Ralph Robert Runge Jr.
POWERS — Ralph Robert Runge Jr., age 71, of Powers, unexpectedly passed away at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba, Michigan on Sunday February 11, 2024. He was born on April 7, 1952 to the late Ralph Runge Sr. and Betty (Kiszely) Runge in Daggett, Michigan.
Ralph graduated from Carney High School in 1970. Shortly after high school, Ralph was drafted in the U.S. Army and then spent most of his adult career as a truck driver for various companies. Ralph married Tammie (Rebbie) in 1996 at St. John Neumann Parish in Spalding. He enjoyed working outside with wood, feeding any “critters” he could find, and having his morning session with the guys over coffee. Ralph loved his family and was the most kindhearted man. He will be greatly missed.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Tammie; children and stepchildren, Angie Runge, Travis (Grace) Runge, Michelle Hawkins, Rochelle (Will) Dunlop, Roxanne (Ryan) Raiche, Raquel Schultz (Nick Cuyler), Candice (Jared) Williams, and Cassidy Runge (Kris); 16 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and a sister Karen (El) Arseneau.
He was preceded in death by his parents, grandson Patrick Runge, stepmother Fay Runge, mother-in-law Anna Mae Schuette, and former wife Patricia Parsek.
The family of Ralph wishes to express their sincere gratitude to Hermansville Rescue Squad and the medical staff in the Emergency Department at OSF St. Francis Hospital for their kindness, support and care of Ralph during this time. They also would like to thank Allo Coolman Funeral Home for the assistance in funeral services.
Friends may call from 10:30 to 11 a.m. CST on Saturday February 24, at St, John Neumann Church in Spalding. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. CST on Saturday at church with Fr. Benny Mathew officiating. A luncheon will follow Mass in the church parish hall.
The Allo Coolman Funeral Home is assisting the Runge family.
Please visit www.allofh.com to send online condolences to his family.