Ralph A. Royer

Ralph A. Royer, 80, Claypool, Indiana died at 8:50 a.m. Sunday, October 14, 2012 at his residence. He was born at Virigwi, Nigeria on July 26, 1932 to Harold A. & Gladys (Hawbaker) Royer. He attended high school in Nirgeria and Dallas Center, Iowa. After attending McPherson College (KS) for 2 years, he served as 1-W alternative military service in Nigeria from 1953-1955. Upon his return, he completed his college degree and graduated in 1957. On April 17, 1955 he married Florence S. Miller. She died February 25, 2005. Ralph & Flossie served as missionaries for the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria for 18 years. Later, Ralph served as director of Church World Service in Niger for 11 years. He also served in Liberia for 2 years where he was involved with war relief work. Returning to Indiana in 1986 he worked in construction for the next 20 years. He poured his time, energy and love into the Eel River Church and surrounding community. On April 29, 2006 he married Barbara (Peters) McFadden. For the last six years Barbara has joined Ralph in his efforts. Surviving are his wife, Barbara. Three daughters; Linda Shankster, Elkhart, IN; Mrs. Carl (Roxane) Hill, Abilene, TX; Mrs. Andrew (Sylvia) Taussig, Oklahoma City, OK. Eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. One sister, Norann Blough, Bruderhof Community, NY. Services will be held Wednesday, October 17, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. at Eel River Community Church of the Brethren, 2507 E. State Road 14, Silver Lake, IN. Friends and family may call on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at McKee Mortuary, 1401 State Road 114 West, North Manchester, IN. Pastor Andrew Sampson will officiate the services and burial will be in Ulrey Memorial Cemetery, Silver Lake, IN. For those who wish to honor the memory of Ralph A. Royer, memorial contributions may be made to Kulp Bible College (a pastor's training school in Nigeria) c/o McKee Mortuary. To send a private condolence to the Royer family, use the Condolence link on the Homepage.