Ralph Peel Childs' Obituary
Ralph Peel Childs, age 82, of American Fork, Utah, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2024. He was born on September 24, 1942, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Bertrand Alonzo Childs and Margaret Peel Childs. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
Ralph was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and devoted his life to service, family, and faith. He served in many callings throughout his life, including bishop, branch president, elder’s quorum president, high priest group leader, high councilor, missionary, and primary pianist. He cherished the opportunity to serve others, especially in his local ward and community, and found great joy in sharing and living the gospel.
On November 20, 1970, he married his eternal companion, Paulette Bennett, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Together, they raised three children, and their home was filled with love, laughter, and faith. Paulette was his greatest support, and they shared a strong bond of love and commitment that lasted throughout their lives.
Ralph had a deep love for his family, and his greatest joy came from being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and siblings. His legacy of faith, hard work, integrity, and kindness will live on through them.
In addition to his church and family life, Ralph was an active participant in his community. He dedicated much of his time to volunteering and supporting various local initiatives. Whether it was serving the local seniors with Meals on Wheels or serving on the Home Owners Association board he made a lasting impact through his service and his compassionate heart. He always believed in the importance of giving back and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him.
Ralph also had many hobbies and interests that brought him joy throughout his life. He was passionate about skiing, hiking, biking, and swimming, and he enjoyed sharing these interests with his family and friends. He took pride in his role as president of the Seniors Ski Club at Sundance for many years and enjoyed his time every winter with the many friends he made on the slopes.
He is survived by his wife, Paulette; son, Greg Childs (Barbara); daughters, Tonya Neff (Brandon), and Lindy Humphrey (Michael); and nine grandchildren, Cole Childs, Crew Childs, Rowan Childs, Boston Neff (Jaycee), Carson Neff, Avery Neff, Ashlyn Humphrey, Caleb Humphrey, and Addison Humphrey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bertrand and Margaret Childs; stepmother, Margaret Potter Childs; and stepbrother, Wes Potter.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024, at 11 a.m. at 270 N 900 E in American Fork, Utah. Interment will follow at American Fork Cemetery. A viewing will be held on Thursday, December 26, 2024, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 270 N 900 E in American Fork, Utah. Another viewing will take place prior to the funeral from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Humanitarian Fund.
The family takes comfort in knowing that Ralph is now at peace, reunited with loved ones, and that he continues to watch over them, as they eagerly await the day they will be reunited again in the presence of their Heavenly Father.
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