Full responses — Sisters of St. Francis in Tiffin

Sister Rebecca Aelker – Resides in Bryon. She was born in Miller City.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born on August 2, 1936, I lived on a farm about 3 miles east  of Miller City, Ohio. My parents were William and Lucille (Schroeder) Aelker. I have one sister, Betty Nienberg (former Sister Philomena). Betty is an RN and she married Donald Nienberg in 1972. They have two adopted children, Valerie and Roger. Valerie is married to Brian Zell and they live in Rogers, Arkansas. Their two precious children are Jack and Katie. Roger is married to Samantha (Templeton) and they live next door to Betty and Don on a farm between Ottawa and Glandorf. Their children are Ace and Sydney. Roger is a Commander in the Air National Guard at the base near Toledo. I love my family very dearly. In fact, my niece, Valerie, always calls me – my aunt who thinks she is my mother!

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

Living in Putnam County was always so wonderful for me. I love rural areas and the country living. Being a farm girl was always fun in spite of the hard work. Putnam County is such a rural area with the small rural towns  and it always seems that everyone in Putnam County knew one another! In fact, all of my aunts and uncles lived in Putnam County and were farmers, too.

As I was writing this I recall that in my years of ministry, I have been in rural areas except for the several years that I was a Health coordinator at St. Anthony Villa in Toledo. Living on the farm was not always easy as I said. I recall that in the summer Betty and I had to hoe all the thistles out of the fields and the pasture. We would get upset because our neighbor did not hoe the thistles out of his fields so the winds would blow the seeds over into our fields for next summer’s crop.

One of my big responsibilities was mowing the lawns with a hand push mower and our lawns were not small. This was my job because I was bigger and stronger than Betty. Oh, well, It got done usually in the evenings when the sun was not so hot. I also recall that when it came time for the hay to be brought into the barn, I would work in the haymow, forking the hay back for the next fork load to come up. This was a hot and dusty job. But a big help for Mom and Dad. 

I loved the farm and I still to today. I love going to my Sister’s home in Putnam County to enjoy the farm and the wide open spaces of farm lands etc. So you see I am still a Putnam County Girl!

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

Having been taught by the Sisters of St. Francis from Tiffin I think my first remembrance of, maybe, wanting to be a sister was when I was in the fourth grade. It was a windy day and we were outside at recess. When a gust of wind blew Sister Emma Pothast’s veil inside out, she looked at me and said, “Someday this may happen to you.” 

Then in the 7th & 8th grade, Sister Beatrice Herman really helped me think more about being a sister. She encouraged me to go to St. Francis Aspirant School in Tiffin. So one day when I came home from school I said to Mom and Dad at the supper table, “I am going to Tiffin to high school next year.” I do not remember what Mom and Dad said, but I never heard one word of discouragement from them. So here I am today a Sister of St. Francis from Tiffin, Ohio.

One thing I want to tell also is that when Betty and I were young we love to “Play Sister.” So our dear Mother made us sister Habits and we would dress up and play sister, teaching school, going to our play church and praying, and running around out in the yard until we saw a car coming down our lane. Then we rushed into the house to hide or get out of our habits.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

I thought being a sister would be an easy way to please God. Even now I say the same in spite of some difficult times. But, all in all l have been blessed in my 65 years as a sister. Being a teacher for 17 years has brought me in contact with so many young people, who today still know me and remember the years we had together. Then in my almost 50 years as a nurse I have had so much joy and cared for so many people who have become such a tremendous part of my life. 

Today, in my retirement, I volunteer at St. Patrick Parish in Bryan, Ohio working with the Parish Nurse, visiting the sick in the hospital, visiting and bring Eucharist to the people in nursing homes and the homebound. I am still so greatly blessed and my heart is filled with peace and joy as I am able to continue to serve. What a Gift.

Being a Sister of St. Francis, a rural community, has truly been a God-given call to serve God’s people and I have to add that my years as a nurse have truly been precious, sacred, and cherished.

So this Putnam County Girl is grateful for God’s call to serve as a Sisters of St. Francis of Tiffin, Ohio and I am forever grateful to my dear Mom and Dad, who sacrificed so much for me and to my dear Sister and her family who love and support me, and to all my sisters in community. 

Sister Gemma Fenbert – Resides at the St. Francis Convent in Tiffin. She was born in Columbus Grove

I was born in Fort Jennings, Ohio on December 24, 1938 to Frank and Marcella Fenbert and my brothers and sisters are Rita Schmitz, Felix Fenbert who is dead, Alice Hermiller who is Dead, Edna Ellerbrock and Bertha Hermiller.

I went to the convent when I was a sophomore in high school. The way it happened was, I was driving the tractor in the summertime and the “call” came to me that maybe I should be a sister. I didn’t want to, because I really liked boys, but the scripture that came to me was, “She who leaves father and mother for my sake will gain everlasting life and happiness here.” So

I decided to give it a try, and I have never regretted this decision.

I have found each of the ministries that I have had was a gift. I have been a teacher, principal, retreat director, in leadership in the community, pastoral associate, and now I am retired but work part time at Saint Francis Home in pastoral care. I have been a Sister for 63 years and have found deep joy and satisfaction in loving and serving God in this way.

Sister Andrea Inkrott – Currently resides in Archbold. She was born in New Cleveland along with her sister by birth, Sister Carol Inkrott

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born in 1942 the oldest of Joe and Cecilia Inkrott seven children on a farm in between Ottawa, Leipsic and Miller City. I became a Tiffin Franciscan sister in 1960. My “Sister” sister Carol is also a Tiffin Franciscan sister. Our sister Darlene (Stan Miller) and our brother Dale still live on the family farm and the several of the next generation have built their homes on that same farm. I grew up helping my father with the tractor driving, but the size of the tractors were much smaller than the ones I now see in the fields!

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

The best part of being raised in Putnam County was the rural aspect of being close to nature and too experience the trust in God that farming carries with it. We always had food to eat and family and neighbors to visit and to share with.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

I was very little when I felt called to be a sister.  The sisters who taught us were Tiffin Franciscans and I loved them and their joyfulness. Our family was close to the sisters in New Cleveland. We had relatives in the Dayton Precious Blood community, but I felt drawn to the sisters from Tiffin.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

The most satisfying aspect of my being able to serve God is to be able to serve other people, especially the people whom I have gotten to know and love throughout my years of serving with the persons who speak Spanish. Beginning in Mexico with the poorer farm families on Southern Mexico as a member of a pastoral team of Mexican priests and sisters and later in Saints Peter and Paul in Toledo and in the Diocese of Charlotte in North Carolina. I feel blessed to be able to continue to minister with persons who speak Spanish in one ministry or another ever since the seventies.

Sister Carol Inkrott – Currently resides in Bluffton. She was born in New Cleveland along with her sister by birth, Sister Andrea Inkrott

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born December 7, 1943.  I lived in Putnam County until I went to the convent school in 1957.  We belonged to New Cleveland Holy Family Parish. My parents were Joseph and Cecilia Inkrott.  My siblings are Sister Andrea Inkrott, Darlene (Stan) Miller, Larry (Doris) Inkrott, Ron (Mary Jane) Inkrott, Ken Inkrott, and Dale (Paula) Inkrott.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

I still really appreciate that I was raised on a farm and belonged to a small supportive parish. I believe that the parish’s very real interest and encouragement of our vocations was /is instrumental.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

I was in the eighth grade so I guess I was 13.  My older sister was already at St. Francis and, though I kept denying it, I just simply felt drawn to the convent.  It was something I wanted and needed to do.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ?

I think a vocation to the religious life is like any other vocation in life.  We think we know what it will be like but there really are lots of ups and downs, joys and sorrows, satisfactions and disappointments.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

The sisters in our community, the opportunities for education and formation that I have had, all the people I have worked with and who have inspired me.

Sister Kateri Kaufman – Resides in Paducah, KY. She was born in Miller City

I was born February 20, 1942 and lived in Putnam County from 1943-1956 and then came to the Sisters of St. Francis. From 1962-1976 I served in various locations throughout Northwest, Ohio. I lived in Miller City, Glandorf, and Leipsic. Parents, Albert, Catherine (Siebenck) and Josephine (Recker) Kaufman. Family members. Kenneth (Roseann) Kaufman, Harold (Mary Jane) Kaufman, Joseph (Diane) Kaufman, Bonita (Bill) Schnipke, Henry (Jane) Kaufman.

In 1976, I moved to Paducah, KY where I currently serve. I have focused on working with young children as a child-care provider in a daycare center, and more recently have worked as a housekeeper in several locations.

I went to the high school at the prep school in Tiffin. Even in 7th grade I had the feeling of not going to the regular high school. My cousin, Sr. Margaret Verhoff, was in Tiffin and I must have had the feeling of following her. Since my mother died when I was very young, my dad and grandmother raised us and we didn’t have much, but we had fun on the farm and worked very hard.

I believe I always wanted to serve others and still people come and ask for prayers. I often wonder if I am any closer to the Lord than they are. I do enjoy that we have time for prayers and reflection.

Sister Diana Kleman – Resides in Toledo. She was born in Miller City.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born (August 1951) and lived in Putnam County, graduated from St. Francis High School in Tiffin in 1969 and, following the completion of a teaching degree from the University of Toledo, returned to teach in Fort Jennings and New Cleveland until 1978. When people ask me where I lived in Putnam County, I say, “I went to school in Miller City, Church at St. Joseph in North Creek, North Creek telephone, and a mailing address of Continental!” The culture of a rural county. Though growing up on The Farm, I claim Miller City. My parents were Harold and Martha Kleman and my siblings are Mary Jane, Ed, Phil, Ron, George, Theresa, and Janice.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

The best part of being growing up in Putnam County was growing up on a farm. My parents had such a deep love of the earth, love of creation, and a deep trust in God. As my Dad once said, “Farming is the greatest gamble ever; you must trust in God as only God makes the weather.” 

Baling hay, though “hot and dusty,” was my favorite time of the year because it was a job that all of us, except the very youngest kids, helped with. Being the oldest of eight, I had so many gifted learning opportunities on the farm such as learning to cook at an early age, caring for chickens and livestock, learning to drive the tractor, learning to preserve the produce from the garden, and learning not to say “I’m bored” as dad would make us pull weeds in the field east of the kitchen window. And, when he came in from the fields in the evening, he knew exactly how well we pulled weeds that day. 

When others are surprised at my wonderful farm stories, I realize my farm family and the “ruralness” of Putnam County are gifts I would not have experienced in other places. I am an avid reader and was so grateful we had the Bookmobile come to Miller City School throughout the summer. My first job was at the Putnam County Library! I have lived in Toledo now for 41 years and still plant a small garden, let the neighbor kids plant tomatoes, and preserve produce from my garden and the Farmers Market.

Just last summer a young man, age 18, was visiting his granny and reminded me that I taught him how to plant and care for tomatoes when he was five. What a gift both he and I shared.  Love of Creation.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

By the time that I was ten, I knew I wanted to be a Tiffin Franciscan Sister.  Some of my teachers in grade school were Franciscan Sisters and I wanted to be like them and teach. The Sisters read stories about the saints to us and often on Friday afternoons, we would go to the cafeteria and watch movies about the priests and sisters who worked in Africa. I clearly remember riding with mom to Siefker’s in Miller City one day after school and telling her that when I became a Sister I wanted to go to Africa to work with the poor.

In her great wisdom, she said that was wonderful; however, there were lots of poor people in Ohio. God was already planting the seed within me to love and care for the poor. I have only lived in Toledo, and after 41 years am still working with many poor and marginalized persons.  

Being called by God to be a Sister seemed so very normal as everyone is called by God with a vocation and to a ministry.  When we girls would play at home, my sister Jane was a Mom and I was a Sister who did the teaching. I received a Sister doll at Christmas and she received a Bride doll at Christmas! We always went to church at North Creek and often prayed the rosary in the evening. We were familiar with the idea of religious life as mom’s brother, Father Henry Langhals, was a Precious Blood Priest and three of my cousins were Precious Blood Sisters in Dayton. I loved the many visits from my cousins and my uncle’s stories of working in Detroit during the riots and his working with the poor. 

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ?

Did things go the way I thought they would? I give a resounding yes to that question as I have been blest with many opportunities to work with those who are marginalized; I have been gifted with the ability and the opportunities to step outside the box of my comfort zone and find myself  very much at home there.

When I moved to Toledo, I completed a Master’s Degree in School Administration believing that I would spend the rest of my life being a principal. My ministry at Fort Jennings and New Cleveland had planted that seed. However, God had other plans and he was remembering my desire to work with the poor. I worked with teens in a residential treatment center and with persons in the Emergency Trauma Dept. of St. Vincent Hospital.  

I was quickly falling into the world of Social Work and social justice, and realized, that as a Franciscan Sister, God was giving me the opportunity to work with the marginalized; kids, teens, and adults with serious mental health issues, and then with children in foster care, adoptions and mental health.

I completed a Social Work degree at Case Western and a PhD program at Ohio State so that I could share my passion for doing social work through teaching at Bluffton University and Bowling Green State University. Teaching in Putnam County remains a cornerstone of my life as I also volunteer in Toledo Public Schools and continue sharing my gift of teaching at BGSU.  Daily, I am so blest to be a Franciscan Sister, with strong roots that developed in Putnam County.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

The most satisfying aspect of my being called by God and gifted to serve the marginalized is the realization that my calling began in my family. It began when I was taught by the Sisters of St. Francis who ministered in Putnam County, and by my family who supported each of us kids in our callings from God and in our ministries. Perhaps it was the “farm life” that drew many Sisters from Putnam County 150 years ago to the Franciscan life in Tiffin, Ohio as that setting was also a farm environment founded by Fr. Bihn and Mother Francis.  Love of Creation and trust in God.

“The good we secure for ourselves is precarious and uncertain until it is secured for all of us and incorporated into our common life.” — Jane Addams

Sister Mary Kuhlman – Resides in Tiffin, is the Chair of the 150th Anniversary Committee, and serves on the Leadership Team. She was born in New Cleveland.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born the 4th child of Dorothy (Lammers) and Norbert Kuhlman in Dec. of 1946. I grew up in New Cleveland but came to the convent high school at St. Francis Convent in the fall of 1960. I left behind Teresa Ann (Kuhlman) Rieman (now deceased) who was already married when I left home. Those still at home were Nancy (Kuhlman) Schimmoeller, still not married at the time, Carl Kuhlman (now deceased), Martin Kuhlman, Wilma (Kuhlman) Inkrott, and Ruth (Kuhlman) Nartker (now deceased).

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

The best part of being raised in Putnam County was being related to everyone there. To date, I had to leave the county so I didn’t inadvertently fall in love with my own cousins! I was raised as a farm girl, loving the land, working hard and playing hard. Most everyone was on the same economic level.

There was a deep faith in Putnam County and we held most values in common. Imagine my surprise when I was introduced to girls who did not know how to clean house or block beets. The greater surprise came when whole families did not attend the same church, or not at all.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

I fell in love with my teachers, who were Franciscan Sisters, and from first grade wanted to be just like them. I played teacher and sister at home. I was encouraged by my family, as were so many other kids in the neighborhood.

In my eighth grade class there were seven girls and four of us went to a convent. Thinking of being a sister was encouraged at home, in school, and among relatives. Lots of good examples to follow.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ??

Well, I was always going to be a teacher, and I was for several years. Other opportunities like being a part of a house of prayer, being a leader of two parishes, being on community leadership, starting a new ministry for trafficked women unfolded and captured my heart and imagination. Could I ever have foreseen these opportunities or expected them? No. I have given my life to God and how I did that were opportunities of grace and growth for me.  

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

The most satisfying has been being a part of a community who is striving to be the best we can be and looking beyond ourselves to serve others.  So many opportunities in the ways of education, talks, challenges, and graces were given to me because I am a member of this community.

Sister Joanne Lammers – Resides in Tiffin where she serves as the Director of Mission Advancement. She was born in Miller City.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born in 1950 near Miller City, OH and lived there until 1967 when I entered the convent.  Parents: the late Rudolph and Alberta Dulle Lammers. Siblings living: Dorothy Meyer, Paul Lammers, Bill Lammers, Nick Lammers. Siblings deceased: Marilyn Inkrott, Betty Recker, Bob Lammers, Ruth Alt.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

We grew up on a family farm, and that was our way of life. My parents were faith-filled people who instilled wonderful family values. My mother used to say that the 3 F’s were the glue in our lives: faith, friends, and food. We’ve had the best times together as family.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

My growing up years were actually a discernment of my vocation. I joined the Sisters of St. Francis when I was 18 years old.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ?

My expectations were to love God and others and to live that out together in our Franciscan Community, in loving service to others.  That has always served to be true. I’ve always received much more than I’ve given.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

God has graced me with so many wonderful, faith-filled people on life’s journey. I’m so grateful for them, all they’ve taught me, and all the opportunities I’ve had through the years. My family has always been a tremendous support and encouragement through the years.

Sister Mary Ann Lucke – Resides at St. Francis Convent. She was born in Fort Jennings.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

Sr. Mary Ann Lucke (age 92) was born Feb. 28, 1927 to Ferd and Martha (Ricker) Lucke.  She is the oldest of 12 (nine girls and three boys); Mary Ann, Vera, Alice, Betty, Wilma, Donald, Karen, Josie, Norma, Elmer, Doris, and John.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

Mary Ann grew up with her family on a sizable farm that bordered a woods which she enjoyed hiking in. Her father owned and farmed several different plots in the county. She remembers a picturesque creek running through their home property that also housed a silo, pig pen, and several out-buildings for equipment and animals. She so appreciated the rural setting in Putnam County and most remembers the long walk down their lane before she could reach the road to her school.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

Sr. Mary Ann felt God’s call when she was in high school. To her, becoming a nun was a natural transition because of her upbringing and all of her teachers through grade six were nuns.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ?

The only outstanding expectation young Mary Ann recalls having, aside from serving God, was to be a good teacher.  She liked all of her teachers as well as all the nuns she met when, in high school, she visited the St. Francis convent in Tiffin.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

Sr. Mary Ann did become a Franciscan nun and a teacher, starting in New Washington with grades two through high school.  At one point she had 62 students – she has fond memories of so many more. She most enjoys going to Mass every day.

Sister Edna Michel – Resides in Tiffin where she is the Director of the St. Francis Spirituality Center. She was born in Cuba.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

My name is Sister Edna Michel. I was born on April 8, 1950 in St. Rita’s Hospital in Lima, the second living daughter of Othmar and Dorothey (Morman) Michel (now deceased). I have five siblings, all married and still living: Rita (Bob) Maag of Ottawa Glandorf, Janet (Cliff) Schroeder of Ottawa Glandorf; my only brother, Leonard (Doris) Michel, Continental (Cuba); Donna (Tom) Klear, Continental; and Judy (Jeff) Orphal, Wapakoneta.  

We six siblings grew up on a farm just north of St. Isadore Church in Cuba, so still like to claim Cuba as our home, even though the church is now gone.  We were in the Miller City school district. I attended Miller City Elementary where I met the Tiffin Franciscans who were then teaching in the school. Yes, even though it was a public school, we had Sisters teaching there, had religion class daily and attended Mass almost daily.  (Released time arrangement, since the majority of us were Catholic.) I went to St. Francis for high school – because that’s what you did in those days if you were thinking about being a Sister. So I lived full time in Putnam County for 14 years.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

Being raised in Putnam County was like being part of a big family.  Even though as a child I basically only knew the people in my parish of St. Isadore and the kids I went to school with, many people knew my parents because they had grown up there also (Glandorf and Cuba).  

A great majority of residents there can trace their ancestral roots back to Germany – or at least  Europe – and with some research will discover that they are physically related to a vast number of fellow Putnam “Countians.”  Sharing a similar background and culture also included sharing values that always included faith. 

The county is dotted with large impressive churches and even today they are filled with worshippers of all ages. I’ve often wondered how my life would have been different if I had been raised in a large city’s high rise apartment, or in another part of the world. I have an innate love for the land and for nature;  I am typically pretty trusting of people I meet and I consequently find most people friendly and helpful (it’s my general expectation of people, based on how I was raised).

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

I was very shy as a child and so the idea of going to school was frightening for me.  Furthermore, our bus picked up everyone from Grade 1 (we didn’t have a kindergarten yet) through high school, so the “big kids” also intimidated me.  I had Sister Virginia Fisher (also a native from Putnam county) as my first and second grade teacher (yes, two grades in the same room; 56 kids). She put me at ease and I felt protected and cared for.  By the time I was in the second grade I had a strong sense that when I grew up I wanted to be just like her, to be a Sister and a teacher, and to help little kids who were afraid to go to school. I had a special sense of God being with me and hearing my prayers and I felt loved and accepted by God.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ??

I expected to become a primary teacher. I began my teaching career in Grades 3-4, planning to move into the lower grades (because I wasn’t sure I could teach little kids how to read – it had come to me so naturally). However, I was asked to take Grade 6 the following year, then Grades 7-8. It was in junior high that I really found my niche.

But, in the back of my mind I wanted to get a degree in theology and serve as a director of religious education which eventually took me outside a regular classroom. I was invited to help with youth retreats which I thoroughly enjoyed.  Then I was called to service within the Tiffin Franciscan congregation, as vocation director, novice director and then four terms in community leadership – not what I had expected at all. I moved into parish work, first as a pastoral associate, then later as a pastoral leader.  All through those years I would help on an occasional retreat. Now I am the director of our spirituality center in Tiffin, offering retreats and spiritual direction. All of this gradually evolved over the years.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

I have met so many wonderful people in the various places I served; it was easy to see God in them, even when they were going through tough times. I have also been affirmed by so many of them. I have had golden opportunities to expand my horizons, thanks to the Tiffin Franciscans through the years who have taught me, encouraged me, challenged me, and offered me experiences which opened my heart to increasing numbers of people from a variety of cultures and backgrounds. I know I am where I’m supposed to be and my heart is full of joy and satisfaction.

Sister Rosann Morman – Resides in Tiffin. She was born in Leipsic.

I was born Elizabeth (Betty) Morman on December 12, 1941. I grew up on a farm subside of Ottawa. My parents were Alfred and Arletta (Westriech) Morman, along with my brother Paul (Sharon Fenbert) and sister Ruth (Tom Ellerbrock).

I went to grade school at New Cleveland. During recess, our pastor had some of us girls make rosaries for the missions. I felt he took an interest in us. We also had Tiffin Franciscan sisters for our teachers. They were a great influence in my life.

I came to Tiffin after the eighth grade. I started prep school in 1956 at the St. Francis Convent. In 1960, I entered the convent and became known as Sister Mary Rosann Morman.

I enjoy cooking, so most of the time I cooked at different places where our sisters taught and also at our Sisters kitchen and their retreat center for 13 years.  For 12 years, I cooked for the priests at St. Mary’s Church in Tiffin. I currently work in the flower gardens, as a receptionist and in hospitality at St. Francis Convent.

The most satisfying aspect of my life is being able to serve others.

Sister Carol Pothast – Currently resides in Tiffin. She was born in Fort Jennings.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

Born: at home, Ft. Jennings in 1943 and lived there until 1957. Lived and ministered in      Putnam County about 25 years. Parents: Aloysius and Irene Pothast. Siblings: Ruth, Jane, Harold.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

Looking back, I appreciate the fact that we in Ft Jennings had Sisters of St Francis as our teachers and a very kind, holy and gentle pastor. As a child Putnam County, it meant Putnam County Fair, school displays at the Fair,  4-H membership, a bookmobile, basketball games, regular church attendance etc. Living in a rural setting, I’m sure, has influenced my life and thinking.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

My first interest surfaced when I was in second grade. My teacher, Sister Jovita Morman, was an inspiration to me – so kind and happy…one that was a joy to be around.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ?

I expected things to happen somewhat just as I had observed in the life of the Sisters in our parish.  And, this is much like life took place in the first years of Formation. Likewise, I wanted to minister as a teacher and was able to do so for at least 23 years.  As the years moved on changes were a constant and today is quite different than I could have imagined.  

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

It is satisfying to know that each of us in our St Francis Community does our part in a variety of ministries…teaching, nursing, pastoral care, caring for the earth, caring for the marginalized, elderly care, immigration needs and others…yet knowing that together we, the Sisters of St. Francis, accomplish much in our little parts of the world.

Sister Edna Ricker – Resides at St. Francis Home. She was born in Fort Jennings.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born in 1922 to Charles and Helen (Bensman) from Ottoville. My siblings were Eleanor, Phillip (Margaret Turgie), Sr. Alma and James (Irma Shurman). I lived in Putnam County until 1937 and graduated from high school in 1942. She 96 years old and is the second oldest living sister on record.

My brother James said, “It sure is lonesome here with two of my sisters gone.”

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

They were good people with a deep faith, prosperous people, efficient farmers and knew what they were doing. They had good buildings, too.

It was our job to help with the animals, work in the garden and help with the canning, carry supper or water out to the men working in the fields, mowing the lawn, driving the car. We led a simple life and had no electricity until I was in the 7th grade.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

I did not become a sister until I was 24 years old. I was “not able to leave the nest” any earlier because my family needed me at home to help them with the farm. My neighbor and cousin Sr. Mary Ann Lucke headed to St. Francis two years prior.

It was definitely the teachers who were sisters that greatly influenced my decision to become a sister. I had attended a Catholic School and had sisters for most of her elementary years. (Sr. Edna can still recite the names of all of her teachers from 1st-8th grade)

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ?

I did not have any sort of expectations. It took it for granted that, “whatever will be, will be.”

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

A couple of travel experiences that I may not have otherwise had, if I had not become a Sister. They opened my eyes and my sister Alma’s eyes and brought us both new friendships. It also changed my sister Alma’s life…her world was opened. 

Sister Linda Scheckelhoff – Resides in Chiapas, Mexico. She was born in New Cleveland

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

My name is Sister Linda Scheckelhoff. I was born in 1947 and lived in Putnam County from 1947 to 1965. I grew up and lived on a farm about one mile north of New Cleveland. My parents were Floyd Scheckelhoff and Agnes (Gerdeman) Scheckelhoff, both of whom are deceased. I have three brothers: Rick Scheckelhoff, Ken Scheckelhoff, and Floyd Scheckelhoff and two sisters: Jane Riepenhoff and Cindy Maag, all of whom are living.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

I believe the best part of being raised in Putnam County back in the ‘50s and ‘60s was the simplicity of life-style, the trust and respect for the earth which were so much a part of the farming community, the firm faith and family values instilled in me and the relationships developed in a small community setting.

Being raised in Putnam County had its advantages, but did not expose me to the rich diversity of peoples, cultures and experiences that I might have had being raised somewhere else.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

At 13 I was attracted to religious life by the simplicity and joy shown by my eighth grade teacher, Sr. Joan Boff, and so entered the convent school of the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Charity in Tiffin where I completed by freshman and sophomore years. In 1963 I decided to finish my high school years in Miller City where I graduated in 1965. After making plans to attend Mary Manse College in Toledo to become a teacher, I attended a retreat in Carey and there experienced God´s pulling me to dedicate my life to Him and his people. So after some struggle I withdrew my application to Mary Manse and instead joined the Sisters of St. Francis of Penance and Charity in Tiffin on September 5, 1965. And I have never regretted my decision.  

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ?

I guess my expectations before becoming a Sister, were that I would serve God through teaching at the elementary level. I did teach for eight years, but early on God was inviting/luring me to serving the poor in our mission in Mexico. After a discernment process in 1976 I was missioned to serve in our mission in the Diocese of San Cristóbal de las Casas in the state of Chiapas, Mexico.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

To have the privilege to live and serve in another country and experience the rich cultural diversity. Being loved and accepted by the Mexican people whose deep faith and trust in a God of life and love has taught me so much and enabled me to grow as a person and daughter of God. To be able to accompany the people in their struggle for justice, equality and a better life.

Sister Jane Schimmoeller – Resides in Tiffin. She was born in Fort Jennings

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born at home on March 1, 1938 to John and Rose Schimmoeller (d). I was the tenth child among eleven: Ernest (d), Roger (d), Helen (d), Mary Gasser-Sergeant (d), Cleo ‘Click’ (d), Paul, Annette Hilvers, Ethel Recker, Marge Von Sossan, Catherine Schimmoeller. I lived on a farm near Ft. Jennings till I entered the convent at 17. My high school years were at the Convent High School in Tiffin.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

I am always grateful for having lived on a farm where I learned an appreciation for the land and all nature. I loved being in an area that was dotted with small towns and many farms. I still appreciate living places where I can grow a garden and have outside place to enjoy.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

I was taught in grade school by the Sisters of St. Francis of Tiffin, OH and always was attracted to them.  My religious vocation calling was just a part of me and I seriously began to realize it in the last years of elementary school and therefore chose to receive my high school education at the Convent’s high school for girls who wished to become Sisters.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ??

My expectation and lived experience were pretty much the same. When the Second Vatican happened in the 60’s, much began to change in the Convent as well as in the Church. For me the changes were happily received.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

That I am living and serving in the way to which God has called me.

Sister Paulette Schroeder – Resides in Tiffin. She was born in New Cleveland.

When were you born and what years did you live in Putnam County? Which village did you live in or were closest to? Who were or are your parents? Who were or are your siblings?

I was born in 1944 on May 2, and I lived in Putnam County until I was 14 yrs. old near Leipsic, OH.  My Mother was Kathryn Lammers and Father Vincent I Schroeder, and my siblings were/are Frank,(+) Vern,(+) Fr. Dennis (+), Mark, Earl, Steve, Vince, and Louis. My sisters were/are Phyliss Rieman (+), Marilyn Ruhe, Evie Milano, and Pat Bennet.

What would you say was the best part of being raised in Putnam County? How do you feel being raised here affected you differently than if you had been raised somewhere else?

Being a part of a large family with good, friendly neighbors small school where we were all known quite well. Neighborhood and town events and family events were all important. I also learned to love the land and the example of working hard on the land. Now in my later years I gain so much wisdom still from having been a farm girl.

How old were you when you felt called to God? Can you describe what that was like?

As a family we always prayed together for a boy and a girl in our family to give themselves to God.  I was so unsure of myself in going after the eighth grade, and I admit that my “reasons” for going to the convent were quite different from why I stayed.  God has strange ways.

Before becoming a Sister, what were your expectations? Did things go the way you thought they would? If not, how did they differ??

I just basically thought I’d be better able to serve God’s poor people – I wanted to be a missionary but really lacked the guts at that time to go far away from home. Well, we were strict at the time in the convent, and talking, etc. were all pretty regulated. We went home to visit only three times a year. It was difficult not to go to family weddings, etc. I’m pretty sure it was as strange to my family as it was to me – maybe they just thought, too, that this was a real sure way to be “holy” – deny oneself, etc. 

We have a whole different way of thinking these days. I’m so happy about that.

What has been the most satisfying aspect of your service to God?

I’ve met so many wonderful people in service to God’s people. I was introduced to very poor people, to people of different cultures, to the prison system, and to people of other lands. I even got to live in Palestine for three years as a Christian Peacemaker. 

Those three years turned me inside out. I found out how difficult it is to convince the normal run of people here in the U.S. about a whole different narrative taking place in Palestine/Israel than what we are presented in our newspapers and social media. It was because of this stay in Palestine, and due to a peace trip to Nicaragua, that I became politically involved. Politics affect people’s real life so much.

Associate Judy Washbush – Resides in Madison, WI. She was born in Fort Jennings.

I am not a sister, I am an associate.  I checked in the community directory, and I’m pretty sure that I am the only associate who comes from Putnam County.  I used to be a sister. 

I was born in Fort Jennings in 1945.  Fort Jennings, which now has a population of 479, was even smaller then.  My parents were Tony and Mary (Rellinger) Metzger. Two of my brothers, Joe and Mike, stayed in Fort Jennings.  Joe married Diane Baker, from Van Wert. Mike married Melanie Gengler, from Landeck. My sister Ginny moved to Ottoville when she married an Ottoville native, Jim Miller.  My brother Dan moved to Kalida when he married Marilyn Miller, who was from Cloverdale. My brother Ron married Marty Jenkinson, from Greenville, and they eventually moved to Colorado.

The Tiffin sisters taught in our elementary school, St. Joseph’s.  The school had a unique arrangement. It was a public school, but the building was owned by the parish.  We were taught by the Sisters of St. Francis, and the sisters received a public school salary. When I was in the first grade I went up to my teacher, Sister Eveline Hug, and grabbed onto her cord.  “What’s in these knots?” I asked. “Three promises I made to Jesus,” she said. (Poverty, chastity and obedience.) That’s when I became interested in being a sister. And all my elementary teachers knew that I was interested.  So it was only natural that when I was a sophomore in high school I went to the convent school in Tiffin, and became a postulant as a senior, then a novice for two years. I was a sister from 1965 to 1970. I taught in Edgerton, Peru and North Auburn.  Then I left the convent and moved to Milwaukee. I now live in Madison, Wisconsin. I have five children and five grandchildren. 

After I was married, I occasionally went back to Tiffin to visit my sister friends.  At some point, the sisters held a reunion for former members, and after that, I visited more regularly.  Then they began the associate program and I decided to become reconnected in that way. Now I go back to Tiffin two or three times a year. 

When I was a sister, the mother superior was Mother Euphrasia Wallenhorst, from Fort Jennings.  She liked to remind me that she went to school with my uncle, Frank Metzger, in a little one-room schoolhouse.

I go back to Fort Jennings as often as I can.  Even though they have a new school building and new church, much of the village is unchanged.  I walk on sidewalks that I remember from when I was a kid. It’s good to have rural roots, to be able to go back to a place where people have always known who you are.  The whole county is rural. I have lived in large cities ever since I left the convent. And I love city life, especially its diversity. City life can be exciting and fast-paced.  But sometimes I need to slow down. Driving into Putnam County, driving through fields and small towns, slows me down and takes me back to a quieter time in my life.