Ralph W. Irish

Ralph W. Irish 85, died Sunday, July 31 after a period of failing health. He was the beloved husband of 60 years to Lorraine (MacWilliams) Irish. Born in Worcester, he was a son of the late Cecil and Grace (Park) Irish. Ralph was a proud veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Navy from 1943-1947 and for his service he earned an Asiatic Pacific Medal with 2 Stars and a Philippine Liberation Medal with 1 Star, among others. He was an active member of the Whitman VFW Post 697. He had lived in Whitman before moving to Pembroke. While a longtime resident of Pembroke, he had worked for the town in many different capacities, Highway Department, Auxiliary Police Officer and Call Fireman. After his retirement, he moved to Kingston where he and his wife resided for over 25 years. He loved golfing, hunting and was an avid fan of the Red Sox, Patriots and all the local sport teams. He was a talented craftsman and enjoyed making birdhouses and watching the birds as well. In addition to his wife Lorraine, he is survived by his loving sons Douglas Irish of Kingston, Donald Irish and his wife Monica of Halifax, and Bruce Irish of Marshfield. He is also survived by his grandchildren Michelle Azzaro, Scott Irish, Taylor Irish and Michael Irish as well as two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He leaves behind his loyal pets Frosty, Angel and JJ. He was the brother of the late Lois Holmes and Ruthie Young. His funeral service will be held Thursday, Aug. 4 at 10 a.m. in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, Plymouth St., (Rte. 58 at the rotary) Whitman. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. in the MA VA Cemetery, Bourne. Visiting hours will be held Wednesday, Aug. 3 from 4-8 p.m. Donations in his name may be made to Beacon Hospice, 182 North Main St., Fall River, MA 02720 or to the Alzheimer's Association, 311 Arsenal St., Watertown, MA 02472 For online condolences and directions, please visit www.blanchardfc.com.