Ralph Watkins Garlick

Ralph Watkins Garlick passed on to eternal life on August 20, 2015. Ralph is survived by his loving wife of nearly 54 years, Susan MacDonald Garlick. He is also survived by his two devoted daughters and son-in-laws: Carey & Robert Peabody and Ann & Peter Conklin, five beloved grandchildren: Lily & Lewis Conklin; Connor, Emma, Grace Morgan and their father, Kirk Morgan. Ralph is also survived by brother and sister-in-law, Rich and Donna Garlick, and sister and brother-in-law, Helen and Jim Brien, as well as many nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues.

 Ralph was born and raised in Detroit where his father carried on the family business, Garlick Jewelers, founded in 1916 by his grandfather. He and his family moved to Grand Rapids in 1972 when Ralph left Detroit Bank & Trust to accept a position with Old Kent Bank where he worked until his retirement in 1999.

 Ralph was very active in the community, serving on the boards of the Urban League, Blodgett Hospital, Hospice of SE Michigan, Adac Plastics, the Economic Club of Grand Rapids, and the Conductive Learning Center.

 Memorial contributions may be given in Ralph’s honor to the Conductive Learning Center ~ Special Education School, 2428 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546, Emmanuel Hospice, 2161 Leonard Street NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504, or the charity of your choice.  

Ralph was loved by many and will be missed by all!

Visitation will be held Friday, August 28th from 2-4 p.m. at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home.  A service of Witness to the Resurrection will be held at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, 1700 Woodward SE, on Saturday, August 29th at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dr. Jack Stewart officiating.  

 Service Information