Ralph Paul Segerstrom

Ralph Segerstrom of Grand Rapids, Minnesota (formerly of Blaine) passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 8, 2024, from complications of a heart condition and dementia.

Born on October 9, 1931, in Milaca, Minnesota, Ralph was raised on a farm, where he learned the values of hard work and resilience. He proudly served his country as a US Army veteran, enlisting during the Korean War. As a member of the 194th Tank Regiment of the Viking Division, he was stationed at Camp Rucker in Alabama from 1951 until the end of the war. Although Ralph served stateside, his role was crucial in training and supporting the troops who fought overseas. His service and dedication to his fellow soldiers were a testament to his character and commitment.

Following his honorable discharge, Ralph embarked on a long and fulfilling career at Wheeling Corrugating Company, where he worked until his retirement.

Ralph’s life changed forever when he met the love of his life, Edith, at a skating rink where she worked. They married on June 19, 1954, and began a beautiful journey together, raising two daughters. They settled in Blaine, where they built a loving home and later a cherished retreat on a lake in Grand Rapids, where they would eventually retire. Ralph took immense pride in their lake home, pouring his heart and soul into its upkeep.

Family was the cornerstone of Ralph’s life. He adored spending time with his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy. Ralph and Edith spent winters in Florida, creating magical memories by taking their grandchildren to Disney World on every visit. At home in Grand Rapids, Ralph enjoyed fishing, camping, and engaging in spirited games of Aggravation with his grandchildren.

An avid nature enthusiast, Ralph found joy in the wildlife around his home. He delighted in feeding deer, chipmunks, and birds, meticulously maintaining several feeders as part of his daily routine.

Ralph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His unwavering love and support for Edith endured throughout their 69 years of marriage, and he remained by her side until the very end. His family will miss him dearly.

Ralph was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Edith Segerstrom; his parents, Einar and Eleanore Segerstrom; his brothers, Howard and Raymond Segerstrom; and his grandsons, Tanner Johnson and Bradley Lenarz.

He is survived by his brother Robert Segerstrom; daughters, Ginger (Eric) Johnson and Roxanne (John) Lenarz; his grandchildren, Dr. Ashley (Bryan) Brown, Jeffrey (Sonja) Lenarz, Lyndsey Lenarz, Jayden Johnson, Zachary (Bayli) Lenarz, and Riley Lenarz; and his great-grandchildren, Kylie Lenarz, Carter Lenarz, Logan Lenarz, and Kira Brown.

A Memorial Service for Ralph will be held on Saturday, June 22nd at 11 am with a visitation one hour prior at Thurston-DeShaw Funeral Home in Andover. In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to the Animal Humane Society, a cause close to Ralph’s heart