Christie A. Petzel

Christie A. Petzel, 78 of Bluffton passed away Saturday afternoon March 6, 2021 at Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne. Christie was born March 9, 1942 in Bluffton to James W. Poston and Mary E. (Flowers) Poston. Christie was a 1960 graduate of Bluffton High School. She enjoyed teaching piano, accordion, and baton throughout the years. Christie started her career as secretary to a colonel at Langley Airforce Base in Norfolk, Virginia. From there she worked as a legal secretary for the law firm of Gallivan and Hamilton. Later she served in the County Treasurer’s office followed by becoming deputy auditor in the County Auditor’s office. She served as the City Clerk-Treasurer for the city of Bluffton from 1980 to 1992 where she received state recognition for perfect audits. Following retirement, she ministered to others sharing the love of Christ while teaching English as a second language to students around the globe. She was a 50 plus year member of the Bluffton First Church of the Nazarene. On March 25, 1961 in Bluffton, Christie married the love of her life, Jerry W. Petzel. They have shared 59 years of marriage together. Survivors include her husband Jerry W. Petzel of Bluffton, two daughters, Jane E. Lampman (Michael) of Bluffton, Mary M. Murray (Michael) of Bluffton, a son Christopher A. Petzel (Erin) of Albany, Indiana, seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and two more great-grandchildren on the way. Christie was preceded in death by her parents and a granddaughter Lydia Marie Murray. A service to celebrate Christie’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at the Bluffton First Church of the Nazarene, 1515 Clark Avenue with Pastor Tim Miller officiating. There will be one hour of visiting prior to the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Six Mile Cemetery in Bluffton. Calling hours will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 9, 2021, also at the church. When entering the church for visitation and the service, please enter through the west entrance off Clark Avenue. Memorials may be made to the church. The safety of the family and all visitors is our utmost priority. For everyone’s safety, we ask that you practice social distancing. Masks are required for visitation and for the funeral service. We appreciate your cooperation and patience. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Thoma/Rich, Lemler Funeral Home. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.thomarich.com.

Christie A. Petzel

March 9, 1942 - March 6, 2021