Ralph was such a huge part of my life growing up. He was the one who originally gave me the nickname Leo. I carry that name on my key ring daily as him & dad were the only 2 that called me that. This is a reminder that they are always with me.
Ralph loved his family dearly & was always there when needed. He seemed to make everything better. Some of my fondest childhood memories are with Ralph & Mary.
Many dinners were spent at their house because everyone loved Mary's cooking. Ralph would sneak & get cookies & do the "shhhh our secret wink". I remember one time Mary came around the corner & asked "What are you doing? You better not spoil your appetite!" Ralph with a mouth full shook his head, raised his eyebrows, & gave a thumbs up. I giggled and as Mary turned around he smiled at me & said with the cookie still in his mouth, "you think she noticed Leo?" 🤣
I loved listening to him & my cousins play the guitars & etc. it was always soothing to hear them. Ralph was the one who got me to love music & especially Blue Grass. He showed me how music could heal the soul.
Ralph was an amazing, caring, & loving soul. There are so many wonderful memories I have with him from adventures, music, helping me practice before a softball game, pep talks before competitions, telling me when my trumpet was flat, & so much more. He was always there & you never had to ask.
Thank you Ralph for helping make my childhood memories unforgettable & for always bringing lots of love, hugs, laughs, & support to many of us. I called him CAP (cousin/adopted Pawpaw) because when pawpaw passed he stepped in & tried to help ease the heartache of losing him.
I love you & will miss you so much. It's not goodbye it's cya later.
-Forever your Leo. (LeAnn)
