Ralph T. Marchant, 77, passed away on Dec. 7, 1999. Ralph was born on Feb. 16, 1922 in Shelley, Idaho to Harvey Allison and Susan Elizabeth Thomas Marchant. He grew up in Peoa, Utah and the Midvale area of the Salt Lake Valley.

He graduated from Jordan High School. He then served three years in the 91st Infantry Division as a combat officer. Part of that time was spent in Italy. Ralph served a mission to Texas/Louisiana for the LDS Church. Upon returning home, he attended the University of Utah where he met Edith Hatch, his dedicated companion and wife for 49 years. Ralph graduated with a B.S. in Education, followed by a M.Ed. Degree and 34 years of teaching in the public school system. He taught History, Geography, Photography and was the librarian and audio-visual coordinator.

Ralph enjoyed serving in both ward and stake positions of the LDS Church. He particularly enjoyed teaching and serving as the Ward Executive Secretary and Stake Clerk.

He was an accomplished craftsman who enjoyed carpentry and woodwork of many kinds. He crafted household furniture, play houses, doll houses with furniture, and beautiful red cedar rocking horses for his grandchildren. He was a partner, project leader and constultant for numerous craft projects with his wife, children, and friends. He also enjoyed fishing and photography, making sure every important event was captured.

His children grew up knowing their Dad could do and fix anything. On the rare occasion that he did not know how to solve a problem, Ralph loved to research and learn. He constantly used his knowledge and smile in service to friends and neighbors.

Throughtout his life Ralph was active in volunteer work. He served on the Board of Directors for Granite Credit Union for many years, taught teens to love books at Odyssey House and volunteered at Information and Referral services, just to name a few. He also served as President and on the committee of the Marchant family reunion organization for many years.

Ralph was a sweet, caring husband. He was a wonderful father. He will be tremendously missed. "We love you Dad."

Survived by wife; children, Sheralene Marchant, Pamela (Daniel) Gomez; Brent Ralph (Irene); James Harvey (Marilyn); Michelle Marchant; grandchildren, Amanda Elisa and Cristian Gomex, Alexander, Elizabeth, and Abigale Marchant; siblings, Lola Visser, David, Kenneth, and Alice Lopez. Preceded in death by siblings Larue Crook, Merle T, Donald L., and Connie Bigler.

Funeral services Friday, Dec. 10, 1999 at 12 noon at the South Cottonwood Stake Center, 1250 East 4800 South. Friends may call Thur. 6-8 p.m. at the Jenkins-Soffe Mortuary, 4760 S. State St. and Friday 11-11:45 am at the church. Interment Murray City Cemetery.
(Published in the Deseret News Thursday, Dec. 9, 1999)

Ralph T Marchant