Ralph G. Percival, 93, went home peacefully to live with Jesus on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.
Born on April 8, 1930 in St. Louis, MO, he was preceded in death by his beloved parents Ralph
W. and Gladys Percival, treasured in-laws Elmer and Mary Fewell, and special uncle and aunt
Carl and Juanita Jaquith. He is survived by his adored wife of 68 years, Lois, and their
daughters Kimberly (Marc) Gerik and Krista Bahre, grandchildren Christopher and Theresa
Bahre, great-grandson Roman Carr, nieces Ann Chalfant and Carol Ponder, and sister in spirit
Sue Rix.
Ralph will be eternally remembered for his joyful spirit and emotional generosity toward others.
His vocation centered on the transportation industry for many years, and Ralph's early years
studying business at Central Methodist University (Fayette, MO) and Washington University in
St. Louis, as well as his service in the US Coast Guard were formative. But his true passion
was serving others, and he did so through chaplaincy work, home and hospital visitation for so
many people, multiple church ministry posts, card ministry, and volunteer work in many
organizations. He cherished studying scripture and especially loved serving as a Stephen's
Minister at St. Paul's Evangelical Free Church in Creve Coeur, MO. Even in his 90s, he loved
traveling and was always up for new experiences. Ralph also enjoyed playing games, people-
watching, and being outdoors until the very end of his life (and special thanks to Geoff, Peter,
Jerry and Friendship Village staff for keeping him engaged).
When God created Ralph, he broke the mold. His character could have been created for a
memorable novel. He was forever playful and fun-loving and kept his wife Lois in stitches their
entire marriage (well, almost…)! He got a charge out of making Lois happy through his laughter
and generosity. Ralph's true passion for yard work well into his 80s had Lois keeping a careful
eye on her flowers when the push mower and clippers came out! Ralph genuinely admired
Lois, especially for her music, self-discipline, and proficiency in teaching and leading others. He
cheered her on (and his daughters) throughout their marriage and was the wind beneath her
wings. After almost seven decades of matrimony, his deep affection for Lois never waned. His
love for her remained as fresh as the day they married, and their devotion to each other was
truly inspirational.
Ralph will be warmly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He would want
all of us to pause during our day to notice flowers and clouds, smile, and show a moment of
kindness to someone else. During his last week on Earth, he explicitly expressed his desire to
support Samaritan's Purse/Operation Christmas Child. In lieu of flowers, please consider
packing a shoebox and supporting this cause.
Interment will be private, and a memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at
3:00 PM at the Chapel at Friendship Village Chesterfield, 15201 Olive Blvd., Chesterfield, MO
63017.