Ralph A. "Doc" Shafer

Ralph A. "Doc" Shafer Battle Creek Ralph A. "Doc" Shafer, age 79, of Battle Creek, died Thursday, January 15, 2009, at Lifespan Good Samaritan Hospice. Ralph was born on May 30, 1929, in Battle Creek, the son of Dorance E. and Clara E. (Whitman) Shafer. He was a veteran serving in the U.S. Navy. On December 29, 1952, he was united in marriage to the former Gloria G. Sealock, she preceded him in death on July 1, 1997. Gloria was a food editor, obituary and wedding writer for the Battle Creek Enquirer. Ralph was employed at Eaton Corporation until his retirement after 30 and a half years in 1980. He was also employed at Lakeview Hardware for 1 year, Cedar Creek Farms over 10 years assisting with the care of the greens. He attended the First Wesleyan Church and enjoyed woodworking and craft shows. Surviving are a sister, Peggy Norris of Florida; a nephew, David Shafer; a sister-in-law, Doris Lichty; and many other nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by brothers and sisters, Jay H. Shafer, Dorance Shafer, Jr. and Dora Smoke. Visitation will be held Monday from 2 to 4:00 p.m. and 6 to 8:00 p.m. at the Richard A. Henry Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 20, 2009, in the Chapel at Memorial Park Cemetery. The Rev. Dr. Robert L. Zuhl will officiate. Memorials may be made to the Good Samaritan Hospice Residence.