Ralph Diver

Ralph Allen Diver, age 80, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2025, at Wisconsin Rapids Care Center surrounded by family.

Born on August 24, 1945, in Wisconsin Rapids to Donald and Ila Diver, Ralph lived a life rooted in service, family, and community. A proud graduate of Lincoln High School and Spencerian Business College in Milwaukee, Ralph began his career in banking, serving 24 years at Farmers and Merchants Bank. He later operated his own accounting and tax preparation business, earning the trust of countless clients and neighbors. With a knack for numbers, Ralph was always ready to lend his expertise to help family and friends.

Ralph served his country honorably in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1966, completing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood and was later stationed in Darmstadt, Germany. His discipline and integrity carried through every chapter of his life.

On September 19, 1970, Ralph married the love of his life, Helen Augustyniak, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Wisconsin Rapids. They recently celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary, a testament to enduring love and partnership.

An avid sports enthusiast and NASCAR fan, Ralph was a dedicated men's league softball player and umpire. He passionately supported the Brewers and Badgers and loved all sports. He enjoyed ice fishing, the annual gun deer hunt, and making deer drives with friends. His commitment extended off the field as well - serving as a Board Member of the Wisconsin Rapids Men's Softball Association, Wisconsin Rapids Twins, and American Legion Post #485 in Rudolph.

Ralph's sharp wit and quick sense of humor brought light and laughter into every room he entered. He especially cherished every moment spent cheering on his grandchildren as they played baseball and basketball. Ralph was a devoted father to Denelle and Derik and proud grandfather of Aiden, Mason, and Hudson who brought him endless joy.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Helen; children: Denelle (Chris) Foerstera of Oconomowoc, WI, and Derik (friend Sunita) Diver of Charlottesville, VA; grandchildren: Aiden and Mason Foerstera and Hudson Diver; sisters: Judy Kollock of Bancroft, WI, Kay Zwicke of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, Sharon Austin of Winslow, AZ, and sister-in-law Laurie Diver of Wisconsin Rapids, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Stanley (Theresa) Augustyniak, daughter-in-law Theresa Zanetti Diver, sister June Truesdell, brother Clyde Diver, and brothers-in-law Richard Zwicke, Jim Kollock, Ron Truesdell, and H.H. Austin.

Ralph's wishes were for no funeral services or visitation, and he will be privately interred. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to Team-Rapids, supporting youth sports in the community. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Wisconsin Rapids Care Center, Aspirus Riverview Hospital, and Aspirus Hospice Care for their compassionate support.