Barbara J. Markel, 89 of Ashland, formerly of Savannah passed from this life on Monday morning, December 15, 2025 in Brookwood Place at Brethren Care Village.
She was born on September 12, 1936 in Ashland County, the daughter of the late David and Eva Jean (nee Wahl) Pence.
Barb graduated from Ashland High School, Class of 1955. She married the love of her life, Howard R. Markel on March 31, 1957.
She retired from Clear Creek Township after many years of working at the Savannah Town Hall and working in the cafeteria at Crestview for many years. When Barb wasn’t helping Howard with Markel Water Hauling, she was actively babysitting many children to whom became much like children and grandchildren to her.
Barb was a devoted member of Savannah United Methodist Church most of her life. She enjoyed sewing and flower gardening. Barb loved to sell her sewing projects at craft shows and help with the Savannah Fire Department Women’s Auxiliary as a member. Most of all she loved to attend both children’s and grandchildren’s events.
She is survived by her loving children, Laura Stanley of Ashland and David (Wendy) Markel of Mansfield; four grandchildren, David (Megan Kankula) Markel of Elyria, Jessica (Tony) Miranda of Elyria, Sabrina Stanley of Sarasota, Florida and Amanda (Victor) Collazo of Elyria; many great grandchildren; three special granddaughters, Courtney (Zach) Ringler, Megan (Kyle) Marcinowski, and Kerry (Aaron) Snyder; one special grandson, Matthew (Trish) Poland; and a sister-in-law, Martha Pence of Bailey Lakes.
In addition to her parents, Barb is preceded in death by her loving husband of 58 years, Howard who passed away on December 9, 2015; one son-in-law, John Stanley who passed away on February 24, 2021; one brother, Daniel Pence; one sister-in-law, Wilma (Carl) Howman; and her beloved uncle, Ed Wahl.
An interment service will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the Savannah Cemetery with Pastor Lori Weaver presiding. Family and friends may visit on Thursday, December 18, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made payable to the Building Repair Fund at the Savannah United Methodist Church.
For those who may not be able to attend, online condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at denbowfh.com.
Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home & Crematory is handling the arrangements.
Funeral Home: Denbow-Gasche Funeral Home
Website: denbowfh.com