Ralph Burton Estes, age 79, died Saturday, November 19, 2011 at the Pennsylvania Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home in Erie. He had resided there for the past 4 years and had previously lived most of his years in Union City.
Ralph was born in French Creek, NY on May 14, 1932, the son of the late Ralph P. and Leona Johnson Estes. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1951-54 and had worked many jobs, retiring from the Lord Corporation in Cambridge Springs in 1987. Ralph was a quiet and hard-working man who enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and spending time with his family.
Ralph’s family includes his three sons– Matt Estes of Sandy Lake, Jay Estes and his wife Diane of Erie, and Wayne Estes of Waterford; 11 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; and his aunt Loretta Nelson of Mill Village.
A private graveside service will be held at Waterford Cemetery with Rev. Emily Zeig of the Waterford Presbyterian Church officiating.
Memorials may be made to the PA Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Alzheimer’s Unit, 560 East 3rd Street, Erie, PA 16507.
“To the Greatest Grandpa I have ever known”
Opa Ralph, you had taken me into your life as if I was your own. You loved me no less just for the meer fact of marriage certificates. You Were the man with The Hat and a story to always tell. Many memories walking to The Penny Store; on the corner, to only fill a bag full to have it half empty by the time we walked back. You took such care of my Grandma, catching you two sitting on the porch swing many summer day’s. You will surely be missed but never forgotten in this world. You leave behind cherrishable moments I will hold dear to my heart to the day I shall pass. I love you Opa Ralph and it is truelly sad to see you gone. I want to thank you parents for raising such a wonderfull son. I only wish you would have been able to meet Your great Grandson Cody. I know your smile and humor would have lite a smile on his face, and I will make sure to pass on your wisdom that you taught me on to him.
My sincere reguards to the Estes family
~Love always and for ever Megan~
Matt, Jay and Wayne sorry to hear about your father Ralph. I remember my dad was so happy when he would come to visit him…he had a sweet smile and was a fun loving man… I see him in all of you. God Bless.