Ralph's Funeral Service Video

Ralph "Bud" Learman, age 80, of New London, died peacefully in his sleep at Birch Hill Nursing Home in Shawano, WI, on April 7, 2022. Ralph was born at home to Otto and Martha Learman on November 10, 1941. After graduating from Hortonville High School in 1960, he farmed most of his life.

Ralph had the keen eye of a naturalist. From his house, situated on a hill with a sweeping view, he could see storm clouds approaching from miles away, and watched all kinds of wildlife, from wild turkeys to deer, and flocks of songbirds that visited his feeders. Ralph was an avid fisherman, a pro with the filet knife, and made his own delicious smoked fish.

Ralph kept a large garden, growing far more than he could use, always giving away the surplus to friends and neighbors – even strangers in parking lots who gladly accepted the vegetables. He wasted nothing, preserving crocks of sauerkraut, pickling hot peppers and cucumbers, baking zucchini bread, and canning tomatoes. In later years, he enjoyed taking a drive to see how high the water was in the river, whether carp were spawning in the ditches, or if migrating swans or geese were visible in the fields.

He was born and lived in the same house his whole life, and was strong-willed and independent.  Like his father, he was ingenious at fixing things and 'making do.' He will be remembered for his quick wit, his laughter, and his knack for telling stories and jokes.

Ralph is survived by two sisters: Angeline Preisler and Doris (John A.) Heideman; nieces and nephews; and his special friends Billy Coe and Troy Borke.

He was predeceased by his parents Otto and Martha Learman, and his brother-in-law Roland "Butch" Preisler.

The family especially thanks the staff of Birch Hill Nursing Home for the extraordinary care they provided during his final months.

Funeral services for Ralph will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 16, 2022, at Cline & Hanson Funeral Home in New London with Kevin Dembinski officiating.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.  Burial will be in the Mosquito Hill Cemetery, Town of Liberty.