After the launch of Sputnik in the 1960s, Ralph Eugene Spelbring became interested in the sciences, particularly the field of chemistry. After receiving a Bachelor of Arts in chemistry from DePauw University in 1967, he went on to become a teacher of science at Corydon High School in Indiana in 1968, remaining in that role until 1969. Following a brief stint as a chemistry teacher at LaSalle High School in South Bend, Indiana, in 1971, he went on to serve Whitehall Laboratories in Elkhart, Indiana, as a chemist from 1972 to 1991. Following this tenure, he served in the same capacity for Apex Pharmaceutical from 1993 until retiring as a chemist in 1995.

Post-retirement, Mr. Spelbring continued his roles in academia as a substitute teacher for high schools in Indiana and Michigan between 1997 and 2009. Since 2011, he has devoted his time as a commercial delivery driver. Alongside his primary endeavors, he has also written letters to the editor for several newspapers in Indiana, as well as the Chicago Tribune and Barron’s.

Demonstrating versatility in his field, Mr. Spelbring has also delved into politics as a U.S. House of Representatives candidate for several Indiana districts between 1986 and 2016 and an Elkhart County candidate for the Democratic Party in 2012 and 2018. Additionally, he was a candidate for the Indiana General Assembly in both 1982 and 1984.

To remain abreast of developments within his areas of interest, Mr. Spelbring has maintained affiliation with the American Chemical Society, the Elkhart County chapter of the League of Women Voters and Sigma Xi. Additionally, he was a longtime member of the Economic Club of Michiana for 30 years and the Elkhart Chamber of Commerce for 20 years. Furthermore, he is a former vice president and treasurer of the Elkhart Jaycees, who have named him a lifetime member.

In his spare time, Mr. Spelbring enjoys reading, sports and bowling. Notably, he has bowled in more than 88 counties in Ohio, as well as several counties throughout Indiana.