Warren E. Offenberger

Offenberger

Warren E. Offenberger, age 88, of Reno, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 22nd, in Marietta, Ohio. He was born in Marietta on April 6th, 1937, and raised by his grandparents John and Carrie Offenberger on Marietta’s west side. He was a graduate of Marietta High School Class of 1955 and was a US Army veteran. Warren was a resident of the Cornerville community for 63 years and a member of the Little Muskingum Congregational Church. Warren was employed as a graphic artist by the Richardson Printing Corporation for 29 years. In 1985, he co-founded the firm Offenberger and White Communication Design and retired in 1997.

Warren was widely known among collectors and museums as a maker and restorer of muzzleloading firearms, and was a student of the Ohio made longrifle, having written numerous articles and papers on the subject. He was a member of the National Rifle Association, the Kentucky Rifle Association and was an honorary life member of The Ohio Gun Collectors. Warren was also a founding member and president emeritus of The Association of Ohio Longrifle Collectors. He was a member of American Legion Post 64.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Martha. They were married December 28th, 1956. Also surviving are a daughter Laury Ann Irwin (Jim Mullen) of Whipple, Ohio, son Jeffry W. Offenberger (Kelly Bell), of San Francisco, California, two grandsons, Benjamin T. Irwin of Marietta, and Mackenzie T. Irwin (Olivia Irwin), of Marietta. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude and Earl Williams, daughter Kari L. Offenberger, and son-in-law Terry T. Irwin. Private family services will be observed with a public memorial to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Warren E. Offenberger Scholarship for the Arts in care of the Marietta Community Foundation. The family would like to thank his physicians, Legacy/Marietta Heights for their compassionate care and Cawley Hospice Services.

Warren was a renowned artisan and philanthropist, his passions being art and his family. He was a friend to everyone in need. He was a historian, storyteller and was proud of his German heritage. He will be remembered for his loving spirit, kindness and inspirational approach to life and entrepreneurship. Online condolences may be made at www.hadleyfh.com.