Ralph Edward McIlwain

Ralph Edward McIlwain, 76, of Jefferson City, passed away on Friday, October 2, 2026, at his residence.

He was born on July 29, 1950, in Jefferson City, the son of James Ralph and Elizabeth Mary (Wekenborg) McIlwain.

Ralph graduated from Helias High School in 1969 and continued his education at State Technical College of Missouri.

He was united in marriage to Shirley Ann Adrian on September 11, 2005, in St. Elizabeth and she resides at the home.  He married Celia Diana Seidel on June 2, 1973, in Jefferson City and she preceded him in death on November 29, 1989.

Ralph worked for the Missouri Department of Transportation for many years, retiring in 2006 as fleet coordinator.  In earlier years, he worked for Scholastic.

He attended St. Martin Catholic Church.

Ralph was a master at woodworking and made many wonderful treasures for his family.  He loved watching westerns on TV and eating a big bowl of ice cream.  His greatest joy was his grandchildren.  Being “Papa” to his four grandchildren made his life extra special especially when he could tease them.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; four children, Andrew “Andy” Adrian; Matthew “Matt” McIlwain; Jill (Joshua) Fisher; and Taylor McIlwain; four grandchildren, Ethan Fisher, Celia Fisher, Wyatt Fisher, and Abigail Fisher; two sisters, Carol (Bill) Schneider and Suzie (Mark) Brothers, both of Jefferson City; and a sister-in-law, Debbie McIlwain, Jefferson City.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Celia; an infant son, Addison McIlwain, and a brother James McIlwain.

Visitation will be 12-1:00 p.m., Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Trimble Funeral Home followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m.

Burial will be in Riverview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family, in care of Shirley McIlwain.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City. trimblefunerals.com

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