To Watch Ralph's Video Tribute ~ Click Here
As the sun set on March 2nd we said goodbye to our beloved husband, dad, papa, and friend. Ralph Jay Stevens, 72, of Nichols passed away in his home after a courageous fight against cancer. Ralph lit up every room he walked into with his humor and witty jokes. Ralph's love for his family and friends was immeasurable. His passions included his woodworking, John Deere tractor, grilling, cottage and boat on Cayuga Lake.
Ralph was raised in Virgil, NY on the family farm and shared many fond memories of his farming adventures. He was a graduate of Cortland High School and later attended Morrisville where he received his Associates Degree.
Ralph began his work career at Smith Corona in Cortland, NY as a Tool and Die Maker. He also shared his passions as a teacher in the apprenticeship program at BOCES. After 10 years, Ralph planted roots in Nichols, NY where he continued his career at Lockheed Martin as a manager.
Ralph was always ready for a fun time, and always waiting for the big catch! Ralph's storytelling and his poems will forever be remembered. Even from above, Ralph still puts a smile on everyone's face. Ralph's love of music was always enjoyable to everybody. Whether it was Johnny Cash or rock 'n' roll oldies, on the boat or in the Miata, Ralph always wanted everyone to have a good time.
Ralph worked hard throughout his life to be able to travel with JoAnne during their retirement years. Ralph never missed a beat with his family, always attending every sporting event, concert, graduation, birthdays and all celebrations surrounding those he loved.
Ralph is survived by the love of his life, his wife, JoAnne, his son Jason, his daughter Julie, grandsons Anthony and Evan, and his special dog Stella. He also leaves behind his brother Ray (Terry) Stevens, sister Betty (Larry) Hills, sisters-in-laws, Betty Kryger and Carol Strachan, brother-in-law Mike (Wanda) Petrella, along with many nieces and nephews. Ralph was predeceased by his parents Charles and Ruth Stevens, brother Francis and sister-in-law Sally Stevens and his in-laws Joseph and Helen Petrella and brother-in-law Doug Strachan. A special thank you to all of our neighbors and dearest friends and family that supported us during these challenging times. A special thanks to Dr. Kasirreddy, Jennifer Schecter, NP; Nurse Amanda and all the other nurses at the Guthrie Cancer Center.
Family and friends are invited to a period of visitation on Saturday, March 6th from 12 to 3 pm at the Sutfin Funeral Chapel, 273 S. Main St., Nichols. Those attending are requested to practice appropriate precautions for public health concerns when at the funeral home, to include wearing masks and practicing social distancing. A memorial service and celebration of his life will follow at 3 pm with Pastor Stephanie Brown, officiating.
During this time of social distancing that we are all experiencing, please take a moment to connect with Ralph's family through our website at www.sutfinfuneralchapel.com These memories and words of encouragement will be of great support to Ralph's family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Stray Haven Humane Society, 194 Shepard Rd. Waverly, NY 14892 or any other charity of your choice. Previous Events
Visitation
MAR 6. 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM (ET)
Sutfin Funeral Chapel
273 South Main St
Nichols, NY 13812
info@sutfinfuneralchapel.com
http://sutfinfuneralchapel.com
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A Celebration of His Life
MAR 6. 3:00 PM (ET)
Sutfin Funeral Chapel
273 South Main St
Nichols, NY 13812
info@sutfinfuneralchapel.com
http://sutfinfuneralchapel.com
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