Darrell D. Willrath, age 74, of Celina, passed away Thursday, May 26, 2022, at the EverHeart Hospice Care Center in Greenville.

He was born November 9, 1947, in Celina, to the late Urban and Marie (Soerhoff) Willrath.

Darrell and Nancy Behm were married on October 17, 1970, and she survives, along with their sons: Chad (Traci) Willrath and Scott (Brooke) Willrath of Celina, six grandchildren: Kyle, Ashley, Rianne, Chase, Torrance and Taryn, two great grandchildren, his brother, Larry Willrath of Yukon, OK, sister-in-law, Sylvia (Stan) Gage of Cutler, OH, brother-in-law: Denis (Chris) Behm of Loveland, OH, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceding him in death was a sister-in-law, Paula Willrath.
  Darrell was a 1966 Celina High School graduate. He served with the U.S. Army from 1967-1969, and was stationed in Vietnam from 1968-1969. Darrell was an Army Maintenance Crew Chief with the 183rd Reconnaissance Airplane Company. From 1970 through 1996, Darrell served as a Firefighter and EMT with the Celina Fire Department. After his service with the Fire Department, Darrell worked in maintenance at the Mercer County Courthouse, where he retired after several years. Darrell was a board member with the Mercer County Veterans Service Commission for 10 years. He was a member of VFW Post #5713, American Legion Post #210, Eagles Aerie #1291, and Moose Lodge #1473, in Celina. One of his favorite pastimes was working as a photographer at Eldora and Winchester Speedways. Most of all, Darrell really enjoyed spending time with his grandkids, and taking care of his yard.

Private Graveside Services will be held at Buck Cemetery, near Celina, with Rev. Richard VanHorn presiding. There will be Military Rites conducted by members of Celina VFW Post #5713 and American Legion Post #210. His grandchildren will serve as Honorary Pallbearers.
  A Public Celebration of Life to honor Darrell will be held at a later date.

Memorial Contributions may be made to The Celina Fire Department.

Condolences can be expressed to the Willrath family at www.dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.