Ralph A Stateman

Born in Evergreen Park on March 28th 1951 and lived his early years in Mount Greenwood. The family then moved to Oak Lawn where Ralph did most of his growing up.

Ralph was a lifelong learner both in school and through his own efforts. He graduated from Moraine Valley Community College with an Associates in Science in 1971. In 1973 he received a certificate in Computer Technology from Control Data Institute. He started his career as an Electronics Technician. While working as an Electrical Engineer at Tellabs and raising his family he finally earned his Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1992. At Tellabs he advanced to managing projects and a team of engineers designing telephone network switching systems.

He was married to the love of his life, Patricia Stateman (nee Kriwiel) for 51 years. Together, they raised two sons and created a home filled with laughter and love.

Ralph was very attentive to his family, prioritizing family trips and time spent together. He had a passion for the outdoors, spending time at his cabin in Northern Minnesota, fishing and stargazing. He loved playing games and exercising his sense of humor at every gathering he attended. Ralph was an avid do it yourselfer of every craft, from fixing cars to all manner of home repairs. His genuine care for others extended beyond his immediate family, as he was the go-to person for friends, neighbors, and anyone who needed help.

He was survived by his wife Patricia, two sons Glen (Marcella) and Brad (Lyudmila) Stateman; his five grandchildren Rosalie, Phoebe, Natalie, Violet, and Darcie. His Sister Penny (August) Voegeli and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father Millie and George Stateman, and sister Janice Anderson (nee Stateman).

Ralph will be remembered for his kindness, humor and strong devotion to his loved ones

A chapel service for Ralph will be held Friday, July 18, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Chapel Hill Gardens South Funeral Home, 11333 South Central Ave, Oak Lawn, IL 60453, followed by a visitation from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.