Ralph James Housman, Jr

MILFORD, Ind. - Ralph James “Jim” Housman Jr., 78, Milford, died Monday, May 29, 2023, at the Center for Hospice Care, Mishawaka, IN, following a brief illness. 

He was born June 21, 1944, in Goshen, IN, to Ralph and Emma Kail (Kathemegas) Housman Sr. 

He married Noralee (Shrock) Housman Jan. 21, 1967. She survives in Bristol, IN.

He married Pamela (Hershberger) Housman February 19, 2005. She survives in Milford, IN. 

Also surviving are his daughters Nanette (JR) Lambright and Monica (Matt) Joseph, both of Goshen, IN; granddaughters Adrienne (Zac) Huys, Elkhart, IN, and Alexa (fiancé Zac Lantz) Lambright, Indianapolis, IN; and siblings Linda Houseman, South Bend, IN, Susan (Bobby) Plank, North Webster, IN, and Tim (Donna) Housman, Cromwell, IN, and his beloved blue heeler, Sheba. 

He was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Lloyd Housman. 

A 1962 graduate of Concord High School, Jim retired from a lengthy career in the steel industry, where he served many roles, including general manager and industrial salesman. 

In his younger years, Jim raced motorcycles . He was also an avid hunter and outdoorsman. In his 30s he began to focus his free time on his love of fishing, spending more than 40 years competing in local and regional bass tournament circuits. After retirement, Jim began working part time at Ye Olde Tackle Box, North Webster, IN, where he shared his knowledge and swapped stories with friends and customers. He especially enjoyed sharing his years of expertise with the younger generation interested in tournament fishing.

Cremation will take place, with a celebration of life to be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the Center for Hospice Care, Mishawaka, IN, or the food pantry at Grace Lutheran Church, Syracuse, IN.

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