Ralph J. Lair

Ralph James Lair, 68, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on Monday, February 6, 2017, after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

He was born December 4, 1948, to Benjamin and Mary (Jenkins) Lair in Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from Saydel High School. Following graduation, he went to work for Hicklin Diesel (now Interstate Diesel). While employed at Hicklin, he was able to attend mechanics school through Allison Transmission and became a transmission specialist. He retired from Inland Truck in 2016. Ralph’s many interests included camping, fishing, and NASCAR. As a young man, he was a drag racer, and continued to enjoy being a spectator after his driving days were done. He also liked bowling and was a member of a pool league.

Ralph is survived by his children, Kimberly Bush (Brent), Karla Lair (Kathy Lamb), Kathy Jones, Kristin Lair (Kevin), and Lydia Mena-Lair; stepchildren, Debra Ibrahim, DeAnn Ibrahim, and Dawn Ibrahim; grandchildren, Leslie, Erik, Erin, Wyatt, Kelsey, Tina, Cristian, Catalina, Alazaya, and Ethan; sister, Michelle (Steve) Theis; nephew, Brandon Theis; wife, Barbara Lair; and a host of other extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Mary Lair and his brother, David Lair.

Funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 10, 2017 at Hamilton's Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Cremation will follow.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the American Lung Association.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

Print