from the USTA Communications Department

Columbus, OH — Leonard B. Stemen, 85, of Middle Point, Ohio, died Feb. 22, 2011, at Vancrest Health Care Center in Van Wert, Ohio.

He was born April 23, 1925, in Washington Township, Van Wert County, Ohio, to the late Ethel (Jenkins) Stemen and Delmar Stemen. On June 14, 1946, he married Mildred J. (Sites) Stemen. She died May 7, 2001.

Mr. Stemen was the owner/operator of Stemen Stockyards in Middle Point. He was a member of the Van Wert Harness Horsemen’s Association, the USTA and the Ohio Standardbred Breeders.

A disabled veteran of the U.S. Army serving in World War II, he was a lifetime member of the Ohio City American Legion, a member of Middle Point AM Vets and a member of the former Middle Point Presbyterian Church.

Mr. Stemen is survived by his son, Larry; sisters, Marilyn (Dorce) Burkley, Norma Wollet and Joan Alt; and grandchildren, Lindy (Eric) Schwab, Melissa and Christine. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, John.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 25, at Alspach-Gearhart Funeral Home & Crematory, Van Wert. Burial will be in Ridge Cemetery, Middle Point. Military graveside services will be conducted by the Ohio City American Legion. Calling hours are from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 24, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.alspachgearhart.com.