Ralph Erskine Helper Jr.

Ralph Erskine Helper Jr., age 94, passed away peacefully on November 15, 2025, with his wife Susan at his side. Ralph was born in Mangum, Oklahoma on February 11, 1931. Ralph attended the University of Oklahoma (Sigma Chi) where he graduated with an Electrical Engineering degree. He joined the Navy immediately after college and spent 4 years on the USS Essex as a Lieutenant JG in the South Pacific.

After retiring from the Navy, he settled in California where he began his 29-year career with Neely Enterprises and Hewlett-Packard. Soon after, he met his beautiful wife Susan DiMarco, and they married on November 21, 1959.

Ralph enjoyed early retirement at age 55, and kept busy with his golf, sailing, flying and square dancing, but his greatest joy was spending time with his seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

As a man of faith, Ralph was an Elder and a Deacon in the Presbyterian church. He will be remembered for his kindness and generosity towards others, and for the love he shared with his family.

Ralph is survived by his wife Susan; his children Steve (Judy), Carol (Mark), Linda (Matt); grandchildren Alyssa (TJ), Daniel (Sumerly), Ethan, Ryan, Isabel, Morgan, Devon; and great grandchildren Wade and Annie. A family service will be held in early 2026 to honor his life.