Life story Mr. Ralph F. Sauer, 77, of Madison, passed away on Sunday, July 8, 2007 at his residence. He was born on August 21, 1929 in Madison, the son of Ralph W. and Gladys Moore Sauer. He was a graduate of the former Central High School, and served in the United States Air Force from July 18, 1947 to July 17, 1950. He was in charge of ordinance testing and disposal at the Joliet Arsenal in Joliet, Illinois, and later wrote training manuals for the government. He retired on March 9, 1973. Mr. Sauer was a lifetime member of the Moose Lodge, B.P.O.E. Elk's Lodge, the American Legion and NARFE. He also held memberships in the Wilmington Lodge #208, Free and Accepted Masons, and the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. He enjoyed working in leather, having crafted many items from leather. Survivors include his brother and sister-in-law, Cris and Kathryn Sauer of Madison; one nephew, Wes Sauer of Madison; and one great-niece, Emma Sauer of Madison. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, the former Mary Diehl on February 24, 2002, and to whom he was married on September 3, 1955; and one sister, Dorothy Bess Gow. The Reverend Robert Leach will conduct funeral services at 11:00 AM Friday, July 13, 2007 at the Lytle Funeral Chapel, with interment to follow in Springdale Cemetery. The Honor Guard of Jefferson Post #9, American Legion will conduct graveside funeral honors. Friends and family may call at the funeral home from 5 to 8 PM Thursday, July 12, 2007, and after 9 AM until time of services on Friday. The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Madison Elk's Lodge #524. Memorial envelopes are available at the funeral home. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ralph F. Sauer, please visit our floral store.