Cover photo for Ralph Fogel's Obituary
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1921 Ralph 2012

Ralph Fogel

January 20, 1921 — November 25, 2012

Ralph Stewart Fogel, 91, beloved father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away peacefully November 25, 2012, in Mesa, Arizona.

Ralph was born January 20, 1921, in Dilworth, Minnesota, to William Philip and Josephine Shornack Fogel. He graduated from Dilworth High School in 1938. He met Zelda Rudd, the love of his life, at York's cafe, whom he later married on June 2, 1945. Together they had four children. Ralph enlisted in the Army October 1, 1942, and was assigned to the 714th railway battalion. He proudly served his country during World War II while stationed in Alaska. After the war ended, he was honorably discharged on October 8, 1945.

Like his father and brother before him, he followed in their footsteps and began his career with the Northern Pacific Railroad on August 1, 1941. He retired in 1982 after a long career as a locomotive engineer. Upon retirement, he and Zelda began spending winters in Arizona and became residents in 1999.

Ralph was an active member of the Catholic Church and was deeply devoted to his faith. Sports were a huge part of Ralph's life including playing semi-pro baseball as a young adult and participating in the Senior Olympics.

His hobbies included fishing, swimming, bowling, golfing, horseshoes, and watching sporting events of all kinds. Some of his happiest moments were being with family and watching his children and grandchildren participate in their various sports and school activities.
Ralph was funny, kind, gentle, caring and loved everyone. One of Ralph's greatest gifts to his family was the purchase of a cottage on Big Pine Lake near Perham, Minnesota where many cherished memories were made with family and friends. He was respected and loved by all who knew him.

He is survived by two sons, Jim (Kit) of Eagle, ID, and David (Leia) of Moorhead, MN; and two daughters, Diane Snyder of Eagle, ID, and Lori (David) Passante of Mesa, AZ; ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, Zelda (2001); his parents; two brothers, Raymond and Walter; and three sisters, Marion, Mildred and Lucille.

He will be deeply missed and will always be in our hearts and remembered in our prayers.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Alzheimer's Association 1028 E McDowell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85006-2622

Visitation: Tuesday, 5 PM to 7 PM, with a prayer service at 5 PM, in Korsmo Funeral Chapel, Moorhead.

Funeral mass: Wednesday, December 5, 2012, at 11 AM in St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 207 N. Main, Dilworth, MN.



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