Submitted by: Mary Jo Koran

SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE - Article published Jan 18, 2006

Richard E. Ransberger

Oct. 12, 1925 - Jan. 15, 2006

Richard E. Ransberger, 80, of Mishawaka, passed away early Sunday morning, January 15, 2006, in Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, Mishawaka.

Dick was born October 12, 1925, in Mishawaka, a son of the late Lewis and Vinnie (Graham) Ransberger. He grew up in Mishawaka, attending St. Joseph Grade School and Mishawaka public schools. Dick served his country in the United States Navy during World War II.

On May 10, 1947, in St. Bavo Catholic Church, he married the former Margaret B. Bokhart. The couple made Mishawaka their home, where they raised their family.

Dick's career was as an electrician working for South Side Electric and Koontz-Wagner. He was a member of I.B.E.W. #153 Union for over 50 years. Dick was a member of St. Bavo Church and V.F.W. Post #360. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, rose gardening and bowling. Dick was a devoted family man and dearly loved his wife.

Dick's surviving family includes his wife of 58 years, Margaret; four sons, Richard P. (Connie) Ransberger of Litchfield Park, Arizona, John P. (Rhonda) Ransberger of Niles, Michigan, Bryan E. (Marie) Ransberger of Granger and Anthony L (Shari) Ransberger of White Pigeon, Michigan; a brother, Charles (Mary) Ransberger of Avon Park, Florida; six grandchildren, Sean, Nicole, Kristopher, Richie, Kelley and Lesley; and four great-grandchildren, Allyson, Alex, Morgan and Kameron.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Catherine Wilkens; four brothers, Everett, James, Lawrence and Louis Ransberger; and by a grandson, Stephen Ransberger.

Friends may spend time with Dick's family today (Wednesday) from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. in Thallemer, Goethals & Wells Funeral Home, 503 W. Third Street, Mishawaka. A prayer service will begin with the visitation at 4:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. in St. Bavo Catholic Church, 511 W. Seventh Street, Mishawaka, with Rev. Barry England officiating. Burial will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Osceola.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society. Envelopes are available in the funeral home.