Ralph R. Brown, 97, of Nanticoke, passed away peacefully at home Tuesday evening, October 24, 2023, where he lived with his son, David.

Born April 27, 1926 in Hollenback Township, he was a son of the late Marvin and Eva Ungemach Brown. Ralph worked for Duplan Mill, Berwick before entering the U.S. Navy on April 17, 1944. He served during World War II as a Fireman First Class and was aboard the USS Fesseden. He was honorably discharged in May, 1946, and was awarded the European Theater Ribbon with one battle star; Pacific Theater Ribbon; American Theater Ribbon; and the World War II Victory Medal. Early in life Ralph received his pilot's license and enjoyed flying. He always remembered it fondly, and loved to tell the stories.

Following his military service, he worked in the local coal mines until becoming employed by Wise Potato Chip Company, Berwick, until retirement.

He enjoyed his retirement living in the country, camping, and tinkering in his garage. He also liked watching westerns, and all things with a western theme. He was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Alden.

Ralph was preceded in death by his wife of sixty-eight years, Doris Honabach Brown, on April 9, 2019; a daughter-in-law, Patricia Brown; brothers, Elsworth and Earl Brown; and sisters, Shirley Desmarais, Nancy Houseknecht, and Janet Brown.

Surviving are sons, Richard Brown, Wapwallopen, and David Brown and wife, Dolores, with whom he resided; grandsons, Keith Brown and fiancée, Krysti Gober; and Allan Brown and wife, Leeann; five great grandchildren, Ariauna Burney, Madison, Chase, Rileigh, and Makenzie Brown; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held 3:30 p.m. Saturday from Dinelli Family Funeral Home, 170 E. Broad Street, Nanticoke with the Rev. Kenneth Brown, his nephew and pastor of Holy Trinity Church, Troy, officiating. Military honors will be provided by the U.S. Navy.

Friends and family may call for viewing and visitation on Saturday from 2 p.m. until the time of the service.

All are invited to a luncheon at the Alden Room at the R Bar, Alden, following the service at the funeral home.

Private interment will be in the Slocum Cemetery.