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BORN
1923
DIED
2016
Alex Ranftle Obituary
October 23, 1923 - April 4, 2016
Palm Springs - Alex Ranftle passed away surrounded by family and friends at age 92 after experiencing complications from pulmonary fibrosis. Alex was born in Geneva, NY to Alexander Henry Ranftle Sr. and Louise Veronica Connor Ranftle. He was a 1941 graduate of De Sales High School.
Alex enlisted in the US Army on New Year's Eve, 1941. A distinguished graduate in bombardier training, Alex was sent to Kimbolton, England as part of the 379th Bomb Group flying the B-17. After flying his first mission on D-Day and In recognition of his valor, he was awarded the Air Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Alex was the last surviving member of his B-17 Crew.
In 1999, Alex relocated to Palm Desert, CA and worked as a docent at the Palm Springs Air Museum. An avid golfer and master point bridge player, Palm Springs was a natural fit and Alex would spend the rest of his life in the area.
Alex was predeceased by his wife Fran and their sons David and Stephen. Alex is survived by his sister, Ann Ranftle Flynn of Seneca Falls, NY, children Michael, Mark, Liza, Maria, Alex, and Tina, as well as three grandchildren, Dave and Alex Ranftle and Mariah Korn. He is also fondly remembered by his longtime companion, Maile Scott of Palm Springs, CA.
Remembrances may be made in Alex Ranftle's name to the Palm Spring Air Museum.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Palm Springs Air Museum on April 29th at 9:00 AM.
To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: desertsun.com/obituaries
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Alex Ranftle
Sponsored by thedesertsun.com.
3 Entries
Rick Kratz
April 18, 2022
I have many fond memories of Alex. A very nice man!
Rick Kratz
April 26, 2016
My deepest condolences to the Ranftle family. It was an honor to know Alex and I treasured his friendship.
Pieter Sittler
April 24, 2016
My dad and I were deeply saddened to hear of Alex's passing. We always enjoyed hearing his stories at the Air Museum, and found his tours through the B-17 on display nothing short of fascinating. It was a pleasure for us to get to know such a kind man with an interesting story to tell, and we will miss his company next time we are out in Palm Springs at the museum. I am glad that I was able to get some of our conversations on tape so I can remember and appreciate the sacrifice that Mr. Ranftle made for as long as I live. Rest in peace, Alex.
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