Earl R. Ghelf

Earl R. Ghelf, age 83 of DeSoto, died Sunday, May 4, 2008. Earl Ralph Ghelf, 83 of E888 Ghelf Rd, De Soto died Sunday May 4, 2008 surrounded by his family. Earl was born September 16, 1924 in Iowa to John B and Jenny (Curti) Ghelf. Earl was a WWII veteran serving in Europe. Earl was united in marriage to Doris Hertzfeldt on October 25, 1947 and they owned and operated Mississippi Sports and Recreation (formerly Earls Sport Shop). Over the years, Earl worked at De Soto Bank, ran an excavating business, and prepared income taxes. He also worked at Metropolitan Insurance, Cabelas, and served on the De Soto School Board. Earl enjoyed playing baseball. He played while in the service and in the minor leagues. He also played softball and pumpkin ball until age 62. He was an excellent bowler and was on many leagues over the years earning many honors. Earl is survived by his two sons, Ralph "Butch" (Linda) Ghelf and their children Jennifer, Heather, Amber, Nicole (Kevin Hanson), Adam (fianc Megan Bergen), and Ben. Tom Ghelf and his children Brittany and Connie, his new wife Tricia and their son Lane. Three daughters, Maureen (Curt) Sommerfeld, Kathleen (Charles) Sanborn and their children Stacie, Scott (Heather Brown) and his son Gaven, and Dianne (Terry) Fruth and their children Jon (Jenny) Fruth children Matthew and Emily and Bambi (Jason) Crager and their children Adrian, Peyton and Kyrie. Earl is also survived by one sister Mabel Laylan of La Crosse and one sister-in-law Beverly Antoniak of Jeannette, PA; many other friends and relatives; and Ron the dog. He was preceded in death by his parents;his wife; and two sisters, Gertie and Delia. A celebration of life will be held Wednesday, May 7th from 5-8 at Mississippi Sports & Recreation (Earls Sport Shop) Hwy 35 De Soto, followed by a luncheon after the service. The Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home of DeSoto is serving the family.