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Ralph Kratzer, 77

Ralph E. Kratzer, 77 of S.R. 348 Otway, Ohio died Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012, at his residence following an extended illness. He was born on Sept. 9, 1935, in Otway, Ohio to the late Joseph D. and Delores Faye Lawson Kratzer.

He was united in marriage on Nov. 30, 1963, to Shelby E. Cox Kratzer who survives. Also surviving are a son, Eric Kratzer and wife Lynn of Otway, a grandson, Eric Kratzer, II of Otway, a granddaughter, Victoria Kratzer Payne and husband Nick of Portsmouth, a great grandson, Gavin Payne, and one brother, Floyd Dale Kratzer of Otway. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers: Clarence Conway, Kenneth, Burk Kratzer, and one infant brother. Three sisters: Martha Faul, Bernice Boutwell, and Edith Nickells.

He was retired and former owner of Cox Wood Products in Otway for many years, a member and past Master of Peebles Lodge #581 F.& A.M., and a member of the Scottish Rite Cincinnati. He was former Fire Chief with the Otway Fire Dept., assistant Scout Master for Boy Scouts Troup #42, a member of the former Otway United Methodist Church, attended the Berea Chapel Church, and was a U.S. Navy Veteran. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed spending time with his dog Annie.

Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday at Botkin Funeral Home in Otway with Pastor Tom Brown officiating. Masonic service will also be on Saturday. Burial will be at the convenience of the family. Friends may call on Saturday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Manna From Heaven Food Pantry at the Beech Fork Church 1847 S.R. 348 Otway, Ohio 45657.

www.botkinfh.com