Ralph J. Orton

FUNERAL HOME

Ness-Sibley Funeral Home

23 South St

Trumansburg, New York

Ralph Orton Obituary

RALPH J. ORTON
TRUMANSBURG - Ralph J. Orton, age 74, passed away in his home of 39 years at 8494 Falls Road in Trumansburg, while surrounded by family on Thursday, March 27, 2008.
Born in Brooktondale on May 15, 1933, Ralph was the son of Paul H. and Gladys M. Dennis Orton. He was a millwright at Borg-Warner for 42 years before retiring in 1999. Ralph often brought his expertise as a welder home with him where he mended broken steel with precision for family and friends. He also enjoyed NASCAR races, hunting and bowling. The hearts of family members harbor many warm memories of camping excursions with Ralph.
Ralph is survived by his devoted wife of 39 years, Anna L. Jenney Orton; four sons, John L. Watkins of Newfield, NY, James R. Watkins of Rhode Island, Joseph R. Watkins of Spencer, NY and Jerry A. Watkins of Knoxville, TN; three daughters, Deberah J. Guthrie of Hampton, VA, Kathy A. Vaughn of Jacksonville, NY, and Ronda S. Williamson of Trumansburg, NY; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family extends their gratitude to Pat Ayers who has become a close friend as she provided care to Ralph. Pat's presence enabled Ralph to remain at home through his declining health.
The family will be present to reminisce and share memories of Ralph's life with friends during an informal gathering on Wednesday, April 2, 2008, from 5-7 p.m. at the Trumansburg American Legion Post #770. Please stop by for as long as is convenient and dress in casual attire.
Those who wish to remember Ralph in the form of a contribution are asked to kindly consider Hospicare of Tompkins County, 172 East King Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850; or Cayuga Medical Radiation Therapy Dept., 101 Dates Dr., Ithaca, NY 14850.
The family have entrusted arrangements to the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South St., Trumansburg. 1-888-534-5446. www.ness-sibley.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Ithaca Journal from Mar. 29 to Mar. 31, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Orton

11 Entries

Julie K.

September 1, 2025

May your memories of Ralph help you get through this difficult time. He lives on forever in our hearts. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. May he continue to rest in eternal peace with God by his side.

Kathy Card

April 2, 2008

DJ and Rhonda,

Our thoughts are without at this time. It's hard to see your loved one suffer through an illness. Comfort comes from knowing that they are now at rest. I didn't know Ralph personally but have heard many great comments from his former, fellow employees at Borg Warner. The memories are what keeps your loved one with you always.
Take care,

Kathy and Geo

Virginia Magee

April 1, 2008

To Aunt Ann and the entire family,
I am so sorry to hear of Uncle Ralph"s passing. My God it seems like only a couple years ago when all of us kids were growing up and driving you and Uncle Ralph crazy but, there was never a harsh word spoken. Aunt Ann, my prayers are with you as it was just a short time ago when I lost Momma. I know the hurt and the pain. I love you very much and I am thinking of you at this time. Hi to John, Jim, Joe, Jerry, Cathy, and of course to Ronda Sue. I remember when we were all growing up and what a wonderful man Uncle Ralph was. My prayers are with all of you.
Ginny Lee.

candida hayes

April 1, 2008

grandma,
my thoughts and prayers are with you all.i love all of you so much and i miss grandpa on a daily basis.i am sorry i won't be able to make it to the memorial.but remember i am there in spirit.i love all of you.and i have many good memories of grandpa.he was dearly loved and will be dearly missed.
love your grandaughter candida

Tina Boylan

March 31, 2008

My thoughts are with you.

Deb Kippola (Simmons)

March 31, 2008

I remember many car pools to color guard practice with Mr. Orton all thru middle school and high school. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Dick and Laura Fenner

March 29, 2008

You are in our thoughts and prayers. Be sad only for a little while as Ralph has gone on to a better place. We will be praying for you all.

Our sincere sympathy.

Mike&Marion Boylan

March 29, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

patty mosher

March 29, 2008

to ann and her family
I'm sorry to hear about your loss, and joe if you need to talk to someone you can call my number is listed. once again I'm sorry for your lose.
patty mosher

Ron Bowen

March 29, 2008

Ralph will always be remembered as "Captain Clearweld" to the Maintenance gang at Borg Warner. We had many good times and laughs with Ralph and will remember them. Working together for many years Ralph was an important player in the group. One time of day that you couldn't keep up with Ralph was when it was time to go home. He was first to the time clock and rushed as fast as his legs would carry him to the parking lot. We never new he could move that fast! Ralph was a great friend to all and will be missed but remembered.

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