Ralph Arnold Hestekin Jr. passed from this Earth in the early morning of May 4, 2011, after a five-year battle with cancer.

Ralph was born on May 24, 1935, to parents, Ralph and Loren (nee Watson) Hestekin Sr. in Eau Claire.

Ralph worked for more than 30 years in the plastics industry, inventing several extruding machines throughout his career. He was the proud owner of a U.S. Patent, presented to him in 1991.

Ralph will be especially remembered for his excellent wood working ability, by each family member and friends, who display many of his craftwork in their homes.

Ralph is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Kay (Anderson) of Greendale; his seven children, Lori (Chuck) Horvath of West Allis, Teri (Kraig) Thistle of Hickory, N.C., Kristi (William) Sanders of Greendale, Tami (Dale) Mollen of Appleton, Juli (Dave) Sundquist of Milwaukee, Randyl (Renee) Hestekin of Kewaskum and Mari (Anthony) Farthing of Oklahoma City, Okla. He is further survived by 16 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and many other relatives and friends. Ralph is preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Loren; his siblings, Lillian, Marian and Arthur; and other family members. In accordance with Ralph’s wishes, a private memorial service will be held on Sunday June 5, in West Allis.

The family would like to thank the warm and loving staff of the Ruth Hospice, for all of their tender care in Ralph’s final days. Memorials to the family or the Ruth Hospice are appreciated.

Love is eternal, and love is immortal, and death is only a horizon; and the horizon is nothing, save the limit of our sight. – Rossiter Worthington Raymond