Ralph E. Rager, 85, of Van Wert passed away February 24, 2016, at Van Wert Inpatient Hospice Center. He was born in Scott, Ohio, to the late Ezra L. and Mamie L. (Foust) Rager on June 25, 1930. He married Joan M. Spencer on December 27, 1949, and she preceded him in death on December 19, 2012. He formerly was a farmer and business owner and founded Rager Home Improvement, Inc., in 1960 and retired in 1983. He was an active Van Wert Rotarian for over 30 years. His hobby of collecting and selling cars was his passion. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Van Wert. Children surviving: Bruce R. Rager of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; Barbara J. (Ralph) Cox of Ft. Wayne, Indiana; and John A. (Sherry) Rager of Van Wert. He had 11 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by one sister, Irene Blockberger of Delphos, Ohio Preceding him death: sisters Dorothy Cummins, Helen Rager, and brother Glen C. Rager. Private family graveside services will be held at the Woodland Cemetery, Van Wert, with Pastor Jim C. Burns of Liberty Baptist Church officiating. Arrangements were handled by Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert. In lieu of flowers preferred memorials are for Bibles placed by The Gideons International or to Liberty Baptist Church. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded online to: www.cowanfuneralhome.com