Ralph Zavalney, 84, Butte, died on Monday, December 20, 2010, in a Bismarck hospital.

Ralph was born on February 28, 1926, on the family farm in Dogden Township of McLean County, near Butte, ND, to Mason and Nellie (Zakopyko) Zavalney. He was reared on the farm and attended school in Butte. As a young adult he assisted his parents with the operation of the farm.

Ralph married Fern Yecoshenko on November 23, 1952, at the E.U.B. Church in Minot. They made their home on the Zavalney family farm where they raised small grains and cattle. Ralph was 100% committed to farming and never fully retired.

Ralph's loving family includes his wife of 58 years, Fern; sons: Brent (Debi) Zavalney of Munich, ND, Bruce Zavalney (fiance, Teri Sutton) of Spokane, WA and Boyd (Lori) Zavalney of Minot; grandchildren: Beth (Adam) Nigon, Adam Zavalney (fiance, Emma Gruber), Brock and Mandi Zavalney; great-granddaughter: Claire Nigon; sister: Mabel Verbitsky of Minot and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents and sister: Evelyn Verbitsky.

Funeral Service: Thursday, December 23, 2010, at 2:00 p.m. in Immanuel Baptist Church Minot.
Interment will be in the spring in the Butte Community Cemetery.
Visitation: Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. in the Thomas Family Funeral Home Minot.