Obituaries

Ronald W. Draheim, 61, died unexpectedly on January 1, 2025. Ron was born to parents Carole and Daniel Draheim in Toledo, OH, where he attended Whitmer High School (1982) and went on to graduate from the University of Toledo (1988) with a Bachelor of Education. Ron married Cathy Gercak on May 23, 1992. Together they created many happy memories, raising their two children Natalie and Daniel. Ron was an incredibly devoted husband, father, son, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend to many, always giving selflessly.

Ron worked at Dana Corporation for 28 years, starting first as a District Sales Manager and progressing to Global Marketing Manager. He continued his career at Neapco for the last six years as a Marketing/Product/Pricing Manager. He was well known and respected in the Automotive Aftermarket for working with integrity and fairness. Anyone who knew Ron knew he was an avid University of Michigan football fan having held season tickets for over 50 years. He was known for planning and hosting incredible tailgates for every home game. He especially enjoyed celebrating their recent 2023 National Championship.

GO BLUE!

Ron was known for his kind heart and generosity, and his amazing sense of humor. He will be missed by many.

Ron is survived by his wife Cathy Gercak-Draheim; children, Natalie and Daniel Draheim; mother, Carole Draheim; siblings, Ted Draheim, Patti (Randy) Small, Sue McLean, and Steve (Sandy) Draheim; siblings-in-law, John (Lyn) Gercak, Ellen (Brent) Welker, and Jim Gercak; nieces and nephews, Keri (Ron) Sullivan, Chad (Natalee) Small, Abbey (Scott) Monthei, Matt (Alyssa) Braun, Mitch Gercak, Kayla Gercak, Megan Welker, Lauren (Danny) Barren, Riley Welker, and many other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel W. Draheim.

Visitation will be held at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Ave., Toledo, on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be held at Little Flower Catholic Church, 5522 Dorr St., Toledo, on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org).