She graduated from New Bremen High School in 1988 and went on to earn her degree in Interior Design from Ohio University in 1992. Dana worked in interior design in Columbus, Ohio, and later held a variety of positions in the New Bremen area. She especially enjoyed her time as a substitute teacher for the Elida Schools.
Dana was a devoted mother who cherished every moment spent with her daughter, especially at school events. She shared her passion for design in every part of her life-through her work, with her friends and family, and in her home. Captivated by color, texture, and light, Dana found joy in creating spaces that were both beautiful and meaningful.
Her strong faith and deep love for God shone through in her kindness and compassion toward everyone she met. She had a gift for listening and genuinely cared about the stories others shared. Even during her hospital stay, Dana's true spirit was evident-she focused on others, offering kind words and compliments, often more than one.
Her radiant smile conveyed gratitude, love, and understanding. Dana's energy, enthusiasm, and laughter will forever be remembered by all who knew her.
Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at the Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home in New Bremen with Rev. Mr. Roger Klosterman officiating. Interment will follow in German Protestant Cemetery near New Bremen.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 2:00 until 5:00 P.M. at the funeral home, and then again one hour prior to the services on Monday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Mercy Health Foundation - Lima, OH. Condolences and memories may be shared with the Blanchard/Wiedeman family online at www.gilberghartwigfh.com.
The family would like to thank St. Rita's Hospital unit 5K staff, providers and hospice for their compassionate care.
