Ralph Lebal

Ralph Vincent Lebal, 80, of Kennan, died Friday, Jan. 22, 2010, at Ladysmith Nursing Home following a brief illness.

He was born Dec. 2, 1929, in Kennan, to John and Clara (Mittenmeyer) Lebal. He was one of seven children. On March 29, 1954, he married Annette Yahr.

Together, they ran their dairy farm, which Ralph had taken over from his father John in 1950. Ralph was especially proud that his dairy farm is still a working dairy and is still in his family. In 1999, Lebal Farm celebrated 100 years in the Lebal family, officially a “Century Farm.”

Ralph also had several off-farm jobs over the years, including a milk hauling route, working for the railroad, logging and working at the cranberry marsh in Phillips. Ralph and Annette had nine children together. Ralph enjoyed farming, outdoors, reading, bird watching, long rides in the country and John Deere collectibles.

Ralph is survived by his wife Annette; his children Dale Dredske of Kennan, Kevin (Bonnie) of Catawba, Kirby (Beverly) of Hawkins, Denise Lebal of Hawkins, Kurt of Catawba and Jody (Debbie) of Kennan; his 10 grandchildren; his brother John and his sister Vera.

He was preceded in death by his parents John and Clara; his sons Kim, Chris and Cory (infant); his brothers Leo and Richard; and his sisters Marie and Alice.

A memorial visitation and lunch will be held from 1-4 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Hawkins Community Center.