Ralph E. Milligan

GREENFIELD – Ralph E. Milligan, age 77, of Greenfield, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, June 22, 2017 surrounded by his loving family at Hancock Regional Hospital. He was born on April 4, 1940 in Herod, Illinois as the son of James Pearl and Bessie (Brown) Milligan. Enlisting in the Army at age 17, he served as a paratrooper from October 1957 to October 1960 in the 2nd Airborne Battle Group 501st Infantry Fort Bragg, NC. He was very proud of his time in the Service. He married Phyllis (Caudill) on December 10, 1966. They enjoyed each other’s love and company through good times and bad until Phyllis’ death on July 22, 2008. Ralph worked for AA Conte for 30 years as a truck driver before retiring. He was a simple man; never needed the latest gadgets to feel happy. He simply enjoyed spending time with his family. He is survived by his daughter, Debra Caudill; two grandchildren, Lisa Mech and Nikki (Andy) Hicks; four great-grandchildren, Cassity and Brooklynn Mech, and Cheyenne and Michael Hicks. They were all the light of his life and they all love, cherish, and will miss him more than anything. He is also survived by his sisters, Naomi Brown, Lela Hester, and Nina Carter; brother, Jim; as well as many nieces, nephews, brothers, and sisters-in-law. Ralph would bring his very loved nephew, David Osborne, to work with him driving dump trucks, when David was a little boy. He loved you very much and thought you were “all that” in his eyes. Lastly, he is survived by his companion, Linda Greenwell of Greenfield, and her little dog, Sugar. Linda brought happiness back into Dad’s life after Mom’s death and they enjoyed spending time with one another, taking Sugar on their many walks together. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Bessie; wife, Phyllis; brothers, Carol, Willard and Bert; and sister, Louise Webb. Dad was our rock; he was the go-to guy when things were going wrong. He was always there to help. Dad, we love you and will see you again someday. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at Park Cemetery in Greenfield. Pastor Carl Coffey will be officiating. Military rites will be presented at the graveside. Friends may share a memory or a condolence at www.erleweinmortuary.com. Arrangements are being handled by Erlewein Mortuary & Crematory in Greenfield.

Ralph E. Milligan

April 4, 1940 - June 22, 2017