Ralph Edward Melvin Workman, retired farmer

Ralph Edward Melvin Workman, 94, of Millsboro passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Friday, March 16, 2018, at Delaware Hospice Center in Milford.

Ralph was born in Shortly, the son of Elwood Workman and Sarah Baker Workman. He had five brothers and sisters, Gladys McCabe (Grise), Thelma Richardson (Alfred), Preston Workman (Mary), Hilda Achilles (Bud), and Kathleen Bryan (Clayton). He was the beloved husband of Ruth Workman. Ralph and Ruth were married for over 62 years, and lived in Sussex County their entire lives.

Ralph was a family man and also devoted his life to the family farming business, working alongside his father Elwood, brother Preston, and nephews Mark, Pep and Chuck Workman. After retirement, Ralph enjoyed riding through the countryside of Sussex County keeping tabs on the farms, and in his 90s, still visited the office whenever he could. Ralph was an animal lover, and especially appreciated his horses and dogs. Ralph was a talented artist with his favorite subjects being the animals that he loved.

Ralph was predeceased by his parents, Elwood and Sarah; his sisters Gladys, Thelma and Hilda; and his brother Preston. Ralph is survived by his wife Ruth; his sister Kathleen; his daughters Patti Paleen (Fred) of Hockessin, Rita Lookup (Bryan) of Rehoboth and Kathleen Marshall (John) of Wilmington; his six grandchildren Joe and Sam Paleen, Sarah and Brandt Lookup, and Jack and Paige Marshall; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at noon, Saturday, March 24 at Watson Funeral Home Chapel in Millsboro, where friends and family may call after 10 a.m. Interment will be at the Millsboro Cemetery immediately following the ceremony.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Ralph's memory to Delaware Hospice Center, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963, or your favorite charity.

Electronic condolences may be made at www.watsonfh.com.