Ralph C. Folkerts

On February 28, 2023, Ralph C. Folkerts, loving husband, father, and grandfather, entered heaven for eternity.  Ralph was born in Highland, Illinois, on April 26, 1940.  He is predeceased by his father, Charles D. Folkerts, his mother, Virginia Folkerts, and his brother, Robert Folkerts.

Ralph attended the University of Illinois where he joined the Beta Sigma Psi Lutheran Fraternity.  Jim Blankenburg, a fraternity brother, introduced his sister Shirley to him. They were married on October 31, 1964. 

Ralph was always active in the Lutheran community, serving in key roles of congregations that he worshiped in and holding many offices in Beta Sigma Psi which included president of the National Fraternity.

Since he was happiest in serving his Lord, family, and friends, he excelled as a State Farm insurance agent in Springfield, Illinois.  He carried an ever-present smile and he encouraged people to have a positive attitude.  A “belly laugh” helps chase the blues away!  

Following retirement he and Shirley moved to Georgia to be near their daughter and her family.  Immediately upon arrival in Georgia his Lutheran congregation asked him to serve as Business Administrator for the congregation.  He continued in that position until his death.

Ralph loved card games and was an avid bridge player. He made innumerable friends playing bridge socially and in duplicate bridge centers.

Family left behind are his wife of 58 years, Shirley; daughter Judy Ambrose (Rob); son Jim Folkerts; four precious grandchildren: Gabrielle Belcher (Joseph), Mackenzie Ambrose, Addison Ambrose, and Caden Ambrose; sisters: Joan Speckman (Dale) and Janet Lew (Gary).

Funeral services will be held at Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4655 Webb Bridge Road, Alpharetta, Georgia, on March 11, 2023 at 11 AM.  Visitation will take place one hour before the service.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church.

Ingram Funeral Home, 210 Ingram Ave., Cumming, GA in charge of arrangements.