Ralph Keepers

March 14, 1931 - September 26, 2016

Ralph John Keepers, 85, of Dillon, passed away on 26 September 2016 at his home in Dillon, Montana surrounded by family. Ralph was born 14 March 1931 in Billings, Montana to Glenn Ralph Keepers and Bertha Mabel Keepers (née Hauf). He is survived by daughter, Rachel Wood (née Keepers), grandsons Joseph, Manny, and Ralph Curdy, granddaughter Virginia Bakke (née Naef), and great-grandchildren JT, Jazmine, Lexus, Sara, Erica, Emily, Jacob, David, Hannah, Jared, Corin, Matilda, and Amélie and numerous nieces and nephews. His former wife, Patsy Green, preceded him in death, as did a daughter Virginia in infancy. Brothers, Dale and Darwin, and sisters Donna, Bertalee, Betty, and Myrna also preceded him in death. In his life Ralph developed a lifelong love of horses, fishing, rodeos, hunting, and a quiet life among the Big Sky of Montana. His last moments were spent staring out across the valley of Beaverhead County, to the mountains that framed the horizon around Dillon. Beginning in 1948, he served as a medic for the Naval Marines during the Korean War. An active member of the local Masonic Lodge for over 50 years, the American Legion, Montana Department of Transportation in highway construction, and acting Sheriff in Dillon, Ralph was known and loved by many, but especially by his daughter Rachel who faithfully tended to his care in his home for several months before his passing. In keeping with Ralph’s wishes, no funeral services will be held.