Ralph N. Gotham

Ralph was born April 22, 1930 in Kalamazoo, son of Fred and Ina (Voorheis) Gotham.  He passed away August 9, 2022 at the age of 92.  After graduating from Mattawan High School in 1948, he worked 14 years at Clarage Fan Company.  He retired in 1990 as a millwright after 28 years of service at the Upjohn Company.  During retirement, Ralph discovered a talent for chainsaw carving.  He carved many pieces of art in the Kalamazoo/Portage area.

Preceding Ralph in death were his parents, sister Pauline and brother-in-law Howard Sackett, brother J.C. Gotham and 2 infant brothers.  Surviving are his wife of 67 years, Roberta (Farthing) Gotham, daughter Carol (Steven) Erwin of Bath, MI, son David Gotham of Kalamazoo, a niece and several nephews, including Jerry Sackett in Alabama, and their families.  Ralph was a member of Berean Baptist Church in Portage, MI, past master of Mattawan Masonic Lodge and past high priest of Paw Paw Royal Arch Masons.

For those who wish to make a memorial contribution in Ralph’s name, please consider Berean Baptist Church, Portage, MI, Centrica Care Navigators, Kalamazoo, MI or a charity of your choice.

According to Ralph’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned at this time.

Please visit Ralph's memory page to share memories with his family at www.langelands.com