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Ralph Huss Obituary
Okemos - Ralph E. Huss, age 73, passed away surrounded by family while at home on Sunday, March 15, 2020. Ralph was born in Dowagiac, MI and graduated from Cassopolis High School with the class of 1965. Ralph went on to earn an Associate's Degree of Science from Southwestern Michigan College, a Bachelor of Science Degree from Western Michigan University, and a Master of Arts Degree from Michigan State University.
Ralph taught for Okemos School District before retiring in 1998. His students often recall his welcoming and engaging classes, and the projects they created. Ralph felt strongly about the importance of industrial arts educational opportunities in public schools. More than one of his students continued on to a career that began through their experience in those classes.
After retirement Ralph worked for the USDA measuring farm crops and yields. He also began a second career at Home Depot where many sought out his expertise and advice.
Ralph was a lifelong member of the Boy Scouts of America, both as a youth and as a leader. Two trips to Philmont, as well as international and other high adventure camping trips were highlights in his life. He is recognized for his years of hard work to renovate, expand, and maintain Northwoods Boy Scout Camp.
Ralph was a master woodworker who gifted many with his work. He loved to travel and experience new places and foods. He was a "car guy" and worked to restore a car, truck, and tractor with his close friends.
Of course, Ralph's greatest love was his family and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Mary (Harlan) Hahn and father, Andrew Huss, as well as his brother, Robert, and his first wife, Martha. Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Kari, his son, Jereme (Marnie) Huss, daughter Mary (Jeremy) Snodgrass, and daughter Sarah Berning. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Connor, William, Helen, and Robert. Others mourning Ralph's passing include aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.
Ralph fought long and hard, but when he was ready, the Lord was too. Friends and family who had gone before, welcomed him home. A service to honor and celebrate Ralph's life is postponed until further notice due to restrictions on gatherings of a certain number, and to allow out-of-state family to travel safely.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be considered to MSU or BSA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Huss
Karen Kissinger
April 27, 2020
Kari, Jereme and the Huss family. I am so sorry to hear of Russ passing. I first knew him through the University Christian Church, then as my shop teacher at Kinawa (I made a car scraper!) and later on at the communal table at the Okemos Paneras when I went with my parents. He always had a smile, funny observation and a friendly presence.
Steve Elias
March 26, 2020
Jereme, as you are well know, your dad was extremely proud of you! It isn't often that we cross paths with such a remarkable person that your dad was, so I can say I was truly blessed to be not only one of his students, but also his friend in scouting years later. May God gather him in his arms and ease your pain.
Tung truong
March 25, 2020
A great teacher.
Rick Welsch
March 24, 2020
Ralph has a profoundly positive impact on my life through shop class at Kinawa Middle School in the mid 1970s. I always loved going to his classes.
Mike Ross
March 23, 2020
I worked with Ralph at Northwoods Scout camp
on the eager beaver weekends. he was a great guy to work with we had lots of fun while working. he will be missed by this eagle scout
Eric Larson
March 22, 2020
My sincere sympathies to his family. I remember him teaching Industrial Arts at Kinawa Middle School when I was in the 8th grade in 1970-1971. May his memory live on in your hearts and may God help lift you up at this difficult time in your lives.
Dennie and Patti Delaney
March 22, 2020
May all your precious memories help to comfort you during this difficult time. "The only things that count in life are the imprints of love we leave behind after we are gone." Ralph left many.
We share in your sorrow,
Dennie and Patti Delaney
March 22, 2020
May your precious memories help to comfort you during this difficult time. "The only things that count in life are the imprints of love we leave behind after we are gone." Ralph left many.
Patti Delaney
March 22, 2020
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