Ralph J. Winchell died peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2008, at St. John's Lutheran Home, Liggett Cottage. Ralph was born Nov. 12, 1919, in Glendive, to Ralph and Tillie Winchell. Ralph was one of 12 children that grew up on the family farm outside Glendive.
Ralph was united in marriage on May 15, 1943, to Blanche Irene Henry in Tacoma, Wash. They lived in Tacoma, where Ralph worked in the shipyards and Blanche was a stenographer. When the war ended, they moved to Billings, where Ralph and his brother Mike started Central Sheet Metal Works, which is operated today by Ralph's sons, John and Jerry.
In 1960, he expanded his business interests by starting Montana Honda & Marine. He was pleased about his grandson's recent decision to join the team at Montana Honda & Marine.
Over the years, his interests included boating with the family at Canyon Ferry and golfing at Yellowstone Country Club, where he was a member for many years.
Ralph is survived by Blanche, his wife of 65 years; and his sons John Winchell, Jerry Winchell and Jim (Laura) Winchell. He is also survived by his granddaughters, Betsy Winchell, Carie Winchell and Christine (Adam) Tipton; and grandson James (Shauna) Winchell; great-granchildren, Drew, Brady, Will and Samantha; and his sisters Cecilia Romania and Francis Huettl; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Tillie Winchell; five brothers, Mike, Tony, John, Jay and Walt; and four sisters, Irene, Ann, Min and Betty.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to Billings Area Catholic Education Trust.
Vigil services will be 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. The Funeral Mass will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at St. Pius X Church, with Rite of Committal at Calvary Cemetery.
This obituary was originally published in the Billings Gazette.
John, Jim, Jerry,
I am very sorry for your loss. Your father was a great man.
A funny story about Ralph, he use to come over to the Hanging Tree Saloon from the Marina. I was bartending then and he would never call me Gordy, it was always "Skipper". And when he would leave, "thanks Skip".
I hope you are all well despite your loss.
Take care,
Gordy Willis
Gordy Willis
January 27, 2008 | Jackson Hole, WY
Dear Blanche & Family,
Mel & I have very fond memories of "Peachy" & the fun being with you. Sorry we can't be with you to "celebrate his life" but please know that you all are in our thoughts & prayers at this sad time.
Frosty Brown
January 18, 2008 | Las Vegas, NV
John and Family: So sorry to hear about your dad. Dads are special and we are reluctant to let them slip into the past knowing they must. He was a solid "ONER" and one who loved this communtity and gave so much back to it. Celebrate, as he would..
Sen. Conrad & Phyllis Burns
January 17, 2008 | Billings, MT
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. I have very fond memories of Ralph and Blanch. They were wonderful friends of my parents Lou & Ada Aleksich.
Sue Aleksich-Akey
January 17, 2008 | Alexandria, VA
Please know of my prayers at this sad time for the family but a happy time for Mr. Winchell. Live, Jesus, in our hearts, forever!
Brother Bede Baldry, FSC
January 17, 2008 | Chicago, IL
Mrs. Winchell and BOYS
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time over the loss of Ralph. He accomplished much while here on earth and treated everyone really good while doing it. It's a tribute to him that his businesses are still family owned. I'm sure he took great pride in knowing you guys were keeping things going. Peace be with all of you.
Tom Hagadone
January 17, 2008 | Hot Springs, AR
