Clifford E. Thatcher, 56, New Bremen, died at 3 a.m. Dec. 30, 2012, at his home.

He was born Feb. 6, 1956, in Van Wert, to Smilie "Bud" and Irene Schuller Thatcher. His mother survives. On Aug. 18, 1979, he married Karen A. Heitkamp, who survives.

Also surviving are daughter, Sara (Craig) Topp, New Bremen, his brothers, Robert (Phyllis) Thatcher, Rockford, and Nathan (April) Thatcher, Ohio City; his sister, Ranee (Steve) Leonard, Montezuma; and one grandchild.

He graduated from Mendon High School and was a member of the Church of the Holy Redeemer, New Bremen. He worked for 29 years at Crown Equipment Corp., New Bremen, retiring on Oct. 31, 2012.

Funeral Mass is 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the church, the Rev. Thomas Mannebach officiating. Burial is planned for a later date at Willow Grove Cemetery, New Bremen.

Calling is 2-8 p.m. Wednesday at Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home, New Bremen, and 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursday at the church.

Memorials may be made to Grand Lake Hospice, St. Marys.

Condolences may be left at gilberghartwigfh.com.