Ralph C. Kelley, age 78, formerly of North Platte, passed away December 15, 2012 at the Sutherland Care Center. Ralph was born December 25, 1933 in Bignell, NE to Roy and Louise Yanken Kelley. He graduated from Maxwell High School and then was drafted into the United States Army where he served as a Corpsman.
Ralph married Barbara Kostic in 1955. To this union was born a son and daughter, Tim and Deborah. After being discharged from the Army he lived in Colorado for a few years before returning to North Platte. He joined the Union Pacific Railroad working with the Stores' Department.
In 1961 he married Kathy Mueller. To this union was born a son, Jeff. The family moved to Hershey. Ralph retired from the Union Pacific in 1984.
Ralph enjoyed playing guitar and played in a band. He also enjoyed visiting with friends and going to the Colorado Mountains. He will be remembered as a fun loving and care free man.
Survivors include a daughter, Deborah Wigatow of Grand Junction, CO; sons, Tim Kelley and Jeff (Jackie) Kelley all of North Platte; 6 grandchildren, Joshua, Willow, Chrystal, Kevin, Kendra and Robert; three great-grandchildren; a brother, Herb (Jackie) Kelley of North Platte; and several nieces and nephews.
Preceding him in death were his parents; 7 siblings, Helen, Lester, Gladys, Dorothy, Jean, Ruby, and Melvin.
A memorial has been established and online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com.
Graveside Memorial Services will be 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2012 at Fort McPherson National Cemetery near Maxwell.
Cremation was chosen. Those wishing to sign the register book may do so 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. today at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home which is in charge of arrangements.