Ralph Emanuel Tottleben, 88, of Carterville, passed away Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his daughters.

Ralph was born February 7, 1936, at home in Williamson County, Illinois, to William Eli “Bill” and Estella C. (Morris) Tottleben, on the family farm that is now known as Crab Orchard Refuge. He married Betty Jean Calhoun on July 15, 1957, in Carbondale. She preceded him on January 15, 1966. Ralph later married Glenna Ruth Smith on April 28, 1967, in Marion. She preceded him in death on June 1, 2023.

A man of deep faith and unwavering love for his family, his greatest joy came from spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They always knew where to find the candy cabinet at Papa’s house, a place filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Ralph proudly served his country with honor, completing two tours of duty with the United States Navy. After his service, he dedicated his career to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 702, where he worked as an electrician until his retirement. Even in retirement, his support and commitment to the union never wavered.

He was a master of many trades, gifted with the ability to fix or build just about anything. From repairing furniture to tinkering in his garage, he always found joy in creating and solving problems Whether it was offering “cab service” or babysitting for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his family could always count on him. He especially loved fishing trips with his grandchildren and took pride in fixing anything his loved ones brought to him.

He is survived by his daughters, Denise Hill, Lisa Nagle, and Krista Tregoning (Randy Dunn); grandchildren, Bryan (Renae Edwards) Murray, Jamey LaBotte, Kelsey Oxford, Nicolis Oxendine, Kody Hill, Martin (Stephanie) Tregoning, Taylor Hill, Tessa (Cory Mataya) Hill, Mikala Jo Tregoning, and bonus granddaughter, Evelyn Chamness; great-grandchildren, Jaxon LaBotte, Hudson LaBotte, Emmy Hill, Cayson LaBotte, Preslie Murray, Kodi Hill, Kori Hill, Riece Johnson, Aubree Tregoning, Tritton Oxford, Paetyn Tregoning, Jersey Oxford, Zachxton Hill, Amber Chamness, Isaiah Aredondo, Isabella Aredondo, and Azariah Hill; sister, Loretta McRaven; several nieces and nephews; plus many dear friends.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; two wives; sons-in-law, Joel Tregoning and K.B. Hill; great-granddaughter, Piper Tottleben-Hill; brother, William Eli Tottleben; son, William Thomas Tottleben; daughter, Deborah Diane Tottleben; and sisters, Alma Jean Tottleben and Jerry Stewart. 

He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and services. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, December 2, 2024, at Riggin-Pillatsch & Burke Funeral Home in Carterville, with the Rev. Ralph Brandon officiating.  Military rites will immediately follow. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Tupelo Children’s Mansion (Orphanage) or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.