Ralph J. Stafford

Ralph J. Stafford, 98, of Great Falls passed away on Thursday, December3, 2015 after a fall. Funeral liturgy will be held on Thursday, December 10, 2015 at 12:00 p.m. at St Ann’s Cathedral. Cremation has taken place under the direction of O’Connor Funeral Home. Ralph was born on November 1, 1917 to Walter and Josephine (Slanger) Stafford. Ralph was a longtime resident and WWII veteran. He grew up during the Great Depression and graduated from Great Falls High School in 1935. He was offered a job as an auto parts salesman. He stayed in that occupation until retiring 43 years later. Ralph then enjoyed farming on the family farm. Ralph was also a member of the Elks until he was 90 years old. Ralph is survived by his brother, George Stafford of Great Falls; niece Leslie Stafford of Portland, OR; sister-in- law Barbara Rumford of Cascade; and numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Frank Stafford in WWII. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to a charity of donor’s choice.