Ralph Robinette
Bethalto | Save
Ralph “Robbie” Preston Robinette, 78, went to be with his Lord and Savior at 1:10 p m Friday, September 17, 2010 at his home under the care of BJC Hospice.
He was born on November 11, 1931 in Harold, KY the son of Charles A. & Elizabeth (Blackburn) Robinette.
He married Joyce Ann Shrum on June 16, 1956 at Friendship Baptist Church in East Alton. She survives.
Robbie served his country in the U.S. Air Force from May 1951 to March 1954 as a Sgt. Airman 1st Class. He worked in Security at Shell Oil Company for 37 ½ years retiring in 1993. He was of the General Baptist faith and has been involved in many of the churches in the area. He was a member of the Shriners. He and his wife, Joyce sang for many years at nursing homes, weddings, retirements, senior citizens, funerals and special events. He loved to spend time in his garden; he loved the outdoors and had a real green thumb. Robbie touched many lives with his contagious smile, his big bear hug that could melt your heart, a great sense of humor, his beautiful deep laugh, an encouraging word and a love for others that was evident in all he did. Most of all he served the Lord joyfully in every area of his life. He was a loving and kind husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend who will be missed by those who knew and loved him.
In addition to his wife and partner of 54 years, he is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Kent & Rene’ Robinette of Edwardsville; a daughter and son-in-law, Kristi & Rick Ragsdale of St. Charles, MO; two grandchildren, Zach & Erin Robinette; two brothers and a sister-in-law, Paul Robinette of Albion, MI and Edsell & Joyce Robinette of Litchfield, MI and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Charles and Donald and a sister, Betty Lou Damron
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Wednesday September 22, 2010 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto. Funeral services will be at 10:00 am Thursday September 23, 2010 at the funeral home with Dr. Jim Murray officiating.
Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto.
Memorials may be given to BJC Hospice through Alton Memorial Hospital, Alton, IL 62002.
Online condolences and guestbook can be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
