Obituary: Ralph Metzler, 77, Tennis Player, Ballroom Dancer

Ralph T. Metzler, the eldest of five children, leaves behind a daughter, Michelle E. Metzler, residing in Bedford, two sisters, Jane Goble and Phyllis King, who reside in Sarasota/Bradenton, Florida, a brother, Edward Metzler who resides in Murrieta, California and a sister, Mary Kay Sandman who resides in Rockford, Michigan.

Ralph was raised on a farm in Brookville, Indiana, graduated from nearby Miami of Ohio University, received a Masters in Physics Education from Colombia University, NY and a second Masters in Math Education from Stanford University, CA.

His teaching career included positions at a private school in France, Walden School in NYC and twenty four years in the Math Dept. at Yorktown High School, Yorktown Heights, NY.  Mr. Metzler retired in 1992 to continue a tutoring practice.  Throughout his life, Mr. Metzler was a fitness club enthusiast and tennis player at the Saw Mill Club, Mt. Kisco. He also ran 10K Races and skied on Bromley and Stratton, Vt. where he had a farm/rental ski house.

In his later years he became an avid gardener and showcase ballroom dancer with the New York Dance Center, Dobbs Ferry, NY.  It was on his way to a Salsa Showcase in Bridgeport, Ct. on Saturday night, April 28th, 2012 that he had an automobile accident that left him unconscious for over eight months until his death on January 14, 2013.

By those who knew and loved him he will be remembered for his infectious laugh, his entrepreneurial spirit, his wide range of cultural interests and friendships and most of all his love for and commitment to family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Patrick’s Church, 7 Pound Ridge Rd., Bedford, NY on Saturday, January 26th at 10am Interment will be private.