Ralph Edward Lightner Jr., 54, passed on to join his loved ones in heaven on May 13, 2021,

Born on June 12, 1966 to Ralph and Jacque Lightner, he was a lifelong resident of Manila and graduated from Arcata High School in 1984.

Ralph was a man of many talents. A master welder/fabricator known for his skills both locally and out of the area – the man could weld! His musical accomplishments included winning local competitions, starting his own bands, fronting local county bands and opening for Hank Williams III in Nashville, Tennessee – the man could sing! His family was blessed by his culinary skills – the man could cook!

Ralph loved spending time working in his shop while sharing a beer with his good friend Andy Savage. He enjoyed making people laugh and always had a “good one” for you. Anytime people were gathered, either family at home, or friends at the McKinleyville Moose, after some cajoling, the guitar would come out for an impromptu concert.

Though he would never admit it, Ralph was the true definition of a gentle giant — a sensitive loving soul who would give you anything he had if you needed it. His heart was as big as his 6’7” frame and he loved his family and friends with all of it.

Ralph is survived by his sons Justin (Alexis) Lightner and Waylon Lightner; sister Ida (Dan) Heinen; grandchildren Wyatt, William, Cameron, Cassie, Callie, Brantlee, Brycen Lightner; nieces Amy (Jon) Sells, Jaci Kanouff (Fiancé, Nick Payne), and Becky (Alicia) Kanouff; great-nieces Shyniesa and Tyleea Currie-Sells (Son, King Liufau), Harleigh and Emily Sells, Riley and Zoe Payne, Emma Mohr; great-nephews Aiden Sells, Ryan Mohr and Brayden Johnson; aunt Beverly Wheeler; cousins George Baker and Peggie Marcum; and his very special friends Candace and Del Trask.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and his eldest son, Raleigh Ray Lightner.

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