Ralph E. Anderson, Sr., born February 10, 1948 of Ray, Ohio, has come to his last storytelling days at the ripe age of 73-years-old on April 5, 2021.
Ralph graduated from Jackson High School and joined the United States Navy. Ralph proudly served his country as a Machinists Mate aboard the USS Chipola (AO-63), USS Fox (CG-33), USS Biddle (DLG-34), and completed his last active-duty tour aboard the USS Constellation (CV-64).
As it was time to spend more time with his family, he then converted to the U.S. Naval Reserves at Naval Station Coronado in San Diego, California with the Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit One, Detachment 419. Ralph has been commended with such awards as the Vietnam Service medal, Vietnam Campaign medal, National Defense Service medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Armed Forces Expeditionary medal, Naval Reserves Meritorious medal and three Good Conduct awards.
During his naval career, he deployed to countries all over the world. During a cruise, he would meet his former wife, Felisa, and then return to the states to bear his two offspring, Rose Marie and Ralph Jr.
As Ralph converted to civilian life, he carried his military-taught trade and worked for companies such as Airco Industrial Gases and Lockheed-Martin.
After living the west-coast lifestyle, Ralph decided to return to his home state of Ohio. Remembering his roots, he went back into raising cattle and hogs. Ralph also served as a proud member of VFW Post 9092 of Wellston, where he will be remembered by his storytelling and jokes.
To the great beyond, Ralph follows his father, Willard Anderson, Sr. and mother, Mildred Brown Anderson; his brothers Willard Jr. and Charles Sr.; and nephews Willard III, Jeffery, Ryan and Billy. Ralph will also be joining a life-long navy friend, Reid Dulac.
As with all good stories, Ralph has left them to be told by his daughter Rose Marie, and son Ralph Jr.; grandchildren Jacob, Christian, Josephine and Jonathan; sisters and brothers Jean (Leroy), Elma, Brenda (Matt), William (Denise), Doug and Howard; his life companion Suzy Johnson; and several nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
The wake will be held Saturday, April 10, 2021 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Mayhew-Brown Funeral Home in Jackson, Ohio. A eulogy will be read. Any stories, jokes, or reminiscing to send Ralph off to the great beyond will be gladly accepted. The graveside service will be held at a later date.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mayhew-brownfuneralhome.com