Ralph C. Swanson

Ralph worked as a Carpenter for the former Carpenters Union Local 22, Dunkirk. He also worked for the former Alcoa Plant in Dunkirk and owned and operated the family farm on Hopper Road, raising dairy, beef, chickens and hogs. Ralph enjoyed fishing, hunting, boating and playing cards.

Survivors include his wife of 72 years, Carolyn M. (Workhoff) Swanson of Forestville, whom he married on June 25, 1949, in the Forestville Baptist Church, two daughters, Diana Bifaro of Forestville; and Barbara Grady of Fredonia. Also surviving are five grandchildren: Jason Bifaro, Carrie Ann (Joe) Mueller, Stacey (Pat) Purpera, Matthew (Elizabeth) Szocki and Timothy (Megan) Szocki and five great-grandchildren: Waylon and Hank Bifaro, Ralph Mueller, Jack Purpera and Luke Szocki.

Besides his parents he was predeceased by brothers Clifford, Gifford, Glenn Swanson, Wilner Swanson and Wilma Bowyer (twins) and another sister Blossom Domenico.

Friends are welcome to call at Riles & Woolley Funeral Home, 39 Main St., Forestville, on Wednesday from 3-7 p.m. from where funeral services will be held Thursday morning at 11 o’clock with the Rev. David Watson, pastor of Sheridan United Methodist Church, officiating. Interment will follow in Smith Mills Cemetery, Town of Hanover.

The family suggests memorials may be made either to the Forestville Fire Department, Inc., PO Box 299, Forestville, NY 14062; or to Hanover Hose Co. 1, c/o Steve Peters, 11919 Hanover Road, Silver Creek, NY 14136.

To post condolences or memories go to www.rilesandwoolleyfuneralhome.com