Ralph Kenneth Erz's Obituary
ERZ – Ralph Kenneth, of Tulsa, OK. Peacefully passed away Wednesday, October 27, 2021, in his home with his family. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Marilyn, and son-in-law Leo Way. Ralph is survived by his son David and his wife Christine of Tulsa; his daughter Debra Way of Tulsa; 4 grandchildren, Tress Way (Brianna), Cole Way (Kasee), Madison Erz, and Matthew Erz. His 3 step-grandchildren, Nathan Way (Elizabeth), Heather Abbott, Ashley Patterson and 16 great grandchildren.
Ralph was born in Detroit Michigan on July 18, 1935 to Ralph John and Bernadine Elizabeth Erz. Ralph proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1953-55. He was a 1968 graduate of the University of Detroit. Ralph served as president of his fraternity, Delta Sigma Pi. Ralph was employed by Sperry-Vickers Corporation in Detroit Michigan from 1956 to 1972 as their chief financial officer. He then moved his family from Detroit to Tulsa in 1972 to continue his employment with Sperry-Vickers Corporation of Tulsa until 1985 when he then retired. After his retirement in 1986 he went in to business for himself and opened and ran The Trophy Room for 35 years. His love of baseball and especially softball, also lead him to serve as President of the Tulsa Amateur Softball Association for over 20 years.
He will be remembered for, his business ethic, contagious laugh, honesty, his wink, great memory, amazing stories and the way he told them, his quick wit and humor, impeccable organizational skills, and a top three handshake of all time.
Ralph loved spending time with family and friends. He was very proud of his grandkids and great grandkids. They were his pride and joy.
Just so you know, Ralph went out swinging…
“See you later Tiger.”
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Boys and Girls Club of America, BGCA.org in Ralph’s memory.
A private family service is planned. Please post pictures and memories you wish to share about Ralph
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