What is your first memory of Ralph? Share a favorite memory you have of Ralph. Tell us about a special moment you shared with Ralph. Describe a time when Ralph made you laugh or smile. What is something you will always remember about Ralph? Talk about a shared experience you had with Ralph. What is something you did together that you enjoyed? Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Ralph. Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Ralph. What is something you learned from Ralph?

Add a Memory

Send Flowers

Make a Donation

Share Obituary

Obituary

Guest Book

Ralph Piper Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 19, 2025.

On Good Friday, April 18, 2025, Ralph Piper passed away at the age of 89. He will be missed immensely, but we have hope and faith that he is with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Ralph was known for his quick wit and one-liners that left everyone around him in stitches. Even in his last few months, although he suffered from Dementia, he still knew how to crack a joke and make everyone laugh.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Rose Piper (nee - Grzelakowski) and two sons, Ralph (Dawn) and Xavier (Liz). He also leaves behind a beautiful legacy of 6 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren: Aaron (Heather) Piper [Porter, Wyatt], Tiffany (Vincent) Saigh [Vincent Jr, Ella], Jessica (Jordan) Kling [Trace, Wesley, Marley, Maverick, Niko], Alexis (Alex) Orlando [Gabriel, Dagny, Leo], Tyler (Diamond Soto) [Caine, Dallas, Sterling], and Jacob (Ashley) Piper [August, Julian]. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Alexander and Anastasia. He also had many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends including his two brothers, Alexander (Butch) and Roger.

Ralph was born in the attic of his home on Forestlawn in Detroit, Michigan on July 23, 1935. He was raised with a fierce love of country and Catholic faith. He never left the house without making sure he had his wallet, keys, and rosary. He was very active in the 60s during a tumultuous time in America and vehemently supported our troops in Vietnam as well as defending Catholicism. He loved to tell stories of 'the old days' with his grandkids gathered around him and asking to repeat their favorite stories to which he was more than happy to oblige. He worked for Detroit Edison his entire career and into retirement loved to weld, collect war memorabilia, and spend time with his family. When he wasn't at home, you could find him Up North in Ubly or relaxing on Fort Myers Beach. Ralph will be sorely missed, but his legacy will live on through his family. Please pray for the repose of the soul of Ralph and all the souls of the faithfully departed.

There will be a private funeral mass for immediate family only. In Lieu of flowers, you can make a donation in Ralph's name to the Solanus Casey Center.

View All Photos

Add Photos to Memorial

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Ralph Piper's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

Recent Activity

April 21, 2025

Harold Larsen posted to the memorial.

April 19, 2025

Connie Piper-Wright posted to the memorial.

April 19, 2025

Tiffany Saigh posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Harold Larsen

April 21, 2025

My condolences. He did have a million one-liners!

How you can show support

Send flowers

Consider sending flowers.

Add photos

Share their life with photo memories.

Plant trees

Honor them by planting trees in their memory.

Follow this page

Get email updates whenever changes are made.

Donate in Memory

Make a donation in memory of your loved one.

Share this page

Invite other friends and family to visit the page.

Connie Piper-Wright

April 19, 2025

I remember going up north with uncle Ralph. We would head up to his property and play all day. When it was time for lunch uncle Ralph would shout out, "Okay gang, time for lunch", and we would come back to eat and listen to Uncle Ralph tell jokes and made-up stories! I will treasure those memories always! You will be missed dearly uncle Ralph, I love you!