Ralph Michael Sklarek

Ralph Michael Sklarek died Wednesday morning, December 9, 2020 at Anchor Lodge Nursing Home from COVID 19 at age 75. He was born December 7, 1945 to Stephan J. and Dorothy R. (nee Bonk) Sklarek, the 6th of 9 children. Ralph attended Nativity BVM grade school and played CYO basketball. His friends in speech class said he was really funny.He graduated from Lorain High School in 1964. As a member of the United States Marine Corp from 1964 to 1968 he served in Vietnam. Ralph was a member of Nativity BVM in Lorain and attended regular Saturday evening Masses. He worked for a short time at the Lorain Ford Plant. In July of 1969 he was driving and was hit by a train at the Beaver Creek Railroad crossing which caused him severe brain injury. Ralph spent many years at the Brecksville Veterans Hospital until eventually moving back to Lorain. With his mother as his guardian, he lived at the Firelands Center in Lorain. Ralph endured many years of medical treatments through the VA. For many years Ralph attended concerts and events in Lorain and was often seen dancing and enjoying walking to K-Kream Korner for his usual milk shake. He was always a Cleveland sports fan especially the Browns and Indians. He taught his sister about football and chess and loved to laugh and joke. After a knee injury caused by a fall and unable to walk, he moved to Anchor Lodge Nursing Home. After his mother died, his sister Carol became his guardian and was able to have his medication re-evaluated. She arranged for home health care while he was able to remain at home His family extends a special thanks to Carol for all her efforts to continue Ralph's care. Ralph is survived by his siblings, Ronald (Evie) Sklarek, Frank (Slim) Sklarek, sister in law, Berniece Sklarek (James deceased), Rosemary (Al) Jacobs, Irene Scanlon, Carol Wright and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, siblings, Margaret Sklarek, James Sklarek and Stephan Sklarek, Jr. and all grandparents. The family would like to extend a special thanks to all staff who cared for him at Anchor Lodge Nursing Home. He will be dearly missed by many. Memorial contributions are suggested to the donors choice in memory of Ralph. A graveside service will be Saturday, December 12, 2020 at 2 pm at Calvary Cemetery, Lorain. Guests are asked to meet at the office. Father Robert Glepko will officiate. The Vermilion Veterans Council will conduct military honors. Online condolences may be made at riddlefuneralhome.com.