Ralph W. Brinkman Jr, 80, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, December 12, 2024. Ralph was born in Defiance, OH. to the late Ralph Sr and Martha Brinkman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, but most importantly he loved spending time with his family. Ralph was committed to his career as a manager of Kroger and later, becoming a food broker for Acosta, from where he retired. He was very active in the community of Harlan, IN. Ralph was a long-time member of Central Ministries where he was an usher.
Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Lydia "Lil" Brinkman; his children, Shelly Lindsay, Stephen Brinkman, Matt (Christina) Brinkman, and Lisa (Matt) Swogger; grandchildren, Alexandria (Jeff) Schliesser, Whitney (Matt) Nelson, and Mason Swogger; great grandchildren, Jace, Hayes, and Stella; siblings, Nancy (Bill) Shipman, Janice (Scott) Moser, and Marilyn (Roger) Reineke.
Ralph was preceded in death by his sister Debra (Nick) Diamond and brother, Delbert Durham.
Funeral services for Ralph will be held at Central Ministries, 5801 Schwartz Rd. on Monday December 16, 2024 at 11:00 am with calling one hour prior. Visitation will also take place on Sunday December 15th 2024 at FairHaven Funeral Home, 6557 N. Clinton St., from 2-5 pm. Burial will follow in Harlan Memorial Cemetery. Preferred memorials in Ralph's honor may be directed to Central Ministries.