Obituary: NELSON, RALPH

Ralph Conrad Nelson1923 2013Sandy Ralph passed away of natural causes on September 30, 2013 at his home in Sandy.He was born November 24, 1923 in Salt Lake City to Conrad F. Nelson and Edith Swenson. He grew up in Sandy and lived on the same street his whole life.He graduated from Jordan High School in 1942, spent that summer attending Utah State University studying airplane repair. He went to work at Hill Field as an operator in the Engine Block and worked there until he was drafted into the Army Air Corps in December 1942. He trained in Radio Repair and served in Italy during WWII. He was honorably discharged in December 1945.Ralph worked in construction for 6 years, then started working at the Kennecott Refinery. After 33 years he retired as lead blacksmith.He married Dorothy Putnam in 1948. They had 2 sons and 2 daughters. He is survived by his wife; sons and daughters, Steven (Shirley), Susan (Max), Keith (Ann) and Patricia (Curt); 13 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.He is preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister, Grace Grohs.Ralph was fortunate to share good times and travel with his family, in-laws and many cherished friends. He will be fondly remembered and greatly missed.A visitation will be held Saturday, Oct. 5, at 4:00 p.m. with funeral to follow at 5:00 p.m. at Goff Mortuary, 8090 So. State St., Midvale, Utah. The family will honor his request to be cremated.In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Canyons School District Education Foundation, 9150 South 500 West, Sandy, UT 84070 (801-826-5171), designated for Jordan Valley School.We appreciate the personnel at the VA Hospital and Superior Hospice for their service and care. www.goffmortuary.com