Ralph Stegman

Ralph K. Stegman, 72, of Neche, ND died on Saturday, July 30, 2011 at Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND due to complications from a recent surgery.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 3, 2011 at 10:30 AM at Christ Lutheran Church, Neche, ND with Vicar Lee Gable officiating. Casket bearers are Dan Stegman, Snookie Menke, Alan Horsley, Andy Horsley, Doug Stegman and Greg Stegman. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Askew Funeral Home, Cavalier, ND. Burial will take place at Neche Lutheran Cemetery, Neche.
Ralph Kenneth Stegman was born on June 22, 1939 in Neche, the son of Carl F. and Margaret Stegman. He graduated from Neche High School in 1957. On August 17, 1962, he married Jacqueline Samuel "Keena" at St. Paul's Lutheran Church. Ralph farmed in the Neche area with his father and later worked for Horsley Farms in Neche. Ralph also drove school bus for Neche Public Schools.
Ralph lived a faith-filled life and was a lifelong member of Christ Lutheran Church where he taught Sunday school, served on the church council and sang in the choir. He enjoyed singing and playing music with his family and friends. Ralph also played baseball and softball for many years and coached Neche PeeWee baseball. He enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins, reading, family vacations and teasing his grandchildren.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Jackie of Neche; his children, Trisha (Tim) Leonard of Dallas, TX and Shelly (J.J.) Henke of Neche; his grandchildren, Carly Rae Leonard, Kaitlyn Nicole, Kamden Rio and Kooper Reed Henke. His brother Earl (Dorthy) Stegman of Fargo, and sister Evelyn (David) Harris of Alexandria, MN.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his nephew John Harris.