Ralph S Steiner

Ralph Steiner November 18, 1939 - February 26, 2025

We unexpectedly lost our family's North Star in February due to complications from a fall after a cross-country family road trip to Arizona, our dad's favorite winter vacation place. Ralph Steiner, age 85, of Minnesota, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born in Minneapolis on November 18, 1939, Ralph remained a proud Minnesotan his entire life.

After graduating high school, Ralph honorably served in the United States Marine Corps, a commitment he was deeply proud of, and which helped shape his lifelong values of discipline, independence, and service.

Upon returning home, Ralph married his high school sweetheart, Judy (Kringen) Steiner, whom he first met in Sunday school at the age of 11. Married at age 20, they shared a remarkable 65 years of marriage, filled with love, partnership, and faith. Together they raised four children. Though they endured the heartbreaking loss of their son Dave three years ago, Ralph's legacy lives on through his well-loved daughters: Karen (Doug) Flink, Becky (Jay) Henry, and Beth (Mark) LaQua, his cherished six grandchildren: Adam, Jessica, Sara, Caroline, Dan, and Katie, and ten beloved great-grandchildren: Ruth, John, Emily, Mary, Eliza, Ben, Josh, Sam, Matthew & Noa. His family was the pride and joy of his life.

Ralph and Judy shared a great love for travel and exploring new places together, making memories around the country and beyond, often in the company of wonderful friends. Ralph loved the natural beauties Minnesota has to offer and spent many happy Christmases with his family on the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior. He also cherished much time outdoors on our many beautiful lakes, rivers and forests, boating, fishing, and hunting with dear friends and family.

At age 21, Ralph entered the insurance industry to support his growing family. Over the course of his career, he built a highly successful financial planning business and was once recognized as the top mutual fund salesperson in the world for The Hartford Companies. Ralph found great purpose in helping others achieve financial independence and security. His clients would often refer to his integrity and trustworthiness.

A man of conviction and generosity, Ralph believed deeply in hard work, personal responsibility, and faith in God. His favorite quote, "Play your own game," from MN hockey legend Herb Brooks, reflected his independent spirit and straightforward approach to life. While known as a strict father and employer, Ralph had a heart of gold. He would give the shirt off his back to someone in need, but also believed in the importance of equipping people to help themselves-living by the principle that teaching a man to fish is the greatest gift one can offer.

Ralph was instrumental in the growth and development of several churches throughout his life, lending his leadership and energy to help them thrive. His faith guided him, and his service to his church communities was a central part of his purpose. Ralph was a faithful member of many men's bible studies over the years and his strong faith through thick and thin was a guiding light to his children. Ralph's life was defined by unwavering faith, self-reliance, deep love for family, and a generous spirit.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew's Lutheran Church in Mahtomedi, MN. Visitation and Luncheon to follow, Noon to 2PM.

Memorials preferred to the Hospice of the Valley in Scottsdale, Arizona; hov.org/donate