Paul George Ravas

Paul George Ravas was a man who dedicated himself to his family, his work, and his community, always striving to leave things better than he found them. On January 29, 2025, Paul passed away peacefully under the care of Hospice of Northwest Ohio at Kingston Residence of Sylvania. He was 89 years old, but his impact, his legacy, will endure.

Paul was born on August 19, 1935, in Fremont, Ohio, to Clara and George Ravas, in a home that valued hard work, discipline, and integrity. Growing up alongside his younger brother, David, Paul learned early that nothing in life is given, it is earned through effort, perseverance, and an unshakable sense of duty. He worked, played sports, and studied diligently, setting an example for those around him.

At Oak Harbor High School, Class of 1953, Paul excelled in the classroom, on the football field, in the band, and as part of various clubs. But perhaps his proudest achievement was becoming the first Eagle Scout from Ottawa County, Ohio—a milestone that reflected his commitment to leadership and service.

Paul pursued higher education at the University of Toledo, College of Engineering, where he played football in his freshman year until a knee injury forced him off the field. But Paul was never one to let obstacles define him, focusing on his studies, engaging in engineering societies, and continuing to push himself forward.

In 1955, Paul lost his father, George, a moment that would shape his resolve in the years to come. He took on responsibilities beyond his own, working to support his mother while making sure his younger brother had the same opportunities he did. Because Paul understood something fundamental—we rise by lifting others.

After graduation, Paul joined General Motors working at the General Motors Proving Grounds. But his love for his country led him to enlist in the Ohio Army National Guard. Paul believed deeply in the ideals of service and responsibility, and he carried those beliefs with him throughout his life.

In 1961, Paul married his college sweetheart, Sally Ann (Schlatter) Ravas, beginning a partnership that would define his life. He later joined the family business, Art Iron, Inc., but he never stopped learning. He went on to earn three graduate degrees in engineering, taking courses at Ohio State University, the University of Michigan, and the University of Toledo.

But his greatest joy was his family. He and Sally raised two children, and he was there for every game, every recital, every moment that mattered. He coached the Little League, attended school plays, and showed up—not because he had to, but because family was the foundation of everything he believed in.

Paul is survived by his wife, Sally; his children, James (Elizabeth) and Karen (David) Rhegness; and his beloved grandchildren, Stephanie Ravas, Gabriella Ravas, Philip Ravas, Libbey Rhegness and Catherine Rhegness. He is preceded in death by his parents, granddaughter, Anna Rhegness, and in-laws, whose sacrifices helped shape his life.

Paul Ravas was a man who worked hard, loved deeply, and served with honor. His life reminds us that what we do for ourselves fades, but what we do for others’ lives on. Today, as we say goodbye, let us not only remember him but strive to carry forward the values he lived by - hard work, service, and love.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 8:45 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church, 2201 Secor Rd., Toledo, OH 43606, followed by a funeral service with Communion beginning at 10:00 a.m. Committal rites and interment at Toledo Memorial Park will follow the funeral ceremony.

Contributions in Paul’s name are suggested to Hope Lutheran Church, Hospice of Northwest Ohio, Boys & Girls Clubs of Toledo, Healing Hooves Helping Paws PLLC.