Ralph Hiatt

Ralph H. Hiatt, 84, of Marshall, IL, died at home on July 17, 2025. He married the love of his life, Sally, in 1965.

His surviving family includes his wife, his son David Hiatt (Christine) of Marshall, IL, his daughter Jenni Grant (Bill) of College Station, TX, and nine grandchildren.

Ralph graduated from high school in Joliet, IL in 1959. He attended Indiana University and Bradley University before being drafted in the U.S. Army in 1963. He completed his tour of duty in 1965. Shortly thereafter, he began his working career at Hercules Inc. in Salt Lake City, UT and then Terre Haute, IN until 1993. He continued his working career with Bryce Corporation in Searcy, AR. After retiring for good, Ralph renewed his interest in restoring classic cars. The “family” 1939 Ford that he drove in high school is still in the family’s possession and will be restored and rebuilt for generations to come.

He was a pitching coach, music teacher, everybody’s auto mechanic, and the guy that eventually got around to it, helping everyone out who asked.

Cremation was entrusted to DeBaun Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.debaunfuneralhomes.com.

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