Ralph James Hess

Ralph James Hess, age 75, of Painesville, Ohio, passed away on March 14, 2026. He was born on January 22, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Allan and Jean Hess.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Nancy Hess; his sons, Michael and Christopher; his granddaughter, Gwendolyn; and his siblings Judy (Larry) Mathiak, Allan (Laura) Hess Jr, Catherine (Bill) Annandono, Neil (Vicky) Hess, Linda (Jose) Feliciano, and David Hess.

He is also survived by daughters Kelly (Chris) Ralston, Jen (Anthony) LaRocco Russ, and Tonya (Nui) Hess.

He proudly served as a helicopter crew chief with the 1/9 Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division, U.S. Army from 1969 to 1973, completing three combat tours in Vietnam. Ralph pursued a number of business ventures throughout his life before settling into owning and operating a small trucking company for 20 years. In retirement, he and Nancy spent the last 10 years traveling the country together in their RV, enjoying life on the open road.

Ralph lived a life defined by service, hard work, and his Christian faith. He will be remembered for his resourcefulness, humor, and his ability to fix almost anything.

A celebration of life will be held on March 28 at 11 a.m. at Lakeshore Assembly of God, 8880 Lakeshore Blvd., Mentor, where Ralph was a devoted member for 26 years.

Arrangements were entrusted to Jeff Monreal Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Painesville.