Florence Searfoss Obituary

Florence Noreen Searfoss

Florence Noreen Searfoss, 98, formerly of Findlay, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at 8:10 p.m. Saturday, January 25, 2025, at Pinebrook Retirement Community in Milford. Florence was born August 26, 1926, in Findlay, the eldest daughter of Howard and Della (Hazelton) Barber, both deceased. On December 13, 1946, she married Franklin Eugene Searfoss in Findlay.

Florence was married to Frank for over 70 years. They were parents to three children, Phyllis Ann Deaton (Jerry, deceased) of Perrysburg, Stephen Wade Searfoss (Gayle) of West Lafayette, Indiana, and Susan Ann Loudenslager (Michael) of Milford. Also surviving are her precious grandchildren, Christine Searfoss, Bryan Searfoss (Carrie), Michelle Snider (Jason) and Jeremy Loudenslager (Maranda); eight great-grandchildren, Mason, Noah and Caleb Searfoss, Jackson Snider, and Coen, Sawyer, Adley and Bishop Loudenslager.

She was blessed with four sisters, Betty, Marjorie, Mary Jane and Janet.

Florence was preceded in death by two of her four sisters, Mary Jane Haley (Findlay, OH) and Marjorie Vonderembse (Florida).

Florence grew up on several different farms located in the Vanlue area during her early years. She learned to drive a car when she was 12 years old. She also helped with all the farm chores. She always said it was hard work, but she learned a lot about farming, canning, childcare, and cooking.

Florence married Franklin Searfoss on December 13, 1946, in Findlay College Chapel, Findlay. Frank was a student at Findlay College for one year and then transferred to Bowling Green State University. Florence's goal was to attend nursing school, but since funds were tight, she decided to go to work and support her husband in his educational efforts. Florence worked at Garwood Industries in Findlay until she had her first child, Phyllis. Several years later Stephen was born. Frank and Florence then moved to Fostoria. Their last bundle of joy, Susan, was born in 1954.

Frank and Florence then opened a restaurant in Fostoria. Flo baked 12 pies every day for the restaurant. They specialized in great chicken dinners. They made a great team and were proud of their success.

The family moved to Columbus so Frank could finish his baccalaureate degree at The Ohio State University. Once they settled in Columbus, Florence got a job at Battelle Memorial Institute, where she stayed for almost 34 years. Flo worked and helped to pay for her children's college education. She was proud that all three of her children were college-educated graduates.

Once Florence retired, she joined Gingersnaps, a jazz and tap dance group that performed at various nursing homes, retirement centers, fairs, church groups, class reunions, etc., all in and around the Columbus area. Flo made and repaired the costumes for the dance group. She formed many friendships with the Gingersnaps.

Florence loved sewing, knitting and crocheting. She loved knitting baby sweaters, blankets and booties for newborn babies. Flo was also an avid gameplayer; enjoying Euchre, Rummikub, Bingo and any other games her friends invited her to play.

Florence practiced her great faith, she attended Hilltop Lutheran Church in Columbus. She also attended church at Pinebrook Retirement Community in Milford.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 11-12 p.m. Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Kirkpatrick-Behnke Funeral Home, 500 Lima Avenue, Findlay, OH, 45840. Funeral service will follow immediately beginning at 12 p.m. at the funeral home. Private burial will take place at a later date at Maple Grove Cemetery, Findlay.

Florence's family would like to express their thanks to all of the wonderful caregivers at Pinebrook and Queen City Hospice. Their support and care gave Flo a comfortable and blessed atmosphere as she lived out her final days on this earth. Pinebrook will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Memorials can be made to Queen City Hospice, 4605 Duke Drive, Suite 220, Mason, Ohio 45040.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.kirkpatrickbehnke.com.