Ralph Edward Hisle

I can remember...If the person you're remembering is Ralph Edward Hisle, the loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, family man, friend, co-worker and faithful Christian, you most likely have a smile on your face. You also have a warmth in your heart from having known this man.

Ralph departed this life on April 19, 2023. Born on May 17, 1938 in Rock Island, Illinois to Elvin and Marie (Oliver) Hisle, he married his sweet (and patient) love, Janet Strickler on July 15, 1956. They had two sons, Doug, who predeceased him in 1984, and Brad, who married Robin Arbaugh Hisle. Other survivors include three grandsons: Shay, Trey & Garret, his sister, Shirley Buchanan and her husband Ron of Hiram, Georgia, sister-in-law Debbie Hisle of Fresco, TX, nieces, Kim Poll and her husband James, Barbara Beyke and her husband Scott of Dallas, Georgia, and four great nephews: Trevor & Travis Beyke, Gavin and Logan Poll and many friends. His brother Larry Lee Hisle preceded him in death in 2008.

Co-workers and employees at Mobil Chemical, Plastics Division, where he worked 31.5 years from 1957 - 1988, Vanguard Plastics, where he worked for 8 years from 1989 to 1997, and Scott & White Hospital for 16 years since 2006, will tell you that Ralph, in his various roles as a manager, took time to get to know the person he was responsible for, and encouraged that person to not just excel in his duties at work, but also personally. Ralph led by example. His office door was open to any co-worker that needed someone to listen, and he gave you his full attention. His team at Mobil Chemical secured a patent for for the McD LT container to allow hot food to be served with cold toppings, unique for the time. His role at Vanguard Plastics included starting up the company's second manufacturing plant, located in Farmer's Branch, TX. He, with Jan, toured the western US in their RV, visiting thousands of Wal-Mart stores, to introduce plastic carry out bags to the stores and its millions of customers. Ralph's efforts helped project Vanguard Plastics to its market leadership position.

Ralph worked long and full days to build successful businesses, but also enjoyed family time and visits with friends. His love of cars took him to NASCAR races, he spent many hours at the Springfield Mile in his youth and loved motorcycle touring with Jan on the back, taking many trips with motorcycling clubs, in addition to raising funds for charities the clubs support. He participated in bible studies and other church activities, always encouraging friends to attend with him. His faith was unshakable, he was the rock that Christians are called to be. Children held a special place in his heart, his easy smile and warmth made him approachable, and he welcomed them with open arms.

Laughter and good food were the mainstays of visits with Ralph and Jan. He loved to tell that their "retirement home" on Lake Belton was small so Jan wouldn't spend so much time cleaning (so she went out and picked up the trash others tossed on their country road...) and that he bought 3 lots as he wanted to pick his neighbors. He then proceeded to build a garage large enough to hold his 2 vehicles and RV, plus motorcycle and grandsons, if they wanted to spend the night there.

As we gather today to celebrate the life of Ralph, may we recall the words of our Savior:

John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

Visitation will be Friday, April 28 from 6-8 PM at Crawford Bowers Funeral Home in Temple. Funeral Services will be Saturday at 10:30 AM at Trinity Church followed by burial at Bellwood Memorial Park.