Obituary of Richard Ralph

Richard James Ralph was born on February 8, 1935 in Ypsilanti, Michigan. He was born from the union of the late Jess and Gertrude (Liedel) Ralph. He married the love of his life the former Dollie Newsome on December 23, 1961 in Ypsilanti. Richard served his country honorably as a member of the United States Army as a Corporal. Richard was employed by American Airlines for more than thirty-eight years as a crew chief before his retirement. Richard moved to the Carleton area some thirty years ago. He was a member of the Dundee Baptist Church. Richard enjoyed working with his hands. He tinkered with whatever he could, and loved to include his grandson Brian. Richard was a member of the Barnyard Buggy Club. Richard was a loving and caring man. He held a special place in his heart for his wife and family. Described by his wife as a "perfect husband". Richard James Ralph age 76, of Carleton, Michigan, passed away at 8:06am, Monday, September 5, 2011 at his home. In addition to his parents his passing was preceded by a sister: JoAnn Morgan. To cherish his memory he leaves his wife of forty-nine years: Dollie (Newsome) Ralph of Carleton; a son: Bobby (Janet) Gene of Belleville, Michigan; and a daughter: Pamela Lewis of Garden City, Michigan; four grandchildren: Angela (Douglas) Nance, Bobby Newsome, Brian (Kristian) Newsome and Kelsey Lewis; and three great grandchildren: Aaron, Dougie and Brian. Friends may gather from 1:00pm until 8:00pm, Thursday, September 8, 2011 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185 where a Celebration of His Life will be held at 11:00am on Friday, September 9, 2011. The Rev. Roy Southerland pastor of Monroe Missionary Baptist Church and the Rev Wayne Vann pastor of Dundee Baptist Church will co-officiate. Procession will follow to St. John Cemetery in Ypsilanti for burial. Memorial donations for those who desire are suggested to any local Veterans organization, charity of donor's choice, or to the family. Online guest may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or send flowers by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.