Ralph L. Palmer: 1956 - 2008
Ralph L. Palmer, 52, a resident of Columbia City, died at 5:55 p. m. on Sunday, July 13, 2008, at The Oaks in Columbia City. He had been in failing health for the past several months.
Mr. Palmer was born on July 9, 1956 in Columbia City, a son of Ray Edward and Ilah M. (Warner) Palmer. He attended the Columbia City Opportunity Center, and was a lifelong resident of Whitley County.
He had been previously employed at Clementine’s Restaurant and at Taco Bell in Columbia City, and had last worked at Bob Evans in Columbia City. He was a member of the Churubusco Church of the Nazarene.
Ralph was always known as a good-natured prankster, and enjoyed hugs, and riding motorcycles. He had always been a “people person,” loved and enjoyed his family and friends, and was a great fan of country music and “Walker, Texas Ranger.”
The surviving relatives include his siblings Sharon (George) Waltenburg of Richmond, and Karl L. (Brenda) Palmer, James E. (Darlene) Palmer, Ruth (Kenneth) Hoffman, Rosemary (Bill) Kincaid, and Jane (Jack) Craig, all of Columbia City; a special friend Robin Elsner of Columbia City; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother Fred W. Palmer; a niece Deborah S. Hoffman Hall; a great-niece Ashley Marie Weikart; and a great-nephew James Kenneth Hoffman.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a. m. on Thursday, July 17, 2008, at the Sheets & Childs Funeral Home in Churubusco with Pastors Sam Norris and Eddie Jones, officiating.
The family will receive friends at the mortuary on Wednesday from 2 to 8 p. m.
Interment will be in the South Park Cemetery Annex, Columbia Township.
For those who wish, memorials may be directed to the Churubusco Church of the Nazarene, 1000 W. Whitley Street, Churubusco, IN 46723; or the American Diabetes Association, 7363 E. 21st Street, Indianapolis, IN 46219.
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“Condolences” below. . .
July 14th, 2008 at 4:15 pm
Oh, what many memories we have of Ralph! And, they all bring a smile. Because of the love of his family — Ralph lived as long as he did. He touched many lives. I feel blessed to have known Ralph Palmer.
Love n Prayers
Carol (Foor) & Wil Watson
Matt & Beth Foor
Marci & Adam Reynolds
July 15th, 2008 at 2:24 am
I loved Ralph and will miss him deeply. The memories I have of Ralph, his practical jokes, and sweet smile will be with me forever. Your family has always been very special to me and I consider it a privilege to have gotten to know all of you over the years. My heart breaks for you all. May you know His peace and comfort during this difficult time. You are all in my prayers.
Love, Tina
July 15th, 2008 at 3:35 am
Hi I’m Dan Lude’s brother Tim. I first met Ralph in the early eighties when I worked with him at the Opportunity Center. Between the times there and all of the times he pulled me aside to complain about my brother it’s been a pleasure knowing him. Just wanted to say thanks for sharing Ralph With us. We’ll miss Him. God Bless!
July 15th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
My Condolences to the Palmer Family. I worked in the office across from Passages and it was always great to see Ralph come in with his big smile and hat. I went to school with Sharon and remember when he was born and she had him at a ballgame. Sure does not seem like 52 years ago. My prayers are with you. Myrna
July 15th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
I am so sorry to learn of Ralph’s passing. I use to work at the truck stop in Columbia City. I had the honor of meeting Ralph when he came in. It was a pleasure to wait on him and his group. Because I’ve known Dan Lude since he was small, he always had a special place in my heart and always got a hug from me. Not to be left out, Ralphie asked just once for a hug and got one then and every time after that. He also became special to me. He was such a joy to be around and will always have a place in my heart. My prayers are with you and your family. Ralph will live on in the hearts and memories of those who knew and loved him. He is wearing his hat and sharing his loving smile in heaven. Ralphie you will be greatly missed.
July 16th, 2008 at 6:25 am
Dearest Palmer family,
I was so sorry to hear about Ralph’s passing. I will keep your family in our prayers. Just think, now he now gets a big hug from Ilah in heaven. God be with you as you rejoice and celebrate Ralph’s life.
Lisa Waterman
July 28th, 2008 at 12:34 pm
Dear Palmer Family… Bud and I just wanted you to know how much we enjoyed working with Ralph. He had a great sense of humor, and was fun to be around. He really loved to ride on Bud’s motorcycle, and hanging out with him. Ralph also did a good job wherever he worked. We know he will be missed by many people. Love Bud and Karen