Ralph J. Wilson

Ralph J. Wilson, 99, of Gorham, passed away on Thursday, December 1, 2022 at Mercy Hospital in Portland. He was born May 28, 1923, son of Henry Wilson and Edna Walton Wilson. Ralph grew up on a farm in Presque Isle, and graduated from Presque Isle High School. After his graduation, Ralph entered the service and served in the Army in the South Pacific during World War II as a supply and reclamation Tech Sargeant. When he returned home from the service, he married Deloris Hanna in Presque Isle, where they lived for the next three years and where their first son was born. In 1951, they moved to Portland where three more sons were born. Ralph and Deloris were married for 66 years. Ralph was a devoted husband and father. He was an exceptionally hard worker. He frequently worked two jobs to provide for his family. Through the years, he worked at Farrar Brown Auto Parts & Sales, and later Goodyear Tire. While working at Farrar Brown, he also performed janitorial duties on the weekend to provide for his family. In addition, he used his vacation time and to work at the Post Office during the holiday season to insure that his family always enjoyed a great Christmas. Ralph and his entire family were very active at the Immanual Baptist Church in Portland. For many years, he served as a Deacon and his wife, Deloris, taught Sunday school. During his free time, Ralph loved to spend as many hours as possible outdoors. He especially enjoyed going on his annual springtime fishing trips with his sons and their friends. These trips over 20 years included northern Aroostock lakes and streams, as well as West Grand Lake in Washington County. Ralph was predeceased by his wife Deloris, his son, David Wilson, and three of his siblings: Thelma, Charles, and Dana. He is survived by his sons Vaughn Wilson of Raymond, James Wilson (Brenda) of Oxford, Donald Wilson of Old Orchard Beach, sister Marion of New Mexico, 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff at Mercy Hospital for their exceptional care during Ralph’s final week. A graveside service will be held at Brooklawn Memorial Park in Portland on Friday, December 9, 2022 at 11AM.

Ralph J. Wilson

May 28, 1923 - December 1, 2022

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