Gerald L. Breece, 90, of Van Wert passed away peacefully with his family by his side on May 6, 2026.

He was born February 10, 1936, to the late Bertha (Snyder) Breece and Frank Breece. He married the love of his life the former Evelyn J. Cowgill on March 12, 1960.

Survivors include his wife Evelyn J. Breece; four children, Teresa (Aaron) Gardner, Mark (Diane) Breece, Deb (Scott) Thornell, and Brad (Taunya) Breece; son-in-law, John Staten; 13 grandchildren; 35 great grandchildren; and a sister, Phyllis Starke.

He is preceded in death by a daughter, Brenda Staten; two brothers, Doyt and Frank Breece; and three sisters, Edna Crider, Evelyn Miller and Jean Medford.

Gerald loved to farm when he was younger. He served in the Armed Forces. He retired from Ley Equipment. He was a huge fan of Dale Earnhardt, Sr., and a Joe Montana and 49ers fan.

There will be no public funeral service. Burial will be family members only.

Preferred memorials are to the American Heart Association or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to cowanfuneralhome.com.