Ralph Edward Gruwell of Indianapolis, Indiana died peacefully on July 7, 2018 at the age of 70.

Ralph is survived by his children Phil Gruwell (Michelle Wisener) of Tuscaloosa, AL and Anita (Jeff) Clemens of Indianapolis, IN; Jennifer Palmer of Des Moines, IA; grandchildren Anna Kate, Mallory, Ava, Juice, Eleana, and JJ; brothers Jim (Debbie) Gruwell of Peru, IA; Roger (Jackie) Gruwell of Des Moines, IA; Melvin (Shelly) Gruwell of Story City, IA; and many nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Isabelle Gruwell; sister Sharon Ping, brother-in-law Marvin Ping, and nephew Mark Ping.

Ralph was born on November 7, 1947 in Des Moines, Iowa. He enlisted in the United States Navy where he served with distinction for nearly 4 years during the Vietnam War earning the National Defense Service Medal. He sailed on the USS Hancock, USS Wrangell, and USS Elokomin. He then went to work at FMC Linkbelt in Cedar Rapids, IA for several years. In 1989 he moved to Indianapolis where he retired from the City of Carmel.

Ralph enjoyed spending time with his close family, friends, and neighbors. He was a motorcycle enthusiast, kind friend, and helped those in need.

A service is scheduled for 11:00am on Friday, July 13, 2018 at the Marion National Cemetery in Marion, Indiana. Close friends of Ralph will host a celebration of life gathering for family and friends in the Indianapolis area at a later time. In lieu of flowers, donations to help with final expenses may be mailed to family at 9035 Mount Shasta South Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46234.

The family would like to thank the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center, Heartland Hospice, and Genesis Decatur Township Center for their care.