Ralph E. Zink, 72, rural Wapakoneta, died at 6:05 a.m. Nov. 26, 2008, at his residence following a long battle with cancer.

He was born Feb. 3, 1936, in Pusheta Township, to William A. and Clara M. Brockert Zink. On April 30, 1960, he married Susan Kay Ruppert, who survives.

Also surviving are five children: Brian E. (Vickie), St. Johns, Brett A., Wapakoneta, Brad W. (Claire), San Antonio, Tex, Billy J. (Tiffany), St. Marys and Nita (Chris) McKinney, New Bremen; seven gradnchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

A farmer, he retired in April 2002 as a millwright with Ford Motor Company, Lima Engine Plant. He was a member of St. John Catholic Church, Fryburg, the United Auto Workers Union and the Eagles Aerie in Wapakoneta and was a veteran of the U. S. Army.

Funeral Mass is at 2 p.m. Monday at the church, the Rev. William O'Donnell officiating. Burial is at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Wapakoneta, where military rites will be conducted by the Wapakoneta VFW.

Calling is 4-8 p.m. Saturday and 2-8 Sunday at Bayliff & Eley Funeral Home, Wapakoneta.

Memorials can be made to Tri-County Visiting Nurses and Hospice or to United Auto Workers Ramp Cres.