Ralph Normand Leaverton's Obituary
Ralph N. Leaverton, age 98, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, just four days after celebrating his birthday. Born on March 24, 1928, Ralph lived a life marked by devotion to family, hard work, and a sense of adventure that touched everyone around him. In 1954, Ralph married Gloria C. Leaverton, the love of his life, and together they built a blended family of three daughters and three sons. They were affectionately known as the “Brady Bunch”.
Ralph was preceded in death by his beloved wife Gloria (Gogo), his parents Claude and Florence Leaverton, his brothers
Raymond Leaverton and Richard (Dick) Leaverton, his son Leon Stahl, and his grandson Andre Dominque. His legacy continues through his devoted children: Donna Brock (David), Barbara Crestetto (Dan), Sharon McPherson (Steve), John Eason (Verda), and Larry Stahl. He is also survived by seven grandchildren—Tamie Dufour, Kimberly Newton, Adam Thompson, Darcy
Morris, Brandi Vesco, Larry Jr., and Jeremy Crestetto—twenty great-grandchildren, and twenty-eight great great-grandchildren.
Ralph proudly served in the United States Navy from September 1945 to October 1946, demonstrating the strength and dedication that would define his life. After his military service, he embarked on a long and distinguished career at Rohr Aircraft
in Chula Vista, working there from April 1947 until his retirement in March 1985.
Retirement brought Ralph new opportunities for adventure. He and Gloria journeyed across the United States, visiting 49 states with his brother Dick and close friends, all with their trusty fifth-wheel trailers in tow. Among his favorite destinations was the Trinity River, where he found joy in fishing every day. Ralph was also an avid hunter, fisherman, and diver, whose resourcefulness and love of the outdoors helped provide for his family and inspired his children.
Ralph’s strength, generosity, and adventurous spirit will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on in the countless stories and memories shared by his family and friends.
Memorial services will be held at Greenwood Memorial Park & Mortuary (4300 Imperial Ave, San Diego) in the Salli Lynn Chapel on Thursday, April 9th at 1pm. A reception will follow at Donna and David’s home in Santee (10652 Trigal Way, 92071), where loved ones are invited to gather and celebrate Ralph’s remarkable life
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