Obituary of Ralph M. Woomer Jr.
Ralph Melvin Woomer Jr. was a man whose life exemplified dedication, love, and generosity. His passing on April 20, 2024, in Thousand Oaks, California, marked the end of a life lived with purpose and passion. Born on March 6, 1953, in Hammond, Indiana, Ralph was the beloved son of Ralph and Mary Lou Woomer and a cherished brother to Annie (Gary) Tapley, Kathy McConnell, JoEllen Woomer, Marla (Vince) Lopez, Betsey (Mark) Ader, and Brian Woomer. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Ralph's early years instilled in him a strong work ethic that carried him through life. His first job was as a paper boy for the Hammond Times at the age of fourteen. For two years he saved up his paper route money to buy his first car, a Corvair. After graduating from Hammond High School in 1971, he started working full time at Stanray Corporation. While raising a family, he earned a degree in Engineering from Purdue University.
Upon graduating from Purdue in 1980, Ralph embarked on a remarkable career with Lockheed Martin, where he made significant contributions as an Aerospace Engineer within the Skunk Works Advanced Development Projects Division. His expertise and dedication were instrumental in the completion of projects such as the SR71 Blackbird, F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighter, F-22 Raptor, and F-35 Lightning, earning him multiple awards and the respect of his peers.
It is evident that family meant everything to Ralph. His devotion to his children and grandchildren, as well as his active involvement in their lives and interests, speaks volumes about the kind of person he was. He cherished spending time with his children, Cheri, James (Passed in 1994), Dustin (Michelle), and his grandchildren, Kaylie, Anjolina, Zoe, Mia, Alex, Danny, and Cali.
Ralph's contributions to the Tujunga Little League and his involvement as a board member, coach, and umpire reflect his passion for nurturing young talent and fostering community spirit. As his children reached adulthood, his hobbies became archery and a ham radio operator. He was an avid golfer and golf fan. He regularly attended and volunteered at PGA and WPGA golf events. He was a Los Angeles Dodgers, LA Lakers, and undying devoted Chicago Bears fan!
While it is always difficult to say goodbye, the memories of Ralph will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A private memorial with family will be held in California followed by a celebration of life to be held in Indiana at a later date. The private memorial and celebration of life gatherings will be opportunities to honor his life and the impact he made on those around him.
The family's request for donations to support cancer research at Cedars-Sinai is a fitting tribute to Ralph's strength and resilience as a cancer survivor. It is a beautiful way to honor his memory and contribute to a cause that was close to his heart. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to https://www.cedars-sinai.org/giving/ways-to-give/tributes-memorials.html
Ralph's spirit will live on through the love and memories he leaves behind and may those who knew him find comfort in the cherished moments shared with him.