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Nelson, Ralph L.
KEWADIN — Ralph L. Nelson, 83, of Kewadin, formerly of Elk Rapids, died on Monday, July 9, 2007, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Ralph was born in Detroit on Feb. 21, 1924, the son of Ralph and Ethel (Stafford) Nelson.
On Nov. 8, 1947, in Elk Rapids, he married the former Marjorie R. Thompson. Ralph was the owner and operator of Chippewa Oil Company until his retirement. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army as a combat engineer in Europe and the Philippines.
He was a founding and life member of AMVETS post 114 in Elk Rapids, a member of the VFW, a life member of the Elk Rapids Sportsman Club, and served on the Elk Rapids Fire Department. He loved gardening, hunting, fishing and was often referred to as "the legend of Elk Lake."
Ralph is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Marjorie R. Nelson; three daughters, Sandra Singleton, Suzanne (Bill) Hutchcraft, and Sally (Tom) Caswell; grandchildren, Traci (Aaron) Joseph, Jodi (Ray) Metcalf, Chari Singleton, Brandi Nelson, Gayle (Chris) Folker, Glori Hutchcraft, Tony (Chris) Hutchcraft, Kyrie, Kylene and Kelsey Caswell; one sister, Byrnece White; 16 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Helen Grammel and Beulah (Swanson) Grammel; and two brothers, Keith and Clark Grammel.
Funeral services will be held today, July 13 at 1 p.m., at the Covell Funeral Home in Elk Rapids, with additional visitation from 11 a.m. Burial will be in Maple Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Ralph's name to the AMVETS post 114.
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1924 - 2007 (83 years)
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