Ralph Edward George, 84, of Austin, died Sunday, Aug. 29, 2010, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester.

Ralph was born Sept. 1, 1926, in Spring Valley, Wis., the son of Albert and Florence George. He had three sisters, Ethel, Hulda and Zelda.

Ralph fired the coal on iron ore ships in Duluth. He’s a Navy veteran. He settled in Austin, Minnesota and was a long time Hormel employee as Foreman of the Electric (Industrial) Truck Shop.

Ralph married Kathleen Gardner on Dec. 27, 1947, they later divorced. He married Bette Esse in 1983, she passed away in 2007.

Ralph had an inventive mind, an adventuresome spirit and a generous heart. He could fix anything! He made friends wherever he went. Ralph loved life and even at age 83, enjoyed riding his motorcycle.

Survivors include three sons, Gary (Maggie) George, Maiden Rock, Wis., Richard (Sue) George, Holmen, Wis., Craig (Jennifer) George, Norman, Okla.; two step sons, Robert (Patti) Esse, Little Falls, David (Paulette) Esse, Austin; 18 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; three sisters; and his wife, Bette.

At Ralph’s request, no services are being held.

Arrangements by Mayer Funeral Home.