1937 ~ 2025
April 18, 1937 – October 30, 2025
If you knew Ralph Freeman, you knew what it meant to love deeply, to work hard, to serve, and to live ready and willing to face whatever life would bring.
Ralph was born on April 18, 1937, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Clyde Bullock Freeman and Fern Murdock. From the start, Ralph lived ready to help —he wasn’t afraid of hard work, he could fix or restore anything, and he lived ready to serve anyone in need at a moment’s notice.
At just 18 years old, he joined the Army Aviation Division and served in Korea from 1955–1959. He loved fixing helicopters, the adventure, and the feeling of purpose that came from being part of something bigger than himself. He carried that same courage and sense of duty into every chapter of his life.
Ralph owned and worked for Seagull Sales and spent his workdays doing what he did best — keeping things running, solving problems, and making sure everyone had what they needed not just at work, but in life also.
The greatest adventure of Ralph’s life began on December 29, 1961, when he married Bonnie Anne Noorda in Elko, Nevada. From that day on, he was never without her by his side. They built a life together that was filled with family first. Some of the best memories came from road trips, camping trips, and family trips. Ralph and Bonnie’s marriage was sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on December 2, 1986, with a promise of forever that matched the way they had always loved each other.
He loved to travel and see the world, but his favorite place was always wherever Bonnie was. Together, they raised a family who adored them. Their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the joy of Ralph’s life. He showed up for them — every ball game, every life milestone, but most often in the everyday ordinary moments. Ralph was always there, and Bonnie was always with Him.
Ralph and Bonnie served two missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints —one at Deseret Industries and another at the Detention Center in Salt Lake City. He had a way of connecting with the youth at the detention center, and he used his own life lessons to help them grow and progress. He loved the gospel of Jesus Christ and believed deeply in the power of the Savior’s Atonement. His faith was certain. He believed in second chances and reminded his family regularly that Jesus was real, and with us.
Just before Ralph passed away, a doctor reminded the family of an important truth: “The readiness is all.” And that is just the way Ralph lived— always prepared, always steady, always ready to serve, to love, and to go where God called him next.
He will be remembered for his laugh, his constant service, and the way he always made you feel like you were the most important person in the room.
Ralph is preceded in death by his mother, Fern, father, Clyde, and his brother, John Clyde. He leaves behind the love of his life, Bonnie, their family who loves him fiercely, including Stephanie Falcon (Caesar), Greg Freeman (Emily), Michelle Freeman, (Shane), 19 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and a lifetime of memories. As we hold onto those memories we will hold on to him.
Please join us for a viewing at Sunset Lawn, 2350 East 1300 South, Salt Lake City, on Saturday November 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. A family graveside service will follow.
We were neighbors on Windsor Lane in Bountiful
Many years ago and adored your Dad - that laughter made us always smile.
He was a wonderful neighbor and he will be in our thoughts.
Bonnie, Stephanie, Greg and Michelle, my sincere condolences for your loss. I was deeply saddened today hearing of Ralph’s passing from President Barnes. I thoroughly enjoyed my 7 years at Seagull Sales working for Ralph. He was so much more than a boss to me. He was my mentor, trainer, coach and friend. He gave me my first sales job at the age of 20 which lead to a successful 46 year career. May God bless and comfort your family during this time of sorrow.
We have been so blessed to have known Ralph and his loving wife and family for so many years. We are so glad we got to see them a few months ago.
Bonnie, Stephanie, Greg, Michelle and family,
We just want you to know how sorry we our for your loss. We all loved Ralph and his quick wit, fun laugh and welcoming personality. We are so grateful to both Bonnie and Ralph for all of their support for our dad, Dave. We know how much he loved and appreciated Ralph. He was Dave’s hero and savior. He will be missed.
We wish you all peace at this heartfelt time.
Bonnie Lois had let me know that Ralph has passed. I`m saddened by the news that he was just a fun guy to visit at times, and he was so funny. Please take care Bonnie i`m sending this with prayers and love. always June Burleson Ringler
Sweet Bonnie, we are so sad about the events of this last week. We love Ralf and you and send our condolences at his passing. What a fun man! He was exceptionally kind to everyone and especially us! Of course everyone feels like they have lost their best friend. He was a strong spiritual presence in our ward and neighborhood. I know he gave you much service and Doug and I would love to fill in some of the gaps that will be left by his absence. Please call on us to do that. We love you 😍
Aunt Bonnie, my blessings to you and the whole family at this most precious and tender time. May you all be held in the light of God’s love, peace, comfort and grace. We are all blessed by the experience and presence of Ralph’s light, heart and soul in our lives planting the seeds of laughter and joy, good cheer, encouragement or even lending a helping hand. I know that his light shines as brightly in heaven as he did here with us. Be at peace and comforted knowing that Ralph is in God’s keeping and loving care and that he has been met by all those who have gone before. We are blessed as he lives on in our hearts and memories forever. Blessings and love to you all.
Sending our love and condolences to your family. Ralph did impact our family with his kindness and service. We have fond memories of many family gatherings where Ralph’s fun loving, jovial personality shown through and will remain in our hearts forever. We love and care for you all.