Ralph Sherman, Sr., 90, died on Friday, May 19, 2023 surrounded by his family.

Charismatic, personable, entertaining and helpful; a wonderful talent, human and friend; one of the greatest men I've ever known; his story is one of respect, responsibility and endurance through life's ups and downs; a man with a true love of and by his family.

These were but a few of the sentiments expressed following the passing of Ralph, in the presence of his family at the home of his son, Ralph Jr.

Born in Chicago on December 11, 1932, Ralph began a 10-year career in the Marines in 1950. He served in Korea, followed by stints as a Drill Instructor, Marine Corp Honor Guard and as a Recruiter, the role that brought him to Will County.

Ralph's post-military career included many roles behind the microphone at radio stations across the Midwest and nationally at the newly formed Satellite Music Network. He also enjoyed success in radio station management including WJOL, WJRC, WLBK AND WDEK and as the Publisher of the DeKalb County Journal and the DeKalb Press.

Perhaps the most appreciated aspect of personal history was his nearly life-long career as a stand-up comedian, entertainer and Master of Ceremonies. Ralph shared his talents all over the country with audiences big and small. Many of those performances took place during Kiwanis Shows in Joliet and DeKalb, two clubs to which he contributed countless hours as an active member and his leadership as President of both clubs.

Never one to act his age, Ralph was an avid golfer and enjoyed the fellowship of a monthly poker group and weekly Kiwanis meetings.

Loved by his wife of 70 years, Lani; his daughters Dene't (George ) Honiotes and Christi (Don) Cameron; his son Ralph Jr (fiancé Marci); his grandchildren Aretese, Taylor, Alison, Jordyn, Nicholas and Sydney; his great-grandchildren George, Alana, Hans, Amarie, Fo'toula and a soon-to-be great-grandson; and his golden retriever Beckett.

A private family viewing will be followed by a public ceremony at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Huff Rd, Elwood, IL on June 1, 2023 at 2:30 pm. Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of Ralph's life Sunday, August 13, 2023 at Ralph Jr.'s home, 303 Greenwood Acres, DeKalb, IL 60115, from 2:00pm-5:00pm.

The family would appreciate donations in Ralph's name to Northern Illinois Hospice, northernillinoishospice.org in care of the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL. 60178.

To sign the on-line guest book, go to www.ButalaFuneralHomes.com