Ralph McFarland

Ralph McFarland, 68, of Connersville, died Friday morning, March 28, 2014, at his residence. A Connersville native, Ralph was born May 4, 1945 to Marshall and Rheba Gabbard McFarland. He attended Harrisburg High School and had been employed at Design and Manufacturing for over 29 years. Ralph was a knife collector and collected coins. He enjoyed camping, working in the yard and was an avid college basketball fan, especially Indiana University. Ralph loved his family, grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Ralph is survived by his wife, the former Marcia Pruet whom he married July 17, 1964 in Connersville; two daughters: Gail Steele and her companion, Mark Wicker of Connersville; Lori Venable and her husband, Mike of Everton; three grandchildren: Desiree Bunch and her husband, Brandon; Tyler Steele, Dylan Steele, all of Connersville; his great-granddaughter: Brynlee Grace Bunch; his Mother: Rheba McFarland of Connersville; a sister: Edith James and her husband, Ed; two brothers: Carl McFarland and Rick McFarland, all of Connersville; nieces and nephews. Ralph was preceded in death by his Father, two children: Lyle McFarland and Lisa McFarland; a brother: Tolbie McFarland and a sister: Judy Musselman. Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Showalter Blackwell Long Funeral Home, Myers Chapel, Connersville, with Rev. Robert E. Lee of Connersville, officiating. Interment will follow in Dale Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home from 5 to 8 p.m. Monday where memorial contributions may be to the CHS Spartan Football Program. For additional information and to send condolences or memories, go to www.ShowalterBlackwellLong.com.