Ralph Schibler Obituary

Rev. Dr. Ralph F. Schibler

Jul 21, 1935 - Nov 12, 2025

Catawba Island

Rev. Dr. Ralph F. Schibler, 90, of Catawba Island, passed away peacefully Thursday, November 12, 2025.

Born July 21, 1935, in Canton, he devoted his life to faith, family, and service. Ordained in 1962, he served congregations in Canton, Brunswick, and Van Wert, and continued to minister as an interim pastor after retirement. He earned his Doctor of Ministry from Ashland Theological Seminary and taught World Religions at Lutheran College in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Ralph was active in Rotary International, serving as District Governor in 2007 and receiving the Distinguished Service Citation for his devoted leadership.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Patricia (McDermott); daughters, Rev. Catherine Schibler-Keegan (Clayton Keegan), Barbara Chen (Jerry Chen), Jennifer Hammons, and Nancy Schibler; eight grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Julius and Thelma Schibler; his brother, Earl; and a grandson, Andrew Hammons.

A service celebrating his life and ministry will begin at 10 a.m. Monday, November 17, 2025, at St. John Lutheran Church, Port Clinton, with visitation prior to service at 9:30 a.m. Rev. Jarrod Schaaf will preside.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:21