Ralph Schaefer (Veteran)

Dr. Ralph H. Schaefer, 91, of Jefferson City, died Tuesday, January 10, 2012, at St. Mary's Health Center. He was born March 10, 1920, in Jefferson City, a son of Paul A. and Eleanor (Tuegel) Schaefer. He was a graduate of Jefferson City High School, Jefferson City Junior College and Northwestern Dental School in Chicago, Ill. Dr. Schaefer was a veteran of the United States Army, serving during World War II in the European Theater. On December 30, 1943, Dr. Schaefer was united in marriage in Lincolnville, Kan., to Dorothy E. Wegener, who survives in Jefferson City. Dr. Schaefer practiced dentistry in Jefferson City for 40 years. He was a lifetime member of the American Dental Association, Missouri Dental Association, and a member and past president of the Jefferson City Dental Association. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, having served as an Elder and was active in many church and community activities. In 2009 he was honored as "Person of the Year" by the Trinity Lutheran School Alumni Association. Other survivors include five children: Judith; Joan and husband Alan; Fred and wife Janelle; Eleanor and husband Clyde; Dorothy Jean and husband Tom; two sisters, Ruth Fleming and Irma Milster; a sister-in-law, Dorothy P. Schaefer; 10 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, James Schaefer; and a son-in-law, Gordon. Friends will be received from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Saturday, January 14, 2012, at Trinity Lutheran Church, where funeral services will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Rev. Ken Funke and Rev. Russ Bowder officiating. Interment with full military honors will follow in Riverview Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, Calvary Lutheran High School or a charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St., (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at millardfamilychapels.com.