Ross E. Hockemeyer, 78, of Wapakoneta, died at 9:01 p.m. July 4, 2009, at Lima Memorial Health System.

He was born Jan. 7, 1931, in Fort Wayne, Ind., to Martin F. and Irma K. Cornish Hockemeyer.

Surviving are his companion, Cora "Corky" Slife, Wapakoneta; four children, Cheryl (James) Horstman, Angola, Ind., Phillip Hockemeyer and Steve (Gail) Hockemeyer, all of Indianapolis, Ind., and Todd (Katrina) Hockemeyer, Fishers, Ind.; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Deceased is a brother, Robert M. Hockemeyer.

He retired in 1998 as a senior associate construction administrator with Fanning/Howey Associates, Inc., Celina. He was a graduate of Northside High School, Fort Wayne, and Purdue University. He was a member of the Loyal Order of Elks and Fraternal Order of Eagles, both in Lima, and a social member of the Wapakoneta Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Services are 10 a.m. Thursday at the First English Lutheran Church, Wapakoneta, the Rev. Steve Nelson officiating. Burial is at a later date in the Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne.

Calling is 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at Bayliff and Eley Funeral Home, Wapakoneta, and one hour prior to service Thursday at the church.

Memorial contributions can be made to the church.

Condolences can be left at www.bayliffandeleyfh.com.