Nancy Gerken, 74, Honored Holgate Resident, and 13-Year-Old Rose Schwab Involved in Serious Head-On Collision with Ottawa Driver Lisa Kleman, 43, Along State Route 65—Putnam County Community Rallies After Devastating June 8 Crash
A serene Sunday morning in rural Putnam County, Ohio, was abruptly disrupted by a heartbreaking collision that has deeply affected families and the broader community. On June 8, 2025, just before noon, a major two-vehicle crash occurred on State Route 65 near Road M, claiming the life of a well-respected local woman and injuring two others.
Nancy Gerken, 74, of Holgate, was traveling southbound in her 2015 Chevrolet Traverse with Rose Schwab, a 13-year-old passenger from Hamler. At the same time, Lisa Kleman, 43, of Ottawa, was heading northbound in a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse. According to initial findings from the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Kleman’s vehicle veered left of center for reasons still under investigation, resulting in a direct head-on impact with Gerken’s vehicle.
The crash caused catastrophic damage to both vehicles. Emergency responders arrived quickly and assessed the scene. Tragically, Nancy Gerken was pronounced deceased on-site. Her remains were later transferred to the Lucas County Coroner’s Office by Feldner Mortuary Service for further examination.
Rose Schwab, seated in the passenger side of Gerken’s SUV, was injured but survived the crash. She was transported to Mercy Health St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima, where she received treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Despite the physical trauma, her condition has been described as stable, and she is expected to recover fully.
Lisa Kleman, the other driver involved, also sustained injuries and was taken to the same medical facility. All individuals were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash, which authorities believe played a significant role in preventing even more severe injuries.
Investigators continue to examine the circumstances that led to the crash. The Ohio State Highway Patrol has stated that no definitive conclusions have been reached yet regarding the cause of Kleman’s vehicle crossing the centerline. Potential factors such as distraction, fatigue, mechanical failure, or medical emergencies are being explored. Troopers are utilizing crash reconstruction techniques and vehicle data recorders to better understand the moments leading up to the incident.
This tragic collision has left a profound impact on the residents of Holgate, Ottawa, and Hamler. Nancy Gerken, described by her neighbors as a compassionate and dependable member of the community, was known for her warm presence, involvement in local church activities, and commitment to her family and friends. Her loss is being mourned across the area, with community members offering tributes and condolences to her loved ones.
In Holgate, residents have begun placing flowers, candles, and heartfelt notes near the crash site as a sign of remembrance. Her church and civic organizations have also spoken about the important role she played in the lives of those around her, remembering her as someone who offered guidance, generosity, and unwavering support to all who knew her.
Meanwhile, concern and support for young Rose Schwab continue to pour in. Her school, classmates, and local community are rallying behind her with messages of encouragement, gift baskets, and organized support networks to assist her recovery both physically and emotionally. Her family has thanked the public for their compassion and privacy as they focus on Rose’s healing process.
As for Lisa Kleman, she remains under medical supervision while the investigation continues. Authorities have not announced any charges or citations at this stage, but the case remains open. Investigators will await the outcome of vehicle inspections, medical evaluations, and additional witness testimony before determining the next steps.
The crash has once again brought attention to the challenges of rural driving in Ohio. State Route 65, though generally considered safe, lacks barriers and features commonly found on higher-speed urban roadways. In recent years, similar collisions have prompted calls for enhanced road markings, signage improvements, and even centerline rumble strips to reduce crossover incidents.
Transportation safety advocates and local officials have emphasized the importance of safe driving practices, particularly on rural highways where conditions can change quickly and where any momentary distraction can lead to disaster. They encourage all drivers to remain alert, avoid distractions, and ensure that vehicles are properly maintained.
In the coming days, Nancy Gerken’s family is expected to announce memorial arrangements, which will give friends, neighbors, and community members an opportunity to gather and celebrate her life. The family has requested that those wishing to honor her memory consider supporting local safety awareness campaigns or charitable organizations that benefit families affected by traffic incidents.
This incident has left lasting emotional wounds in multiple towns, but it has also underscored the resilience and compassion that define small-town Ohio. In their grief, the communities of Holgate, Hamler, and Ottawa have come together, united in remembrance and committed to supporting the victims and their families during this difficult time.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol continues to urge any individuals with additional information or witnesses to the collision to come forward as they work to piece together the final moments before the crash.
Tags: Nancy Gerken, Rose Schwab, Lisa Kleman, Putnam County Ohio crash, Ottawa head-on collision, Holgate community loss, State Route 65 accident, Ohio State Highway Patrol, June 8 2025 car crash, road safety Ohio, teen injury in accident, rural highway collision
