Obituary for Phillip E. Lautenschlager

Phillip E. Lautenschlager, age 89, of Belle Center, Ohio, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026. 

Phillip, affectionately known as Elmer to many, was born at home in New Holland, Ohio, to the late Jacob and Frances (Minshall) Lautenschlager. Coming from a rich agricultural heritage on both sides of his family, Phillip’s roots in the land ran deep from the very beginning. He was a 1955 graduate of Roundhead High School. After graduation, he served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany during peacetime, where he spent meaningful time with his father’s extended family and worked alongside them on the farm.

Shortly after returning home from the service, Phillip reconnected with his high school sweetheart, Sandra G. (Osborn). They were married on May 10, 1959, and shared 66 beautiful years together, building a life on the family dairy farm and raising their four children. 

He is survived by his four children: Karin Lautenschlager of Merritt Island, Florida; Phillip (Tina) Lautenschlager II of Belle Center, Ohio; Lisa (Rodney) Evans of Harrod, Ohio; and Susan (Thomas) Beale of Belle Center, Ohio. He is also survived by his siblings: Harry (Helen) Lautenschlager of Belle Center, Ohio; Ann Cullen of Anchorage, Alaska; and Robert Lautenschlager of Kenton, Ohio. Phillip leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren—Jared (Kellie) Lautenschlager, Nathan (Kelly) Evans, Ashley (TJ) Guarrasi, Jordin Kabua, Jade (Josh) Fischer, Taylor (Kyle) Buttrick, and Kiley Beale—as well as 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. To all of them, he was simply ‘Pa,’ a name spoken with love that reflected the special bond they shared. He is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins who will miss him dearly. Phillip is further survived by his brothers-in-law, Michael (Rhonda) Osborn and Philip Gregory Osborn, and his sister-in-law, Ruth Daley. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sandra; his parents, Jacob and Frances Lautenschlager; his sisters-in-law, Lois Lautenschlager, Barbara Ann Taylor, Shelley Osborn, Michelle Burkett, and Sue Osborn; and his brothers-in-law, Thomas Cullen, Richard Osborn, and Jim Burkett. 

Phillip was a lifelong farmer, raising dairy cattle and working the land where he and Sandra made their home. Farming kept him busy and left little time for hobbies, though he treasured his daily golf cart rides around the farm and neighborhood later in life. Phillip was happiest on the farm and among family and friends. He never knew a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone. He especially cherished the daily visits from his good friend and neighbor, Philip Stalder. Nearly everyone has a good Phillip “story” to share. 

Phillip was a simple, hardworking man. He loved his family, took pride in his work, and was content with his life. He often shared that his life was guided by the belief that true wealth comes from peace in your heart and the love of family — a message that meant a great deal to him. His family takes comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his forever sweetheart, Sandra. 

A public graveside memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, September 14, 2026, at Fairview McDonald Cemetery. All family, friends, and neighbors are welcome to attend.

The family would like to acknowledge and thank the staff at The Blanchard Place and Tranquility Hospice for his care. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Tranquility Hospice, 1949 State Route 37 West, Suite C, Delaware, OH 43015.

The Price-McElroy Funeral Home in Kenton is assisting the family with arrangements.