Ralph G. VanderMel

Ralph G. VanderMel, 88, of Odon, Indiana, passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2022 at Ketcham Memorial Center in Odon. Ralph was born on May 26, 1933 in Belding, Michigan to Harold and Mabel (McAlexander) VanderMel. Ralph married Clara B. ‘Jean’ (Geisler) VanderMel on September 16, 1961.

Ralph served in the US Navy during the Korean War era. He worked in manufacturing for a plastics factory before retiring in 1996. Ralph enjoyed woodworking, painting, playing guitar and the organ.

Family left to cherish the memories of Ralph include: his wife, Jean VanderMel; two sons, Rick (Linda) Steele of Ionia, MI and Jeff (Debbie) VanderMel of Odon; five grandchildren, Carmen (Tony) Ferguson, Aaron (Jessica) Steele, Sarah (Justin) Hammond, Hannah (Nate) Gingerich, Lilly (Justin Fox) VanderMel; five great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; brother, Phil VanderMel and sister, Sandy VanderMel, both of Michigan.

Ralph was preceded in death by: his parents; one son, Ron Steele; one sister, Betty Lund; two brothers, Paul and George VanderMel.

There will be no public viewing or services. Ralph will be laid to rest in Walnut Hill Cemetery in Odon at a later date, with military rites provided by the Odon VFW Post #9627.

Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Home in Odon. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family online at www.mengfuneralhome.com.