Jim L Ribley

Jim L. Ribley, 87, North Manchester, Indiana, passed away September 30, 2020 at Timbercrest Healthcare Center, North Manchester. The youngest of three children, Jim was born in Wabash, Indiana, on July 13, 1933 to famers, Arlo E. and Eunice (Cripe) Ribley.

During Jim’s active time at Laketon High School, he played basketball, baseball, volleyball, ran track, was in the choir, and school plays. After graduating from Laketon High School in 1951, Jim furthered his education at Manchester College, while continuing he athletic career, playing basketball and cross country. While in college, Jim took off two years (1954-1956) serving in the United States Army. After being Honorably Discharged from the United States Army, Jim graduated from Manchester with a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry in 1957. After graduation, Jim went to work for Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana. He spent his entire professional career from 1957 to 1990 working for Eli Lilly.

From third grade to graduation of high school, Jim went to school with his future wife. It wasn’t until college however, that they started dating. On March 20, 1955 Jim and Ruth were Married in the Zion Lutheran Church, North Manchester, Indiana. During their sixty-five years together, the family enjoyed camping, golf, bowling, sports of all kinds, gardening, and traveling. He had traveled all over the United States, including Hawaii, and Alaska. Jim also traveled throughout Europe, Canada, but his favorite place was Germany. While his brother, Max was still living, the two enjoyed fishing together. Jim’s most treasured times however, was the time he spent visiting with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

The loving memory of Jim L. Ribley will be forever cherished by his wife, Ruth G. Ribley, North Manchester; sons, John D. (Susan) Ribley, Martinsville, Indiana and Jeff L. (Julie) Ribley, Francis Creek, Wisconsin; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Max Ribley; and sister, LeeAnna Hoover.

Family and friends may call Saturday, October 10, 2020 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the North Manchester United Methodist Church, 306 East 2nd Street, North Manchester, Indiana. A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at the conclusion of calling with military funeral honors following. Rev. Steve Bahrt, Chaplain Todd Wilson, and Pastor Larry Ray will officiate.

For those who wish to honor the memory of Jim L. Ribley, memorial contributions may be made to Timbercrest Charitable Assistance Fund, P.O. Box 501, North Manchester, Indiana 46962 or North Manchester, United Methodist Church, 306 East 2nd Street, North Manchester, Indiana 46962.  

Arrangements are entrusted to McKee Mortuary.

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