Leslie Widmer

Leslie (Les) Allen Widmer, 83, of Gibsonburg passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025 at his home surrounded by his beloved wife and family. He was born on January 25, 1942 in Fremont, OH to Wendell and Lynnette (Copley) Widmer.

In 1960, Les graduated from Jackson Burgoon High School. He then attended Bowling Green State University and studied biology, which led to a lifelong career as an agronomist.

On December 8, 1962 at Grace Lutheran Church in Fremont, OH he married the love of his life and high school sweetheart Marcella Rose Auxter.

Les grew up farming alongside his father, which instilled a deep love and passion for agriculture. After exploring other careers, he returned to his love as the co-founder/owner of Crop & Soil Service and later owned and/or operated Widmer & Associates and W&A Crop Solutions. He was always on the cutting edge of agricultural science and technology. He spent his career dedicated to excellence in growing crops and building strong partnerships with his clients.

Les always said “time is the one thing you can never get back,” so he spearheaded the project to build Soul Haven, “a place to rest your soul," which eventually became their home of 10 years. He loved to spend time in the Lord’s Creation whether in the fields, fishing, or on his porch, but most importantly, it was those with whom he was surrounded. Les and Marcella graciously opened their space, hosted family and friends for gatherings of all kinds, and offered hospitality and peace to all who sought it.

He lovingly supported his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in their various endeavors and activities, and attended and fundraised for numerous athletic events, performances, banquets, graduations, and more.

Though a quiet man, he spoke with wisdom and care, and always made those around him feel seen and loved. His deep faith was evident by his actions and he could often be found reading his Bible and leading his family in prayer. He was a devoted member and council member of Grace Lutheran Church and Soul Haven Brothers Men's Bible Study.

Les was a member of the Gideons, the American Society of Agronomy, The Gibsonburg Athletic Boosters, and a board member of the Gibsonburg Education Foundation.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 62 years, Marcella; children, Jerry (Rose) Widmer, Timothy Widmer, Wendy (John) Ernsthausen, and Scott (Bethany) Widmer all of Gibsonburg; grandchildren: Nathan, Ryan (Samantha) and Megan Widmer, Tyler, Hannah and Joshua Ernsthausen, and Samantha, Emma and Sophia Widmer; great-grandchildren, Conner, Isabelle and Landon Widmer; and sister, Elaine Timmons of Burgoon.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, parents Wendell and Lynnette (Copley) Widmer, step-mother Mary Widmer, and lifelong friend and brother-in-law John Timmons.

Visitation will be held at Herman-Veh Funeral Home & Crematory on Friday, September 5, 2025 from 2-4 & 6-8 PM. Visitation will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, Fremont on Saturday at 9:30 AM with Memorial Services beginning at 10:30 AM.

Memorials in honor of Leslie may be made to Grace Lutheran Church, to the Gibsonburg Education Foundation or for the family's wishes.

To send an online condolence, visit:www.HermanFH.com