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NEW PARIS – The New Paris Cemetery Association recently transferred the leadership of a group of members with 30 years of existence in the association to a new group.
Former board members tendered their resignations at a town hall meeting in May after community residents complained about dead grass surrounding gravestones, as well as issues with deeds and plots of the cemetery, explained Tom Lantz, administrator of Jackson Township.
After discussion, the newly elected members of the Board of Directors were: John Yoder, President; Dar Myers, secretary and treasurer; and Shayne Losee-Crain, Julie Dodey and Tom VanDiepenbos.
Former board members included: Bonnie Rock, Kaeton Zartman, Carl Warble, Jimmie Houston, Penny Wilchewsky and Dave McFarren.
Lantz said the former members shared their tips and information on maintaining the cemetery grounds and keeping records with the new board for a smoother transition.
30 years of service
Former President Bonnie Rock worked with her late husband, Gene Rock, who became the cemetery keeper in 1988. Over the years the couple have repaired over 100 headstones, cleared brush, planted grass, removed several tall trees and rows of fences, Lantz explained.
“The records were updated and the land was purchased,†Lantz said. “For several years, Bonnie, her family and board members prepared for the funeral, serviced and continued a legacy of care. Our community and especially our veterans are grateful for the dedication and the many hours sacrificed by this council and the former members for their community service. I have every confidence in our new officials, who have volunteered their time to help New Paris Cemetery. I very much appreciate their commitment.
Sherry Van Arsdall can be reached at [email protected] or 574-533-2151, ext. 317. Follow Sherry on Twitter @svanarsdall_TGN.
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