RICHLAND CENTER - Mollie Chitwood Sprecher, age 88, died on Friday, Feb. 20, 2004, at Schmitt Woodland Hills in Richland Center. She was born Mollie Catherine McNamer in Henrietta township, Richland County, on Oct. 21, 1915.

She was born to Leon McNamer and Mary Elizabeth McCauley McNamer and was one of 11 children. Her family spent much of their lives making cheese at various factories in the area. Mollie was a lifelong resident of Richland County.

Mollie was united in marriage to Vibert Chitwood on Aug. 28, 1932. They were married 32 years and had two children. They farmed in the Sylvan township area. He preceded her in death on June 9, 1964. In 1969, she married Orville Sprecher, who survives her. They made their home in Richland Center.

Before retiring, Mollie was employed at Pine Valley Manor as a nurses assistant for about 20 years. She was a long time member of the Richland Trailblazers Snowmobile club, Royal Neighbors of America and the Homemakers Association. Mollie was a member of the Peace United Methodist Church and their Rebecca Circle.

In her spare time, she greatly enjoyed cooking, especially trying new recipes, sewing, fishing, camping, gardening and canning. Mollie enjoyed a good game of euchre, claiming to be well taught by her father.

In addition to her husband, Mollie is survived by her daughter, Barbara, Mrs. Larry Ledman of Richland Center; a son, A. James Chitwood and wife, Mickey of Madison; a stepson, Duane Sprecher and wife, Kathy of Spring Green; a sister, Mabel, Mrs. William Preslik of Hillsboro; and a brother, Phillip McNamer and wife, June of Richland Center. Mollie was the proud grandmother of 10 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Catherine Ledman; four brothers; and four sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2004, at the PEACE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH in Richland Center. Pastor Tom Tarver will officiate and burial will be in the Sylvan Cemetery.