RALPH HENRY WIEHR

Ralph Henry Wiehr, 83, died at Pine Ridge Health Care Center, Livingston, Texas, the evening of October 17, 2012, surrounded by family and friends.

He was born in Foester Township, Wells, Minnesota on January 14, 1929 and preceded in death by his parents George and Gertrude (nee Baumann) Wiehr.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Loretta of 61 years of marriage; a daughter Colleen Foxwell and husband Allan Foxwell of Amery, Wisconsin; granddaughters Michaela Gifford of Menomonie and Michelle Gifford Brown and Addison Brown of Asheville, North Carolina, great grandsons Elijah Stuart of Menomonie and Ellis Brown of Asheville, North Carolina.

Ralph married Loretta Mittelstadt of West Union, Iowa in a small ceremony on December 22, 1950 where the pastor who married them also baptized and confirmed Ralph.

Ralph lived a very full and varied life, having occupations as a farmer, carpenter, realtor and businessman. Ralph farmed in southern Minnesota until 1964 when he moved his family to Rochester, MN where he built several homes in the surrounding area. When he reached retirement, Ralph and Loretta took to the road in RV traveling and participated in many Air Steam rallies where the two granddaughters participated in many of the events. His hobbies included fishing, wood carving, ceramic painting and photography.

He was a 50 year Master Mason, Knights Templar, member of the Elks, Eagles, and lifetime member of the Wally Byram Caravan Club.

The celebration of life was held on Sunday, October 21, 2012 at Pace Funeral home in Livingston, Texas. Memorials are to be directed to Cancer Research Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905.