Lima, OH
Margaret Louise (“Louise”) Pranses, 96, of Lima, Ohio, died on the evening
of May 12, 2020. She was born on January 19, 1924, in Plumville, PA, to
Harris Hale and Harriet Jewart Hamill, who preceded her in death. On July
24, 1948, she married Anthony L. (“Tony”) Pranses, who preceded her in
death. Louise was a graduate of Plumville, PA, High School and Point Park
College, Pittsburgh, PA. She met Tony at Westinghouse Corp. in
Pittsburgh, where both worked. Later, based in Elida, Louise was a full-
time mother, homemaker and community volunteer. After her children had
grown, she worked on the staff of American Cancer Society, in Lima. She
and Tony were dedicated outdoors and travel enthusiasts. They were
active in the national American Youth Hostels (HI-AYH) and founders and
leaders of the local Lima, OH, chapter, known as the Roadrunners. She
received an award from national AYH for her long-time dedication and hard
work. In AYH they led cycling, hiking, skiing and canoeing events. She co-
led an extended cycling tour of Western Europe in 1966. Louise and Tony
were enthusiastic travelers and together they visited over 120 countries,
traveling by foot, bicycle, train, plane and cruise ship. She was a long-term
member of and volunteer for Market Street Presbyterian Church of Lima.
Louise was a member of Daughters of the American Revolution and had a
life-long interest in genealogy. Her love of family and travel and fine food
have set the pace for many family members. She is survived by a son
Terrence Jay Pranses (partner James Magenheimer) of Hoboken, NJ, and
a daughter Renee Louise Pranses of Lima. She is also survived by
grandchildren Tyler Offenbaker, Abigail Offenbaker, Joseph Meitzler,
Anthony Loran Pranses, Jenifer Moore and Jeanine Pranses. Other
survivors include niece Patricia Stuchell and nephew Andrew Stuchell, two
daughters-in-law, Stephanie Pranses and Louann Pranses, and many
beloved great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She is also
preceded in death by her son Anthony Randolph Pranses, three sisters and
two brothers. Arrangements are being handled by CHILES-LAMAN
FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, SHAWNEE CHAPEL.
Burial will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery and a memorial gathering
will be held later. Memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer
Society, American Youth Hostels/HI-AYH or Market Street Presbyterian Church.