Ralph Edin

Ralph Edin

1938 - 2025

Ralph George Edin, age 87, of Grand Rapids, MN passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025, Solvay Hospice House in Duluth.

Ralph was born on March 13, 1938, in Hillman Township, Kanabec County, Minnesota, to George and Roselia (Bersaw) Edin. In 1946, his family moved to the Splithand area, where he attended Wendigo School.

On March 25, 1961, Ralph married Karen Seavey. Later that year, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Ralph and Karen spent the next two years stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, where he served at both the Oro Grande and McGregor Missile Ranges. Following his release from the service, Ralph and Karen returned to the Splithand area, where they would spend the next 60+ years building their life together.

In 1968, Ralph began working for E.W. Coons, out of Hibbing, Minnesota, where he remained for 14 years. After the company was sold, Ralph purchased a Peterbilt truck and drove over the road for Jerry Hammann Transportation for 10 years. He then spent another 10 years as an independent owner-operator before retiring in 2001.

Ralph enjoyed the outdoors and found joy in camping, fishing year-round, and hunting. He especially cherished time spent with family and friends – particularly when a good conversation and a "toddy" were involved.

He is preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter; brother, Jim Edin; brother-in-law, Dave Baufield; nephews, Danny Edin and Tim Baufield.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Karen; siblings, Christine Baufield, Shirley (Ken) Boucher, Jerry (Jean) Edin, and Linda (Stu) Edin; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Ralph's life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend a special thank you for the exceptional care provided by Itasca/Essentia Hospice and Solvay Hospice House.

Arrangements are pending with Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.