Obituary of Alfred "Ralph" E. McCloskey

Alfred "Ralph" McCloskey

Ralph E. McCloskey, 81, of Buckhannon, WV, passed away Friday, July 7, 2023, at his home.  He was born September 26, 1941, in Monument, PA, a son of the late Delmas “Crow” and Edna Fravel McCloskey. Ralph was united in marriage on September 4, 1976, to Laura Sutliff; with whom he shared 41 years of happiness before her passing on January 3, 2018. Mr. McCloskey is survived by his daughter, Paula Kennelly and husband Chris of Buckhannon, whom he adored; two sisters, Vera Mann and husband Bill of Beech Creek, PA and Dianne Wisniewsky and husband David; one brother, Larry Mccloskey and wife Ann of Loganton, PA and his beloved 4-legged best friend, Muddy Girl, who he spoiled and loved so much. In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Harry Irvin McCloskey, Delmas "Buck" McCloskey and Bob McCloskey and one sister, Dretta Kessinger. Mr. McCloskey proudly served his country in the United States Army. His family, friends, freedom and Flag were most important to him. Ralph was a man of few words, but when he spoke, he grabbed the attention of everyone around, and spoke directly from his heart. He worked for Dominion Energy where he was a Compressor Station Operator for almost 18 years.  He enjoyed his job and made many lifelong friends.  Ralph started working for Dominion (CNG) in Renovo, PA and then his job took him to West Virginia in 1986.  He retired in 1996 and enjoyed every minute. Ralph was an avid outdoorsman, from fly fishing at Pine Creek to fishing the small streams of West Virginia. When he would walk into the woods to hunt deer, squirrels, or fields full of groundhogs, he always had that big smile on his face.  As a lifelong Penn State, Eagles and Phillies fan, you could often hear a ruckus coming from his recliner on game days. He loved his family more than life itself and would help anyone he could. Ralph loved giving to those in need.  If you feel so inclined to give in his honor, he was an advocate for Veteran Organizations and also St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital and Shriners Hospitals for Children. In honoring his wishes, Mr. McCloskey will be cremated. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.polingstclair.com. Poling-St. Clair Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.