Ralph Jackson Townsend

Ralph Jackson Townsend, lovingly known as Jack, ended his journey from this world on January 9th, 2025, at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and boundless knowledge. Born on September 24th, 1950, in Terre Haute, Indiana, he grew to become a remarkable individual who touched the lives of all who knew him, through his insightful and articulate nature and willingness to share his knowledge and help others. 

Jack dedicated his professional life to being a logistics manager at Monsanto, working in California and Michigan. Throughout his life, he was inspired to mentor people, at work and at the American Sailing Institute, where he was a well-respected sailing instructor to many aspiring sailors. Sailing was not just a hobby for Jack; it was a passion that fueled his adventurous spirit alongside his beloved life partner, best friend and sailing companion, Marilyn Leece. Together they shared many adventures, sailing the Great Lakes, Pacific Northwest, Chesapeake Bay, and Lake Saint Clair on their boat “Mystic.” They shared a loved of camping and the outdoors, as well. 

Jack was an avid reader, writer, and intellectual. His insatiable curiosity led him to many interests. He found solace in bonsai gardening, building an arbor to display his many bonsai trees in training. More recently, he developed an interest in fly fishing and studied it intensely.

Jack’s greatest achievement by far was being a father and grandfather. He was ever eager to support his son, Jeff Townsend, and daughter, Megan Peterson. He took great pride in their many accomplishments and watching them evolve. Jack found immense joy spending time with his grandchildren Evan and Kiley Townsend. Texting each other during football games, or to just check in with them, was a favorite pastime for Jack. Marilyn’s children and grandchildren also became an important part of his life, as he was to theirs. Ben, Sarah, Benny, Sydney, Tara, Brian, Keira and Addison will miss him dearly. 

Survived by those who adored and loved him, as well as his sisters, Kelly Hargrove-Sullivan and the late Diane Brazell. Jack is reunited in memory with his late parents, Evan Jackson Phenis and Fay Townsend. His beloved parents both passed away within months of each other when Jack was at a very young age. He and his sister Diane were raised by their aunt, Mabel Long, whom they always lovingly referred to as Mom. Their spirits are now joined together, celebrating the indelible mark that Jack left in this world.

As we remember Jack, let us cherish the adventures he embraced, the knowledge that he shared, and the love that he spread. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of his family and friends alike. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in honor of Jack’s life and memory to: 

American Sailing Institute -  By check to: PO BOX 210250, Auburn Hills, MI. 48321

Zelle 

ASI.sendmoney@gmail.com 

Angela Hospice, 14100 Newburgh Road, Livonia, MI. 48154

A private Celebration of Life will be held in Jack’s honor at a future date.