Ralph Visscher, born October 7, 1932, went to be with the Lord on April 17, 2015. He was born in Kalamazoo, MI and grew up in the city but the farm was his heart. He found a job as a farm manager after he graduated high school. In 1965 driving a truck became his second passion and drove a truck until he was 79 years old. Kenworth was his favorite truck but his family always gave him a hard time stating it was a Peterbilt. Ralph was an U.S. Army Veteran. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend. He loved life and always had a joke to tell even if they were off color sometimes but they were always welcomed. He made friends all over the world and when he made a friend, they were a friend for life. He enjoyed traveling and was a great motivational speaker. He truly knew the meaning of living life to the fullest every day. He fought a long battle with grace and dignity and done it with God's help. He will truly be missed but will never be forgotten. He is now breathing easy in the Heavens.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Jacob and Hillemina Visscher.
Survivors left to share memories include loving wife, Virginia Visscher, with whom he had just celebrated 38 years of marriage on April 7, 2015; children, Connie and Chris LaFleur, Judy and Ed Lee, Rick Keaton, Linda and Ed Roorda, Carol and Barry Lindhorst, Denny and Debbie Keaton, Janet and Allen Russom, Charlie and Monica Visscher, Mark and Sharon Visscher, Andy and Susan Visscher and Ted and Dana Visscher; brother, Bill Visscher; sister, Hilda Oostydyk; numerous grandkids and great grandkids; and a very special granddaughter, Anna Pilson.
The family will receive friends Monday, April 20th from 6-8 PM at Holley-Gamble Funeral Home in Clinton. Funeral service will follow with Rev. Ray Conrad officiating. Graveside service will be Tuesday, April 21st at the East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 2200 E. Gov. John Sevier Hwy 168, Knoxville, TN. Holley-Gamble Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.holleygamble.com