Ralph H. Short

Ralph H. Short of Vassar, age 85, passed away peacefully at the Tuscola County Medical Care Community in Caro on Saturday, May 31, 2025. Ralph was born September 26, 1939 in Lupton, the son of the late Harry and Grace (Pratt) Short. On Valentine’s Day in 1986, he married the love of his life, Audrey, and together they shared thirty-five wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2021. Ralph was a dedicated employee of Saginaw Steering Gear, where he worked for many years before retiring. Retirement brought him the freedom to enjoy the things he loved most, including traveling, camping, and riding motorcycles through the countryside with Audrey by his side. A true outdoorsman at heart, Ralph found peace in nature. He loved spending time outside, especially watching the deer wander through his backyard. He was also a big fan of WWE wrestling and rarely missed a match. Above all, Ralph cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, creating memories they will carry with them always. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the Tuscola County Medical Care Community and their staff for the exceptional care and compassion shown to Ralph during his time there.

Left to cherish Ralph’s memory are two sons, Chet Short of Vassar and Dustin Short of Otter Lake; three step-sons, Terry Kuck of Cass City, Gregory Kuck of Cass City, and Timothy Kuck of Lebanon, Tennessee; four grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother, Keith Short; and son-in-law, Wally Olszewski. In addition to his parents and wife, Ralph was preceded in death by a daughter, Kelly Olszewski; son, Rustin Short; and step-son, Phillip Kuck.

A memorial visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home in Caro. Burial will take place at a later date at Evergreen Cemetery in Hale. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorial contributions to the Tuscola County Medical Care Community in memory of Ralph Short.