Ralph Desens

Ralph C. Desens, a cherished father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2025, at Fairview Nursing Home in Mauston, WI, at the age of 87. He was the son of Arnold and Suzanne (Trott) Desens and was born on August 7, 1937, in West Bend, WI.

Ralph was a proud graduate of West Bend High School, class of 1956, and shortly thereafter, he embarked on a journey of love and commitment by marrying his beloved wife, Helen Steahl, on November 14, 1959, at Trinity Lutheran Church in West Bend. Ralph and Helen lived in West Bend for over 40 years.

A patriot at heart, Ralph served his country with honor and dedication. He joined the United States Army in 1961, serving until 1963, and continued his commitment to the nation by serving in the US Army National Guard for an additional six years. His sense of duty was a core part of his character and inspired those around him. After his honorable discharge, Ralph went to work for Yahrs Ready Mix where he drove truck. He would later go into business with his cousin Roy Trott and together they built R&R Home Services, later retiring in 2000. After retirement they moved to New Lisbon and had resided there for 23 years.

An avid outdoorsman, Ralph found joy and solace in the beauty of nature. He was a member of the West Bend Kettle Campers Club and the West Bend Kettle Trailblazers Club West Bend Builders Association. His love for fishing, camping, boating, and snowmobiling allowed him to create cherished memories with family and friends, and his enthusiasm for these activities was infectious.

Ralph is survived by his daughters Bonnie Desens of Mauston and Clarissa (Jim) Rieke of Campbellsport, his brother, Donald (Diane) Desens of West Bend, and his sister, Virginia Hendrickson of Racine. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Helen in 2024, his sister Rosemary Young, brother-in-law Lee James Young, and brother-in-law Bruce Hendrickson.

Ralph’s life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the threads of love, service, and community. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but also for the warmth and generosity he extended to everyone he met.

Ralph will be laid to rest at a later date in the Oaklawn Cemetery in LaValle, WI. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Hare Funeral Home in New Lisbon is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are available at www.harefuneralhome.com