Ralph Edward Birnell

Ralph E. Birnell, 68, of Kokomo, Indiana, peacefully passed at home on October 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with metastatic cancer. His larger-than-life personality, gift for storytelling and his enduring love of nature, community and NASCAR will carry his memory through time.

Ralph was born August 9,1957, in Kokomo to Jean Ellen (Morrison) Birnell-McFarland and Harvey E. Birnell.

Ralph was raised with a deep respect for the outdoors, and he was dedicated to supporting his neighbors and extended community. He was an avid fisherman, spending countless hours on the water and engaged in nearly any activity that brought him closer to nature. He found joy in working with his hands, spinning tall tales that could bring laughter to any space and simply being present with the people who loved him and those he held dear.

Ralph is survived by his daughter and grandson, Amber N. Smith and Lincoln White of Lafayette, IN, daughter, Kerri L. Birnell of Kokomo, nephew, Steve and wife Karla Birnell of Kokomo, aunt and uncles, Jackie and Phillip Weybrant of Kokomo, Ruby and Ray Wilson of Kentucky, and cousin, Becky and Jerry Fitzpatrick of Miami, IN, as well as many extended surviving family members.

Ralph is preceded in death by both maternal and paternal grandparents, his mother and father, sister Vickie L. Birnell, and son Ralph E. Birnell II.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, October 10, 2025, at Shirley & Stout Funeral Home, Jefferson Street Chapel, 414 W. Jefferson Street, Kokomo, with Pastor Brad Swain officiating.  Friends are invited to visit with family from 11-1 pm Friday at the funeral home.   

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