He leaves his wife of 66 years, Arlene (Mary Arlene Buenemeyer); sons James Musec (wife Susie), Doug Musec (wife Glenda), Dale Musec, and Jeff Musec (wife Stacey); and eight grandchildren.
Ralph was born on October 24, 1925 and raised in New Baden, Illinois, the son of John and Helen Musec. During high school, Ralph worked in the New Baden coal mines and delivered groceries on a bicycle. Ralph graduated as valedictorian from New Baden High School.
Ralph served his country during World War II. He entered into active duty during January of 1944, six months before D-Day. He served during the Battle of the Bulge as a Survey and Rifle Instrument Specialist. While in the army, he earned money selling chocolate bars. He sent the money to his parents for safekeeping, but they used it to purchase a new stove!
Following active duty, Corporal Musec attended the American University at Shrivenham, England to begin his college education. He later attended McKendree College in Lebanon, the University of Missouri in Columbia, and the University of Illinois in Champaign.
After Arlene traveled to see Ralph many times, by roller skates, from Germantown to New Baden, Ralph married Arlene on June 17, 1949. They spent their honeymoon in Niagara Falls.
Ralph applied his education and military experience to build a successful career in sales and management at Armor Fertilizer, Ralston Purina, Gardner Advertising, and International Shoe Company. To advance his career, Ralph honed his presentation skills with Toastmasters.
Ralph and Arlene owned and managed a strawberry farm in Centralia, Illinois where they taught their sons farming and entrepreneurial skills.
Ralph and Arlene moved their family to Belleville in 1955 and became founding members of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish. St. Augustine served as the hub of their religious and social lives. Friendships grew through the Confraternity of Christian doctrine held at individual homes. Ralph served as a lector and cantor for many years.
For leisure, Ralph enjoyed gardening, camping, golf, poker, cutting/splitting/burning firewood, traveling, and whistling.
We will dearly miss you, Ralph.
Memorials may be made to St. Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Church. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may visit from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 23, 2017, at St. Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Church, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 23, 2017, at St. Augustine of Canterbury Catholic Church, Belleville, IL, with Msgr. William McGhee officiating. Entombment with military honors will follow at Mt. Carmel Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Condolences Left For Ralph Musec
Wow,
Ralph, Arlene and their sons know what a big part they were as a grew up in Belleville. I will miss Ralph and save the funny stories.
Hello to Arlene and Jim, Doug Dale and Jeff
Hello and condolences from Tony, Linda, Andrew and Brandon.
t**2
Tony Taylor, Huntington Beach , CA, 92646
We always knew it was Saturday morning when you heard Ralph whistling. Not only did he wake us I think he woke the birds. We will all miss you Ralph. Thanks for teaching me how to make a Manhattan , and thanks for not mowing the lawn till after 8. Arlene and Jim, Doug, Dale and Jeff, our deepest condolences. Aloha the Taylors David, Deedee, Dylan & Dean.
Kaneohe Hawaii
David Taylor, Kaneohe, Hawaii, 96744
Jeff – Our condolences to you and your entire family on the passing of your father. We will keep you in our prayers and wish peace to you all.
Angela and Phil Kammann
Angela Kammann, Belleville, IL, 62223
Arlene and family,
So sorry to hear about your loss.
We want to express our sympathy.
Charles and Lois Eckert, Belleville, Illinois, 62226
Doug & Glenda, please accept our heart felt condolence on the passing of your father, Ralph. We both know how it feels and how hard it is, though life death of a love one can be. Try and remember all the wonderful times and how long you enjoyed with your father. You are very lucky to have had him here on earth to enjoy, laugh, and of course love. We are sure, that he is in the Lords home. Love you both. C.J. & Marilyn.
C. J. & Marilyn NEW, St. Charles, Missouri, 63304
The old neighborhood just isn’t the same anymore! So sorry to hear of your loss.
Rutjh Berkel, O”Fallon, Illinois, 62269