Klotz, Ralph

Ralph Klotz, 54, of Spring Branch, Texas,, formerly of Cedar Rapids, died in his home on June 23, 2012.

Ralph is survived by his son, Ralph Thomas; his father, Ralph X.; his sisters, Laura and Sherry; and a niece, Andria.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Wilson.

Ralph was born on Nov. 26, 1957, in Pensacola, Fla. He attended Roosevelt Junior High and Kennedy Senior High School graduating in 1977, where he excelled in football, wrestling and track and had a lifetime admiration for coaches Jim O'Brien and Al Stiers. The Kennedy team of Williams/McAfee/Blasingame/and Klotz from 1977 holds the JFK school record for the 880 yard relay in a time of 1:29.90. Ralph enjoyed running into friends and reminiscing about the glory days. After high school, Ralph enlisted in the US Navy. Ralph was trained in electronics and took a job working for Montgomery Elevator in Houston, Texas. He then moved to Milton, Fla., where he worked until his retirement.

alph returned to Cedar Rapids in 1998 then moved to Texas Hill Country to enjoy his last years. Ralph loved the simple things in life. He was an avid outdoorsman and appreciated all of God's things. Ralph's interest in ancestry took him to Germany and he also appreciated the Native American culture. He enjoyed the time he was able to spend with his son, Ralph and proud that he would be able to carry on the Klotz name.

Ralph loved the Gulf coast and had requested his remains be cremated and ashes be spread in the Gulf of Mexico. There is no service planned at this time.

Condolences may be sent in care of Rob Baskerville, 3741 Rogers Rd. NW Cedar Rapids, IA 52405; or to . They will then be forwarded to the family.

Published in The Gazette Aug. 4, 2012.