Ralph Edward Hanks

RALPH EDWARD HANKS, age 64 of Waseca, passed away peacefully at his home on November 12, 2023, after a long courageous battle with cancer. 

Ralph was born in Waseca on October 31, 1959, and grew up on the family farm in rural Waseca.  He attended Waseca High School and graduated with the class of 1977.  He stayed busy running his own excavation and septic business for over 30 years.  Ralph was passionate about fishing and hunting and enjoyed these activities with his children, grandchildren, family, and friends.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Cecilia Hanks and his adopted daughter, Melody Hanks; his daughter, Crystal (Brett) Hanks Childs and grandchildren Marie and Adler of Rhinelander, WI; grandson Sebastian Richardson-Hanks of Covington, LA; step-son J.C. Galvan of Waseca; siblings Teresa (Cisco) Shere of Malvern, IA, Audrey (Jim) Klukas of Owatonna, Ray (Deb) Hanks of Waseca, Carol (Paul Osdoba) Hanks of Waseca, and Connie (Drew) Grandia of Owatonna; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his son Joshua Hanks; and his parents, Lawrence and Ramona Hanks.

Visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, November 17, 2023, at the State Street Chapel of Dennis-Steffel-Omtvedt Funeral and Cremation Service in Waseca.  An informal gathering for family and friends will follow at Ralph’s shop that evening.