Laurel W. Hilsmier, 95, Ossian, passed away on Monday, Sept. 26, 2011 at his residence. A native and lifelong resident of rural Ossian, he was born on May 16, 1916 to Lewis and Nella (Kraus) Hilsmeier. He married Evelyn P. Valentine on Feb. 26, 1938 in Poe; she survives. Mr. Hilsmeier was a retired farmer and carpenter and a member of the Ossian United Methodist Church. He lived a long lifeand will be missed by his relatives and friends. In addition to his wife of 73 years, he is survived by a son, Lowell Hilsmeier of Ossian; a daughter, Constance (Kenneth) Boehm of Orland Park, Ill.; three grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one step-greatgrandchild. He was preceded in death by a brother, Homer Hilsmeier. Services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at the Ossian United Methodist Church with Pastor Doug Barber officiating. Calling hours are Thursday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at Goodwin Memorial Chapel in Bluffton and Friday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the church. Burial in Oak Lawn Cemetery in Ossian. Preferred memorials are to the Ossian United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.theGMCfamily.com