University News
Ralph E. Dirksen Obituary
January 6, 2026
MACOMB, IL - - Former Western Illinois University professor Ralph Edward Dirksen, 84, of Macomb, passed away on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.
Dirksen was an Industrial Education and Technology professor at WIU for 43 years before retiring in 2012. The Annual Ralph Dirksen Technology Education Exhibition for Illinois high-school students, sponsored by the WIU Department of Engineering Technology, was named in his honor, recognizing his years of involvement and organizing of this event.
He is survived by his spouse, Diane E. Nelson, two daughters Rebeccca (Kendy Verilus) Dirksen of Bloomington, IN, and Suzanne (Ryan) McCormick of Tucson, AZ, his brother James (Jane) Dirksen of Cincinnati, OH, and five grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Howard Dirksen.
A private family graveside service was held at Oakwood Cemetery. A celebration of life will be planned and announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
For more information on Dirksen's life, visit bit.ly/4jq3Pf7.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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