Ralph E. Coffman

“God is good!” This is the statement that Ralph Coffman shared with many folks over the years. Yes, God is good, as he gave Ralph 85 years on this earth before his Homecoming on Friday, August 22, 2025. Ralph's passing occurred at home on “his farm,” the place that made him happiest, and he was in the presence of loved ones.

Ralph was born on November 1,1939 in Arabia, Ohio to the late James L. and Thelma G. (White) Coffman. When he was six, their family moved to Marion, Ohio and Ralph graduated from Marion Harding High School in 1957. He started working at Marion Power Shovel as a draftsman a week after graduation at age 17. He continued with the company and was a loyal and hardworking employee for 40 years before retirement.

Ralph married the love of his life, Janet Elaine Williman and they shared 65 years together and raised a wonderful family. He proudly shared to anyone, that he was a very blessed man.

Ralph had a lifelong dream of owning a plot of land where he could hunt and fish. In addition to his regular job, Ralph worked many other side jobs just to earn enough money for the down payment for the farm of his dreams in rural Bucyrus. In 1973 his dream came true when Ralph could finally move his family to the new farm. While still working his main job, Ralph built his own house and farmed the land. Even after retirement, he kept busy by working several jobs using his drafting and engineering skills from the Shovel.

Ralph was an active member of Mt. Zion Community Church and served God in many capacities throughout his years at the church. He and Janet enjoyed wintering in Florida and while in the sunshine state, they were both active in their local Florida church. He proudly shared his faith with many and definitely opened the eyes of others to the Lord.

Ralph enjoyed many years of hunting, fishing, and loved camping. His farm offered some great hunting, and their family enjoyed many fishing trips in Canada. As members of the Sunny Travelers, Ralph and Janet experienced some beautiful sights while camping. He was always up for a game of euchre as well as a drive to Amish Country to find the “best priced” Guggisberg cheese.

In addition to wife Janet, Ralph is survived by children, Greg (Shelly) Coffman, Michele (Dave) Cosko, and Dave (Traci) Coffman; grandchildren, Maddie Coffman, Kendra (Josh) Franke, Kylee (Ben) Wright, Jenna Coffman, and Allie Coffman; great grandchildren, Lexi, Lyla, Kaiden, and Brantley; brother, Lindsey “Linny” Coffman; as well as many other extended family members. He was preceded in death by three siblings, Bob Coffman, Janice Mahler, and Bill Coffman.

A Homecoming Celebration Service will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, August 31, at Mt Zion Community Church with Pastor Matt Wilson officiating. Afterwards, his family invites all to stay for food, fellowship, and sharing special memories.

If desired, memorial contributions can be made payable to Mt. Zion Community Church and will be accepted through Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus or at the church on the day of service. Memories are encouraged to be shared in the guestbook of Ralph’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.