Ralph William Farrell

Ralph William Farrell

Ralph William Farrell, 86, of Glens Falls, passed away peacefully at home on October 19, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and his devoted wife of 60 years, Margaret Jane Healy Farrell.

Born in Ogdensburg, N.Y., on January 24, 1939, Ralph was the son of the late John and Catherine "June" Farrell. A proud native of Ogdensburg, he graduated from St. Mary's Academy in 1956.

A devout Catholic, Ralph's faith grounded him throughout his life. In May 1965, Ralph married the love of his life, Margaret Jane Healy. They settled in her hometown of Glens Falls in 1967, where they built a happy life and raised their three children.

Ralph spent 35 proud years as caretaker of the Lake George Battleground with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation-a role that meant more to him than just a job. He loved the work, the outdoors, and the friendships he built with families who returned year after year. Though retirement was bittersweet, it gave him more time for what mattered most-his family-and the joy of cheering on his grandchildren at school plays and hockey games.

Ralph had a light-hearted spirit and a sense of humor that brought joy to everyone around him. He loved to sing and often filled the house-and family voicemail boxes-with serenades, most memorably his rendition of Stevie Wonder's "I Just Called to Say I Love You," ending with his trademark sign-off: "This is R.W.-Really Wonderful-Farrell calling. Call me back!"

He lived for life's simple joys: steamboat rides on Lake George, Sunday drives that ended at the local ice cream stand, cheering on Duke basketball, and quiet afternoon picnics with a cold beer in hand. He especially treasured evenings at the kitchen table with his dear friend, John "Jolly John" Kemnitzer, filled with laughter and stories. But it was camping with the family at Ward's Point on the St. Lawrence River that held a special place in his heart. There, he spent many happy summers making cherished memories with his wife, children, and extended family-memories that continued to bring a smile to his face throughout his life.

Ralph is predeceased by his parents, John and Catherine "June" Farrell; his in-laws, Bernard Leo and Doris Condon Healy; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kathy and Mike Hamell; and his brother-in- law, Jack Carmody.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret; and their children, Jane Friedland (Daniel) of Glens Falls, John Farrell (Sharon) of South Glens Falls, and Ann Marie Laszewski (Richard) of Gansevoort. He also leaves behind his cherished honorary daughter, Victoria Green of Hudson Falls.

Ralph was the proud grandfather of six grandchildren, Ralph Farrell (Jess), Patricia Farrell, Madlyn Bryant, Alvin John "AJ" Bryant, Gabriel Laszewski, and Amelia Laszewski. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, twin boys Nathan and Liam Farrell, who brought him endless joy.

He is also survived by his siblings, James Farrell (Janet), Douglas Farrell, and Catherine Carmody, all of Ogdensburg; and by his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Edward Healy (Debbie) of Queensbury and Bernard Healy (Barbara) of Glens Falls.

Ralph was especially proud of his large and loving extended family. He remained close with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins across generations, finding joy in their milestones and family gatherings.

Ralph Farrell was a kind and generous soul-a man who would truly give you the shirt off his back. His warmth, humor, and deep love for others will live on in the laughter of his children and grandchildren, the songs he loved to sing, and the many lives he touched simply by being himself.

Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, October 24,2025 at Baker's Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette Street in Queensbury.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025 at St. Mary's Church, 62 Warren Street in Glens Falls, livestream optional. Rite of committal will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery in South Glens Falls.

Condolences and floral arrangements may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.