Ralph J. Pohlman

Ralph J. Pohlman Jr., 86, of Delphos, passed away Sunday morning, June 2, 2024 at Mercy Health St. Rita’s.

He was born April 22, 1938 in Delphos to Ralph and Helen (Martz) Pohlman Sr. who both preceded him in death. On November 18, 1961, he married Marjorie E. (Fischer) Pohlman who survives in Delphos. He was also preceded in death by his brother Donald Pohlman, who was killed in the Korean War.

Ralph is survived by four daughters, Brenda (Jon) Schmiedebusch of Mason, Karen (Michael) Kahny of Delphos, Diann (Gary) Hetrick of Cincinnati, and Lisa (Joseph) Zenni of Cincinnati; ten grandchildren he affectionately named Suzies and Johnnies, otherwise known as Curtis Schmiedebusch, Courtney (Reed) Pyers, Catelyn Schmiedebusch, Olivia, Mitchell, and Matthew Kahny, Andrew, Emily, and Alexander Hetrick, and Meredith Zenni. And two great grandchildren Addie and Bennett Pyers.

Ralph leaves behind his fields of corn, beans and golden grain, his barn full of memories, and loved ones who will forever cherish his wisdom, wit, and unwavering spirit. While the tractors may be silent and the fields tended by others, Ralph's legacy will continue to grow and flourish in the hearts of those who knew him.

From the age of 16, Ralph made farming with his father his life’s work. Taking to it like a duck to water, or more aptly, like a pig to mud. He told stories of pre-dawn milkings and twilight harvests often shared over a soggy bowl of cereal. (The way he liked it.)

Ralph's days were a symphony of clucking chickens, mooing cows, and the rhythmic hum of his tractor. His farm was not just a place; it was a home and a living, breathing testament to hard work, dedication, and the simple joys of rural life. He could often be found with a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous grin looking for his next child or grandchild to tease.

Ralph worked the winter months with Pohlman Bros. Supply, Huffy Manufacturing in Delphos, and Weatherseal of Ottawa.

He enjoyed working word puzzles in the newspaper and keeping a daily diary.

Ralph was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, and Eagles Aerie #417 Delphos.

In the end, Ralph J. Pohlman, Jr. was not just a farmer; he was a steward of the land, and a beloved figure whose life was as rich and vibrant as the harvests he reaped. As he rides off into the sunset, may the fields of heaven be forever fertile under his watchful eye.

A Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 7 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday at Weber Funeral Home, 1840 E. Fifth St., Delphos, where a Parish Wake Service will be held at 6:45 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Delphos St. John’s Parish Foundation or the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be shared at www.weberfh.net.