Ralph Helge Johanson, 94, of Mears, passed away Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at the Oceana County Medical Care Facility in Hart. He was born August 18, 1928, in Chicago, the son of Helge and Gertrude (Larson) Johanson.

Ralph was a graduate of Fenger Academy High School, class of 1947, and was a proud pitcher for their baseball team. Following his graduation, he signed on with the Cleveland Indians minor league baseball team. Ralph had many other hobbies, including fishing, boating, and golfing; he was a member of the Oceana Golf Club for many years. Continuing his commitment to his community, he was involved with the Hart Rotary Club and Hart Lions Club. Ralph also owned and operated Cal-Van, specializing in sales and service of many products, such as snowmobiles and other small engine machinery.

On February 10 1996, Ralph married Peggy Schipper, who survives him along with his children, Cathy (Keith) Mulder and Debbie (Bob) Itell; grandchildren, Nicole (John) Dulmes, Joel (Sarah) Mulder, Stephen Mulder, and Shannen Itell; great-grandchildren, Isabella Mulder, Mariah Mulder, Noah Mulder, Timothy Dulmes, and Benjamin Dulmes; his beloved dog, Panda; and special friends, Laura and Dave Curtin.

On February 11, 1951, Ralph was wed to Joan Tadlock, and they spent many years together before her passing in 1993. Ralph was also preceded in death by his parents, Helge and Gertrude.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 PM, Saturday, December 10, 2022, at St. Gregory Catholic Church, 316 South Peach Avenue, Hart, MI 49420, with Fr. Phillip Sliwinski presiding. Visitation will be held Saturday, from 12:00 PM until time of services at the church. Interment will be in Mears Cemetery at a later date.

The family would like to express their sincere thanks to the staff at Oceana County Medical Care Facility for their exceptional care and comfort shown to Ralph during his time with them. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Oceana County Medical Care Facility, 701 East Main Street, Hart, MI 49420.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, King-Hart Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com