Ralph Jankovich

Ralph Jankovich, age 81, of Hackensack, and formerly Woodbury, passed away on Friday, January 13, 2023, at his home surrounded by family. He was born to Nels and Lillian Jankovich on June 9, 1941, in South St. Paul, MN.

Ralph was a Teamster for 30 years. He then drove school bus for 25 years in Stillwater and the Walker/Hackensack/Akeley area. He loved the kids and built many meaningful relationships with them.

Ralph loved fishing and had many fish tales! He was always willing to help his friends and neighbors out with plowing snow, sharing some the fish he caught or a tow for someone stuck in the middle of the lake. He was young at heart all his life. He loved traveling with his wife and had lots of toys like snowmobiles, 4 wheelers and PWC’S. Their lake home was their Happy Place in retirement.

Ralph greeted family and friends with big hugs and smiles and teased with love. He had a huge heart for his kids, grandkids and great grandkids. He was so proud of his family. Most of all he loved his wife. They built a beautiful life together and made an impression on everyone they met.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 61 years, Barbara; children, Kelli McDaniel (Kyle), Wade Jankovich (Carolyn); sister, Rita Mae Holmes (David); grandchildren: Brandon Murphy (Taylor), Cassandra Murphy (Brandon), Zachary Jankovich (Emily), Jordan Jankovich (Anissa), Brianna Ramirez (Abraham), Ella Eaton (David); and great grandchildren: Kayden, Aubri, Beckett, Roman and Armani. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Richard, Roxanne, Raymond and Robert.

Services will be 11:30 AM on April 22, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Backus.