Ralph E. Parlberg

Frankenmuth, MI

Ralph E. Parlberg, a humble hero, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 16th, 2024, at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was 98 years old. Known for his compassionate strength and unwavering dedication, Ralph was a beloved member of his community. His selfless acts of kindness and service to others will be remembered for generations to come.

Ralph was born on May 2, 1926, in Saginaw to the late Edward and Alice (Taylor) Parlberg. He was taught a strong work ethic at a young age on the family farm in Birch Run, MI. This blessed him his entire life.

He married the love of his life, Lenore Eischer, on May 16, 1953. She predeceased him on July 16, 2017.

Ralph was a member of St. Lorenz Lutheran Church where he served as an usher for many years. He greatly enjoyed and appreciated the home visits from the vicars.

Ralph attended Birch Run High School where he played basketball and baseball. He graduated in 1944.

After graduation, Ralph enlisted in the US Navy serving his country in World War II. In 1948, he re-enlisted in the US Army for the Korean War. He was discharged in 1952. He is a member of the American Legion, Post 150; VFW, Post 2725; KWVA, Post 251; and DAV, Post 4.

Ralph was employed at Consumers Power in Flint, retiring in 1988.

He especially enjoyed genealogy documentation, specifically family history and military history. He used stories from local veterans along with a collection of Frankenmuth clippings from the 1960s to 1980s to create 40+ books that are on display at the Wickson Memorial Library in Frankenmuth, starting with World War I. He served as historian for the American Legion Post 150, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2725 and Korean War Veterans Post 251 for many years. He also served as a member of the Cass River Genealogical Society in Frankenmuth.

Ralph was a terrific handyman and enjoyed playing cards, photography, horseshoes, fishing, watching any sport, and loved going to his cabin at Shady Shores Park. In his later years, he enjoyed doing word searches, puzzles, watching jeopardy, and especially spending time with his family.

Ralph is survived by his children: David (Cindy) Parlberg, Saginaw; Lori (Mike) Segura, Lupton, MI; Mark Parlberg, Frankenmuth; Brother Ray (Arlene) Parlberg; 8 grandchildren: Alan Parlberg; Laura (Kyle) Zabel; Catherine (Ben) Atkins; Lisa (Laurin) Dawes; Rick Dunning; Florencio (Evonne) Segura; David (Aurora) Segura; Rita (Raymond) Salomon; and 15 great-grandchildren; Addalyn, Declan, Finan, Caleb, Elijah, Vincent, Makayla, Derrick, David, Jose, Santiago, Reyna, Angelina, Florencio, Jr., Caleb, and 2 great-great grandchildren; Zayden and Naomi; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, Lenore, Ralph is also preceded in death by his brother, Roy, and sisters Ruth and Rena.

The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice Care, who did a wonderful job helping us take care of him through his final days.

Ralph was so proud of his family and would pray for them every day.

Funeral Service will take place on Monday October 21, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Lorenz Lutheran Church, 1030 W. Tuscola, Frankenmuth, Michigan. Ralph's family will receive visitors at Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth, 590 N. Franklin St. on Sunday from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. and Monday at the church from 10:00 a.m. until time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to St. Lorenz Lutheran Church Vicar Fund.

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