Paula J. Holdcraft

Paula J. Holdcraft, 76, died peacefully at home Sunday night, April 16, 2023 under the care of her family, caregivers, and Avita Hospice.

She was born April 2, 1947 in Marion to the late Harold E. and Elinor M. (Bracken) Messenger. She was the third of five children and their family was very close knit, especially after the death of Paula’s father in 1954. After graduating from Marion Harding in 1965, Paula worked as an operator for GTE. She then married Jerry E. Holdcraft and made their home in Bucyrus where they raised their daughter and Paula provided loving daycare for many children.

Paula was quiet and reserved and loved her family with all her heart. She was an excellent caregiver and filled the role her entire life. Every opportunity for a family gathering was welcome. Since becoming a grandma to her dear Sophi, Paula watched her when she was younger and followed her competitive cheer career closely. She took up scrapbooking as well, capturing her family’s milestones.

Paula is survived by daughter, Kelly Froehle; granddaughter, Sophi Froehle; siblings, Cathy Kirby, William (Ann) Messenger, and Mary Seckle; and also leaves cherished friends and caregivers.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by husband, Jerry; sister, Patricia Gaus; and brothers-in-law, Ron Kirby and Erman Seckel.

A gathering in remembrance of Paula will be announced later. Those wishing to remember her with a donation are encouraged to make them payable to National Parkinson Foundation or Nationwide Children’s Hospital and send through Wise Funeral Service, 129 W Warren St, Bucyrus, Ohio 44820.

Photos and memories can be shared on Paula’s Tribute Wall.