Graniteville, California

Born March 12, 1932 in Ellis, South Dakota, Ralph moved with his family at age nine to Los Angeles. Upon graduation from Manual Arts High School, he attended Pierce College before joining the Air Force where he served in Washington state and the UK. He relocated to Atascadero, California in 1963 to raise his family. Ralph was an active 4H leader for almost 20 years and for nearly 26 years, he was a familiar, friendly face as the man behind the Post Office counter. After retirement, he and his wife, Marylin, spent the summers at their cabin on Robbins Ranch Road or traveling throughout Canada and Alaska in their RV.   Ralph enjoyed the winter season near his grandchildren at his home in Paso Robles and was always seen out walking with his best friend, Andy, a 120-pound Bouvier.

Ralph is survived by three sons: Jerry of Medford, OR; Ralph James of Denver, CO; Paul (Denise) of Nipomo; and a stepdaughter, Michele (Clive) Rupert of Atascadero and two stepsons, Mark and Mike. He also leaves behind four grandsons, two granddaughters, and a sister, Donna Austin of Paso Robles. He was preceded in death by his wife of 25 years, Marylin, who passed away nine years ago this month.

Known as a kind man, a good friend, a loving husband, a beloved father and proud grandfather, he will be deeply missed. Services will be held on Saturday, October 22 at 11:00am in the the city cemetary of Paso Robles, California.  In lieu of flowers, the family is asking to send donations to the Graniteville Volunteer Fire Department.