Ralph Starke, age 66, of Dryden, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 19, 2026, after courageously fighting pancreatic cancer through several difficult battles over the past six years. A celebration of life will be held on April 25th at 12:00 pm. Family will be present to receive friends from 11:00 am until the time of the service at 12:00 pm, at Dryden Wesleyan Church, 5274 W Main St, Dryden, Michigan 48428.

Born on February 15, 1960, Ralph was the beloved son of Roger Starke Sr., who preceded him in death in 1977, and Ruth Starke, who preceded him in death in 2013.

Ralph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose life was defined by faith, service, and unwavering love for others. On October 27, 1991, he married the love of his life, Linda May Moses, and together they built a life rooted in faith, commitment, and compassion.

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Starke; his brother, Roger Starke, and sister-in-law, Laurinda Starke; his daughter, Jennifer Bittle, and her partner, Kevin Teller; and his son, Nathan Bittle, and daughter-in-law, Robin Bittle and niece Jessica LaPorte and her family. Ralph was a proud and loving grandfather to Amanda Bittle and Bryan Bittle. He also held close in his heart the cherished memory of his granddaughter, Maddie Bittle, who tragically passed away at just fifteen months old several years ago.

Ralph moved to Dryden in the early 1990s and quickly became a dedicated and familiar presence in the community he loved so deeply. In 2014, he joined the Dryden Township Fire Department, where he served as both a firefighter and Medical First Responder. Ralph was deeply committed to helping others and was known for his relentless willingness to answer emergency calls at all hours of the day and night. His dedication to the department and to the people of Dryden was recognized when he was named Medical First Responder of the Year in both 2022 and 2025.

Outside of his service to the fire department, Ralph worked in the automotive industry as a Process Technician and Engineer in injection molding, bringing the same diligence, skill, and work ethic to his profession that he brought to every part of his life.

Ralph was a man of deep and abiding faith. He loved the Lord and found great joy in worship. He was known as a promise keeper, a prayer warrior, and a faithful servant whose life reflected his beliefs in the way he cared for his family, friends, and neighbors. His kindness, dependability, and quiet strength left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He also embraced life’s simple joys with enthusiasm. Ralph had a passion for music, was an avid golfer, loved riding his bicycle, and was often seen cycling throughout the township. He was also a gifted cross-stitch artist, creating countless beautiful pieces that will remain treasured reminders of his creativity, patience, and love.

Above all, Ralph was a loyal servant to his family, his friends, and his community. He gave generously of himself, whether through his faith, his work, his hobbies, or his service to others. His legacy is one of steadfast devotion, humble leadership, and a heart always willing to help.

Ralph will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his memory will live on in the lives he touched, the prayers he offered, the calls he answered, and the love he gave so freely.

In lieu of flowers, Ralph’s family kindly asks that memorial donations be made to the Dryden Township Fire Department Auxiliary (810-796-3050) in his honor. These contributions will help support the department and the community Ralph cared for so deeply, continuing the spirit of service and dedication that defined his life.