May God bless you and your...
We miss Ralph´s music...
John Dickey
April 02, 2025 | Friend


Kalamazoo, Michigan
1931 - 2020
Deal, Ralph M. Kalamazoo Chemist, pianist, tinkerer, photographer. Imbiber of beers and spritzers. Lover of Linux, near-infrared photography, comedy, and-despite several people's best efforts to dissuade him-rocker shoes. Beloved husband and family member. Ralph MacGill Deal lived a life of...
Read MoreWe miss Ralph´s music...
John Dickey
April 02, 2025 | Friend
Dear Nora -
Chris and I were saddened to hear of Ralph's death.
I was so happy to reconnect with Ralph (and your latest poodles) when Ralph started playing the piano at Oakland Centre. His visits brought great pleasure to the guests and I often sprang up from my desk to go down and greet him. His cheerful enthusiasm always made my day better.
You are in our thoughts.
Yours,
Laura Latiolais
Laura Latiolais
April 21, 2020 | Kalamazoo, MI
Several years ago, Ralph and Nora were members of our dog park with their wonderful poodle Baxter. Ralph and Baxter would walk the park every morning, spending time and talking with anyone and everyone. Ralph was a true gentle man and I am sure will be missed by many. Condolences and hugs to you, Nora.
Patty Ruppel
April 14, 2020
Ralph was a really nice person and a great pianist. I always enjoyed listening to him serenade the staff and guests as well, while we had lunch at Oakland Centre. I was shocked to learn of his passing. My deepest condolences to his family. I will keep your family in my thoughts.
Nicole
April 13, 2020
Ralph was a great guy. He always had a great sense of humor, and treated people well. I'm sure that everyone will miss him very much. My heart goes out to Nora.
Ken Wielinga
April 12, 2020
Les and I are so very sorry to hear of Ralph's passing. Our hearts go out to you, Nora, to his sister, and to his kids and grandkids. This is such a beautifully written obituary that describes Ralph exactly as we knew him. Decades ago, Ralph asked me to give him some piano lessons. It was such a privilege to be exposed to his big heart and his endlessly curious mind in these delightful sessions! I think I learned more from him than vice versa. We will miss Ralph...and hold close his...
Silvia Roederer
April 12, 2020 | Kalamazoo, MI
Nora:
Ralph will be dearly missed in many worlds, being a true renaissance man through his cheery enthusiasm for... everything. Those of us from Portage Senior Band, just one corner of his music world, will always hear his piano and voice with a smile... and tip a brew in his honor.
John Dickey
April 10, 2020 | Plainwell, MI
Dear Nora, so sorry for your loss. Ralph sounds like an amazing man who was blessed to have so many experiences and loving people in his life.
Lynn Batchelder
LYNN Batchelder
April 10, 2020 | Grand Haven, MI
Dear Nora,
I was so sorry to read about Ralph I want you to know you are in my prayers.
Esther Cleason
April 09, 2020