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.