Ralph S. Muszynski

Ralph S. Muszynski, age 85, passed away peacefully while surrounded by his family at noon on Wednesday, July 4, 2018, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was born December 1, 1932 to Stanley and Gertrude (Kolesiak) Muszynski in South Bend, Indiana.

Ralph was a graduate of the 1950 class of South Bend Catholic High School, student and football player at Palo Verde Junior College, Arizona State University, and graduate of Butler University. Ralph served as a proud member of the United States Army in the 6th Armored Division at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri from 1955 to 1957.

After serving his country, he returned to South Bend where he married his loving wife, Lauretta, in 1960, and in 1963, took over his father’s family-run business, the Muszynski Insurance Agency, building it into a thriving venture which served the insurance needs of the people of South Bend for over 70 years. In that time, he became an honored member of many clubs, including The South Bend Mishawaka Insurance Association, South Bend’s West Side Democratic Club, Western Avenue Businessmen’s Association, South Bend Achievement Forum, and Sports Car Club of America.

Ralph spent the latter half of his life at Magician Lake on Maple Island in Dowagiac, Michigan, where in his early days he would sail, snowmobile, pontoon, and sit atop his deck with his wife, daughter, and friends. In his later days, as a dedicated grandfather, he shared his love of the lake with his grandchildren, with whom he swam, boated and enjoyed his favorite holiday—the Fourth of July. Most importantly, Ralph was beloved by his friends and family. He is survived by his sister, Lu Baker; devoted wife, Lauretta; daughter, Lori; and his cherished grandchildren, Sam, Marijane, and Molly.

Family and friends will gather at Christ the King Catholic Church, 52473 State Route 933, South Bend, IN, where there will be a viewing from 10:00-11:00 A.M., with Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 11 A.M. on Thursday, July 12, 2018. Palmer Funeral Home—Hickey Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you send donations to Kindred Hospice, 625 Kenmoor Ave SE #115, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 or donate online at www.kindredhealthcare.com/our-services/hospice/hospice-foundation/donate

Online condolences may be left for the Muszynski family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.