Ralph Roy John Ketola born in L’Anse, Mi. on November 20, 1929, died peacefully on December 21,2012 after a long and happy life. Ralph grew up on a farm in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and loved being part of a large Finnish family.
He had an outstanding work ethic. He and his former wife Melba designed and built their home in Mason, Mi. complete with an in-ground swimming pool, indoor sauna and 1-acre garden. Ralph was an avid outdoorsman who joined the Air Force where he learned his trade of electronics which led to his lifelong career as an installer and shop foreman for Michigan Bell Telephone.
He loved to joke and make others smile and he was truly the life of the party. Lakeview Commons Assisted Living residents voted him their Valentine King in 2010.
Ralph was preceded in death by his son Michael, and he is survived by his sons Bruce (wife Kimberly) and Brian, grandchildren Jason and Emily Ketola, Sam and Krystle Weaver and Addie Weaver, sisters Esther Lepola and Dagnie Carlson and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Celebration of Life Service was held at St. Paul Lutheran Church on Thursday December 27 at 10 am followed by a fellowship luncheon at 11. The family received friends one hour prior to service at St Paul Lutheran Church. The church is located at 700 Ardenlee Parkway, Peachtree City, GA.
Arrangements by Parrott Funeral Home and Crematory. In lieu of flowers, please provide memorials to St. Paul Lutheran Church Capital Campaign. Parrott Funeral Home and Crematory, Fairburn, GA , 770-964-4800
