Raelene Joyce Wilch, 88, passed away August 28, 2021 at the Mennonite Memorial Home, Bluffton. Raelene was born October 6, 1932 in Lima to the late Stanley "Ray" and Helen (Gable) Campbell. She married Roderick Balmer who preceded her in death on October 3, 1962. Raelene later married Ray Wilch and he preceded her in death on October 20, 2017.
Raelene graduated from Bluffton High School and also the Lima Memorial Nursing program in 1953. She worked as a registered nurse in many hospitals and nursing homes. When she retired, she was the first volunteer at the Bluffton Hospital Auxiliary also being the first volunteer to log 1,000 hours. Raelene was a member of the Emmanuel United Church of Christ, Bluffton and the Order of Eastern Star.
Survivors include three children, Steve Balmer of Bluffton, Susan Balmer of Findlay, David (Mary) Balmer of Arlington; three grandchildren, Jennifer (Mark) Lichak, Christopher (Jenni) Balmer, Caryn (Robert) Clinger and thirteen great-grandchildren.
Raelene was also preceded in death by a brother, E. Arlen Campbell.
Visitation will be on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 from 10:00 - 12:00 p.m. at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremation Services, Bluffton. A private graveside service will be held in Maple Grove Cemetery, Bluffton with Pastor Jeremy Mann officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel United Church of Christ or Putnam County Homecare and Hospice.
Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com.
