Ralph Smith

Ralph Sidney Smith was born December 1", 1935 in Bismark, ND to Edna (Lehman) and Ralph Smith. He passed away August 16th 2025, in Rochester, Mn. He was 89 years old.

In 1948 he and his family moved to Frazee Minnesota. Ralph graduated from Frazee High School in 1954 and the following year enlisted into the United States Air Force. Ralph spent the next three years in France and Germany. In Germany, he met his first wife Marion. They were married in 1959. They were blessed with four wonderful children, Rebecca Ann and Barbara Jean were born in Germany, Steven and Raymond were born in Minnesota.

In 1961 Ralph entered the U.S. Army and returned to Germany for two years.

After a short time back in Frazee, Ralph and his family moved to Minneapolis where he drove transit bus for Twin Cities Lines.

In 1965 Ralph moved his family for the last time to Rochester, Mn. This started a long and distinguished career at IBM which lasted 27 years. During this time he also completed his career with the Minnesota Army National Guard. He retired as Supply Sergeant For "Charlie" Company 1-135 in Faribault, Mn.

Ralph and his family spent 30 wonderful summers at their river home on Lake Peterson by the Pioneer Club in Wabasha, Mn

Following the death of his first wife of 39 years he married Launie J. Olson at Lake Peterson on the Mississippi river August 2000.

Ralph was preceded in death by his Parents, Stepfather Rudy Hille, first wife Marion, daughters Rebecca Ann and Brabara Jane, one grandson and one great granddaughter.

Ralph is survived by his wife Launie, Sons Steven and Raymond, a brother-in-law and two sisters-in-law, 9 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

Ralph will be laid to rest at a later date in a private service at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the Family respectfully requests memorials be directed to the Eagles Cancer Telethon, 917 15th Ave S.E., Rochester, Mn 55904 or to an organization of your choice.