David M. Ridenour, age 77, passed away in Ann Arbor, Michigan, on June 21, 2026. Born on September 2, 1948, in Auburn, Indiana, he was the son of the late Merl and Louella (Durham) Ridenour.
On September 7, 1973, David married the love of his life, Jane Wirkner. Together they shared more than five decades of marriage, and Jane survives him at their home in Bowling Green, Ohio.
David was a graduate of Bowling Green State University, earning his bachelor’s degree in physical science in the early 1970s. Following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army. Commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through the BGSU Army ROTC program, David served in Vietnam with the 1st Signal Brigade from 1971 to 1972. Shortly after arriving in-country, he was promoted to Lieutenant and served as Executive Officer of the Radio Company at Long Binh. In recognition of his exemplary performance and dedication, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Meritorious Service.
After completing his military service, David built a successful career as a Chemist and Hazardous Waste Manager. Yet throughout his life, service to veterans remained one of his greatest passions and commitments.
David dedicated countless hours to advocating for veterans throughout Ohio. He served as a member of the Wood County Veterans Service Commission from 1996 to 2019 and was a past president of the Ohio State Association of Veterans Service Commissioners. He also served eight years on the Advisory Committee for the Ohio Department of Veterans Services.
His leadership within veteran’s organizations was extensive. David was a past Commander of American Legion Post 45 in Bowling Green, Past-President of Buckeye Boys State, a former member of the Legion Riders, a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1148 in Bowling Green, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 35 in Toledo, and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). He was also the founder and president of the BGSU Army ROTC Alumni Society, helping preserve the legacy of military leadership and service among generations of Falcon alumni.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication to veterans and community service, David was recently inducted into the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame, one of the state’s highest honors for veterans whose post-service contributions have made a lasting impact.
Beyond his professional career and veteran’s advocacy, David had love for photography and the arts. Combining those interests with his commitment to fellow veterans, he founded the Veterans Art Show of Northwest Ohio, held at the Perrysburg Public Library. Over the years, he won numerous awards at the Wood County Fair for his photography.
He adored his granddaughters, teaching them to fish, washing cars and making the perfect s’more over a bonfire. David was often found capturing their special moments, big and small, through the lens of his camera at their school performances, sporting events and everything in between.
David will be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather, proud veteran, respected leader, passionate advocate, and loyal friend. His unwavering commitment to serving others, especially those who served their country, leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire for generations.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Jane Ridenour of Bowling Green, Ohio, son Tom (Krista) Ridenour of Westerville, Ohio, daughter Jennifer (Scott) Bechtel of Blacklick, Ohio, his sisters Anna Ridenour of Bryan, Ohio, Lois Knape of Alvordton, Ohio, Nadine Snider of Huntertown, Indiana, his cherished granddaughters Taylor Edington, Abigail Bechtel and Katherine Bechtel.
Along with his parents, David was preceded in death by his brother Michael Ridenour.
A visitation for David will be held on Monday June 29, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Dunn Funeral home location in the Historical District of Bowling Green, Ohio at 408 W. Wooster St. 43402. His funeral service will be held on Tuesday June 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Dunn Funeral Home. Father Herb will officiate. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery where a Military Honors service will be rendered by the Columbus Ohio Army Honor Detail and the Wood County Honor Detail.
Memorial contributions may be given to the American Legion Department of Ohio (specify Buckeye Boys State Program) American Legion Department of Ohio or H.O.O.V.E.S. H.O.O.V.E.S – H.O.O.V.E.S. 2025 Online Giving.
To leave an online condolence or fond memory with the family please visit www.dunnfuneralhome.com.
