Ralph J. Trautner's Obituary
Ralph J. Trautner, age 89, met his Heavenly Father on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 26, 1933, to Joseph and Helen (Anderle) Trautner in Menominee, MI. He graduated from Menominee High School and continued his education at Northern Michigan University where he earned both his bachelor and master degrees. On April 8, 1961, he married the love of his life, Judith Kowalski. In 1965 the couple made their way to Muskegon, which became home for them. Ralph volunteered at the Boys and Girls club which gave him the desire to become a teacher. He took a position at Central Elementary in the Reeths-Puffer School district teaching sixth grade, a position he held for 32.5 years before retiring in 1993. He was a faithful servant of the Lord and attended Our Lady of Grace and Prince of Peace catholic church as often as he could. He was an avid golfer, a stamp and coin collector and painter. He enjoyed trips to the casino to play his penny slots and enjoyed his Monday night card games with the guys. Above all, he loved spending time with his family. Ralph could easily fill a room with laughter, he exemplified what being kind truly means. Ralph was a humble man. He found the best in everything. He positively impacted countless lives and his legacy will live through those who have known him. Ralph’s radiant smile and tender-loving spirit will be missed by all. He will be fondly remembered by his beautiful paintings, handmade sequence boards, and his infamous Angel smiley face. He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Judy Trautner; four children, Anthony (Linda) Trautner, Dana (Randy) Stolzman, Mark (Lori) Trautner and Steve (Mary) Trautner; 11 grandchildren, Jacqueline (Sean), Kyler, Brandon, Shelbie, Cameron (Eryn), Casey (Ashley), Madi, Riley, Tessa, Emery (David) and Ali; 8 great-grandchildren, Jeya, Jaxon, Jace, Jamisen, Sophia, Blake, Olivia and Vivian; 2 brothers, Donald (Mary Lee) Trautner and Raymond Trautner. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Memorial Gathering will be held from 4-7:00 pm on Saturday, July 22, 2023, at The Lee Chapel Family Center, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ralph’s honor can be directed to the Boys and Girls Club of Muskegon Lakeshore and Reeths-Puffer Rocket Scholars Foundation. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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