On the morning of March 23, 2022, Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic Ralph Andrew “Andy” Nunley passed away at home, surrounded by his family, following a brief but valiant battle with colorectal cancer attributed to his service as a fire lieutenant and paramedic.

Born to Ralph and Teresa Nunley on August 12, 1980, Andy graduated from Bloom Carroll High School in 1998 before attending Hocking College, where he received his degree in fire science. He met and married his loving wife, Gretchen, of 20 years, and raised three beautiful children, Hannah, Hayley, and Hank. Andy blessed his family as a wonderful father, husband, son, brother, uncle, and cousin.

Andy was a proud and beloved member of Bloom Township Fire Department, where he served for over 23 years and retired at the rank of lieutenant. Known for his infectious laugh and his one-of-a-kind sense of humor, Andy never stopped learning. He excelled in many things such as firefighting, mechanics, and welding, and he consistently shared his knowledge and skills with others. His life touched so many through deed and action, as he tirelessly gave of himself to his friends and community. Andy was an amazing mentor and a role model to so many in the fire service, with an impact that cannot be measured.

Outside of his career, Andy loved square body Chevy trucks, real country music, and spending time in the outdoors hiking, fishing, and riding dirt bikes. He especially treasured time spent traveling to beautiful places with his wife and children. Andy’s family was the true joy of his life.

Andy will be forever remembered and sorely missed as a man whose talents were endless, whose interests were boundless, whose love was limitless, and whose influence was immeasurable. His loss is deeply felt, but his spirit will continue to shine brightly, and his legacy will live forever in the hearts of all those who love him.