Ralph C. Matherne

Ralph C. Matherne passed away peacefully on Monday, April 21, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born on August 3, 1932 in New Orleans and lived most of his 92 years in Harvey and Gretna. After graduating from Gretna High School in 1951, he married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy L. Glenn, on May 31st 1952. This was the beginning of a devoted lifelong partnership. Ralph served two years in the United States Army and was a proud veteran of the Korean War. He was a graduate of Delgado Community College who spent many years as an oil field machinist and machine shop manager, eventually becoming a partner and vice president of Dixie Oil Tools.

Ralph was a talented baseball pitcher in high school and a skilled sketch artist. He enjoyed grilling for family and playing with his many grand-dogs and maintained a strong interest in military history. His children were taught to enjoy nature through fishing and crabbing. He patiently served as a personal driver for his grandchildren during their school years. He was a thoughtful decorator during the holidays as well as a dutiful handyman and assistant gardener helping his wife maintain a beautiful home and yard.

He is survived by his cherished wife of 72 years, Dorothy Matherne, his loving children Julie Burke (Butch) and Randy Matherne (Diane) and his much-loved grandchildren Daniel Burke, Elizabeth Burke and Saul Gonzalez. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stephen and Elda Matherne, his brothers Harold (Vivian), Robert (Irene), Steven (Carmen), and Murphy (Helen) and his daughter-in-law Shirley Matherne.

He was a loving, protective, and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Through his loyalty and generosity, Ralph made a lasting impact on the lives of those around him. He will be remembered for his love of family and good company.

Please consider making a donation in his loving memory to the Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org).

Private funeral services were held at Mothe Funeral Home, Harvey, LA on Friday, April 25, 2025 with interment at Westlawn Memorial Park in Gretna.

Family and friends are invited to share condolences and memories by visiting: www.mothefunerals.com.