Ralph E. Tapani

South Range, Ralph E. Tapani, 92, a resident of South Range, passed away Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Our Lady of Mercy Convalescent Home in Hubbell, where he had been a resident patient for six weeks. He was born on April 29, 1933, in Atlantic Mine, son of the late Elmer and Sigrid (Nelson)Tapani Ralph married his best friend Betty (Sjostrand) Tapani on July 21, 1956. Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was employed by Ala Gas and then Ferrellgas. After retirement he worked for the Village of South Range.
Ralph built the family home in South Range. He opened his doors to family and friends on Saturday evenings to enjoy the saune he had built in the basement. He loved spending time with family and friends. He was lovingly known as Papa by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ralph was the kind of person when there was something that had to be done he did it. No questions asked.
He is survived by his son, Gregg and daughter, Shelley; his granddaughters Stephanie (Daniel) Kimball, Jennifer (Floyd Alma) Maginnis, Ashley Maginnis; his great grandchildren Dezi, Miya, Finn, Noah and Travis; and his sister-in-law Sandy Tapani along with many nieces and nephews. Ralph is preceded in death by his wife, Betty; son, Stephen; brother, Ray; sister and brother- in-law June and John Waisanen; Sisters and Brothers- in -laws: Esther Pennanen, Joyce and Ronald Paulson, Gloria and Clem Stone and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
The family would like to thank the Adams Township First Responders and UP Home Health Care Nurses.
Burial will be in the spring at the Mountain View Cemetery.
To view Ralph's obituary or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service - Mt. View Chapel of South Range is assisting the family with the arrangements. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ralph, please visit our floral store.