Dr. Ralph Jacqmain M.D., a compassionate and dedicated servant of health, a physician and well-being, passed away on November 22, 2023, with his loving family by his side. Born in Vincennes, Indiana on January 4, 1936, he is the son of Arthur Victor and Alida (Grumieaux) Jacqmain and he grew up in Southern Knox County on the family farm as a young boy and helped his father until completing medical school. He had been a physician for over fifty years and dedicated his life to medicine and the care of his patients. His witty humor and engaging stories brought comfort and joy to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Ralph was a loyal and beloved member of his community, constantly striving to create a healthier environment for those around him.
Ralph was a 1953 graduate of Central Catholic High School and a 1955 graduate of Vincennes University, and he continued his educational journey at the Indiana University School of Medicine, graduating in 1964. He served in the Air National Guard as a Captain and was discharged as a flight surgeon, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his country. His medical career spanned over five decades, with his commitment to health care earning him an award from the State of Indiana for his role as Knox County Health Officer, the role he served for over fifty years. He retired from private practice and continued performing CDL and flight physicals and is the last surviving original Belgian glass cutter from Blackford Glass.
In his personal life, Ralph found joy in activities like turkey shoots, hunting, deep-sea fishing, collecting antique Farmall tractors and in his younger years he enjoyed racing twin engine go karts. He also had a passion for baking bread, a hobby that added a touch of warmth to his home. He was a devout member of the Old Cathedral Catholic Church and was very proud of the fact that he and Bobbi were recipients of the Brute Award in October of 2011.
He is survived by his loving wife, Roberta "Bobbi"Jacqmain of Vincennes; sons, Andy Jacqmain and his wife Lisa of Vincennes, Rodger Jacqmain and his wife Liz of Vincennes; stepchildren, Dana Urie and her husband Jason of Robinson, IL, Chris Cresgy of Vincennes; his grandchildren, Eric, Alida, Maria and Rachael Jacqmain, Brian Foss and his wife Shyloh; step granddaughter, Elizabeth Davison and her husband Patrick and his great granddaughter Hadley Marie Foss. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Alida Jacqmain, and his siblings Earl Jacqmain, Julienne Hall, Mary Hess, Arthur Jacqmain, Norma Hauser and Helen Fox.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at 4:00 pm EST at Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home, 524 Broadway, Vincennes, IN. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, November 30, 2023, at 10:00 am EST at Old Cathedral Catholic Church with Rev. Tony Ernst celebrating. Ralph will be laid to rest in Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery. The Jacqmain family has requested memorial contributions be made to the St. Rose Chapel Restoration Fund, 205 Church St., Vincennes, IN 47591.