Ned William Ruch, 86, of Mulberry, Ind., died January 31, 2023 in his home surrounded by family. He was born on September 4, 1936 in Frankfort to Maurice and Hazel (Kleinsmith) Ruch. He married Audrey Ann Gouchenour in the summer of 1955 and she preceded him in death.
Ned was a life-long resident of Clinton County and a 1954 graduate of Mulberry High School. He grew up on the family farm and was a farmer and self-employed truck driver. Ned was a life-long member, deacon, and treasurer of the St. Luke Church, which his ancestors started over 150 years ago. He was also the caretaker of the St. Luke Cemetery for over 50 years. His memberships included the Mulberry Masonic Lodge and the Mulberry Conservation Club. Ned was an exceptional basketball and baseball player for Mulberry High School. He was a life-long Purdue, Chicago Cubs, and Indianapolis Colts fan. He enjoyed open wheel racing and loved being “CREW CHIEF” of his grandson’s go kart racing team. He had a soft spot in his heart for all animals, but his greatest joy was spending time with his great-grandkids on the farm and at the race track.
Surviving are his Son: Jay William (Betty) Ruch of Frankfort; Brother: Robert Ruch of Mulberry; Grandchildren: Samantha (Brandon) Leach of Frankfort, Joseph (Brenna) Ruch of Greenfield, and Derek Dunk (Danielle Fish) of Mulberry; Great-Grandchildren: Presley Ann Leach, Pierce William Leach, Porter Kay Leach, Jace Thomas Ruch, Brooks Randall Ruch, Hunter Cadman Dunk, and Harrison Jacob Dunk. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Ned was previously married to Linda Bolinger and her family includes her children: Travis (Debra) Ramsey, Brandon (Nicki) Bolinger, and Penny (Chris) Neal, along with 6 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. One of her grandsons preceded him in death. Ned is preceded in death by his parents, wife: Audrey, brother: Mackey, and his beloved daughter: Janet Ann Dunk.
Visitation will be held 10 a.m. – 12 Noon Friday, February 3, 2023 at Goodwin Funeral Home, 200 S. Main Street, Frankfort, IN 46041. The Funeral Service will begin Noon Friday at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date in St. Luke Cemetery, Frankfort. Memorial donations may be made in Ned’s honor to the Paw Pals of Clinton County, P.O. Box 124, Frankfort, IN 46041. Please visit goodwinfuneralhome.com, where you may share a memory or leave a condolence for the family.