Ralph Lanning Costa
Walhalla, SC — Ralph Lanning Costa, 93 years old, passed away at home on February 2, 2020. He was born in New Jersey on July 28, 1926.
He had a full and rich life married to his loving wife Barbara for 71 years. Ralph was a WWII veteran enlisting in the Army in 1944 at the age of 18. He served as a Corporal in Japan and Korea until 1945, assigned to the 17th Division, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Battalion, Company L.
During his working years, Ralph was a job superintendent on major construction jobs in NJ and PA, including Camelback Village, a ski resort, in Pocono Pines, PA. Post-retirement, he was an excellent handyman assisting many family members, neighbors and fellow campers with home repairs and maintenance.
He was a very active member of the Lions Club, receiving numerous honors and awards, while serving a total of 48 years (1971 – 2019) in PA, FL (2 locations) and SC, including 25 years in the Walhalla Lions Club. He was president in all 4 Clubs.
He and his wife enjoyed trailer camping, boating, train trips and gulf and lake fishing. Ralph was known for his hearty laugh, polite and considerate manner, and perhaps most valuable, his endless desire to help others. He will be missed by everyone he touched during his many years of a life worth living. He was loved by all his family, as a husband, father, brother, cousin and adored uncle.
He is survived by his wife Barbara, son Ralph, daughter Susan, daughter-in-law Joan, brother Albert and numerous 1st and 2nd cousins, nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers or other remembrances, please send donations to Interim Hospice, 16 Highland Road, Greenville, SC 29614; thank you. The staff at Interim Hospice were outstanding in helping us keep Ralph comfortable at home, and in assisting us through these difficult times. We encourage you to support them with donations in honor of Ralph.
Davenport Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.