• Home
  • Our Services
    • Burial Options
    • Cremation Options
    • Personalization Options
    • Monuments
    • Send Flowers
  • About Us
    • Our Staff
    • Our History
  • Planning Ahead
  • Planning a Funeral
    • Meaningful Funerals
    • Meaningful Choices
    • Guides and Resources
    • Songs for Memorial Tribute Videos
    • Resource Kit
  • Obits & Guestbook
    • Share Obituary on Facebook
  • FAQs
  • Pricing
  • Pets
  • Contact Us
Logo

For Immediate Assistance, Please Call - (419) 332-6409

Leave us a review

51 Condolences

John “Squirrel” Werling

Werling John B 0001

John Bowlus “Squirrel” Werling, of Fremont, OH passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Thursday, February 25, 2016. He was born on July 14, 1953 in Santa Ana, CA, the son of James and Barbara (Bowlus) Werling. He was a 1972 graduate of Fremont Ross High School.

John married Debbie Corrado on April 10, 1981 in Cadillac, MI and she survives. He owned and operated Pump Landscaping and Gardening for thirty-five years. He enjoyed watching sports and talking politics.

John was a devoted husband, father, son, brother and grandpa. He will be remembered as a hard worker who took great pride in his work and loved his job. He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. He had a special place in his heart for his son, Nick.

John is survived by his wife of thirty-five years, Debbie Werling; sons, Ryan, Matt and Nick Werling, all of Fremont, OH; parents, James and Barbara Werling, Port Clinton, OH; granddaughters, Paige and Taylor Werling; siblings, Jim (Vicki) Werling, Colorado Springs, CO, Jeff Werling, Akron, OH, Jody (T.J.) Brudzinski, Worthington, OH, Pete (Sandy) Werling, Wilmington, NC, Joanne (Matt) Collins, Aurora, CO; several nieces and nephews and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harry and Adelaide Bowlus and Clarence and Lillian Werling.

Visitation: Thursday, March 3, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Victory Church, 2051 Oak Harbor Rd, Fremont, OH.

Memorial Service: Thursday, March 3, 2016; 1:00 p.m. at the church with Pastor Bryan Robles officating

Memorials can be made to the Autism Society of Northwest Ohio, 6629 West Central Avenue, Suite #1, Toledo OH 43617 or to the family.

Online Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.whhfh.com

Arrangements were entrusted to Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home and Crematory.

Offer Condolences for the family of John “Squirrel” Werling

Send Flowers

Print Obituary & Condolences Print Obituary & Condolences

Filed Under: Obituaries

Condolence Messages

  1. Ken and Peggy (Robitski) Risner

    February 28, 2016 at 1:08 am

    Our condolences to the Werling Family on the passing of John. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Reply
  2. Jamie (Wojdyla) Meade

    February 28, 2016 at 3:23 am

    Deepest sympathy Deb

    Reply
  3. Mike Rhodes

    February 28, 2016 at 4:17 am

    I am so sorry to learn of the death of John. He was like extended family in our household. His laughter, smile and quick wit always made John such a delight to be around. I send my deepest and most sincere sympathy to his family. He will be missed.

    Reply
  4. Mel Carroll from the MACC Center

    February 28, 2016 at 4:45 am

    Many prayers and hugs for all of his family and friends.

    Reply
  5. steve klisz

    February 28, 2016 at 5:24 am

    sorry for your loss.we kept in touch a little after school. i will miss him

    Reply
  6. Lenny Ferguson

    February 28, 2016 at 1:18 pm

    To the Werling family, my sincere condolences to all of you. I am sorry for your loss. I can flash back to so many great memories I have had with John as well as the entire Werling family. I am out of state so unfortunately cannot attend the services. My heart and prayers will be there. Lenny Ferguson

    Reply
  7. Cathy Sanzo Zibbel

    February 28, 2016 at 1:24 pm

    Our sincere condolences to the Werling family.
    The Sanzo family

    Reply
  8. Amy Michael Leadfod

    February 28, 2016 at 1:43 pm

    Jody, so very sorry to hear of your loss. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time.

    Reply
  9. Jody Clark

    February 28, 2016 at 3:11 pm

    Deb, Ryan, Matt and Nick, So very sorry for your loss, of John. He put up a brave battle. John was a great man, and will be missed. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Hugs.
    Allen and Jody Clark

    Reply
  10. Cindy Rizzardi

    February 28, 2016 at 5:12 pm

    Dear Jim & Barb, Pete&Sandy, and Werling Family,
    So very sorry to hear the news. Keeping You all close in thought and prayer.
    John was a remarkable man with a huge heart.
    Sharing in Your sorrow.

    John&Cindy Rizzardi

    Reply
  11. John Cullen

    February 28, 2016 at 6:01 pm

    It is with a heavy heart I say goodbye to you my friend! Your legacy lives on in all who knew you and those you touched with your continual kindness!

    J Cullen

    Reply
  12. Judy & Gary Horn

    February 28, 2016 at 6:43 pm

    Matt: I remember after Eric died that you came to our house on Gary’s birthday with a tree that you and your dad wanted to plant in Gary’s honor from Eric and you. We have never forgotten that act of kindness and how honored Gary felt. You had/have a wonderful dad Matt. Gary and I will always be here for you, Always. Prayers for you and your family. Kiss your mom for me.

    Reply
  13. Adam Dible

    February 28, 2016 at 7:48 pm

    Sorry for your loss. He was a great and fun guy. He bought straw from my grandpa Dahms across from the nursery. He even let us rabbit hunt back in the late 80’s. I always enjoyed his style. Hard working and fun to talk to.

    Reply
  14. John and Ruthie Hershey Caputo

    February 28, 2016 at 8:27 pm

    To the entire Werling family we send our deepest condolences. I remember John and your family with so many pleasant memories. May Gid help to get you through this very difficult time. We are thinking of all of you. God Bless !

    Reply
  15. Cheryl Lippert

    February 28, 2016 at 9:07 pm

    So sorry to hear of Johns passing,he put up a good fight. You all are in my thoughts an prayers. With Deepest Sympathy,

    Reply
  16. Terry Hinkle

    February 28, 2016 at 11:23 pm

    To all the Werling family so sorry for your loss. Squirrel was a great guy! We always talked football whenever we ran Into each other. He was a fun guy to be around. He will be dearly missed.

    Reply
  17. Randy Burns

    February 29, 2016 at 12:26 am

    So sorry to hear about John’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family.

    Reply
  18. Dee Might Barletta

    February 29, 2016 at 1:22 am

    I have such wonderful, sweet memories of Squirrel…. in the 8th grade !!! And thru High school ….he was always the guy with the big heart and sweet kind eyes!!!! My sincere sympathy to the whole Werling family…

    Reply
  19. Anne Heinemann

    February 29, 2016 at 2:38 am

    Deb… I was so sad to read this. I’ll be praying for you and the kids.

    Reply
  20. Universal Farms

    February 29, 2016 at 10:52 am

    We are so very sorry for your loss. John was such a great businessman and loved to talk about his family, especially his grandchildren. He brought a smile to those who knew him and he will be missed.

    Reply
  21. Jim Quaintance

    February 29, 2016 at 1:30 pm

    our thoughts and prayers to you guys at this time. all the good times will be remembered forever. from all the Quaintance and Witmer family. Jim, Janet, Justin, Chris, Gina, Jyl, and Jodi.

    Reply
  22. Denny Autullo

    February 29, 2016 at 3:03 pm

    I was saddened to here of John’s passing. I will miss his quick wit and humor. My visits to the nursery were always a treat. Hours upon hours of conversation, everything from politics to high school pranks. My heart and prayers go out to the Werling family.

    Reply
  23. Bill Burkett

    February 29, 2016 at 4:00 pm

    Werling family:

    So many memories flood through my mind after hearing of John’s death. From Hayes School, to Junior High, to Ross, football team, track team and so much more….

    My favorite memory is the night I stayed overnight at the Birchard Ave. home when Bev Mulholland was babysitting for us. Jim, Squirrel and I broke a bed frame while doing tumbling feats on Jim and John’s beds. After our attempts to nail the split bed rail back together with 16d nails failed, we resorted to stacking dictionaries and encyclopedias under the rail in hopes of hiding it from “Big Jim” and Barb.

    Jim will need to finish the story.

    I will miss John

    Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend the funeral due to being out of town. I send my sympathies to the entire family.

    Bill Burkett

    Reply
  24. Sandra Measimer

    February 29, 2016 at 4:55 pm

    Prayers and thoughts for the Werling Families. Saddened by your loss of John, was a great guy. My mom talked about what great people you are all the time. She enjoyed working at Pump’s. He will be missed by many people.

    Reply
  25. Tom and Mary Ellen Leite

    February 29, 2016 at 5:13 pm

    Dear Jim, Barb and Family,
    Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May God grant you His peace in the days ahead.
    Fondly, Tom and Mary Ellen Leite

    Reply
  26. Craig Koerpel

    February 29, 2016 at 5:35 pm

    I only met John one time…at a BBQ last summer. We talked about a range of things from sports to business to his illness. He was a positive, energetic and engaging guy who made me feel welcome at what was essentially a family function. I wish I had had more time to get to know you, Squirrel. RIP

    Reply
  27. Liz Stoner

    February 29, 2016 at 5:46 pm

    Barb, Jim and family: I am so sorry to hear of John’s death. Please accept my sympathy. I cannot imagine what it’s like to lose a child, no matter his age. Reading these messages brings back lots of memories, especially of the years on McPherson Blvd. with all those 30 kids in 6 houses! May you all feel God’s loving arms surrounding you at this difficult time. Love & Peace, Liz Stoner

    Reply
  28. Vicki Wood

    February 29, 2016 at 7:00 pm

    Deb I am so sorry for your loss… Sending prayers to you and family..

    Reply
  29. Mary Post

    March 1, 2016 at 12:18 am

    Dearest Debbie, Sweet Adorable Nick & Family,
    With tears in my eyes my heart flows with “deepest sympathy” for your entire family.
    Deb, Please know you especially will be in my thoughts &

    Reply
  30. Suzanne Richard

    March 1, 2016 at 10:44 am

    My sincere condolences to Johns Family and his Family of Friends. I wish you all peace.

    Reply
  31. Cindy (Schabel) Brogan

    March 1, 2016 at 1:31 pm

    My deepest sympathies and prayers to The Werling family – I hope your memories are able to provide comfort to you at this time.

    Reply
  32. Darcy & Mike Foos

    March 1, 2016 at 2:21 pm

    So very sorry for your loss.
    You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.
    May God bless and be with you.

    Reply
  33. Sarah (Rhodes) Halbeisen

    March 1, 2016 at 2:34 pm

    My deepest sympathy to the Werling family. I have always loved hearing the stories of the great adventures of John and my dad. He will be missed by many.

    Reply
  34. Anne, Tim and Nick Arnold

    March 1, 2016 at 4:53 pm

    Deb and the rest of the Werling Family,

    I am so sorry for the loss of John. My dad having worked for him and with you, Deb, babysitting our son Nick for a few years, we came to know your family very well. Not to mention my time working at Bowlus trucking with Jim and Pete. I have known your family for a very long time and the close relationships you have and I know you will help each other through this difficult time. Prayers and hugs to all of you from Tim, Nick and myself.
    RIH John…

    Reply
  35. Judy Horn

    March 1, 2016 at 8:28 pm

    Barb and Jim: No parent should ever have to bury a child. It’s not supposed to happen that way but when it does our hearts are left with an ache that never goes away. A feeling only another parent who have lost a child could understand.
    You know that John is with God now and free of pain. All I can tell you is that your pain does not get better it just gets different. I pray for peace and relief from your sadness.
    Love you both and your family.

    Judy

    Reply
  36. Mick Wolf

    March 1, 2016 at 8:50 pm

    My heart goes out to you and your boys, Deb. It is true that I never got to know John very well, but I always respected him as a good husband and father. I can tell you from experience that family is the best tonic during times like this. Keep them close so they can comfort you.

    Reply
  37. Tab & Linda Burdine

    March 1, 2016 at 9:35 pm

    So sad to hear of Johns passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Deb and boys and all the Werling family. John was a good man.

    Reply
  38. Don & Judy Kiser

    March 1, 2016 at 10:19 pm

    Our deepest sympathy on John’s passing. Know that we will keep all in our prayers.

    Reply
  39. Cristyn Kocsis

    March 1, 2016 at 11:41 pm

    Deb, so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow.

    Reply
  40. Dave & Brenda Zienta

    March 2, 2016 at 2:15 am

    John was one of my favorite bosses. We shared many good times together landscaping!
    May God give comfort to each of you and Peace be with you!

    Reply
  41. Associated Buyers Inc

    March 2, 2016 at 2:55 pm

    With Deepest Sympathy to Deb and Family

    In your time of sorrow
    may it ease your pain
    to know that others
    are thinking of you.

    Associated Buyers Employees and Their Families
    Edward, Sandra and Donald L.Schultz

    Reply
  42. Janette McBride

    March 2, 2016 at 4:17 pm

    To Debbie, Ryan, Matt, Nick, Page, Taylor, Jim, Barb and all John’s siblings, other family and friends –
    I am saddened that John passed from this world into the next. But I believe the next world is the Kingdom of God’s; a place where we will meet each other again – a place where joy and peace are eternal – the place where Christ went to prepare for us. Debbie, I’ve known you for over 40 years. Even though I moved to California, I am glad we remain close. I will always be here for you. As you know, John and I enjoyed many conversations through the years, especially about politics – a subject that was not far from his or my mind. John had such a great sense of humor and quick wit. I also enjoyed listening to his many adventures, particularly those when he traveled back to CA. John also cared deeply for and spoke lovingly about his wife, children, family and friends. He also loved his community, and our country. When I spoke with him last, I told him to give it his best fight and he said he’s remaining hopeful and positive and is giving it all he’s got. That’s the John I know. Debbie, I pray the good memories you and John made with each other, as well as those you made your children will bring a good measure of comfort. John is no longer suffering physically or from the anguish that illness can bring and I know that means a lot to you. You were a hero to John for he had a deep gratitude for your ongoing and loving care for Nick. He told me you were a strong woman on whom he could depend. He knew how much you love your children and said your grandchildren brought much joy to the both of you. John will live in all of our hearts forever. We will see him again one day. RIP, John Werling! — With love from Janette McBride and husband Tom.

    Reply
  43. Carrie Beier

    March 2, 2016 at 8:13 pm

    Our thoughts, love and prayers are with you and your family. John was a fine man who was loved by many.
    Carrie and Joe Beier

    Reply
  44. Love Beth and Doug

    March 2, 2016 at 11:41 pm

    Your Family is in our thoughts and Prayers during this difficult time. We are there for you Ryan..

    Reply
  45. Dick an Barb Willey

    March 3, 2016 at 2:25 am

    Our condolence To Jim an Barb Deb an the boy’s an John’s siblings, our thoughts an prayers are with you.

    Dick an Barb Willey

    Reply
  46. Dessie Morehart

    March 3, 2016 at 3:36 am

    To Deb and your family
    My thoughts and prayers are with you. Squirrel died too young in life so remember all the good times you had. He loved you and the boys and granddaughters dearly . He was a good worker and provider. I won’t be able to attend Thursday but my thoughts and prayers are with you. If you ever need anything just email me.

    Reply
  47. Tony Cajigas

    March 3, 2016 at 2:19 pm

    Thoughts and prayers to your family

    Tony Cajigas – Wilmington, NC

    Reply
  48. Sally Frederick Breyer

    March 4, 2016 at 7:28 pm

    I offer you and your family my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort and be surrounded with the love and support of family and friends.

    Reply
  49. Natalie

    March 4, 2016 at 9:28 pm

    Sending heartfelt condolences on the loss of a beloved son, father, brother, husband, uncle, and friend. May the memories you shared give you the strength to navigate through this new terrain. Praying for comfort for each and every one of you.

    Sincerely,
    Natalie (co-worker of Pete Werling)

    Reply
  50. Mrs. Paula Robb

    March 14, 2016 at 1:15 pm

    I just read about John’s passing. So sorry for your lose & I didn’t know him but from school. Jim & Vicki you and the rest of his family are in my prayers. May he rest in peace, God bless. Sincerely, Mrs. Paula ( Britenburg) Robb.

    Reply
  51. Mike Keller

    March 17, 2016 at 12:57 pm

    Even after all that time growing up around the funeral home, I still find myself at a loss for words to convey sympathy and empathy for the loss of a loved one… I only know there is no life without death, and I will remember Squirrel as the one who laughed the most, even when being mischievous w/ the fireworks when we were kids.

    Mike

    Reply

Leave a Condolence Cancel reply

Please share your message of condolence with the family, It will be visible to the public but your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

How do I send a condolence?

First, locate the condolence form to the left and below any other condolences. Then you will need to fill out some basic information prior to typing your message. (We will not share your e-mail address with anyone). Once you are finished typing your message, simply click the submit condolence button. It may take up to 24 hours for your message to appear. We also provide a Tell-A-Friend feature located at the top of this column. This form allows you to send the obituary to a friend. This is particularly helpful to someone who may live out of town.

Share This Obituary

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Video: How To Add An Obituary To Facebook

How-to-add-obits-in-facebook Click on the image above to access the video and the step by step instructions.

QR Code

Use your Smartphone to scan the QR Code below to access this page on your phone.
Wonderly Hovart Hanes
425 E. State St.
Fremont, OH 43420-4256
Phone: (419) 332-6409

Connect with Us

RSSTwitterFacebookYoutube
Hovarth Hanes
211 N. Broadway St.,
Green Springs, OH 44836
Phone: (419) 639-2771

Learn More About…

Funeral Options
Cremation Options
Planning Ahead

Association

Fremont, Ohio Area

Fremont Ohio
January 29, 2023, 2:03 pm
Sunny
Sunny
40°F
sunrise: 7:47 am
sunset: 5:45 pm
 
Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home and Crematory, 425 E. State St., Fremont, OH 43420, United States - Phone: (419) 332-6409
Horvath Hanes Funeral Home and Crematory, 211 N. Broadway St. , Green Springs, OH 44836, United States - Phone: (419) 639-2771
Copyright © 2023 Wonderly Horvath Hanes Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. , All rights reserved.

Contact | Directions | Obituaries | Funeral Pre-Planning | Site Map | Fremont, Green Springs Cremation and Funeral Services | Website by FRM Websites