Ralph A. Grab, age 88 of Maiden Rock, died Monday, October 14, 2019 at his home in Maiden Rock.

Ralph was born on June 23, 1931 at home in the Town of Maiden Rock. He was the son of Joseph “Aloys” and Beatrice (Johnson) Grab. Ralph grew up in Maiden Rock and attended the 16^th School House in Maiden Rock. After school, he worked for Millard Carlson and Charlie Sticht farms until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. While in the army, he served in Korea for almost nine months and was on the frontline above the 38^th parallel when the cease-fire was ordered. He was honorably discharged and returned home to farm for Charlie Sticht. Ralph married Bettylou L. Anderson on April 22, 1955 at the Free Church parsonage in Plum City. After marriage, Ralph and Betty rented some farmland for several years until buying a farm of their own. They purchased the family farm in 1972 and became the third generation to farm there. Ralph and Betty helped many children over the years. Ralph remained on the farm the rest of his life.

Ralph enjoyed going to fish fries on Friday nights, dancing and going to auctions. Most of all, Ralph loved to spend time with his family, friends and his dog, Hopper.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 64 years, Betty, three children: Victoria (Steven) Wittig of Durand, Debbie Taylor of Minnetonka, MN and Robert (Jean) of Maiden Rock, nine grandchildren: Scott (Ruth), Michael (Ashley), Zachary, Brooke, Sarah, Ryan (Keith), Ashley (Marcus), Megan (fiancé Garrett) and Renee (Abe), four great grandchildren,  two sisters: Sharon Anderson of Plum City and Sandra Kliner of Foxboro, brother-in-law; Jim Bjurquist of Yelm, WA, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, two children in infancy, son-in-law: James Taylor and one sister: Ruby Bjurquist. 

Memorial Services will be 11:30AM Saturday, October 26, 2019 at the Lund Mission Covenant Church in Lund. Pastor Darren Catron will officiate. Military Honors will be provided by Maiden Rock American Legion Post #158 of Maiden Rock. Visitation will be from 10:00AM until the time of services at the church on Saturday.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Martin Carlsen October 16, 2019, at 3:01pm

   When I was about 3 Ralph was there to pull me off the board when the nail went thru my foot shoe and all. In the summer driving that H john Deere while Ralph loaded the hay are good times I will not forget

2. Stephanie* October 16, 2019, at 6:10am

   Mr.Ralph, you were always the happy face I always remember in my childhood.... always a joke or saying something funny....may you be in the arms of our precious Lord and awaiting....like the song says"I can only imagine"....see ya someday up there.... I bet it's absolutely beautiful ????????????*

3. Sharon schroeder October 15, 2019, at 7:26pm

   So sorry for your loss. Ralph was one of a kind and I love your family dearly. He will be fondly remembered.

4. Kim Jacks October 15, 2019, at 3:21pm

   Betty, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. So very sorry for your loss.

5. Gwen Anderson October 15, 2019, at 12:16pm

   Ralph is one of the most wonderful people that ever walked this earth, God must have needed another angel in heaven and took Ralph to watch over all of us. He was my uncle and godfather, at times more my dad, I will miss him so very much. I love you Ralph.

6. Kimberly Desmet October 15, 2019, at 10:07am

    

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