Ralph Manz

Ralph F. Manz, 90, of Kiel, passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026 at home. Ralph was born September 11, 1935, in the Town of New Holstein, to the late Ben and Nelda (Rehm) Manz. He graduated from Kiel High School in 1954. Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1954 until 1956. On April 11, 1959, he married the former Dorothy Garbe at Ss. Peter and Paul Church.

Ralph was recognized by Old Glory Honor Flight #48. It was an experience he was very proud of.

Ralph was a volunteer fire fighter with the Kiel Fire Department and a member of Kiel Fish and Game. He was also a former member of the Kiel VFW. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

In addition to his wife, Dorothy, Ralph is survived by his children, Gail (Don) Krause, Barbara (Robert) Pontow, Richard Manz, James (Jackie) Manz, Mark Manz (Amy Becker) and Sue (Vern) Michels; 10 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren and two sisters-in-law, Rosie (Bob) Williams and Katie (Ernie) Dyer. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Donald (Lorriane) Manz, his sister, Doris (Alan) Maurer, his infant sister, Dorothy Manz, his sisters-in-law, Patricia Bignell and Virginia Schneider, his brothers-in-law, Paul Garbe Jr. and Kenneth Schneider and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Paul and Agnes (Mahloch) Garbe.

In accordance with Ralph's wishes, private family services will be held.

The family would like to thank Jordan Loose, Calumet County Hospice, Meals on Wheels, the Kiel Police Department and the Kiel Ambulance Service for their care, concern and support.

A memorial fund has been established in Ralph's name.