Ralph E. Rager

Ralph E. Rager, 85, of Van Wert, passed away Wednesday, February 24, 2016, at the Van Wert Area Inpatient Hospice Center.

He was born June 25, 1930, in Scott, to Ezra L. and Mamie L. (Foust) Rager, who both preceded him in death. On December 27, 1949, he married Joan M. Spencer, who died December 19, 2012.

He formerly was a farmer and business owner and founded Rager Home Improvement Inc. in 1960, retiring in 1983. He was an active Van Wert Rotary Club member for over 30 years. His hobby of collecting and selling cars was his passion. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Van Wert.

Survivors include three children, Bruce R. Rager and Barbara J. (Ralph) Cox, both of Fort Wayne, Indiana, and John A. (Sherry) Rager of Van Wert; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a sister, Irene Blockberger of Delphos.

Two sisters, Dorothy Cummins and Helen Rager; and a brother, Glen C. Rager, also preceded him in death.

Private family graveside services will be held at Woodland Cemetery in Van Wert, with Pastor Jim C. Burns of Liberty Baptist Church officiating.

There will be no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, preferred memorials are for Bibles placed by Gideons International or to Liberty Baptist Church.

Cowan & Son Funeral Home in Van Wert handled arrangements.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.cowanfuneralhome.com.