Ralph Edward McDonald, age 66, passed away on November 17, 2024, at Royal Oak Beaumont Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 2, 1958, Ralph was known for his tough yet resilient nature, marked with a sense of humor and a deep commitment to his family. To know him was to love him.
Ralph was an avid enthusiast of fishing, NASCAR, hunting, his treasured Camaro, and tinkering in his garage. His love for music often filled his home creating an ambiance that many will sorely miss. He also loved to vacation with his family - Paradise Lodge or Tennessee were among his favorite spots to visit.
He is survived by his loving wife Carol, who has been his cornerstone throughout their life together. Their daughters Suzanne (Steve), Nicole (Chris), and Jessica (Alex) as well as their grandchildren Emma, Cayden, Adilyn, Colson, Nathan, and Kenzley—also survived by his brothers Joe and Garry, and sister Linda as well as many other extended family members and lifelong friends.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Darrell and Alda McDonald, his sister Wilma, and his son Dave.
A visitation for Ralph will be held Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Edward Swanson & Son Funeral Home, 30351 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071.
The family will greet guests on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 8:30 AM until the time of the funeral service at 9:30 AM, 30351 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071.
Immediately following the funeral, a graveside service will occur at Oakview Cemetery, 1032 N Main St, Royal Oak, MI 48067.
At the family's request in Lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to the foundation for Myelodysplastic Syndrome or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
