Ralph E. Freds

Ralph E. Freds, age 82, of Battle Creek, passed away Thursday evening, May 11, 2017 at Borgess Hospital in Kalamazoo. He was born in Marshall, Michigan on April 13, 1935, the loving son of Cressel and Irene M. (Delaney) Freds. Ralph retired from Grand Trunk Railroad after more than 34 years of faithful service.

Ralph married the "Love of His Life", Elsie B. Main in Marshall on January 13, 1960; she sadly preceded him in death on July 7, 2006. He is survived by his children, Douglas Freds, Tim (Milissa) Freds, Tammy (Tim) Wygant, and Darrell (Pamela) Freds; 16 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Gary Freds. Ralph was also preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Dawn Freds; a daughter-in-law, Belinda Freds; and 2 sisters, Mary Malone, and Barb Favorite.

Ralph was a member of the PNA, and enjoyed playing poker, going to the casino and eating out with his family and friends. Ralph looked forward to his Friday morning breakfasts with his railroad buddies and Sunday afternoon meals with his family.

The family will receive friends 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, May 18, 2017 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care where funeral services to celebrate Ralph's life will be held 1:00 p.m., Friday, May 19, 2017 with Ralph's son-in-law, Pastor Tim Wygant of Garrison Hills Wesleyan Church, officiating. Interment will follow at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the family or the charity of your choice. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.