Ralph G. Smith, 96, of North Ridgeville, passed from this life and went to be with the Lord on April 10, 2023. Born December 3, 1926 in Cambridge, Ohio, he was the son of Waldo Emerson Smith and Lola Fanchion Needs. His family is noted as a First Family of Ohio. He actively served on an combat ship in the Pacific during the World War II. Ralph lived in Elyria for 27 years as co-owner of Madara Creamery, Inc. on East Ave. at 9th St. where he manufactured many flavors of ice cream. He delighted in the sale of ice cream to the neighborhood and local businesses and was known for his good humor and wit. Ralph loved tinkering with all kinds of electronics, and graduated from Lorain County Community College with degrees in Business and Data Processing. He then worked for the Federal Navy Finance Department in Cleveland as a computer programmer in charge of payrolls. After his retirement, they sometimes called upon him for assistance in complicated technical repairs. Ralph was an active member of Elyria Community United Methodist Church and helped run their Food Pantry along with making apple butter with the Men's Group for many years. He always lent a helping hand to those in need, and often mentored young people towards a better life. He was also a good cook and enjoyed Ohio sports teams. Ralph, known as Pap to his family, is survived by his daughters, Linda Smith Corkhill of Maitland, FL, Carolyn Madara Rummery of N. Ridgeville, and Janice Madara Rosenau of Lancaster, PA., his sister Katherine Stiles, 6 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren. Ralph was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth Smith and his brother, Ronald. Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 10 AM until the time of service at 11 AM at the Elyria Community United Methodist Church 680 N. Abbe Rd. Elyria. Pastor Kevin Coleman will officiate. Burial will follow at Ridge Hill Memorial Park in Amherst where V.F.W Post 1079 will provide full military honors. Memorial contributions in Ralph's memory can be made to Elyria Community United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.