Ralph Edward Grampp

Ralph Edward Grampp, 78, of rural East Peoria, IL passed away at 7:48 a.m. on Sunday, January 24, 2021 at Bayfront Health Brooksville in Brooksville, FL.  He was born on August 12, 1942 to J. Ralph and Hannah C. (Diller) Grampp of Minonk, IL.  He was a graduate of the Minonk-Dana-Rutland High School - Class of 1960.  He married Ann E. Radebaugh on May 21, 1967 in El Paso, IL.

Surviving are his wife, Ann of rural East Peoria, IL; daughters, Cheryl (Matt) Garrett of Dubuque, IA and Mary Grampp of Metamora, IL; son, John (Leslie) Grampp of Pontiac, IL; six grandchildren, Joseph, Michael, Lydia, Rachel, Madelynn, and Alexander; sister, Joyce Hochstatter of Sheffield, IL; brother, Don Grampp of Ferguson, MO; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law, Jerry, and sister-in-law, Kathi.

Ralph was a U.S. Army Veteran of the 9th Infantry Division and served his country in Vietnam during the Vietnam War where he received several commendations, including the Army Commendation Medal and two Bronze Stars.  Beyond his military service, Ralph worked as a manager with Caterpillar, Inc in Peoria, IL, retiring after 40 years. Caterpillar vacations were frequently spent traveling through Wisconsin, as well as the Upper Peninsula and Great Lakes regions of Michigan.  In his free time, Ralph loved to fish and anything related to Old Iron - steam trains, engines, antique tractors, etc.  In retirement, he enjoyed traveling, especially if steam trains were involved, spending winters in Florida with his wife, as well as spending time with his family, fishing, helping on the farm, woodworking, flea markets, gardening, and just generally tinkering.  Of all of his accomplishments, he was most proud of his family and grandchildren.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A private family graveside service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, April 9, 2021 at Oakwood Cemetery in Metamora, IL with Pastor Jarrod Bartholomew officiating and military rites accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Easter Seals, 507 East Armstrong Avenue, Peoria, IL 61603, the American Legion, 700 North Pennsylvania Street, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206, or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

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