Oct
8
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
May Ave - Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes & Crematory
14624 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73134
Send FlowersOct
9
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
May Ave - Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes & Crematory
14624 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73134
Send FlowersOct
10
Services provided by
Smith & Kernke Funeral Directors - North May AveOnly 1 hour left for delivery to next service.
Ralph Lynn Wilson, a unique character in every sense, died October 4, 2025. He was born February 27, 1948 in Clinton, Oklahoma and grew up in Roger Mills County, later moving to Oklahoma City when his father transferred locations as an Oklahoma State Highway patrolman.
Ralph had a long and successful career as a civil service engineer at Tinker Air Force Base, where he utilized his intelligence and creativity to contribute to the nation's aerospace endeavors. His daughters often joked that he was a pro-golfer; noting the time spent on the golf course far exceeding the time spent behind his desk. Ralph furthered his education by earning multiple certifications with his impressive math skills during his tenure at “Tinker Field”.
He was known for his adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors. Ralph cherished activities that allowed him to immerse himself in nature, whether through all forms of hunting, fishing, or boating. His heart belonged to Lake Eufaula, where the home he helped build, served as a serene retreat, welcoming family and friends alike. His summers were spent on the lake; winters were spent snow skiing in Colorado, while fall and spring were reserved for the golf course.
Ralph was highly intelligent with a photographic memory and could speak with anyone on any given topic for hours. He made friends easily and left a lasting impression on all he spent time with.
In the mid-nineties, Ralph faced the challenge of a brain aneurysm, which necessitated surgery. Remarkably, he made a full recovery, albeit with some noticeable changes in his interests. This pivotal moment ignited a newfound passion for tractors, leading him to assemble an impressive collection of not only tractors but a garage and storage building full of random tractor parts. Ralph became a cherished member of the Standing Tall Tractor Club and enjoyed playing the role of Santa in the Christmas parade for several years, where his endearing personality shined brightly.
In his youth, Ralph excelled in various sports, including football, baseball, softball, water skiing and dirt bike racing despite breaking his collar bones several times. A mechanic at heart, he could fix any engine and even diagnose problems simply by listening to the sounds they made. He had a hands-on approach to life that extended into his woodworking and building talents.
Ralph is survived by his three daughters, Monique Garrison (Darren), Carmen Smith (Wes), and Dawn Mamer (Bob); eight grandchildren, Shannon, DJ, Wade, Christopher, Wesley, Grace, Janie, and Mitchell; numerous great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind loving extended family and friends who will forever remember his spirited nature.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Roger Glen Wilson, and his parents, Delbert and Geneva Wilson. Ralph's legacy of laughter, creativity, and warmth will continue to inspire all those fortunate enough to have crossed his path.
Graveside services to celebrate Ralph will be 2:00 PM, Friday, October 10, 2025 at Red Hill Cemetery in Hammon, Oklahoma.
14624 North May Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73134
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreOct
8
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
May Ave - Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes & Crematory
14624 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73134
Send FlowersOct
9
10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
May Ave - Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes & Crematory
14624 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73134
Send FlowersOct
10
Services provided by
Smith & Kernke Funeral Directors - North May AveOnly 1 hour left for delivery to next service.