Ralph Lewis Bicknell's Obituary
Ralph Lewis Bicknell, age 90, passed away Tuesday, August 16, 2022, at Holland Hospital. He was born November 20, 1931, in Norton, Kansas, to Laurence and Thora (Edson) Bicknell. After high school, Ralph joined the Marines and served his country during the Korean War. His service was recognized as he was a recipient of the Presidential Unit Citation, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal and rose to the rank of Captain. After his service, he worked for Teledyne Continental Motors in their Design and Development division. Ralph loved to read, especially anything related to the military or survival and was a frequent customer at Barnes and Noble. He was very much an extrovert and was the go-to person when someone needed advice. Ralph had a love for cars and racing and had the rides of a lifetime when he participated in the Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World. Above all, Ralph loved his family dearly. On March 26, 1994, Ralph married Mary (Monsma) Bicknell in Grand Haven, MI. Ralph will be lovingly remembered by his wife; son, Scott Bicknell; daughter, Laura (Tony) Meadors; stepsons, Douglas (Abigail Livingood) Van Dam, David (Irma) Van Dam and Martin Van Dam; stepdaughter, Barbara (David) Sauter; 6 step grandchildren; and 2 step great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Byrna Bicknell; and stepdaughter, Anita Ehlers. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00am on August 27, 2022, at First Presbyterian Church, 508 Franklin Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Flowers may be sent to the church and memorial contributions may be directed to Evergreen Commons – Holland. Services are entrusted to The VanZantwick Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 620 Washington Ave., Grand Haven, MI 49417. Share memories with the family at http://www.sytsemafh.com
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