Ralph G. Nye

Ralph G. Nye, age 85, of Battle Creek peacefully went to be with his Lord & Savior on Monday evening, April 14, 2014. He was born in Battle Creek on January 31, 1929, the loving son of Nyle Bird and Alma Elizabeth (Brown) Nye. Ralph graduated from Hastings High School with the Class of 1946 and furthered his education at Michigan State University. He farmed his entire life and also had been employed at Blue Diamond Lumber and Eaton Manufacturing until it closed.

Ralph married the "Love of his Life", Kathleen Huggett on December 10, 1960; she survives. He is also survived by his children, Kevin & Angel Nye of Battle Creek and David & Debbie Nye of Augusta, Georgia; 9 grandchildren, Josh & Lauren Nye, Kayla Nye, Benjamin Nye, Katie Nye, Erin Nye, Chris Case, Greg Case, Nick Nye, Logan Nye, and a great-grandson, Peyton Nye.

Ralph attended Calvary Baptist Church and was a life-member of the Michigan Audubon Society. His life's work and greatest hobby was always working on the farm. Ralph played baseball in the area for many years on several different teams. He also enjoyed photography and spending time with his family.

The family will receive friends 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 16, 2014 at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Funeral services to celebrate Ralph's life will be held 11:00a.m., Thursday, April 17, 2014 at the Calvary Baptist Church, 1625 Capital Ave. NE, Battle Creek with Pastor Tom Townsend, officiating. Interment will follow at Bedford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Calvary Baptist Church or Great Lakes Hospice. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.