Ralph Francis Reis

He was preceded in death by his mother, Charlotte C. Reis (Thill), his father Ralph G. Reis, his sister Delores Reis (Bob Eckert), his brother Donald Reis (Mary Ann) and brother Richard Reis (Nancy).

Ralph and Madonna Finkeldei were married in 1951 and had five children Linda (Richard McGovern), Ralph W. (Mary Ann), Catherine (Dennis Stutte), Richard (Ann), Stephen (Ann).

In 1969, Ralph and Donna Trusty (Duff) were married forming a blended family with two additional children, Terry (Cherilyn) and Gaila.

Ralph had extensive education and training for the Priesthood which included studying at St. Louis Preparatory Seminary, Subiaco Abby and Kenrick Seminary. After leaving school, he joined the family business at Eastside Lumberyard and Supply Co. in East St. Louis, IL.

During his early years at Eastside, he was drafted into the United States Army where he served his county proudly during the Korean War. During his service he worked in the Artillery Intelligence Gathering Division and during his training, he placed first in his regiment as sharp shooter. After discharge from the military, he returned to overseeing daily operations at Eastside, later becoming President over the two locations in East St. Louis and Herrin, IL., semi-retiring in 1998.

Ralph loved being outdoors whether it was fishing, hunting or working in his garden and flower beds. Family and friends were always delighted to see each years’ yield from his garden and he always grew bigger and better vegetables than Linda and Steve! Growing up all the kids had their chores to do which was usually house cleaning and weeding the flower beds for the girls and cutting grass and clearing out the woods for the guys but somehow Terry and Rick always seemed to break almost every tool in the shed!

Through the years Ralph has been a true friend to many. A man of high character and moral standing, treating everyone fairly and without bias. He has been a committed, loving husband, a sometimes hard but always fair and loving father to his children, a strong leader and true example for others to follow.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife Donna, 7 children and their spouses, 15 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and countless other loving family members and friends. Ralph lived a full and happy life and our lives are much richer and blessed because of him.

Funeral services will be June 19, 2019 at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Collinsville, IL. Immediate family visitation 9 am, public visitation 10 am to 11 am Followed by Mass at 11 am. Military graveside service and burial will take place immediately following Mass at Lakeview Memorial Gardens in Fairview Heights, IL. Father John Beveridge officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:

SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Collinsville, IL

Vitas Hospice, Fairview Heights, IL

Madison County Humane Society, Edwardsville, IL