DEFIANCE, OH - Keith Lynn Ashbacher, 71, of Defiance, Ohio, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, at Promedica Toledo Hospital. Born on April 16, 1954, in Defiance, to Forest and Dorothy (Bostelman) Ashbacher, Keith was a lifelong resident of northwest Ohio. He graduated from Defiance High School in 1972 and went on to attend Northwest State Community College in Archbold.

Keith’s professional life was marked by dedication and versatility. He began his career at Goldenetz Supermarket before moving into the financial services industry with Prudential Financial Services, Franklin Life, and Allstate Insurance. Later, he worked at Miller’s Textile Services. His passion for connecting with people led him to a fulfilling career in transportation services. Over the years, he drove for Loretta’s Limousines, served as a bus driver for Defiance City Schools, and as driver with Double OO Motor Coach and Keller Expediting. Most recently, Keith found great joy in his role as a Transportation Driver with Summit 60/Defiance County Senior Services.

He had an unwavering faith in God and lived his values through quiet acts of kindness. Keith had a profound love for the outdoors. He enjoyed cycling, hiking, reading, and spending time in nature. Some of his most cherished moments were shared with his wife, Lori, riding bikes at Oak Openings or hiking the trails of Hocking Hills. He was an avid Cleveland Browns and Michigan Wolverines football fan.

Above all else, Keith treasured his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lori (Ballreich) Ashbacher (married on May 3, 2008); children, Brad (Jennifer) Ashbacher of Oakwood, Megan (Kyle) Unverferth of Kalida, Kelly Cooper of Napoleon, Jamie (Nina) Ashbacher of Columbia Station, Emily (Joe) Stotts of Cleveland, Jacob Von Deylen of Waterloo, Indiana, Amy Von Deylen of Bryan; ten grandchildren, and his sister, Karen (Ron) Geren of Defiance. His home was also filled with the companionship of beloved dogs and cats, who brought him daily joy.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents.

A heart transplant recipient, Keith was deeply grateful for the additional years he was given – a gift he used to continue loving generously and living fully. Hardworking and humble, caring and considerate - these are the qualities that defined him to those who knew him best. May Keith’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a lasting reminder of a life well lived.

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 29, 2025, at 10:00AM at Faith Baptist Church, 14102 State Route 111, Defiance. A funeral service will follow at 11:00AM at the church with Pastor Mick Sobieck officiating. Burial will be in Webb Cemetery, Defiance, Ohio. Preferred memorial contributions are to Summit 60 Social Center/Defiance County Senior Services, Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, or to the church, in honor of Keith. Flowers may be delivered to the church on Monday between 8:00-10:00AM. For additional information and to view Keith’s online obituary, please visit www.churchfuneralsdirect.com.


Share on Facebook