Ralph B. Feldhacker, 91, of Hillsdale, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday afternoon, September 22, 2024, surrounded by his children. He was born on October 23, 1932, in Crofton, Nebraska, to Barney and Helen (Kuehler) Feldhacker, the second oldest of 12 children. Ralph lived a life rich in family, hard work, and love.

In 1944, Ralph's family relocated to Iowa, where he spent much of his youth. It was there that he married his first wife, Bette Junkermeier (married 1955-1961), and began raising a family. He married Darline (Salmon) in 1962, and in 1965, he moved his growing family to Hillsdale, where he continued his life's work as a farmer. Ralph was an innovative farmer in Barron County, introducing modern techniques like the county’s first manure pit and offering services such as custom crop spraying and combining, leaving a lasting impact on local agriculture. Ralph took great pride in farming alongside his children. Besides milking cows, Ralph raised a wide array of animals. He did finally sell his dairy herd in 2004 at the age of 72, while continuing to crop farm.

Ralph was a proud veteran, having served in the U.S. Army from March 11, 1953, to March 10, 1955. He was a member of the 6th Armored Division Maintenance Battalion, and his time in the military was a source of deep pride.

Ralph had a lifelong passion for horses and was deeply involved in the Spooner Rodeo, starting and participating in annual trail rides with his favorite horse, Rebel. He also frequently judged Chuckwagon races throughout the western states. His love for country western decor, movies, and NASCAR was well known, and in his later years, he enjoyed watching football with his partner, Barb Sundly.

Ralph was a man who radiated love. His charm, warmth, and sense of humor drew people to him, especially children, who adored him. A devoted and caring father, Ralph always made time to laugh, play, and share joy with others. His charm and warmth are responsible for one of Ralph's most treasured memories, his role as a stand-in, in 1998 for the film The Straight Story, an experience he loved recounting with friends and family.

Ralph is survived by his loving children: Steve (Lisa) of Fennimore, Sherry (Dave) of Hertel, Scott (Carmon) of Hillsdale, Pat (April) of Turtle Lake, Mary (Justin) Weber of Barron, Brett (Mariah) of Cornell, and Drew of Barron; 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren; as well as brothers, Ken (Marge), Stan (Diana) and Wayne (Alicia); sisters, Lucille Tuel, Phyllis Lowe, Amy (Virgil) Heidebrink and Elaine Hines.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife Bette (Junkermeier), his second wife Alice “Darline” (Salmon), his longtime partner Barb Sundly; brothers Melvin and Francis; sisters Jeanette and Cynthia and a granddaughter Amber.

Ralph's presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but the love he shared and the memories he created will live on forever.

A funeral service for Ralph will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Barron. A visitation will be held from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Rausch and Steel Funeral Home on Monday, September 30 and one hour prior to the service at the church on Tuesday morning. Burial will be at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery near Spooner.

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron.

Last Update: Sep 26, 2024 12:15 pm CDT