Ralph J. Gassert

Ralph J. Gassert LEBANON Ralph J. (Moon) Gassert, 93, passed away peacefully Monday morning, April 29, 2013, in the Lebanon VA Medical Center Hospice Unit. He was the husband of Emily G. (Keesey) Gassert, who passed away on April 13, 1983. Born on August 1, 1919, he was the son of the late George and Mary (Brough) Gassert. He was retired from the Lebanon Plant of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation where he was Foreman of the Plumbing Department. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II having served in the 84th Infantry Division, 309th Engineering Combat Battalion and saw action in the Rhineland, the Ardennes and Central Europe. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his actions against the enemy in Germany on April 6, 1945 where, during the crossing of the Weser River, he repeatedly exposed himself to intense enemy fire to repair and maintain vital communications lines. His additional decorations included The American Campaign Medal, European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, World War II Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. Ralph was preceded in death by brothers, John, George, Harry, Robert and Francis; and sisters, Stella, Verna, Carrie and Dorothy. He was the last of 10 brothers and sisters. Ralph enjoyed all family cookouts at his cottage, and the hours he spent mowing grass on his riding mower. He was a great plumber, electrician and mechanic and could fix anything. He took great pleasure in helping others. Surviving are sons: Thomas J. Gassert and wife Janet; James Beard and wife Margie; Charles Beard and wife Pat, all of Lebanon; 11 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Friday May 3, 2013 at 10 a.m. in Messiah Lutheran Church, 1800 Oak St., Lebanon, PA 17042 with the church service at 11 a.m. Graveside services will be in Grand View Memorial Park, Annville. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Messiah Lutheran Church or the Lebanon VA Medical Center Hospice Unit, 1700 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon, PA 17042. The Rohland Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.