Ralph W. Beckstedt

Ralph W. Beckstedt, age 99, of Celina, Ohio, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024, at the Miller House in Celina, surrounded by his loving family. Born on July 29, 1925, in Mercer County, Ralph was the son of the late Charles and Regina (Fleck) Beckstedt.

On October 29, 1949, Ralph married the love of his life, Marjorie L. (Klopfleisch) Beckstedt. Together, they shared nearly 75 wonderful years of marriage before Marjorie’s passing on April 13, 2024.

Ralph leaves behind a legacy of love and family, including his children: Becky (Denny) Rolfes of Celina, and Gary (Kim) Beckstedt of Celina; his daughter-in-law, Luanne Beckstedt of Grove City; six cherished grandchildren, Ryan (Jodi) Beckstedt, Eric (Tara) Beckstedt, Lindsey (Brent) Wise, Lana Beckstedt, Toby (Jess) Rolfes and Casey (Lisa) Rolfes; and thirteen great grandchildren, Bailey, Colton, McKinley, Coy, Cora, Liliana, Kellen, Cade, Leo, Cece, Emma, Ellie and Chase who brought him immense joy. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, son Dan Beckstedt, infant daughter Peggy Beckstedt, and brothers and sister-in-law, Ernie (Bert) and Henry Beckstedt.

A proud patriot, Ralph served his country honorably in the United States Navy during World War II aboard the USS Missouri, witnessing history firsthand at the signing of the Japanese surrender. After returning home, Ralph dedicated his life to his craft as a self-employed painter, a career that spanned decades and concluded on his 86th birthday. Among his many achievements was the remarkable task of painting the entire Mercer County Courthouse single-handedly—a testament to his work ethic and skill.

He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Celina and actively involved in several local organizations, including the Celina American Legion Post #210, Celina Moose, Celina VFW Post #5713, Celina Eagles Lodge #1291, the Mercer County Fair Board and was honored by them with an award for his outstanding service to the Mercer County Fairgrounds and a founding member of the Mercer County Harness Horsemen’s Association.

A true horseman at heart, Ralph found his greatest joy at the harness racing track, especially at the Mercer County Fairgrounds, where he was a daily fixture until his health no longer permitted. He took immense pride in attending the prestigious Little Brown Jug race in Delaware, Ohio, for 60 consecutive years.

Above all, Ralph loved his family. His steadfast dedication, warm smile, and unwavering support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial celebration of Ralph’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, November 25, 2024, at Cisco Funeral Home in Celina, with Rev. Becky Erb Strang officiating. A gathering of family and friends will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. prior to the service.

Interment will follow at North Grove Cemetery in Celina, where military honors will be rendered by the Celina American Legion Post #210 and the Celina VFW Post #5713.

The family requests memorial contributions be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Cisco Funeral Homes of Celina & St. Marys are honored to care for Ralph and his family. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.ciscofuneralhome.com or on the Cisco Funeral Home Facebook page.