UTICA – Tatla Ann Dager, 82, of Utica passed away Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022, after a long battle with a neurological disease called PSP. She was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on April 1, 1940, to parents Mike and Louise Bonahoom.
Tatla received her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from St. Francis College in Fort Wayne and continued her education, ultimately receiving a master’s degree from Marquette University. With her formal education completed, Tatla returned to Fort Wayne, where she got her first teaching job.
Tatla met her husband, and lifelong love, Joe Dager, in Fort Wayne. They were married on Oct. 7, 1967, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Fort Wayne.
In support of her husband Joe, as president of the Velvet Ice Cream Company, Tatla served as board treasurer. Tatla’s calm, quiet wisdom complemented Joe’s leadership, contributing significantly to the company’s success.
A devout Catholic, Tatla attended the Church of the Nativity in Utica, where she played the organ and sang in the choir. Tatla also taught CCD and was involved in bible study groups. Tatla enjoyed being involved in the community with Heartbeats of Licking County and Catholic Social Services.
Tatla will be remembered as a loving mother, devoted and supportive wife, breast cancer survivor, and lifelong servant of the Lord. For her children, grandchildren and others who loved her, Tatla set a wonderful example of a life well-lived, serving others before herself.
Tatla is survived by her husband, Joe Dager, of 55 years; and their four daughters, Luconda Ashcraft (Bill), Suzanne Frey (Ryan), Joanne Sheehan (Tom), and Andre Sarap (Mike). She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren Justin, Devon, Riley, Lauren, Michael, Amelia, Megan, Clare, Aubrey and Gabe. Tatla is also survived by her sister Mary Lou Zarick and brother Otto Bonahoom.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Central Ohio or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Calling hours are this Sunday, Nov. 20, 2-6 p.m. at Brucker & Kishler Funeral Home in Newark.
Funeral Mass will be Monday, Nov. 21, at 10 a.m., St. Edwards Catholic Church.
