Stephanie E. Lathrop, age 58, of Celina, passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025. She was born July 11, 1966, in Lima. Her father, John D. Frueh Jr., is deceased. Her mother, Cordelia (Yopp) Frueh, survives in Elida. Stephanie married Patrick M. Lathrop Jr. on September 14, 2001, and he preceded her in death January 3, 2017.

Surviving Stephanie are her mother, two sisters and a brother: Lisa (Jerry) Gruber of San Antonio, TX, Brenda (John) Dorner of Celina, and John D. Frueh III of Lima, nieces and nephews: Jerry (Chelsea) Gruber, Rob (Rachel) Gruber, Patrick (Megan) Gruber, Nora (Justin) Kinner, Mitch Dorner, Jeff Frueh, and Elizabeth (Derek) Lingenfelter, 7 great nieces and nephews, and brothers-in-law: Mitchell Lathrop of Staunton, VA, Spencer Lathrop of Charlottesville, VA, and Dolph (Connie) Lathrop of Richmond, VA.

She was preceded in death by her mother-in-law and father-in-law: Patrick Sr. and Nancy Lathrop.

A 1984 graduate of Elida High School, Stephanie then attended the Toledo Hospital School of Nursing, graduating in 1987. She worked as a critical care nurse at Lima Memorial Hospital, Jacksonville Memorial Hospital, and Augusta Health, for over 20 years.

While living in Florida, Stephanie rescued several Greyhounds and adopted Manatees.

Locally, Stephanie was a member of the Celina Eagles Lodge #1291 and Moose Lodge #1473, and volunteered for the Cancer Association of Mercer County. She also spent time assisting with the Grand Lake Mariners Baseball organization.

Stephanie was an avid reader. She was also an incredibly generous and giving person. Stephanie truly enjoyed spending quality time with her nieces and nephews.

A private Celebration of Life will be held for the family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Cancer Association of Mercer County are suggested in Stephanie's memory.

Condolences can be expressed to Stephanie's family at dickandsonshellwarthfh.com.