Obituaries 28 November 2023

Ralph Michael Stegbauer

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Ralph Michael Stegbauer, 71, of Washington Court House, passed away Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023.

He was born March 26, 1952 in Cincinnati to James and Betty (Gaffney) Stegbauer.

He was a 1970 graduate of Lynchburg-Clay High School and received his bachelor’s degree in 1974 from The Ohio State University. He married his high school sweetheart, Nancy (Shaffer) Stegbauer, on May 18, 1974. In 1975, Ralph and Nancy moved to their permanent residence in Fayette County.   

Ralph was able to retire in 2017, allowing him to put his focus into what he loved most: family, church, the community and the fire department, where he always made sure to let the light of the Lord shine through him. Ralph and his wife attended the Crossroads Christian Church in Washington Court House, where he enjoyed being a greeter on Sunday mornings.

Ralph had served as a member of the Concord Green Fire Department since 1976, where he held several positions, beginning as a firefighter, moving up as lieutenant, captain, training officer and battalion chief. In April of 2007, he was appointed as fire chief of the department.

Ralph was loved by his family and admired by all that knew him. He had the most contagious smile and positive attitude that could light up a room.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Nancy, and their two children, Eric (Molly) Stegbauer and Kim (Rich) Polen; his five grandchildren ,of whom he was very proud, Maddy, Emma and Olivia Stegbauer and Joel and Charlee Polen; his brother, Rick (Nancy) Stegbauer; his brother-in-law, Jay (Linda) Shaffer; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and a host of friends.  

He was preceded in death by his parents and mother-in-law, Edith Guthrie.

A memorial service honoring Ralph’s life will be held Saturday, Dec. 2, 2023 at 5 p.m. at Crossroads Christian Church in Washington Court House with Pastor Adam Lynch officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to be made in Ralph’s name to: Concord Green Fire Department c/o Bridget Sollars, 1325 Miami Trace Road SW, Washington C.H., Ohio 43160; or to Crossroads Christian Church Youth Group, 175 Halliday Way, Washington C.H., Ohio 43160.

Friends may visit with the family at the church Saturday from 1 p.m. until the time of the service. A private burial held by the family will take place the following day.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Summers Funeral Home.

Online condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.summersfuneralhome.com.

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