Ralph Joseph Gale

Services will be at a later date.
Ralph Joseph Gale Sr., a man whose laughter was as hearty as his love for life, passed away on November 5, 2025, in Villisca, Iowa, due to a heart attack. Born on May 3, 1958, in Omaha, Nebraska, Ralph's journey through life was one of joy, service, and the simple pleasures that make life rich and fulfilling. He was a beacon of humor and wisdom, a true friend to all who knew him, and a loving patriarch to a large and vibrant family.
Ralph's early life in Omaha laid the foundation for his strong work ethic and his dedication to his community. After earning his high school diploma, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, a period of his life that instilled in him a sense of discipline and pride that he carried with him always. Following his service, Ralph brought his leadership skills to Airlite Plastics, where he worked for over two decades as a supervisor, respected by his colleagues for his fairness and his friendly demeanor.
Outside of work, Ralph was a man of many passions. He was a professional K9 trainer and handler, a role that show-cased his patience and his extraordinary ability to connect with animals. His love for country music was only matched by his love for a good cup of coffee and the tranquility of living in the country. Ralph's long hair was his trademark, often drawing comparisons to the iconic actor Sam Elliott, a resemblance he bore with a playful sense of pride. Ralph's ability to tell jokes that could make anyone laugh was legendary. He had a knack for finding humor in the everyday and could lift the spirits of those around him with just a few words. This gift of joy was one of the many ways Ralph touched the lives of those around him, leaving a legacy of laughter and light-heartedness that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
He is survived by his five children-Monica Hiatt, Jolyn Gale, Lisa Gale, Ralph Gale Jr., and Michael Gale, Son-in-law Jeff Hiatt Sr and Daughter-in- Law Teri Gale who will carry forward his spirit of generosity and kindness. His 23 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren were the apples of his eye, each of them a testament to Ralph's loving and nurturing presence in their lives. Ralph was the embodiment of the saying, "A day without laughter is a day wasted," a quote often attributed to Charlie Chaplin. He lived this philosophy every day, ensuring that those around him felt the warmth of his jovial spirit.
His wisdom was shared freely, his friendship was a treasure, and his presence was a gift to us all. Today, as we remember Ralph Joseph Gale Sr., let us not dwell on the sorrow of his passing but instead celebrate the boundless energy and love he brought into the world. Let his memory inspire us to embrace life with open arms, to find humor in our challenges, and to cherish the simple joys that each day offers. Ralph's story is one of a life well-lived, and his legacy will continue to motivate and uplift us all.