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Various organizations posted a condolence
Sunday, May 4, 2025
From various organizations:
PiKA fraternity brothers
Indian Harbour Beach Trinity Church members
Key Bank personnel at North East, PA facility
Best Care Coordinators
Hospice
Chautauqua Medical Practice
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Dave Coffin posted a condolence
Sunday, May 4, 2025
Ralph never presented himself at the high level he actually was. (This tribute was from a PiKA fraternity brother. How true it is! Ralph was a very intelligent man and well-rounded, balanced, true to his Christian values. And he did not "flaunt" this over others. Looks as though brother Dave knew him very well!)
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Your wife, Janice Wilson posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
He Did It For Me
Yes, he wanted his children to have the basics for
happy, successful lives but he wanted it not only for
them,
but also for me...
Yes, he wanted to be a successful engineer and do his very best on each project, but he did it not only for those for whom he worked,
he did it for me...
Yes, he helped so many people in so many ways,
but he did it not only for them
but also for me...
He honored me. He adored me. He put me on a pedestal. He taught me so many things. He broadened my life and my thinking and my activities and my world.
He was very protective of and helpful to me. He rescued me from difficulties and lovingly held me close.
He always wanted to see me happy and secure.
He, humbly, wanted me to be proud of him.
He wanted me to be his companion forever.
I am the recipient of his unending, unquestioning, very, very deep love.
I am blessed!
Thank you, Ralph!
Much love from your wife "Jannie"
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Bruce and Janet Thomforde posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Ralph was one of the best men we knew. We loved his sense of humor and his energy. You two were so much fun to be with and we won't forget our meals out and, of course, our bike rides! Please know you, Jan, are loved for your quiet strength and support of Ralph. You and your family are in our prayers.
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Linda McGuinn posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I am so sorry for the passing of Ralph. He was certainly patient with his health issues as long as it was possible.
I can recall the older McGuinns, along with Larry's older siblings telling of the fun stories of years ago with Larry's Wilson grandparents--no relatives to Ralph--on Creamery Road, and the Denise families.
When Ralph was teaching Sunday School class, he asked if I would sub a particular Sunday for him. I didn't think I could because he was such a dynamic teacher, but then had second thoughts. I asked if he would go over the lesson with me and he very, very patiently did. I thought then what a kind, patient and respectful person. The Sunday I did sub for him did go well--of course, because of his encouragement, trust and guidance.
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Jack and Marcia Cochrane posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
It seems almost unreal that our coffee friend is gone... We will never forget Ralph's special smile!
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Jo Ann Felton Golem posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
A Journey Remembered: "As some people journey through life, they leave footprints wherever they go--footprints of kindness and love, courage and compassion, humor and inspiration, joy and faith. Even though they are gone, we can still look back and clearly see the trail they left behind--a trail bright with hope that invites us to follow. "
(Perfect description of Ralph, a message on a card from Jo Ann Felton Golem, sister of Ralph's best friend Dick Felton and WACS classmate of Jan. )
describing Ralph.
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Gretchen Greene Alessi posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I'll never forget all the fun times we had way back in high school. Our families used to have such fun when our parents and kids got together for dinner. Ralph was so much fun and had us all laughing at his jokes. That was way back, but the best years of my life! May he rest in peace and I know he will have fun in heaven with all his buddies, including my dad. Much love and fond memories.
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Mose and Lizzie, Sadie (5), Amos (4), Emma (1) Byler posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
With deepest sympathy in the loss of your dear husband Ralph.
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Leah J. Tomasuski posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
How there was always a hug for both my brothers and me every Thanksgiving, wondering how well we all were. He taught us a lesson in gratitude before each meal. Witnessing the friendship between both Ralph and my own father (Eugene) was something I will be eternally grateful for. With love and kindness.
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Chuck and Marci Ross posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
In loving memory of Ralph Wilson, a dear family friend whose bond with our family began nearly 3/4 of a century ago. Ralph and my late brother, Donald Ross, shared a lifelong friendship--and many a basketball game!--that grew to include our entire family and endured through the years. Ralph's warmth, loyalty and faith were constants in his life, shining though in his words and actions. His introspective nature often came to light in the heartfelt Christmas cards he wrote each year, offering reflections on life that were both thoughtful and profound and with memories that will live on for many years to come. At the center of Ralph's life was his beloved wife, Jan, whom he always referred to as "My Rock." Their love and partnership were a true testament to commitment and mutual strength. While Ralph's passing leaves a void in all of our hearts, I take comfort in knowing that he is in the place we all aspire to. His memory lives on in our hearts. Rest in peace, Ralph. Until we meet again.
It is with heavy hearts we memorialize the life of Ralph Wilson, an outstanding citizen of Westfield. Everyone who knew him enjoyed his dry sense of humor, learned of his deep religious faith and optimism for life. He always had a love for people, nature, Jannie, and the Lord.
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Wilson Sherk posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I can't fathom what it must feel like for you with Ralph's passing. I send all my love and hugs. In my small observational snapshot, you are a pillar of enormous strength, support, care and love. I am so thankful I got to visit and experience daily life in Westfield with Ralph, you, David, Leslie, Mark and Brenda and extended family. Love, Wilson
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Denise "Dennie" Peterson Magres posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I'm so sorry to hear of Ralph's passing. As do so many people, I can't remember there not being a "Ralph Wilson". There really are no words but please know my heart is thinkng of you and your family. Ralph was simply one of the best!
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Amy and Grant Stephenson posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Ralph was, indeed, a great man, great neighbor and all-around great person. Our family always knew that the Wilson home would be a safe place during any emergency. There are so many wonderful Ralph stories being told these past weeks. May all the wonderful memories fill the emptiness in your heart.
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Nick and Dee Kanakis posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
We have been blessed with our friendship with ralph and you, as well as Mark and Suzanne. Ralph's generosity, faith and resilience were an inspiration to us. He will be dearly missed.
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Richard and Sonia Loerner posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
So sorry for the loss of your beloved Ralph. We will remember him for his zest for life and his friendly nature. Eternal memory!
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Linda Carlson Dunn posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Ralph was "one of a kind". He will be missed. I'm glad to have known him.
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Gertude (Trudy) Greene John Lichacz posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I could fill pages of memories of Ralph and you, Jan. I always knew you guys were out there someplace and it felt good just knowing. Ralph was reassuring and that was from our past growing up in Westfield. God bless you all and praise the Lord. Ralph is with all the guys and it's a great gathering!
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Eleanor (Ellie) Hagerman Castle posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
My thoughts are with you today as they have been for these many months. Ralph will leave a vacancy but time will help fill it.
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Debra and Mark Puckhaber posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
We both have very fond memories of time spent with Ralph--and the rest of the Wilson family. Although many years have passed since Mark was his first mate and we would go sailing--"the Skipper" and the fun times will stay in our memories forever. He was fun, kind and generous with his wisdom and big heart. Remembering him will always being a smile....
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Ed Burnside posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Ralph had a way of touching us all. He will be greatly missed.
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Calvin and Barbra Woodring posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
It has been a pleasure knowing Ralph. His kindness to us and to our daughter will never be forgotten.
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Judy Fingerhut posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I always referred to Ralph as my friend with "Santa's eyes." Will miss seeing him around.
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Gale Svenson Campbell posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
My prayers are with you and the family! Ralph was a great man and I will miss him. It's hard, but you are strong and have so many memories and such a loving family!
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Helen Stidd Baran posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I am very sad to hear of Ralph's death and know he put up a valiant fight. I am sure it was very comforting to have you and the children with him through this time. My memories of Ralph go back a long way, but it was mostly you and Ralph--the school sweethearts and so very cute. Ralph always had good feelings about our community and whenever I saw him--the last time was at the hospital--he always made sure to compliment the struggles we all went through to keep our hospital here. I really appreciated his comments and support. He also spurred many philanthropic causes that make our community really a great place to live. May Ralph's memory be a blessing to all that knew him.
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Sara (Sally) McGuinn Stoddart posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
I am so sorry to learn of Ralph's illness and passing. He was a true Renaissance man: an engineer, spiritual leader, athlete/adventurer--Chautauqua Gorge!--inspirational writer/philosopher as evidenced in all those wonderful Christmas letters. I'm sure not only your family but your entire community will miss him greatly. My thought and prayers are with you all.
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Jenell Ricketts Long posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
Mr. Wilson, the best Sunday School teacher ever! I will never forget walking into Church into the side entrance on Portage Street for Sunday School and seeing a big "Happy Birthday, Jenell" banner at the top of the stairs! I felt like I had been seen and that meant more to me than you can imagine. It wasn't always easy being the only kid not from Westfield, especially in Junior High as sports came involved, but Mr. Wilson changed all that. He made me know I belonged. I will never forget him for the gift of belonging! I know your hearts are broken, but I hope you find some comfort in the faces of the many, many people Mr. Wilson impacted. His great, encouraging smile will live on in my heart forever. God bless.
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Al and Deena Ruff posted a condolence
Thursday, April 24, 2025
While we never met Ralph in person, we know he was an amazing man because we see his legacy in/through Mark.
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Phil and Marcia Weddle posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
He was a unique man and a real blessing to us. We miss him greatly.
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Jeffrey and Britta Hinnich and Wolfert posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Our family is saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved husband, father and grandfather; our beloved long-time friend and neighbor on beautiful Achigan Lake. Please accept our deepest condolences. We fondly remember your stops at our children's lemonade stand on your way to camp! And Ralph's touching story of the loons in the bay.
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Various friends friends posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Some comments received:
He was a shining light. He accepted you for who you are. He had friends in all walks of life. He was a "hoot!" Ralph always enjoyed getting with others to share food, fun, philosophies and, of course, stories--some of which were true! To be productive and of value to others was very important to him.
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Paul Graham posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I have good memories of Ralph. We always talked in the morning at the Westfield Diner. I enjoyed watching him ride his bicycle and thought I should be our riding with him. He was a good person!
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Maarit Turto Leppanen Nurminen posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I have been going through my memories of Ralph and you. It was always like coming home when visiting you. You were also important to my daughters Aija and Satu and their father Jussi. My love to you.
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Jason and Tomi Gross posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
You and Mr. Wilson have been dear family friends for as long as I can remember. It was very sad to hear of his passing. As I look back over the years, two memories come to mind that I wanted to share with you: The first is my mother's funeral. You and Mr. Wilson had attended the visitation the previous day, so we did not expect you at the funeral. It was so comforting to see you two walk in and I could see the same feelings on the faces of my brother and sisters, too. Thank you for being there for us! The second is one of the snowmobiling weekends over at Alleghany State Park. You and Mr. Wilson had arrived early and set up a scavenger hunt for the kids at the main ranger lodge. I remember that being lots of fun and was a good way to start off the weekend with friends and family. I don't remember if we thanked you at the time but I'm thanking you now!
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Peter and Janet Radka posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I know this should be a message of sympathy, but I really wanted to thank you for sharing Ralph these past 9 years (of working on engineering projects). What a joy it has been to know the both of you.
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Bill and Lila Musso posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Our deepest condolences. Ralph was one of the best and you were his right hand. I remember getting overwhelmed just hearing all of the exploits, endeavors and adventures you two were involved with.
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Ryan and Noelle Isabell posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I'm so sorry for your loss of Ralph. He was a great man and meant a lot to me. He was like a 2nd father and taught me many life lessons. I will miss him, but I will always have love for the Wilson family. I'm praying for comfort for all of you. Ryan
I'm so thankful to have spent time with Ralph a few years ago. It was wonderful to visit you both and get to know the Wilsons. A very special family to my husband. Prayers and we love you. Noelle
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Mark and Nancy Smith posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
What love and what a legacy. Ralph was always a ray of sunshine in our adult class at First Presbyterian Church. We will miss him dearly.
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Patty and Steve Benton and Stratton posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Ralph was a friend and a bright light! Always pleasant and smiling. I miss the days when he'd stop in my "shop" (CJ's) for some "toasted bread crusts" and we'll never forget his expertise at the Church chicken BBQ as he mastered and tutored future "corn cookers". He will be greatly missed.
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Jim Blanchard posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Ralph was a good man. I have so many memories of Ralph from Jacks, The Portage Inn and when I owned the Bark Grill. He spent many afternoons there with Dick Felton. It was also nice to see both of you at Webbs when I worked there.
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Barb Bane Sanders posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
No words can express my condolences with the passing of Ralph. He will certainly be missed at Church as well as by your family. Thank you for sharing him at Church as well as in the community. He was quite a character!
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Linus Isabell posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I was deeply saddened to hear of Ralph's passing. Ralph was like a second father to me and I am forever grateful for the many ways he shaped my life. He and my dad introduced me to the joys of the outdoors--from sailing and racing on "Hellsbells" to snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, hiking, camping and working (or should I say playing) in the grape vineyards--around Westfield and Chautauqua County. I'll never forget the times he took me to work with him at Red Wing Foods or to the gas well sites, always including me in his world. His patience, kindness and sense of adventure shaped me in ways words can hardly express. Ralph lived a remarkable life and has left behind a legacy that continues to inspire. Please know that I will forever honor his memory and carry the lessons and love he shared with me for the rest of my life. With love, Linus
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Kathy Romberger posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Knowing Ralph was one of the wonderful positive experiences of the years at The Pines. The two of you made a great team and brought happy smiles to many.
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Louise Quick posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
One of the brightest smiles in Westfield has faded with Ralph. He was a good man. Louise Quick
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Veda Boyd Jones posted a condolence
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
I will miss Ralph. What interesting discussions we'd have--even when I called "BS" on his manipulative tactics! He taught me a lot, and not just sailing. I admired his mind. He could compartmentalize so well. Jim admired him, too, especially his positive attitude. He was one of the good ones. Much love and respect from Veda.
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Rex Krueger posted a condolence
Friday, January 17, 2025
We met as freshmen at Rensselaer, new fraternity brothers. What a great group of guys! All of us quickly bonded. These friendships have lasted a lifetime. We married our college sweethearts. College reunions and special mini reunions, even including our most recent ZOOM call reunions, with brothers and wives. All these maintained and grew our bonds.
Each of our walks through life has been an adventure. Mutual interests kept expanding. What a blessing when we (my wife Karin and I), learned that Ralph and Jan were true Christians. They each had a personal relationship with Christ!
Fraternity brothers to good friends for a lifetime is certainly something that has brought great joy to me. However, to be brothers in Christ is more than a lifetime of rich fellowship. It is fellowship for eternity. That's forever with Christ!
Brother Ralph, I'm looking forward to joining you there.
Rex Krueger
Redmond, Oregon
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John and Mary G planted a tree in memory of Ralph Wilson
Thursday, January 16, 2025
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Fora man I admired and enjoyed being with. We will miss you old buddy.
Please wait
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Bill Musso uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
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Ralph was one i always admired. He did life the right way.
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Stephen Guy posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
"Mr. Wilson" as I knew him, was my friend Mark Wilson's Dad. My Dad and Ralph knew each other from the Welch's engineering department in the 1960's. If Mark doesn't mind, I'd like to share a little story. Winter of 1970 I believe, Mark and I and Mr. Wilson were riding their new(?) snowmobile around the vineyard behind their house. At one point they let me drive it, being all of 10 years old, I somehow crashed the snowmobile straightaway into a very large maple tree, doing some degree of damage to it (tree and snowmobile). I jumped off, fearing the worst, but instead Mr. Wilson was very gracious and did not beat me to death as I was expecting. I do not remember how Mark reacted. The point being, Mr. Wilson was always kind, balanced and more than accommodating to all us kids wrecking havoc in the house and barn!
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Stephanie Schell lit a candle
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
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Stephanie Schell posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
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Stephanie Schell posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
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Stephanie Schell posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
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Stephanie Schell posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
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Stephanie Schell posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
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Stephanie Schell posted a symbolic gesture
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
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Stephanie Schell posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 14, 2025
Had a very good work ethic and was very active in his church.
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Jane Minton posted a condolence
Monday, January 13, 2025
We feel so fortunate to have known Ralph. He was intelligent, caring, sharing and always positive. His smile and twinkle in his eyes will be missed by all. Rest in peace ~ Jane and Jim Minton
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Bob Stratton posted a condolence
Monday, January 13, 2025
Ralph and I had many adventures together.
Philmont Boy Scout Ranch in New Mexico.
Working Summers at Welch’s. Horse back camping trip in the Rockies. We both married well!!!
Bob Stratton
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Jack and Marcia Cochrane planted a tree in memory of Ralph Wilson
Sunday, January 12, 2025
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Wilson Family,We feel proud to have shared very memorable times together.
Please wait
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sthomas posted a condolence
Sunday, January 12, 2025
He and my father were best friends in high school. Apparently, they were a little mischievous back in the day. The stories they told! My Dad is in heaven. Hope both of them together give the pearly gates a few antics to chuckle over.
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David Mostoller posted a condolence
Sunday, January 12, 2025
One thing I will always take from Ralph was the way he treated everyone, whether young or old he treated them wiith the utmost respect and curiosity. I always appreciated that. We shared so many great hunting stories that I will always cherish (and laugh too). Ralph helped me get my 1st deer and that is always with me. Another “lesson” he gave to me was he had me read a book when I started my 1st job (in sales) that spoke to the power of positive thinking. He lived that and that is instilled in me. Thank you Ralph. You lived a life that put you in the express lane through the pearly gates. Enjoy. Until we meet again
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Beth Taylor posted a condolence
Sunday, January 12, 2025
You made so many fond memories, Ralph, with you and Dad [Larry Peterson] being “BFF’s” that still make me laugh! I am proud to have been able to be a friend after Dad’s passing, and having kept in touch for so many years. Dad is greeting you - I just know it. No water balloons! You will be greatly missed by MANY. And breakfast will definitely be French toast!!
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Jennifer D Peckham uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, January 11, 2025
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Ralph and my father DJ Peckham have been buddies since high school so I’ve known the Wilson family since birth and have heard all the tall tales!
My father always told me not to be afraid to take risks. This was a life lesson he learned after his pal Ralph asked him if he wanted partner on some drilling sites. After much deliberation, he decided to pass on the opportunity. Needless to say, he regretted that decision.
The picture I posted is one of my favorites!
Two men in their 80’s getting down and dirty on the race track for bragging rights. lol If you can zoom in on their faces, their expressions say it all. Love you Ralph, Jennifer
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Pat Locke posted a condolence
Saturday, January 11, 2025
We will cherish our memories of spending time with Ralph while working on his biography. Ralph was a remarkable man who loved his Lord, his wife Janice and his family.
Rest in Eternal Peace.
Pat and Bill Locke
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Linda Thomas posted a condolence
Saturday, January 11, 2025
Dear Wilson family, the wonderful memories of Ralph will help you once the pain of losing him lessens. He is with the Lord planning his next adventure. Westfield has lost a pillar of the community and a kind, funny storyteller. He always had a welcoming smile and was genuinely interested in what was happening in your life. He will certainly be missed and his beliefs will continue through his family for generations.
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Dorothy (Keith) Swan posted a condolence
Friday, January 10, 2025
I remember Ralph coming to Ripley and deer hunting with my father. He always made time for us kids and throughly enjoyed the outdoors. He was such a special man. Godspeed my friend
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Lynne lit a candle
Friday, January 10, 2025
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Westfield has lost a great man. Ralph was a wonderful caring man and always had a smile on his face. Heaven gained a wonderful one ! Rest in peace my friend.
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Abby Monroe posted a condolence
Friday, January 10, 2025
He was my great grandpa and it's so hard not having him here. He was truly the best person ever. He always made sure say hi or even give us a hug even when he was weak and didn't have to, he always made sure I was having a good day and asked how was doing even if he wasn't doing ok. It's hard without you gramps. I will cherish every single memory and birthday and Christmas cards. I love you gramps I miss you. Fly high gramps
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The family of Ralph W. Wilson uploaded a photo
Thursday, January 9, 2025
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Please wait
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John Gearey posted a condolence
Thursday, January 9, 2025
Ralph was a man full of life who enjoyed being active especially in the outdoors. We will miss you dear friend but you will always be in our memory. Thanks for the many years on Achigan Lake and all the good times. John G
Saturday
18
January
visitation
10:00 am - 11:30 am
Saturday, January 18, 2025
First Presbyterian Church
49 S. Portage St.
Westfield, New York, United States
Need Directions?
Saturday
18
January
Memorial Service
11:30 am - 12:30 pm
Saturday, January 18, 2025
First Presbyterian Church
49 S. Portage St.
Westfield, New York, United States
Need Directions?
Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event
Ongoing
Online Event
About this Event
In Loving Memory
Ralph Wilson
1935 - 2025
Look inside to read what others have shared
Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book.
Our Facilities
Mason Funeral Home
37 Clinton Street
Westfield, NY
14787
Phone: 716-326-2811
Fax: 716-326-3099
Email: masonfuneral@gmail.com