Ralph A. McIntire Sr.

PEORIA - Ralph Alan McIntire Sr., age 87, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, in South Bend, Indiana.

He was born on November 7, 1936, in Peoria, Illinois, to the late Raymond and Lillian (Terensky) McIntire.

Ralph was preceded in by death by his loving wife, Patricia M. (Cooke) McIntire. They married in 1958 in Morton, Illinois, after having met on a blind date. He was dedicated to his work, and they moved frequently around Illinois and Michigan for Ralph’s job in store management, settling in South Bend in 1974. He ended his career in sales in the auto and RV industry. Together, they created a large, caring family, leaving behind five children, Ralph (Patricia) McIntire Jr., Gerald (Beth) McIntire, Jill McIntire, Kim (Derek) Thompson and Patrick McIntire. Ralph imparted wisdom and love to his eight grandchildren, Alexandra, Jake (Anna), Chloe, Nicholas, and Micam McIntire and Benjamin, Joshua and Owen Thompson.

Ralph was a beloved brother to his four siblings who survive, Beverly Bridges, Dorie Trompeter, Peggy McIntire and Jack McIntire, and to his sister, Verna Wozniak, and his brothers, Raymond Jr. and Dennis McIntire, who preceded him in death.

An avid golfer, Ralph once played on the Augusta National course. He was also a skilled carpenter and handyman, helping his family with their projects and building a playset for his grandchildren.

A private service will be held. Palmer Funeral Home Welsheimer Chapel, 17033 Cleveland Road, South Bend, IN 46635, is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ralph’s honor may be made to the American Lung Association, 55 West Wacker Drive, Unit 800, Chicago, IL 60601.