Ralph L DeShong Jr
1933-2018
November 26, 1933—March 11, 2018
Ralph Lee DeShong Jr., longtime resident of Houston, Texas, was born on November 26, 1933 in Wichita Falls, Texas to Ralph Lee DeShong and Eva Harrell DeShong. He died peacefully on March 11, 2018 in Houston.
Ralph attended Washington and Lee University and then completed his college education at the University of Texas, graduating with a business degree in 1958. He was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity.
Ralph was a maker of things and a maker of fun throughout his entire life. From building a hot-rod in high school, a dune-buggy in the 60's, to making wood handled purses in his early career, Ralph had a knack for creating. He constantly was thinking about ideas for solving problems and was most alive when his mind and hands were crafting things. While serving in the 50's as Army Captain in Virginia Beach, his favorite memory is the raft he fashioned out of pallets he found around the base. Ralph and his army buddies enjoyed the raft's brief maiden voyage before it sank just off the shore.
One of Ralph's greatest accomplishments was his company, Landes, Inc. which he started in 1970 with a friend. The Shoe Hut, located at the corner of Westheimer and Fondren, sold Pappagallo shoes and popular accessories that were a "must have" for women of all ages.
In 1983, the partners split and Ralph became sole owner of the corporate charter, Landes, Inc. and began making purses for retail. In 1986, Ralph steered the company into promotional products, manufacturing tote bags and duffels with screen printed logos.
Ralph was married in 1960 to Janet Jorns of Houston, Texas and they had three children: Diane, Paige and Ralph III (Sonny). These special years were highlighted by weekends at Point Venture, playing tennis, sailing and fishing as well as hunting at the farm.
In his later years, Ralph's greatest thrill, something he couldn't reminisce about without crying, were summers spent in Italy with his wife Roma—travelling through Cortona, the Tuscan hills and Sorrento, and meeting many wonderful Italians who became dear friends.
Ralph is preceded in death by his parents and his sister Hallie DeShong Graham. He is survived by his children Diane Lee DeShong Pendleton and husband Larry; Paige Lynn DeShong; Ralph Lee DeShong III and wife Carol; and by his grandchildren Matthew Brock DeShong, Claire Cunningham DeShong, Forrest Jorns DeShong and August Jorns Bell.
Ralph's youthful, fun spirit will continue to live on in our hearts forever. Arrivederci, Dad.
Please join the family in celebrating his life at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 19, 2018, Christ the King Presbyterian Church, 1201 Silber Rd, Houston TX 77055 with a reception to follow immediately afterwards at the church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services.
Kim Rainey
March 18, 2018
Ralph was definitely one of a kind! He always made it so much fun when we visted, not to mention a master at making the best martinis!
Drew and I will always be so greatful for the joy & love he brought to Roma's life.
You will be greatly missed, sweet friend.
Kim Rainey
March 18, 2018
I am catapulted back to the 70's at our family reunions seeing my uncle Ralph standing next to my dad and Nancy calling themselves the outlaws. It seemed so silly at the time and now it's a sweet image. With sympathy to my cousins- thanks for sharing your dad with us. Love, Kristy
Kristen Atkins
March 17, 2018
dear De Shong family what a wonderful man we were introduced to Ralphie because of being close friends with roma we had great fun traveling Italy with them. Such beautiful memories. Our love goes to the entire Deshong family. love Don and Bonnie
March 17, 2018
I had the pleasure of working with Ralph for many years. He was one of the most creative and fun person to work with in the industry. He sure bailed me out on a lot of projects and always had "just the right thing" for custom work. His wonderful sense of humor will always be remembered. My condolences to the family and my wish for you is to cherish all the memories.
March 16, 2018
a loved one
March 16, 2018
don bonnie carlton
March 15, 2018
Donald Moore
March 15, 2018
Nancy and I always thought of Ralph as a family member. What a joy he was to visit. We will miss him!
The last time I saw Ralph was last June when Chris Garrett and I drove thru Houston dragging a U-haul trailer. We had a great dinner and breakfast with him - and got a tour of his apartment which he enjoyed.
It is hard to believe he is gone, but he is not forgotten.
Spencer Garrett
March 15, 2018
Pam Garrett
March 15, 2018
My sincere sympathy to the family .
May Ralph'S special memories comfort the family at this difficult time . And may God comfort you while you continue to draw ever closer to him.
James 4 : 8 .
Tina Joseph
March 14, 2018
DeShong Family,
May God provide you with the strength you need during this time. My deepest condolences to the entire family.
Sincerely,
Mary
Mary Rodriguez
March 14, 2018
Dear Paige and the entire Deshong family, I am sorry to read about your father's death. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Ronnie Northrop
March 14, 2018
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss. May you find hope and comfort in God our Father, who loves us and promises to make us firm ~ 2 Thes 2:16, 17
HLW
March 14, 2018
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