Ralph Arthur Russell passed away at the Stewartville Care Center surrounded by family on May 16, 2018 after a long courageous battle with cancer. He was a devoted brother, husband, father, and grandfather. Ralph enjoyed large family gatherings.

Ralph was born on December 3, 1942 in Orange, California to Eugene and Mildred (Korn) Russell. He grew up in Fargo, ND and graduated from North Dakota State University earning a mechanical engineering degree. He retired from IBM after 30 years and then worked for Seagate Technology in Shakopee for 17 years. His work experience took him around the world.

Ralph was married on September 14, 1968 to Johanna "Jo" Smith at Sacred Heart Church in Adams, MN. He enjoyed many activities such as gardening, photography, traveling, camping, 4-H, Boy Scouts, horses on their hobby farm and watching auto races was a big favorite.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jo; and his children, David (Jill) of Brooklyn Center, MN, Brian of Bloomington, MN, James (Becky) of Bloomington, MN, Amy of Rochester, MN, Mary (Eric) Crane of Colorado Springs, CO, and Mark of Parker, CO; five grandchildren, Cody, Will, Andrew, Marilyn, and Isabel Russell; his sister, Kaylyn (Norm) Bauer of Urbandale, IA; and brother, Robert of Woodward, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, May 21 in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home with Rev. Msgr. Gerald Mahon officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior.