Clarence “Pee Wee” Ralston, of Gaylord, passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2017 at the age of 93.
Pee Wee was born in Gaylord on February 26, 1924 to Clifton and Jennie (Brooks) Ralston. At the age of 18, he married Joyce Clapp. The couple shared 61 years of marriage before Joyce passed away in 2003.
A proud veteran, Pee Wee was an active member of his local VFW. He was also a member of the Pigeon River Baptist Church in Vanderbilt. In his spare time, Pee Wee was an outdoorsman who loved to fish and hunt; above all, he enjoyed making new friends.
Clarence is survived by his children, Jim (Margaret) Ralston of Oklahoma, Mary (Gary) Norton of Gaylord, and Terry Ralston of Gaylord; 8 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce, and his daughter Sharon Rhiness.
Funeral services will be held Monday, March 27, 2017 at 12 noon at the Nelson Funeral Home. The family will receive friends on Monday (March 27) from 10AM until the time of services.
Memorial contributions may be made to the VFW Post 1518 Sign & Building Fund.
5 comments on “Ralston, Clarence “Pee Wee””
Uncle Clarence was a kind and quiet man who spent his life serving the VFW. Steve and I used to see him frequently at various stores around town collecting monies and giving out flowers. When ever I would meet someone from Gaylord I would ask them if they knew him, by Pee Wee, and of course they did. He will be missed. I just wanted to say to his family, so sorry for your loss and may he rest in peace.
Our daughter-in-law, Tammie Kucharek, is Pee Wee’s granddaughter through his daughter Sharon. Our family is sad for the loss of a beloved grand- and great-grandfather. We are thinking of you all in your loss and your memories.
Tony and Janellen Kucharek
Ralston Family – My heart hurts for all of you. Your dad (and Mom) held so many memories of my childhood. Your father is the face of the U.S. Veteran for so many in Otsego County and wore that uniform proudly. I know he is now resting and these are the difficult days for you. Grief never ends and you already know, but if is ever changing. Peace and love be with you all.
What a treasure, who represented the VFW, for our county! Our hearts are heavy for the loss to everyone who met and knew him. Sending love to Mary and his other children. It was a joy to wrap his Quilt of Valor around him!
What a treasure, who represented the VFW, for our county! Our hearts are heavy for the loss to everyone who met and knew him. Sending love to Mary and his other children. It was a joy to wrap his Quilt of Valor around him!