Oneta Cretoria Lyda, 81, of New Breman, passed away on Monday, November 21, 2022, at Vancrest Rehabilitation Center in St. Marys, Ohio.
She was born on February 5, 1941, in Mercer County at the Dicke homestead, to the late Ralph and Lavon Dicke. On May 10, 1969, she married Christopher Keith Lyda, who precedes her in death.
She is survived by her brother Larry Dicke and wife Diane, and by her daughter Melissa Laurie Lyda Shaffer and husband Mike, and by grandkids James, Kenneth and wife Amy, Matt and Chynne, and Nick, and by great-grandkids Damien, Lily, Cretoria, Krysten, Abigail, Ronald, Madison, Adam, Brodie, Beckham, and Bronx. In addition, she is survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Oneta worked for insurance companies for 50 years. She enjoyed supporting the local sports teams, particularly the Grand Lake Mariners. She also enjoyed supporting the various county fairs. Oneta was an avid traveler, visiting 49 states and several national parks, and traveled internationally from China to Germany. Oneta loved her gardens, baking, and being a farm girl on the family homestead. Oneta was an active member of Grace Missionary Church, in Celina.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 3, at 11:00 am, at Grace Missionary Church, with Pastor Shawn Harrison officiating. The family is requesting that family and friends wear vibrant colors when coming to the Celebration of Life, in honor of Oneta’s vibrant life. Memorial Contributions in her name can be given to local first responders and Grace Missionary Church.