Ralph J. Winchell

Ralph J. Winchell died peacefully on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2008, at St. John's Lutheran Home, Liggett Cottage. Ralph was born Nov. 12, 1919, in Glendive, to Ralph and Tillie Winchell. Ralph was one of 12 children that grew up on the family farm outside Glendive.
Ralph was united in marriage on May 15, 1943, to Blanche Irene Henry in Tacoma, Wash. They lived in Tacoma, where Ralph worked in the shipyards and Blanche was a stenographer. When the war ended, they moved to Billings, where Ralph and his brother Mike started Central Sheet Metal Works, which is operated today by Ralph's sons, John and Jerry.
In 1960, he expanded his business interests by starting Montana Honda & Marine. He was pleased about his grandson's recent decision to join the team at Montana Honda & Marine.
Over the years, his interests included boating with the family at Canyon Ferry and golfing at Yellowstone Country Club, where he was a member for many years.
Ralph is survived by Blanche, his wife of 65 years; and his sons John Winchell, Jerry Winchell and Jim (Laura) Winchell. He is also survived by his granddaughters, Betsy Winchell, Carie Winchell and Christine (Adam) Tipton; and grandson James (Shauna) Winchell; great-granchildren, Drew, Brady, Will and Samantha; and his sisters Cecilia Romania and Francis Huettl; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Tillie Winchell; five brothers, Mike, Tony, John, Jay and Walt; and four sisters, Irene, Ann, Min and Betty.
Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be made to Billings Area Catholic Education Trust.
Vigil services will be 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, at Michelotti-Sawyers Mortuary. The Funeral Mass will be 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at St. Pius X Church, with Rite of Committal at Calvary Cemetery.

This obituary was originally published in the Billings Gazette.