Saegertown, PA - Dwight "Rip" G. Ralph, 81, of Saegertown, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at home, surrounded by his family.

Dwight was born in Erie on February 3, 1945, a son of the late Frederick C. and Elizabeth (Boyd) Ralph, Jr.

On March 28, 1970, Dwight married NancyJo Niles; she survives.

He was an active member of Saegertown United Methodist Church since 1970 where he volunteered in different capacities. Dwight shared his talents by singing in the church choir and with the Justified by Faith Choir.

Dwight was employed by Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources from 1970 until 2003, retiring as Supervisor of Water Control and Oil & Gas Divisions. He was a 1963 graduate of Fairview High School and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Biology in 1968 from Grove City College. While he was earning his degree, he was a member of Grove City College Touring Choir. Dwight served as a Boy Scout Leader with Saegertown Troop 254 from 1990 - 1996. During his time as a Scout Leader, he was honored with the Order of the Arrow Award, initiated a summer camping trip to Acadia National Park, and educated many scouts about science and nature. No matter the season, Dwight loved the outdoors. He demonstrated that gardening was a year long hobby by growing his plants indoors during the winter only to be transplanted to his gardens in the spring. He found enjoyment on the water, whether boating, fishing or water skiing. He would share his enthusiasm not only with his children, but with many of the young men who were in the Boy Scouts. Dwight never met an animal he could not befriend and was the true example of an "animal whisperer." Dwight will be remembered for his huge heart and helping hands, never one for being out in front, but was most comfortable working behind the scene, helping those in need.

In addition to his wife, NancyJo, of 55 years, Dwight is survived by his children, Victoria Fortna (Loren C.) of Scotch Plains, N.J., Erik C. Ralph (Ritu Pathak) of East Lyme, CT; three grandchildren, Cristabella Fortna, Justyanna Fortna and Natasha Ralph; a brother, Frederick C. Ralph, III of Cranesville; and many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to call from 2-4 and 6:30-8 PM on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 330 BROAD STREET, SAEGERTOWN, and from 11 AM-12:30 PM on Wednesday, March 11, at Saegertown United Methodist Church, 620 Euclid Ave., Saegertown, where Funeral Services will follow at 12:30 PM, with Pastor Jeff St. Clair and Pastor Jeff Little officiating.

Dwight will be laid to rest in Saegertown Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in Rip's memory to Saegertown United Methodist Church Music Fund, PO Box 689, Saegertown, PA 16433; or Hospice of Crawford County, 766 Liberty Street, Meadville, PA 16335.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com.