Ralph E. Gehring

It is with such sadness that we must let family and friends know about the passing of our much loved dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa. Dad passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2018, and went home to be with the Lord. We are all so thankful to have had the time to say our good-byes to dad.

When our mom passed away five years ago, Dad decided to move to The Heritage. He loved his new apartment, meeting new friends, and being in such good health so he was able to live independently. Dad loved playing cards, going out for dinner, cocktails in the evening, and spending time with his kids, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. We truly loved having these past five years with our dad.

Dad is survived by his children: Sandi Gehring, Larry (Marie) Gehring, Sheila (Tom) Omholt, Jim (Debbie) Gehring, Debbie (Randy) Behringer, Bradley (Betty) Gehring, and Brian (fiancée Caroline) Gehring. Dad’s much loved grandchildren: Paul (Kris) Murray, Shannon (Linda) Murray, Jim (Jen) Murray, Peter (Lauren) Omholt, Rachel (Joe) Fermanich, Greg (Ava) Gehring, Stephanie (Travis) Surprise, Tracy (Jad) Sinno, Marshall and Jacob Behringer, Alyssa (Charlie) Foss, Josh (special friend Jordan) Gehring, Nicholas and Andrew Gehring. Dad’s precious great-grandchildren: Ryan and Matthew Murray, Cate and Erin Murray, Sam and Jack Murray, Raylyn Omholt, Thomas and Charlotte Fermanich, Philip Gehring, Micah Surprise, and Valerie and Pierce Sinno.

Dad is survived by mom’s sister, Millie Schuh, and so many wonderful nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his very dear and much loved baby sister, Pearl Kunz. We want to thank Aunt Pearl for all the love and care she has given to her brother. Dad loves you so very much!!

Dad lived a long, interesting, and wonderful 91 years of life. He said we didn’t need to write about what he had done or his accomplishments because anyone who knows him is already aware of them.

Dad would not want anyone to be sad because he really enjoyed his life. When someone had a problem, dad was known to say, “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” And he always followed that with, “Now let’s have a drink.” And his words of wisdom when playing cards, “If you’re not nervous it’s because you don’t understand what’s happening.” So, dad, we promise we won’t sweat the small stuff and we will toast you often with our love and gratitude.

Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at Appleton Alliance Church, 2693 W. Grand Chute Blvd. Friends and family may visit at the church from 9:00 am until 10:45am. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Bovina Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Lori Doughman and The Heritage staff and their Care Based Residential Facility for the wonderful care and compassion they provided our dad, Also, a huge thank you to Nancy at Senior Helpers and her staff for their care of our dad. We have a very special place in our hearts for the additional care, support, and guidance provided us through ThedaCare-Hospice. Thank you so much Ashley and the Hospice staff who assisted us.

In Lieu of flowers the family has designated donations to Clinic of Hope, ThedaCare Foundation-Heritage Fund, or Shiocton Lion’s Club.

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