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Ralph L.
Rathbun
May 4, 1945 – April 26, 2026
Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility
12:00 - 1:00 pm (Eastern time)
Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility
Starts at 1:00 pm (Eastern time)
Ralph L. Rathbun, 80, of Granville Summit, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, April 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Ralph Laverne was born on May 4, 1945, in Blossburg, the son of the late Alva “Dean” and Doris (Morgan) Rathbun. He attended Canton Area Schools and graduated with the Class of 1963. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country for three years during the Korean and Vietnam eras.
Following his military service, Ralph continued his education at Williamsport Area Community College followed by the Pennsylvania College of Straight Chiropractic ultimately earning his Doctorate of Chiropractic.
On July 3, 1971, he married his true love, Donna Spencer, in Granville. Together they shared 54 years of devoted marriage and raised two children.
In his earlier years, Ralph worked as a veal farmer and as a weigh master at Jones and Brague. He eventually became self‑employed as a chiropractor, a profession he dedicated himself to for many years until his retirement. He was a member of the Windfall Community Church and the Troy VFW Post 8675.
Ralph had a lifelong passion for antique cars and loved attending car shows. He could often be found in his shop, tinkering, fixing, and always keeping busy. Known for his great sense of humor, Ralph loved telling jokes and sharing laughter with those around him. Time with his family, especially their cherished days at Sandy Pond, was what he treasured most.
Ralph leaves behind his wife; Donna, at home, children; Cristy Brust of Reston, VA, and Matthew Rathbun of Sandy Creek, NY, grandchildren; Hudson and Parker, sisters; Joyce Knutila of Gastonia, NC, and Marilyn Smiley of Granville Summit, sisters-law; Dawn Rathbun of Troy, and Shirley Rathbun of Canton, as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Besides his parents, Ralph was predeceased by his brothers; Leon and Robert Rathbun.
A time of visitation will be held from Noon to 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Pepper Funeral Home and Cremation Facility, 578 Springbrook Drive in Canton. A celebration of his life will follow at 1 p.m. with military honors accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Ralph’s name may be directed to a charity of one’s choice. Memories of Ralph and condolences to his family may be shared by visiting www.pepperfuneralhomes.com.
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