Raymond Benjamin Zurcher

Raymond Benjamin Zurcher, 82, of New Philadelphia went to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 13, 2003, at Morning View Care Center following a brief illness.Born September 2, 1920 in New Philadelphia, Raymond was a son of the late Benjamin S. and Margaret Schlafly Zurcher. After graduating from New Philadelphia High School in 1940, he went on to honorably serve our country in the United States Army Air Force during World War II. Raymond received the American Theater Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Victory Medal.Raymond pursued a career with Greer Steel as a roller, retiring in 1983, after 42 years of service. He was an active member at Jerusalem Church on Stonecreek Road. In addition to his church participation, Raymond enjoyed trapping with family friends. He was a life member of the National Rifle Association, the Zoar Road Gun Club, and the New Philadelphia Elks Lodge No 510.Raymond is survived by his beloved wife, the former Elizabeth Louise Bird whom he wed 61 years ago on August 7, 1941 in New Philadelphia; and three nephews, Donald (Helen) Zurcher and Eugene Zurcher, both of New Philadelphia, and Jerry (Jane) Shull, of Canton.In addition to his parents, Raymond was preceded in death by one brother, Arnold and one sister, Gladys Shull.Visitation will be Sunday, March 16, 2003 from 2 to 5 PM at the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home in New Philadelphia. On Monday, March 17, a celebration of Raymond’s life will begin at 11 AM at the funeral home, with Dr. Terry L. Downin officiating, followed by burial at Ridgecrest Memory Gardens in Dover. Family and friends are invited to the Geib Family Center, located adjacent to the funeral home, following the committal for a luncheon.