Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Ralph Junior Evans, of Warsaw, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in the care of Paddock Springs, Warsaw, at the age of 99. He lived a long and fulfilling life and Ralph’s hard-working hands are now at rest, leaving his greatest legacy… his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who carry his name and will miss him dearly.
A lifetime resident of Kosciusko County, Ralph was born in Warsaw on June 11, 1926, the fourth of 10 children born to Lizzi Ellen Foreman Evans and Samuel LeRoy Evans. Ralph graduated from Claypool High School and a few years later, when he was only 19, he married the love of his life, Betty Jean Shirey, on May 6, 1946. They shared 66 beautiful years before Betty passed away on Nov. 2, 2012.
A true farmer at heart, Ralph was never happier than when tending his land and livestock. While managing his life on the farm, he spent many years sharing his talents working for Solid Construction Company in Elkhart. He and Betty built a life on their beloved farm centered on love and family. They took great pride in raising their four children and watching them grow, marry and become parents themselves. Ralph enjoyed spending time with his many loved ones, but his favorite way to unwind was playing a good game of euchre while sharing many great conversations with family and friends.
He will be lovingly remembered by his three daughters: Sandra (Marvin) Flanery, Claypool; Sue (Robert) Conley, Warsaw; Sonja (Karl) Beck, Rochester; nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 11 great-great-grandchildren. Ralph also leaves behind two sisters, Thelma Boyer, Warsaw; Mary Beth (Jack) Camden, Pierceton; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty; son, Larry Evans; three brothers: Charles, Earl and Russ Evans; as well as four sisters: Maye Beigh, Ruby Drane, Julia Morts and Lillin Lozier.
Ralph’s life will be celebrated at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 13 at Redpath-Fruth Funeral Home, 225 Argonne Road, Warsaw, and officiated by Pastor Terry Bradford. Family and friends may visit prior to the service from 3 to 6 p.m. A graveside service will take place at a later date at Oakwood Cemetery of Warsaw.
Memorial donations may be directed to Kosciusko County 4-H … please make checks payable to Kosciusko County 4-H Council, c/o Purdue Extension, 202 W. Main St., Warsaw, IN 46580.
Online condolences may be sent through the funeral home’s website at www.redpathfruthfuneralhome.com
