Ralph Wendling

Ralph Herbert Wendling, 79, passed away peacefully to be with Our Lord on Monday May 16, 2011 at 10 Wilmington Place, where he received the best of care. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Helen; his infant son, Stephen Joseph; parents, Russell and Irene Wendling; brothers, Donald, Jim, and Fred; and sister, Betty.

He is survived by his seven children, Russell Earl (Becky), Laura Ann (Scott) Miller, Ralph Herbert II, Michael Gerard (Susan), David William (Barbara), Elaine Marie (Ralph) Ribas and Joseph Stephen; 11 grandchildren Karen, Emily, Amie, Jacob, Luke, Michael Jr., Sarah, Aaron, Abigail, Laytin and Helen; great granddaughter, Lila; and his brother Bill.

He was a graduate of Broad Ripple High School in Indianapolis, IN and was retired from General Motors. After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served as a hydraulic specialist. Upon being honorably discharged, he moved to Dayton and began his 30 year career with GM. In his retirement, he was known as the "Ice Man", delivering ice around the Dayton area. Ralph was a devoted and loving family man, who brought much joy and laughter to all. He never met a stranger.

A visitation will be held on Thursday May 19, 2011, from 5:00-8:00 pm at Newcomer Funeral Home & Crematory, 4104 Needmore Road, Dayton, OH 45424. A mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday May 20, 2011, at 10:00 am, at St. Rita Catholic Church, 5401 N. Main Street, Dayton, OH 45415. Father Frank Keferl officiating. Burial to follow at Calvary Cemetery. "Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal."