Ralph Duane Adams age 85 of Sturgis, Michigan passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, December 31, 2019 at his home.
He was born April 24, 1934 in LaGrange, Indiana only child of Ora Raymond and Thelma (August) Adams.
Ralph resided most of his life in Sturgis. His early life was spent in Howe, Indiana and was a graduate of Lima High School with the class of 1952.
On April 25, 1953 he married Shirley Mae Notestine in LaGrange, Indiana. She died May 5, 2018.
Ralph retired from American Axle in Three Rivers following over 20 years of dedicated employment. He had also worked at Formed Tubes and the Bound Brook Company both in Sturgis.
He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Sturgis and a fan of NASCAR, the Detroit Tigers and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Ralph enjoyed camping, traveling to the Mackinac Bridge and repairing most anything. Ralph was happiest when he was surrounded by his family. He truly loved time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren and could always be counted on to be in attendance at their many activities.
He is survived by two sons: Douglas Adams of Sturgis and Tracy Adams of Middlebury, Indiana; 13 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and three sons: Duane, Charles and Bruce Adams.
In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Thursday at the Rosenberg Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 807 E. Chicago Rd., Sturgis, MI 49091, 269-651-3284 where a memorial service celebrating the life of Ralph Duane Adams will begin at 11:00 A.M. Thursday, January 9, 2019. A graveside committal of Ralph and Shirley Adams will follow the service at Oak Lawn Cemetery in Sturgis.
The family suggests those wishing to make a memorial donation in Mr. Adams memory consider the charity of one’s own choice.
The obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhomes.com where personal messages of support may be left for the family.