Ralph B. Schell, age 99, of Bradner, Ohio passed away Saturday, August 10, 2024, at BG Manor in Bowling Green. He was born on December 20, 1924, in West Millgrove, Ohio to the late Jay B. & Gertrude (Blackman) Schell. His nickname was PeeWee since he was so small when bailing hay at Dunbridge Elevator.
Ralph served his country proudly in the United States Army during World War II. He was a litter carrier which included walking 4 miles one way to the front line of the war where he loaded the wounded soldiers on the stretcher and then walked back to the army field hospital. Occasionally, he carried wounded soldiers on his shoulders to seek medical help. On the boat to Europe, Ralph played poker for candy bars instead of money because on the first night aboard ship everyone got sick. He was good at playing poker, so he did not take their money, he played for candy bars and ate them for the rest of the voyage.
Ralph married Carma Rents on July 19, 1947, in Lindsey, Ohio, and she preceded him in passing on November 20, 2018.
Surviving Ralph is his son, Jack B. (Linda) and grandson Jay B. (Haley). Also surviving him is a step-granddaughter Wendy and 3 great-grandchildren, Ben, Megan, and Morgan. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 sisters, Virginia, Loraine, and one brother, Bob.
Ralph worked at the Whirlpool Plant in Clyde for 38 years before retiring in December 1989. He operated one of the biggest medal stamping presses in the plant. Ralph was a member of the Albert Bowe American Legion Post #338, and his greatest love in life was spending time with his family. He lived all his life in Bradner, Ohio, and will be greatly missed by many.
Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 PM on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at Barndt Funeral Home in Wayne, Ohio, where a Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 11 AM. Burial will be at Bradner Cemetery with Military Honors performed by the Albert Bowe American Legion Post #338. Memorial donations may be made to the Wood County Humane Society or to the Wood County Committee on Aging. Online condolences can be sent to Ralph’s family at www.barndtfuneralhome.org.
