Obituary for John Edward “Ed” Warfel

John Edward “Ed” Warfel, a cherished member of the Upper Sandusky community, passed away on April 3, 2025, at 84. Born on August 25, 1940, in Upper Sandusky, Ed was a proud 1959 graduate of Upper Sandusky High School and a record-holding (100-yard High Hurdles) USHS Track Team member.
He was a well-known business owner in the community, owning several businesses that became local staples. He and his late brother opened The Box Car Tavern, a beloved gathering spot. In addition, they ran Warfel Heating and Air, providing essential services to countless homes and businesses, and Ed operated Lee’s Sporting Goods. Beyond his business ventures, Ed was also a skilled salesman, known for his personable nature and dedication to customer satisfaction. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the town and those who knew him.
He was a lifetime member of John Stewart United Methodist Church and, more recently, attended St. Paul Lutheran Church. His dedication to service extended beyond the church, as he was a member of the American Legion Post #225, a life member of the VFW Post #2842, and the Elks Lodge #83 in Upper Sandusky. Ed was a member of Warpole Lodge #176, F&AM for 56 years, McCutchen Chapter #96, R.A.M. for 55 years, Upper Sandusky Council #98, R&SM for 54 years, Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Aladdin Shrine in Columbus, Warpole Chapter #366, Order of Eastern Star.
Not only did Ed serve his country as a U.S. Navy Veteran stationed on the USS WASP (CVS-18) in Boston, MA, but he also brought joy to those around him with his engaging personality and love for entertaining. His passion for cars was evident through his membership in the Wyandot Classics and Cruisers, where he shared his enthusiasm with fellow car aficionados. Weekends boating and socializing on Lake Erie were a cherished lifelong retreat.
Ed leaves behind a loving family, including his three children: Ingrid (Robert) Britton of Prospect, OH, Robert (Amy) Warfel of Frankfort, KY, and Natalie (Christopher) Frasure of Lawrenceburg, KY, and stepchildren: Rob (Leah) Shepherd, and Eileen (Douglas) Walton of Sycamore, OH. He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren, Hayley Warfel, Monroe Britton, Madison Britton, Lucas Frasure, McKinley Britton, Harrison Warfel, Abigail Frasure, Joseph Frasure, and John Frasure, whose lives he enriched with love and laughter. Ed is also survived by his sisters, Janis Eippert and Ruth Ann Milligan.
He was preceded in death by his father Byron Warfel, his mother Irene (Nutter) Warfel, his brother Richard (Thelma) Warfel, and his first wife Sharyn K. (Householder) Warfel, whom he married on December 19, 1964, and who passed away on January 6, 2006. Ed’s second wife, Susan K. Shepherd, whom he married on April 7, 2007, also precedes him in death, as she passed away on October 9, 2024.
Ed Warfel will be remembered for his service and professional accomplishments and the warmth and kindness he shared with everyone he encountered throughout his life.
A gathering of friends and family will be held at Bringman Clark Funeral Home on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to noon. A Masonic Service will begin at noon with a memorial service to follow with Pastor Barry Halter officiating. Burial will be held in Oak Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Wyandot Classics & Cruisers in care of Bringman Clark Funeral Home, 226 E. Wyandot Ave. Upper Sandusky, OH 43351.