Ralph Edward Lerch Sr., 79, of Fort Wayne, passed away at home on Sunday, August 19, 2018.  Ralph was born January 8, 1939 in Fort Wayne, to the late Raymond J. Lerch and Myrene (Hetrick) Lerch.  At the early age of 17 he married the love of his life, Violet (Flynn) Lerch.  Together they raised two children, enjoyed small trips and just spending time together.  With his love for outdoors, he enjoyed camping, fishing and working in his yard of perfection.  He was loved by all, especially his neighbors, because when his grass was finished, he went onto theirs!  Always, willing to lend a helping hand, if his projects were finished, he gladly showed up on weekends at his daughter's house to see what he could get into next.  He retired from Super Valu in 2001 after 39 years of service.  He formed many valuable friendships there and enjoyed socializing with the guys.   His real passion however was his family.  Although smaller, it was very close to his heart.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 62 years, Violet (Flynn) Lerch; daughter, Lori (Lerch) Myers of Fort Wayne; son, Ralph E. Lerch Jr. of Fort Wayne; 3 grandsons; 2 great-grandsons; and a sister, Shirley (Walter) Wickliffe of Fort Wayne.

Ralph was also preceded in death by a sister Betty (Lerch) Hall.

A Gathering of Friends is 10 a.m., to noon at the Covington Funeral Home, Community Building, 8408 Covington Road.  When entering from Covington Road park behind the buildings and enter in the front entrance of the building to the east.  That is the community building entrance.

Preferred memorials are to the Northeast Cancer Services or Shriner's Hospitals for Children.