Ralph G. Blanken's Obituary
Ralph G. Blanken, age 78 of Batesville, died Friday, January 16, 2009 at his residence. Born March 1, 1930 in Cincinnati, Ohio, he is the son of Margaret (Nee: Lattner) and Tony Blanken. He married Thelma Riehle June 18, 1955 at St. Louis Church in Batesville.Ralph served in the army during the Korean War. After the service, he worked for Hillenbrand Industries where he held several positions before becoming a vice president. He resigned from Hillenbrand’s after 25 years and opened Popper’s Clothing Store in Brookville, Indiana and Nobby Clothing Store in Batesville before retiring in 2001. He was a member of St. Louis Church, Knights of Columbus Council #1461 in Batesville and a former member of Hillcrest Country Club and the Batesville Chamber of Commerce. He also was very active with the Southeastern Indiana Mental Health Organization, serving as a founding board member and chairman.With a strong work ethic, Ralph spent much of his time immersed in his work, but through the years, because of his willingness to try new things, he enjoyed many experiences and activities. Some of those included Snow Skiing, Golf, Bridge, Tennis and Snow Shoeing. His family affectionately remembers and would tease him about his naps before bedtime.Ralph is survived by his wife Thelma; daughter and son-in-law Beth & Dan Chilson of Ft. Collins, Colorado; son and daughter-in-law Roger & Mary Meyer-Blanken of Short Hills, New Jersey; sisters Mary Mann of Milan, Indiana, Dorothy Bennett of Moores Hill, Indiana and five grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is also preceded in death by sisters Clara Stahley, Ruth Blanken, Helen Blanken and brother Lawrence Blanken. Visitation is Monday, January 19th, from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home, with a rosary service at 4 p.m. Funeral services are 10 a.m. Tuesday, January 20th, at St. Louis Church with Rev. Stephen Akange officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The family requests memorials to St. Louis School or the American Parkinson Disease Association.
What’s your fondest memory of Ralph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ralph?
Share a story where Ralph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ralph you’ll never forget.
How did Ralph make you smile?