G. Ralph Elliott, 87, of Marysville, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on January 19, 2024.
Born July 10th, 1936, in Rushsylvania, Ohio, he was raised in Milford Center where he graduated from Union Local High (’54).
Ralph was the cherished son of Pauline W. (Armstrong) and George E. Elliott. He is predeceased by his parents, sisters Sherry (Keith) Greer, Marlyn J. and Mary L., and brother Robert G.
His memory is lovingly carried on by his sisters Nina E. (Earl) McPherson and Nancy P. (Bill) Streng; his children Steven (Juanita, deceased) Elliott, George (Penny) Elliott, Lora (S.O. Larry) Kotsaris, and Andrea (Russell) White; his beloved grandchildren Clayton (Hannah) Toth, Loraine (Michael) Kearney, Tamra Elliott, Ariah Ade, Jadyn, Jameson, and Westen White, as well as numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and countless friends.
Ralph’s life was a tapestry of remarkable achievements and diverse interests. From being a primary school “Spelling Bee Champion” to being televised for his boxing prowess that led him to holding the title “State of Ohio Golden Glove Championship Light Heavyweight” for “The Boys’ Club” Coached by Cliff Brown, his early accomplishments set the stage for a life full of passion and determination.
He dedicated 30 years to operating the family dairy and grain farm where he milked up to 95 cows a day, grain fed 500 beef cattle, tended to the herds, and farmed 600 acres of crops. His entrepreneurial spirit later led him to own and operate the Marysville Lumber Co. for 10yrs, selling/installing Lilly Stoves, and he eventually emerged as a highly respected and top producing local Realtor for 30 years, garnering numerous awards and accolades for his mastery of Land and Residential Real Estate.
After retiring from his distinguished career, Ralph rekindled his roots in agriculture, returning to farming as a hobby. This period also allowed him to spend a vast amount of cherished time with his grandchildren, sharing with them the joys of farm life.
Beyond his professional life, Ralph, with milkshake in hand, was a man of boundless adventure and a kindred spirit to all. His heart was always racing towards the next adventure with friends in tow, whether it was gliding across snowy slopes on skis, carving paths through winter wonderlands on his snowmobile, exploring the world, or feeling the wind rush by as he traveled cross-country visiting monuments and national parks on his beloved Honda Gold Wing. He had a soul that soared high, exemplified by his love for hot air balloon journeys that took him to new heights, both literally and figuratively.
But it was not just his thirst for adventure that made Ralph extraordinary; it was his immense capacity for kindness. A hometown farmer with a spirit as vast as the fields he tended, Ralph was always there to lend a hand, head up the care of a family member, drive hours to someone in a pinch, offer support, or donate countless hours of his time to causes close to his heart. He was a pillar in his community, a friend in times of need, and a beacon of generosity and compassion.
Ralph Elliott’s life was one of vibrant colors, painted with his adventures, achievements, acts of kindness, with the ability to “tell it how it is,” deep passion for learning, and a unique sense of humor that could light up any room. He often quipped, “the older the violin, the sweeter the music,” a phrase that perfectly encapsulated his zest for life no matter his age, which he notoriously defied.
He was a man who could always be counted on for a witty remark or a humorous story, bringing smiles and laughter to those around him. His legacy and compassion will continue to inspire and resonate with all who had the privilege of knowing him and sharing in his remarkable journey. Ralph will be profoundly missed but remembered fondly through the echoes of his laughter, vice-grip of a hand shake, squeeze hugs, side eyed smiles, and the countless stories of his spirited life.
A Celebration of Life will be at Leon’s Garage (back entrance) 326 E. 5th St. Marysville, Ohio 43040, Saturday Jan 27, from 3 to 6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, online at (https://curethekids.org); through the mail at Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, 6065 Roswell Rd NE, Suite 505, Atlanta, GA, 30328; or in care of Ingram Funeral Home, 975 N. Maple St., Marysville, who is assisting the family.
Ingram Funeral Home is honored to serve Ralph’s family, and condolences may be expressed to them at www.IngramFuneralService.com.
