October 1940 ~ January 2021
Ralph P. Smithcamp was born on October 31, 1940 at home in Turlock, CA to Clarence and Beatrice Smithcamp. He was the youngest of 12 children. A proud Turlock High School graduate, Ralph was on the 1957 THS undefeated football team and is a member of the THS Hall of Fame. It was at a THS dance in March of 1959 where he asked Lorraine Garcia to dance for the first time, a dance which would ultimately spark a lifelong love. Ralph and Lorraine both graduated from THS in 1959, and were married on January 15, 1961. They continued to lovingly dance through life together for nearly 60 years of marriage.
In 1972, Ralph and Lorraine built their home in Denair where they raised their family. Ralph is survived by his wife and their four children, Stephanie Souza, Shelly (Tim) Jericoff, Scott (Patty) Smithcamp, and Sonya Hake. He was a beloved and doting Poppa to ten grandchildren: Ryan Souza, Cory Souza, Stefani (Anthony) Ortiz, Tim (Katherine) Jericoff, Garrett Jericoff, Christian Arriola, Eric Smithcamp, Emily Hake, Olivia Hake, and Aidan Hake. He is also survived by his brother in law Edwin (Jan) Garcia, five great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Ralph spent his long-term career as a truck driver. A dedicated and hardworking employee, he was known to wake up in the early morning hours with no alarm, arriving early and ready to work long days without complaint to support his family. Ralph started his career at Prouty Trucking, where he owned and operated his own truck. In 1972, he began working for Foster Farms Feed Mill in Livingston, and he finished his trucking career at A.L. Gilbert in Keyes, from where he retired in 2005.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Ralph treasured the time he spent with his family. Even after long days at work, he was eager to return home and support his childrens’ interests. Through the years he coached their baseball teams, bowled, and played softball. Ralph was a steadfast pillar of support in his family’s life. Whether it was sporting events, band concerts, or award ceremonies big or small, they could count on Ralph to cheer them on. He was each and every child, grandchild, and great grandchild’s number one fan who showed his love and support with a warm smile and steady handshake.
Ralph spent most of his free time nurturing and maintaining his treasured yard and garden. Neighbors, friends and family knew that if they passed the Smithcamp home, they would see Ralph out working and be greeted with a smile, wave, and nary a stray grass clipping or unpulled weed in sight. He was always eager to share the fruits of his labor – lovingly tended fruits, vegetables and flowers – with everyone he loved.
Ralph and Lorraine also loved to travel. Together they visited Canada and Mexico, took cruises, and visited various states including Hawaii and Alaska. Ralph was always a willing participant to head out of town on a vacation or a day trip with family and friends.
In fact, virtually the only time Ralph could be spotted sitting down was to tune in to a game. He was an avid, lifelong fan of the San Francisco 49ers, the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors. There were heartaches and joys through the seasons, but Ralph was a steadfast fan who never missed a game, especially if he could watch with a loved one.
Ralph was a member of Sacred Heart Church in Turlock and belonged to the Knights of Columbus #2557, as well as Sons in Retirement 143. He volunteered time for his community with St. Vincent de Paul and was a 6 gallon donor for Delta Blood Bank.
A dedicated, patient, hardworking, witty, and selfless man, Ralph set a wonderful example to all who knew him on utilizing love, hard work, and tenacity to build a bountiful life. He will be dearly missed by all who were fortunate to know him.
A private family mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church. A public graveside service will be held on January 14, 11 a.m. at Turlock Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to PAN Foundation in honor of Ralph Smithcamp for the Philadelphia Chromosome Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasm Fund, P.O. Box 76408 Baltimore, MD 21275 and/or to Sacred Heart School, 1225 Cooper Ave. Turlock, CA 95380.
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Candy Klaschus says
January 18, 2021 at 8:28 pmI did not know Ralph well, but he and I used to walk our old dogs in Denair, so we would exchange hellos while the dogs wagged their tails and sniffed. Then his dog passed and then mine did, so we would just say hi as we walked. I also loved the care he took with his beautiful yard; it is the envy of everyone who passes by. I will miss him.
Derek Gustafson says
January 14, 2021 at 4:16 pmSmithcamp Family, Deepest sympathies to your family during this difficult time. Ralph was a great neighbor who kept his home and yard in immaculate condition. He was a great example of a family man. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Josie Fernandes ( and Richie) says
January 13, 2021 at 10:13 pmSo Sorry for your loss. We always sat across from one another at Church when Mom was alive. He was always so friendly!!! May God Bless your family and give you strength!!
Colleen Smith says
January 13, 2021 at 8:40 pmLorraine and Family. So sorry to hear about Ralph. He will be missed by all who knew him. My thoughts are with you. I will miss seeing him and his classic wave whenever I drove by.
Gary Ericksen says
January 13, 2021 at 6:27 amSmithcamp Family, you nailed Ralph with your words in this obit. I rode my bike past daily on my way to and from school, the yard and Chevy pickup always perfect!! His wave, simple nod of the head and gentle smile – pleasant gentleman.
Jess Lindo says
January 13, 2021 at 4:52 amSo sorry for your loss Ralph was a kind and gentle man.
Sheri (Metcalf) Biasca says
January 13, 2021 at 1:32 amI wish Mr. Smithcamp’s loved ones strength and peace during this difficult time.
Chris August (Macedo) says
January 12, 2021 at 8:00 pmGodmother Lorraine
Very sorry for your loss. Ralph was a very kind man. I have very fond memories of him growing up. Prayers to you and your family.
Amy Rocha says
January 12, 2021 at 7:07 pmYou will be missed by many Ralph. Thoughts and prayers going out to Lorraine and all of the family on their loss.
Rosalie Macedo says
January 12, 2021 at 6:53 pmSorry to hear about Ralph’s passing. We been friends since high school and Tony was there best man in there wedding. He will be forever in our thoughts. Prayers to Lorraine and the family..
Rachel Azevedo says
January 12, 2021 at 3:26 pmSo sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure to work for Berry Seed and Feed. May he Rest In Peace
Lynnell Fuller says
January 12, 2021 at 11:52 amSo sorry for your loss, sending hugs and prayers to the entire family.
Anissa Anderson says
January 12, 2021 at 6:15 amMy thought and prayers are with you during this difficult time! Praying for comfort for Lorraine and family!
Stacey Fulton says
January 12, 2021 at 3:16 amSo sorry to hear of the passing of Ralph. Prayers go out to the Smithcamp family.
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