Obituary, Visitation & Funeral Information

Ralph Rayburn Obituary
COLUMBUS GROVE — Ralph E. Rayburn, 90, died Wednesday Dec. 18, 2013, at his home near Columbus Grove. He was born February 16, 1923, the son of Carl and Gertrude (Borne) Rayburn. His parents preceded him in death. On November 15, 1942, he married Alice R. Barber, who died October 6, 2004. Ralph worked for the Nickel Plate Railroad, after which he worked for and retired from the Philips GTE Co., formerly located in Ottawa. He served in the U. S. Army during WW II, operating heavy equipment. Memberships included the Lima Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Deshler American Legion Post, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars post, Lima. Survivors include three sons: Larry (Clara) Rayburn and Randy (Tonia) Rayburn both of Columbus Grove, and Ronnie (Pattie) Rayburn, Hoytville, Ohio. Also surviving are two daughters, Barbara Cummins, Ottawa, Ohio, and Roberta (Matt) Etgen, Botkins, Ohio, and eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. His brothers, Carl Rayburn, Roderick Rayburn, and Donald Rayburn preceded him in death. Funeral visitation and services will both be held on Friday, December 20, 2013, at HARTMAN SONS FUNERAL HOME, Columbus Grove. Friends may call from 2 until 4 pm and from 6 until 8pm. Funeral services will begin immediately following visitation at 8 o'clock at the funeral home. Services will be officiated by Pastor Rich Rakay. A private burial with military services provided by the combined Columbus Grove American Legion Bowers-Slusser Post 516, and the Columbus Grove V. F. W. Post 9648 Honor Guard, will be held at the Osborn Cemetery, Columbus Grove. Donations may be made to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences maybe made at hartmansonsfuneralhome.com.

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