Ralph Chrismer Jr. on Sunday February 2, 2025.
Loving husband of Elaine Chrismer (nee Kliethermes); beloved father of Kari (Brian) Skrobonja and the late Ralph “Trey” Chrismer III; cherished grandfather of Tyler (Taylor) Skrobonja, Malori (Rex) Rieger and Hannah Skrobonja; great-grandfather of Waylon, Audrey, McCoy, Ada, Sally Ann and Jude. Dear brother of Joan D’Ambrose, Judy Black, Jan (Stan) Davenport, Charles (Carol) Chrismer, Jill (Bob) Markham, Jim Chrismer and Laura Jean Holt; our dear brother-in-law, uncle, great-uncle, cousin and friend to many.
Ralph’s legacy of life was his participation in it, and his impact on his community, his professions, and his family and friends was widespread. As a police officer with the St. Louis County Police Department, then detective, Ralph spent nearly 20 years in his community, establishing relationships and connections that helped neighborhoods and families come together. He also served in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army Reserve, completing an over 30 year career at the rank of Command Sergeant Major (CSM). Qualities of integrity and respect were chief among Ralph’s high standards and his leadership encouraged others to rise to those expectations for themselves.
Embarking on a third career, Ralph and his wife, Elaine, operated R&E Enterprises, a meeting planning firm that gave them opportunities to travel the country, and of this they took full advantage. Exploring the country by car and being immersed in the experience was a great joy they shared together. Ralph’s favorite clients were the farmers on the United Soybean Board and he could spend hours sharing stories, anecdotes, and laughter. The business also gave back to the community by organizing fundraisers for many local organizations.
Alongside his professionalism was a heart of great spirit, kindness, humor, and quick wit. Ralph saw everyone as a friend, and with his closest friends he enjoyed many adventures and hobbies – oh so many hobbies! Fishing, baseball, hunting, photography, studying and painting birds, and even scuba diving – Ralph’s sense of curiosity and adventure was endless and infectious. Ralph’s love for Elaine and both of their large families was evident and together that love encircled and touched many, many friends.
Ralph’s legacy of life was his participation in it. We’re thankful for the joy he encouraged us to experience along with him.
Services: Funeral at Kutis South County Chapel (5255 Lemay Ferry Road) on Friday, February 7, 10:00 AM. Interment Shepherd Hills Cemetery. Visitation Thursday, February 6, 4:00-8:00 PM. In lieu of flowers donation to www.dav.org or www.alz.org appreciated. Funeral Service Live Stream
I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Ralph. He was not only a beloved cousin but also a kind and cherished soul who touched the lives of everyone around him. Ralph’s warmth, humor, and generosity will forever remain in our hearts, and his memory will continue to bring comfort during this difficult time. Though words cannot fully express the sorrow I feel, I hope you find solace in the love and support of family and friends. Ralph’s legacy lives on in the countless memories we shared and the lives he touched. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
So sorry for your loss Elaine. Prayers and condolences go out to you. Your cousin
Vickie
So sorry for your loss Elaine! My prayers go out to you and your family!
Cheryl Sloat
Elaine, I’m so sorry for your loss. Thinking back to my Monsanto days, both you and Ralph were what made traveling all over the country to various events, a highlight of my role. He was always quick with a joke or smile even under the most trying of circumstances. He will be missed.
Our sympathy and prayers for Elaine and all Ralph’s family. Where do you start? My husband, Jim was USB Farmer Chairman and we got to spend much cherished time with Ralph and got to know Elaine also. Such fun, laughter, and adventures were had. He was an outstanding, generous, kind gentleman. Sending hugs 💕💕🙏🙏💕💕🙏🙏
We are so sorry for your loss Elaine. You and your family are in our prayers for Gods comfort and peace.
Elaine we are so sorry for your loss. We are praying for you and your family.
Thomas and Nicole Sugg
Elaine: So sorry for the loss of your husband, Ralph. May he rest in peace.
Denny and Nancy Crocker
Elaine, I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for you and your family during this difficult time.
Tim Stenzel
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your great loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers🙏.. Ralph was my instructor in the Army for Advanced NCO School. Great man. Serving his country and his community always giving of himself! Rest in Peace Brother 🙏🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Ralph has been a friend of mine for many years. I met Ralph and Elaine through different fundraising events I was the chairman of over the years. His generosity was second to nobody. I saw Ralph bid and win many items and turn around and donate them to other charities. He was a leader and a straight shooter. I will miss him but never forget Ralph Chrismer. I send all my love and condolences to Elaine and the rest of Ralph’s family.
Elaine
I’m so sorry to hear of Ralphs passing and for your loss. Thinking of you! 💔
Elaine, Sending healing prayers and comforting hugs. I am so sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in the days to come..
Mary Beth
So sorry for your loss, Elaine. Sending love and condolences to you and your family during this difficult time.
Ralph was a great brother-in-law. He showed a great love for our sister, Elaine. We enjoyed his quick wit, humor, and stories. He had a vast knowledge about history, world events, and life. It was always interesting to have a conversation with Ralph. We enjoyed playing dominoes, washers, and other games at family gatherings. And of course, rides in the Gator exploring the country side! Ralph will be missed. We have been blessed to have him in our family.
Elaine, we are so sorry for your loss. Prayers to you and your family for comfort and peace in this difficult time.
Elaine,
Sending our love, thoughts, and prayers to you and your family. Ralph helped me out so many times at the Classic and always with such energy, enthusiasm, and a smile!
Dear Elaine,
I am so sorry for your incredible loss. I wish I could have been there to share in the family. Ralph would have been proud of all his siblings and getting together to celebrate his life. We shared the same birthday:)! I am glad that Laura and Charles were able to share the Face Time in December and see him laugh. He, like Charles, always made everyone laugh and he always had a great smile.
The service was lovely. Modern technology brought it to our home here in Maricopa. Love Carol
I just found about Ralph’s passing and I am so sorry to hear this news. I was his barber for several years. He was the kind of client that I wish I had 100 more just like. I am going to miss all of his anecdotes from his years as a detective and his humming. He was truly a very sweet man. Elaine, it was so nice to meet you these last few months. Ralph has been talking about you for years and it was nice to put a face with the image. The way he always spoke of you, it was clear that he adored you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Elaine,
So sorry to hear of your husband’s passing. Prayers and condolences to you and your family.
Annie Servis