Zoa Aurelia Duffner, 75, a woman whose heart was as big as her collection of Hallmark Christmas ornaments, was called home on Sunday, December 8, 2024.
Born in Crestline on June 19, 1949, to the late Martin and Martha (Cochran) Duffner, Zoa would go on to graduate from Crestline High School and would continue her educational career by graduating from Ohio Northern University. Zoa’s studies did not stop at graduation as she thought of herself as a “professional student” forever, her love of learning and curiosity about the world never faded through the years.
A dedicated professional, Zoa worked for many years as a Lab Technician at Galion Hospital, where she found joy in her work and the opportunity to help others. Zoa had a unique and joyful spirit. She was an avid collector, with a special love for horses, Eeyore, angels, and bats—her “vampire bat” persona earned her a reputation for her playful sense of humor, as she often joked about “taking people’s blood” while at work. Holidays were a time for Zoa to shine, as she celebrated each occasion with cards adorned with stickers, festive socks, jewelry, shirts, and accessories that reflected her love for all things joyful and bright.
Zoa will be remembered for her giving nature, always ready to offer help and care to anyone in need. Whether it was watching over her nieces, nephews, or the children of friends and coworkers, Zoa’s nurturing spirit touched the lives of many.
While Zoa was known for being particular and having high expectations for behavior, those who knew her well understood that this was rooted in her deep love and respect for others. She demanded respect and gave it freely, always leading with kindness and integrity. Zoa loved her family fiercely and held a strong faith in God, which was evident in the way she lived her life with compassion and purpose.
Zoa is survived by her loving family – brothers: Larry (Carol) Duffner of Galion, and Kevin (Mary Jane) Duffner of Mansfield; many nieces and nephews, friends, and colleagues, who will continue to honor her memory and the incredible impact she had on their lives.
In addition to her parents, Zoa was met at the Gates of paradise by her siblings: Maureen Caldwell, Faith Miller, Kay Ivy, Crystal Ditmars, Lanny Duffner, Darlene Guinther, Sandy Woods, and Duane Duffner.
A celebration of Zoa’s life will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025, at Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 223 W. Main St., Crestline. Visitation will be from 10:00am to 11:00am, with a memorial service beginning immediately following with Rev. Becky Stephens officiating.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either the Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude in Zoa’s memory.
Those wishing to share a memory of Zoa or send condolences to the Duffner family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.
The Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home, 223 W. Main Street, Crestline is honored to serve the family of Zoa Aurelia Duffner.
Funeral Home: Mark A. Schneider-Gompf Funeral Home; Crestline
Website: www.masfh.com