Thomas Wayne "Jack" Ralston, 75, of Minneola, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Monday, July 15, 2024. He was born in Canmer, Kentucky to the late Chester and Emma Lee (Syndor) Ralston. He spent his early life in South Central Kentucky and enjoyed playing on his grandfather's farm with his cousins. Jack met Martha (Atwell), the love of his life, while attending Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green and they married on November 7, 1970. A job transfer in 1991 brought Jack and his family to Port Orange, Florida.  Jack was employed as a customer service representative for RR Donnelley & Sons and retired in 2004 after over 35 years of dedicated service. It was at this time that Jack pursued his dream of working at Yosemite National Park during the summer months and he spent seven seasons there hiking and biking the trails. Jack and Martha appreciated nature and frequently traveled to the Western part of the United States visiting many landmarks and national parks.   Some other favorite stops were in the Midwest and included Door County, Wisconsin and Galena, Illinois.
Jack had a broad range of interests and leisure activities; he played golf, softball and baseball, he gardened, grew roses and fruit trees, went on digs for Indian arrowheads and artifacts, hunted for doves and was a huge Kentucky Wildcats sports fan.   In the kitchen, he was the most amazing baker and made delicious treats for everyone.   Jack was known for his outgoing personality; a wonderful sense of humor telling jokes and getting laughs from people.
Jack will be dearly missed by his family, friends and all who had the opportunity to meet him.
In addition to Martha, his beloved wife of 53 years, he is survived by his children, Paul Ralston and wife Tonya and Lisa Kasper and husband Danny; his adored grandchildren: Jacob, Abby, Sara, Elisa, Matthew and Emily and his brother Jerry Ralston.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service at The Living Hope Church, 950 7th Street, Clermont, FL 34711 on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Jack's name to Samaritan's Purse at https://www.samaritanspurse.org/memorial-page/thomas-jack-ralston-minneola-fl/