Ralph R. Netzel, age 85 of Gresham, passed away on Saturday afternoon July 27, 2024 at ThedaCare Medical Center, Shawano with his family at his side.
Ralph Roy Netzel was born February 10, 1939 in the Township of Dupont, son to the late Cyrus & Effie (nee. Herzberg) Netzel. He attended Marion Schools and graduated with the class of 1957. Ralph served his country in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in the 1960’s specializing in radio relay operations. After he was honorably discharged, he worked for Pierce Manufacturing painting and doing body work on fire trucks. Later in his working years, he became an industrial insulator, installing insulation for large commercial building projects. Ralph was a member of American Legion Post #390, Gresham. He loved to work with his hands; he remodeled his homes, built a large playhouse for both his children and grandchildren, and worked on many projects up at his brother-in laws cabin. Teaching friends and family skills that he knew very well, was a joy for Ralph and he encouraged them in their efforts. Ralph was a member of Peace Lutheran Church, Split Rock, and was united in marriage there on August 11, 2001 to Sharon Tryba (nee. Clifford). He enjoyed pan-fishing, hunting, and dancing to Polka and Country music. Ralph was formerly married to Jeanine Netzel (nee. Zimmerman) adopted their four children who were his pride and joy. He also dearly loved his step son, grandchildren and great-grandchild.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Sharon
Daughters: Bridget (Paul) Magadanz & Rebecca Netzel
Sons: Benjamin (Julia) Netzel & Jeff Tryba
Grandchildren: Alexis, Andrew, Aidan, Zoe, Ariel, Acacia, & Amber
A great-grandchild: Navi
Sister: Judy (Don) Wegner
He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Bradley Netzel; brother, Gary Netzel; and a sister, Carol Schuelke.
Memorial services for Ralph will be held at 11AM on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 at Peace Lutheran Church, Split Rock, with the Rev. Thomas Reiff officiating. As per Ralph’s wishes, casual attire is encouraged. Military honors will be provided at the church following the service by American Legion Post #390, Gresham. Inurnment will take place at Trinity St. John’s Cemetery, Town of Dupont.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday at the church from 10AM until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ralph’s name are preferred to be directed to Peace Lutheran Church, Split Rock.
The family wishes to thank the staff of ThedaCare at Home Hospice, as well as Helping Hands Caregivers for all the love and care provided to Ralph.
The Eberhardt-Stevenson Funeral Home & Crematory, Clintonville is assisting the Netzel family with arrangements.
An online guestbook is available at eberhardtstevenson.com.
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