Lois J. "Lou" Marker

Lois J. "Lou" Marker passed away June 9, 2026 at Kessler Estates Senior Living in Lima, OH.

She was born July 30, 1934 in San Diego, CA to Harold H. Hepp and Jeanette (Baker) Hepp. On June 6, 1953, she married Warren B. "Mike" Marker and he preceded her in death on August 22, 2007.

Lou graduated from Wapakoneta St. Joseph High School in 1952, obtained a Bachelor's Degree from THE Ohio State University, and a Master's Degree in Education from Wright State University. Lou was a dedicated teacher at Wapakoneta Elementary School for 20 years, and was further dedicated to helping children by way of in-home tutoring, both before and after retirement. She was also engaged with many foreign exchange students in her home during her teaching career and after.

Lou was very active in her church and community. She could oftentimes be found spending time with her lifelong hobby of flower gardening, instilled in her by her father. She served her community by planting and maintaining flowers in the City of Wapakoneta's "triangle" for over 30 years, subsequent to her father's caring for the same garden for many years. Lou was awarded the 2014 Wapakoneta Area Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the year award, and the 2015 Women's Civic League of Wapakoneta Woman of the Year for her outstanding volunteerism as a Master Gardener. Lou was involved with various church ministries as well. Traveling both internationally and domestically was very enjoyable to her. She visited all 50 U.S. states, often accompanied with her children and/or grandchildren.

Lou is survived by her four children; Trudie (John Flinn) Thorne, Danie (Rick) Budde, Michael "Shane" (Mary) Marker, and Rory (Cheryl) Marker. She was blessed with 17 grandchildren; Ashley Barnes, Adam (Jessica Jones) Thorne, Eric (Jenny) Flinn, Andy (Amanda) Flinn, Echo Voorhies, Leanne (David) Budde-Ross, Nathan (Katherine) Buddie, Shelly (Randy) Stauffer, Amy (Brandon) Yoder, Damian (Rebecca) Mason, Cole (Jade) Mason, Brianne (Drew) Oen, Haley (Joshua) McCarty, Sarah Marker, Lucas Marker, Michael (Alisha) Cheeseman, and Meghan (John Paul) Skrine. She was further blessed with 49 great-grandchildren and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

Lou was preceded in death by her parents, spouse, and brother, J Allison Hepp.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Rev. Sean Wilson officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery. Family and friends may visit from 9:00-10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Schlosser Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, Roots & Shoots Garden Club, Mercy Health Hospice, or charity of the donor's choice.