Ralph grew up in the small farm community of Cadmus, Michigan and attended Adrian High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1958. He married the love of his life, Morenci native Audrey Marie Johnson, on January 4, 1960, at the Morenci Baptist Church. She preceded him in death on May 7, 2019.
Ralph was employed as a tool liaison and union steward for Ace Drill until its closing and later worked as a custodian for Drager Middle School while he and Audrey began raising their three children. A very knowledgeable and locally renown mechanic, he also owned and operated Graham’s Small Engine Repair out of his home. Ralph at one time proudly owned a Ford Fairlane convertible and was a lifelong hot rod enthusiast.
In 1971, he realized his lifelong passion of serving in law enforcement and answered his call of duty as a deputy for the Lenawee County Sheriff Department. Ralph served the people of his county with integrity and honor during his 26-year tenure before his retirement in 1997. His dedication further included becoming certified as an EMT and belonging to the Fraternal Order of Police.
In retirement, Ralph was able to spend quality time outdoors beautifying his home and property, caring for his cats, and enjoying the sports of fishing and hunting. He also found new pride in his self-taught trade of woodworking, and flawlessly crafted numerous pieces of quality furniture that he gifted to his family. Ralph had a servant’s heart and found great joy in caring for the welfare of his neighbors. In his spare time, he could find relaxation in smoking his pipe.
Surviving to cherish his memory are his three beloved daughters, Lisa Marie (Duane Jr.) Potes of Adrian, Loretta Ann Carr (and Mark Scott) of Hudson, and Nina Sue Graham of Adrian; three grandchildren, Ashley Ann Carr, Justin Potes, Nicole Waszczak; and five great-grandchildren, Jaxxon Cory Spencer, Harrison Potes, Ella Potes, Cooper Waszczak, and Owen Waszczak.
In addition to his parents and wife, Ralph was preceded in death by his two sisters, Melva Rose Graham & Gloria Faye (Graham) Frautschi and brother-in-law, Clyde Lee Frautschi of Manitou Beach, and a grandson, Jared Michael Carr.
A private graveside service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Morenci. Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagley Funeral Home in Adrian.
Online memories and condolences may be shared at www.WagleyFuneralHomes.com.
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