Ralph Keto

Tilden Twp, MI- Ralph W. Keto, 91, Tilden Township resident passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024, at his home while in the loving care of his family and UP Home Health and Hospice.
Ralph was born in Ishpeming, Michigan on April 1, 1933, a son of the late Walter A. and Lydia (Mannikko) Keto. He graduated from National Mine High School, Class of 1951.
Following high school graduation, Ralph worked at the Mather B Mine for 2 years until drafted in the US Army. He spent three years in the in the Army and was Honorably discharged in 1955. After his return, Ralph attended Northern Michigan College where he received his bachelor's degree in education. He worked at the White Pine Mine, prior to getting his first teaching position at Michigamme High School. He eventually ended up at National Mine High School where he would teach for 29 years, retiring as a shop teacher. During summers, Ralph would work for Mead Paper Company. Still working after retirement, he continued to teach drivers training and working the score board at National Mine and Westwood basketball games.
Ralph was a member of the Faith Lutheran Church. He enjoyed spending time at camp, traveling with his family and friends around the country and the world, trips to the casino, taking saunas, and cutting firewood well into his 80's. He played in the Ishpeming Cribbage League for many years, was an avid Tigers, Packer fan, and a huge fan of the Westwood Patriot basketball teams. Ralph served as Supervisor of Tilden Township for 8 years, 1992-2000.
Ralph is survived by his wife Marie Joanne (Flack) Keto, whom he married on May 17, 1958, a son Rick Keto, granddaughter Kaitlyn (Stefan Butler) Keto, a sister Marlene Kautz, two brothers; Gene Keto and David (Brenda) Keto, sister-in-law Maryann Keto, son-in-law Robert Pauls, along with numerous nieces, nephews, good friends Dave Koval and Diane Savala, and many of his former National Mine co-workers who he kept in close contact with.
Ralph was preceded in death by his Parents, a daughter Jacqueline Pauls, sister Mary Helsten, an infant sister, a brother John Keto, brother-in-law Claude "Dee" Kautz, and sister-in-law Cathy Keto.
Ralph's family will greet relatives and friends from 2:00-4:00 pm on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at the Faith Lutheran Church, Co. Rd. 581 south of Ishpeming where his memorial service will be held at 4:00 pm with Bishop Emeritus Thomas Skrenes to officiating.
A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.
Memorials may be directed to Faith Lutheran Church in memory of Ralph.
Ralph's family would like to thank all those who cared for Ralph, including UP Home Health and Hospice, Dr. Susan Balmer, NP Nichol Trejo and all the nurses and staff on the cardiac unit 4th floor at UP Health System Marquette. Additionally, a huge thank you and appreciation for Stefan Butler and Kaitlyn for their care of Ralph while home.
Ralph's obituary may be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.