Ralph Wayne York

Ralph Wayne York, age 66, passed away unexpectedly at his home on November 4, 2025, in Chetek, WI. Ralph was born to Wayne and Grace York on June 17, 1959, in Beloit, WI. Ralph was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. He was known for his big heart and unique personality that never ceased to fill the room with laughter.

On December 18, 1982, Ralph married Sarah Fjalstad in Beloit, WI. He was a disabled veteran who served in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman until his retirement in February 2000. He served at the Naval Hospital in Great Lakes, IL as a Hospital Corpsman and lifeguard. He also served at Camp Lejeune, NC as a Field Medical Corpsman. Ralph also served at the Naval Weapons Station in Yorktown, VA as an Optician. He was a veteran of the Persian Gulf War serving from August 1990 through March 1991. Ralph and Sarah then retired in Chetek, WI after his military service.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Sarah York; father, Wayne York; mother, Grace York; sister, Donna Voigtlander; and brother, Dan York. He is also survived by his children: Irving (Kim) York, Amy (Tyler) Tubbs, Raymond York, Rebecca York, and Katie Putnam. He was a dedicated grandfather to Emrik and Esme York. He was very proud of the accomplishments of his children through their schooling, careers, and family lives. Ralph is also survived by his aunt and uncle and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Ralph was the ultimate family man with a can-do attitude. He had the super power of tracking his family members and friends on the phone and gathering every detail of their lives. He truly cared for everyone’s well-being. He kept busy taking care of his home, cabins, and garden; but, he always made time to call family and answered his phone more reliably than anyone. He loved giving and receiving surprise visits, often deciding to visit people last minute later in the evening.

Ralph was a hard working man who had a passion for the outdoors. He spent his summers swimming, fishing, and enjoying boat rides on various lakes in Northern Wisconsin. Swimming with his family was something he took very seriously. Ralph loved going out with his children during deer hunting season. He also spent his time watching movies, bargain shopping, and spending time visiting family and friends. Ralph was an avid cat lover over the years with his two current cats, Mac and Calisee, bringing him much joy. Ralph had a heart that would not quit, and he was an extremely caring and compassionate individual. He will be remembered by his big smile, laughter, and interesting stories he always loved to share.

Funeral Services will be held at the Burnham-Ours-Kolstad Family Funeral Home in Chetek, WI on Friday, November 14, 2025. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m - 12:30 p.m with a short service and time of sharing at 11:30 a.m. Ralph will be laid to rest at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI at 2:00 p.m. following the service.

The Burnham-Ours-Kolstad Family Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.