Ralph Joseph Dean

Ralph Joseph Dean October 7, 1941- March 21, 2023

Ralph lived most of his full live in SE MN, where his friends and family will remember him for his ever-present smile, dependability, and strong work ethic.

After graduation from Eyota High School, Ralph joined the U.S. Army and patriotically served his country in Vietnam as a communications installer.  He was active in the Local American Legion ever since.

Ralph married his bride Alice on September 23, 1967 and they celebrated 54 anniversaries raising 3 mostly normal children.  He cherished time with his family on camping trips, snowmobile adventures, and at antique car shows.  His attendance at church at Our Saviors Lutheran each Sunday morning, and at auctions was a given.  Ralph was skilled in many areas but was not very good at ‘retirement’.  He spent his career working for Western Electric and At&T, then many years working at Wescott Orchard, next delivering seed corn to framers for Mallard seed and most recently driving cars for Midwest Vehicle Exchange.

He is survived by his wife Alice, his children, Lisa (Dale), Rhonda (Al), Dennis(Nichole), 4 grandchildren Amber (Aaron), Wesley, William and 3 step grandchildren Samuel, Laruen (William), and Ryan, 3+ grandchildren, 2 brothers Lyle and George (Debbie) and many great friends.

He will be greatly missed by all who know and loved him. 

Funeral service is Saturday March 25, 2023, 11:00 a.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Eyota with Pastor Jonathan Vollrath officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery will military grave side rites conducted by the Eyota American Legion. Visitation is Saturday, one hour prior to the service at the church.

Schad & Zabel Funeral Home in Eyota is assisting with the arrangements.

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