Rex E. Veitch Jr., 70

Rex E. Veitch Jr., 70 years of Defiance, passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2025, in his residence with those he loved at his side.  Rex was born June 25, 1954, in Toledo, Ohio, the son of the late Rex E. and Louise A. (McLean) Veitch Sr. Rex served in the United States Marine Corps for five years, until his honorable discharge in 1978. He married Joyce A. (Kuhn) Van Wert on August 23, 2023, at Niagara Falls, New York, and she survives. Rex was an EMT Specialist for over 30 years, retiring in 2005. He was a member of the Tuscarora Township Volunteer Fire Department, Indian River Eagles, and the Indian River Sportsman’s Club. Rex had a passion for being on the water. He also enjoyed hunting and reading western novels, but he genuinely loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and his beloved dog Blaze.

Surviving is his wife, Joyce Van Wert of Defiance; three children, Rex Alan (Nichole) Veitch of Wolverine, Michigan, Jason (Jessica) Veitch of Farmington Hills, Michigan and Amber (Jack) Moir of Afton, Michigan; eight grandchildren, Makaya (Trevor Saunders) Veitch, Katelyn (Connor) Smith, Riley, Evan, Brooklyn, Dylan, Blake and Kallie; two great grandchildren, Easton and Case.  He is also survived by three sisters, Susan Johnston of Toledo, Ohio, Geniene Boyer of Sylvania, Ohio, and Monalee (John) Miles of Deltona, Florida; as well as Maria “Toody” (Jeff) Newman of Erie, Michigan, several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Michael Veitch, Eugene “Butch” Veitch and one stepson, Gregory Vizina.

There will be no visitation or services at this time. Rex’s wish was to be cremated. There will be a celebration of life later this summer in Indian River, Michigan. Arrangements are under the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, Bryan, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions be made to Elara Caring Hospice or to Lewy Body Dementia Association.

Condolences may be sent to the family, or memories may be shared at www.oberlinturnbull.com

Celebration of Life at a later date

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