Ernest Nelson Hengstler

February 19, 1931 - April 22, 2022

Ernest N. “Ernie” Hengstler, 91, of rural Wapakoneta, died 12:23 p.m., Friday, April 22, 2022, at his home, with his family at his side. He was born February 19, 1931, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of the late Carl Everett & Edna Ruth (Nelson) Hengstler. On January 21, 1951, he married Marilyn Ann Shields, and she preceded him in death on April 9, 2022. Survivors include, 6 children, Greg Hengstler, Wapakoneta Cary Hengstler, Lima Scott Hengstler, Wapakoneta Rodney (Elaine) Hengstler, Petersburg, TN Troy (Lisa) Hengstler, Lima Julie Hoelscher, Wapakoneta 22 grandchildren 19 great grandchildren 2 sisters, Dawn Hosman, Napoleon, Ohio Helen Bryer, Houston, Texas numerous nieces & nephews In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Hengstler, and a granddaughter, Heather Madison “Maddie” Renee Hengstler. Ernie proudly served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years on the U.S.S. Des Moines #134 which was the flagship of the battle group. He visited the Caribbean and Mediterranean Theaters. Ernie owned and operated two Texaco Service Stations in Wapakoneta. He also was a tank truck driver/ owner- operator for over 21 years. He was a faithful member of St. Paul United Church of Christ, Wapakoneta. Ernie was also a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Aerie #691, Wapakoneta V.F.W. Post #8445, and the American Legion Post #330, all of Wapakoneta. After retiring, Ernie drove the Auglaize Co. Veterans Service Office van taking area veterans to appointments for over 10 years. He enjoyed riding his motorcycles, traveling, camping, spending time visiting Alaska, and helping others. He most enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren & great grandchildren. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 28, 2022, at the Eley Funeral Home & Crematory, St. Rt. 501, Wapakoneta, with Mark Vaughn officiating. Burial is to follow in the Greenlawn Cemetery, Wapakoneta, where military rites will be conducted by the Wapakoneta V.F.W. Post #8445. The family will receive friends 2-4 & 5-8 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Auglaize County Veterans Service Office or St. Rita’s Hospice. Condolences may be expressed at www.eleyfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.