Ralph Alan Gittings, 62, was surrounded by family as he peacefully passed away Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023. Born July 16, 1960, to Brenda Ruth Goff and Forrest Dean Gittings in Reno, Nev., Ralph graduated in 1979 from Warren High School in Monmouth, Ill. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in October of 1978 and served until separation in November of 1986.
Ralph worked for a short time in Peoria, Ill. before going to work for General Electric in Burlington, Iowa. He was employed at GE for 28 years and attended courses at Southeastern Community College through the years to improve his job skills. In Nov. 2006, he opened Poorman’s Computer at his home.
Ralph married Kathy Lynn Harlow on July 19, 1979, in Kirkwood, Ill. and they later divorced. They had two children: Brooke Gittings of South Bend, Ind., and Zakari Gittings of Burlington.
Ralph then married Sandra Henderliter on Oct. 7, 2006, in Burlington, gaining two step-sons: Daniel Henderliter and Robert Barnwell, both of Burlington.
Ralph will be remembered as a generous, loving man. He volunteered at Great River Christian School. He would stop to help people on the side of the road. He has opened his home to those in need and given generously to others. Ralph valued hard work, a work ethic, honesty, and the value of someone’s word. He was a loving and caring husband, protector, and provider to his wife. He took her on many trips and provided for her generously. Ralph enjoyed fishing with family and especially enjoyed the peace and tranquility of fishing at the break of dawn.
Ralph was preceded in death by his father and one brother, Rodney Gittings. Ralph is survived by his wife, mother, children, step-children, two sisters: Rhonda (Eric) Catha-Kramer of Lancaster, S.C. and Rachel Gittings of New Orleans; one brother; Richard (Kristie) Gittings of New Orleans; and several nieces and nephews.
It was Ralph’s wish to be cremated and Lunning Chapel has been entrusted with his care. A celebration of life will be held at Calvary Baptist Church on Saturday, May 27, 2023, at 10 a.m.
A Gofundme page has been established for the family in lieu of flowers: https://gofund.me/80f4d320