Stephen Ribovich, 80, well-known Ralston, PA resident, passed away peacefully Friday evening, June 9, 2017 at Hershey Medical Center.
Born November 16, 1936 in Canton, PA, Stephen Leslie, also known as “Ribo” to many, was a son of the late Stephen and Geraldine (Turner) Ribovich. He graduated from Canton High School with the class of 1955. Steve then served in the U.S. Marine Corps for five years and earned the rank of Sergeant. He was stationed in Japan for a time and did a Mediterranean Tour. On Nov. 30, 1957, he married the former Lois Wilson who passed away on Sept. 13, 2015. Steve worked at Lonza in Williamsport for 45 years until retiring. A very patriotic man and proud Marine, Steve was an active member of Ralston’s Deer X-ing Detachment of the Marine Corps League where he participated in many funeral honor details and parades. He also served as their adjunct paymaster for over 32 years and belonged to the Military Order of Devil Dogs. Other memberships included Canton’s American Legion Post 303 and V.F.W. Post 714, Red Run in Roaring Branch, Arnot’s Sportsman Club and the Canton Moose Lodge 429. Love for family came first in Steve’s life. His hobbies included bowling, golfing and socializing--and he always had a good time, his presence would always brighten up a room. Steve often said “life is what you make it” and “just call me Mr. Wonderful”.
Born November 16, 1936 in Canton, PA, Stephen Leslie, also known as “Ribo” to many, was a son of the late Stephen and Geraldine (Turner) Ribovich. He graduated from Canton High School with the class of 1955. Steve then served in the U.S. Marine Corps for five years and earned the rank of Sergeant. He was stationed in Japan for a time and did a Mediterranean Tour. On Nov. 30, 1957, he married the former Lois Wilson who passed away on Sept. 13, 2015. Steve worked at Lonza in Williamsport for 45 years until retiring. A very patriotic man and proud Marine, Steve was an active member of Ralston’s Deer X-ing Detachment of the Marine Corps League where he participated in many funeral honor details and parades. He also served as their adjunct paymaster for over 32 years and belonged to the Military Order of Devil Dogs. Other memberships included Canton’s American Legion Post 303 and V.F.W. Post 714, Red Run in Roaring Branch, Arnot’s Sportsman Club and the Canton Moose Lodge 429. Love for family came first in Steve’s life. His hobbies included bowling, golfing and socializing--and he always had a good time, his presence would always brighten up a room. Steve often said “life is what you make it” and “just call me Mr. Wonderful”.
Surviving are his sons, Stephen Ribovich Jr. (Debora Bell) both of Williamsport and Tod E. Ribovich (fiancée, Jessica) of Duncannon; five grandchildren, Dawn (Bobby) Grant of Eielson A.F.B. Alaska, Anthony (Kelly) Ribovich of Halifax, Matt (Krystal) Ribovich of Johnston, CO, Erika (Tim) Witmer of Halifax and Brandon (Alayna) Ribovich of Hagerstown, MD; nine great grandchildren, Bobby, Caitlin and Aiden Grant, Sarah and Hannah Ribovich, TJ, Gabriella and Hunter Witmer and Victoria Ribovich; six siblings, Wilma Derr of New Providence, RI, Ann Balthares of Royersford, Jim Ribovich of Winter Haven, FL, John Ribovich of Rockford, IL, Leslie Kennedy of Williamsport and Ginger Ribovich of Canton; a sister-in-law, Carol Evans of Ogdensburg, many nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
In addition to his beloved Lois, wife of 57 years, he was predeceased by his son, Robert F. Ribovich in 1960.
Calling hours are 10 – 12 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Dr. Canton. Pastor Ann Overmiller will officiate the funeral service at noon followed by burial in Grover Cemetery with military honors accorded.
The family suggests your consideration of a memorial to the Marine Corps League’s Toys For Kids, P.O. Box 154 Ralston, PA 17763.
Share memories and condolences at www.pepperfuneralhomes.com
In addition to his beloved Lois, wife of 57 years, he was predeceased by his son, Robert F. Ribovich in 1960.
Calling hours are 10 – 12 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Pepper Funeral Home, 578 Springbrook Dr. Canton. Pastor Ann Overmiller will officiate the funeral service at noon followed by burial in Grover Cemetery with military honors accorded.
The family suggests your consideration of a memorial to the Marine Corps League’s Toys For Kids, P.O. Box 154 Ralston, PA 17763.
Share memories and condolences at www.pepperfuneralhomes.com
