Ralph Vernon Evanson was born October 22, 1931 to Carl (Leonard) and Wilma (Day) Evanson on the family farm, north of Ulen, MN. He was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Ulen. Ralph attended District 68 Country School from first grade through eighth grade. He attended 9th grade in Ulen, and then attended the North West School of Agriculture, in Crookston—graduating in 1948 at the age of 16.

As a young man, Ralph helped on the farm working with the cattle and the crops. He worked with his father for 10 years on the family farm. Ralph spent the next 35 years on his own—working the family farm. He enjoyed his hometown of Ulen and spending time with family, friends and neighbors. Ralph retired from farming in 1993 at 61 years old.

On September 4, 1999, at 67 years old, Ralph married Rhoda Anderson Marvig at their home in Hawley, MN. He became a step-father to her three sons, and a step-grandfather to her grandchildren. Ralph enjoyed their home—living on Main Street in Hawley.

Through the years, Ralph's hobbies included pheasant hunting, deer hunting and fishing. Ralph and Rhoda owned a cabin on Strawberry Lake where they spent two summers enjoying the lake with her family. Years ago, Ralph also enjoyed snowmobiling with his neighbors. Trips to Mahnomen always tested Ralph's luck on the nickel machines. He loved spending time with his family and friends.

With Hospice care, and care from his wife, Rhoda, Ralph spent his last months at their home. Ralph passed away early Saturday morning, June 25th, 2016, at the age of 84, at his home in Hawley.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Rhoda; Step-sons, Mark Marvig, Glen (Carolyn) Marvig, and David (Tina) Marvig; Step-grandchildren, Kevin, Steven, Kenneth, Tiffany, Johna, Megan, Brandon, KaDee, and Matthew; and 7 Step-great-grandchildren; sister, Elaine Jenson; 5 nephews and 2 nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Lester and James, sister-in-law, Donna Evanson, brother-in-law, Delano Jenson, and niece, Jennifer Evanson. Blessed be the memory of Ralph Vernon Evanson.