In Loving Memory of Ralph Donnie Crapse

Ralph Donald Crapse, a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather, faithful servant of the Lord, and respected businessman, passed away on Wednesday, July 30, 2026.  He was born on June 17, 1938, in Orlando, Florida, to Otis and Margaret Crapse.

In 1952, Ralph's family moved to Immokalee, Florida, where he began building the life that would define him.  As a young man, Ralph worked at Joe Smith's store, where he met Bob Black, the store manager. Bob took Ralph under his wing, becoming both a mentor and dear friend. Although Bob passed away early in life, the influence he had on Ralph remained with him throughout the rest of his life. Their families stayed close over the years and eventually became connected through marriage.

Ralph proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959. After completing his military service, he briefly returned to Orlando before making Immokalee his home once again. He worked for Lonnie Curry and spent time farming before helping construct Turner River Road and what would later become Interstate 75, better known as Alligator Alley.

In 1967, Ralph fulfilled his dream of owning his own business, operating heavy equipment until his retirement in 1991. Throughout those years, he built an impressive reputation for hard work and integrity. His business included operating dirt and rock pits, paving projects, farm work, and preparing oil well locations throughout Southwest Florida. He believed in honest work, never shied away from a challenge, and earned the respect of everyone who knew him.

Outside of work, Ralph had a lifelong passion for aviation. He loved flying and owned several vintage aircraft over the years. One of his proudest accomplishments was building a Baby Great Lakes biplane with his own hands, combining his love of craftsmanship and flying.

Faith was the cornerstone of Ralph's life. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior in his twenties at Friendship Baptist Church. Although the demands of building a business occupied much of his time for many years, his faith remained important to him. Later in life, he rededicated himself fully to serving the Lord. He faithfully served as a deacon and associate pastor, dedicating countless hours to ministering, encouraging others, and serving his church family. His quiet example of faith left a lasting impact on many lives.

Those who knew Ralph will remember him as one of the hardest-working men they ever met, but even more, they will remember his love for his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife of 60 years, Nancy L. Crapse, who preceded him in death in 2017. Together they built a strong, loving family rooted in faith, hard work, and commitment.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Otis and Margaret Crapse, his beloved wife, Nancy and his great-grandson Gavin.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rebecca Crapse, sister, Henrietta, along with his children, four grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, as well as many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Ralph had a gift that few possess—he could tell a story like no one else. Whether sharing memories from his Navy days, stories from the construction business, adventures in aviation, or simply making everyone around him laugh, he had a way of bringing people together. His wisdom, humor, and unwavering love will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Above all else, Ralph loved the Lord and loved his family. His life was a testament to perseverance, faith, humility, and service. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched and in the generations of his family who will continue to be inspired by his example.

There will be graveside service at 10:00 am Friday August 7, 2026, at Baptist cemetery, Immokalee, Florida.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23