



1941
-
2024

Ralph Leroy Hedstrom, age 83, of Sun City, Arizona, formerly of Casper, Wyoming, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at his residence. Born on March 24, 1941, in Casper, Wyoming, to the late Ralph Palmer and Marcille Vivian (Douglas) Hedstrom, Ralph was a dedicated servant to his community and a beloved husband, father, and grandfather.
Ralph graduated from Natrona County High School in 1960 and pursued further education at Casper College, where he earned an associate degree in Criminal Justice in 1969. His commitment to law enforcement led him to the prestigious FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, in 1973, where he distinguished himself as the first patrolman to be accepted into the program. He served with honor as a sergeant at the Casper Police Department for 21 years before retiring in 1983. Following his retirement, he continued his service as an investigator for the State of Wyoming for eight additional years.
In 1962, Ralph married the love of his life, Carol Annette Rightmire, and together they embarked on a journey of 63 years filled with love, partnership, and adventure. The couple was blessed with two sons, Brad and Brian, and three grandchildren, Dane, Zach, and Austin.
A man of many hobbies, Ralph was an avid outdoorsman who cherished fishing, camping, and hunting in the great outdoors, particularly in the Grand Tetons. He was also skilled in woodworking and carpentry, taking pride in remodeling homes, including his wife’s beauty salon, showcasing his craftsmanship and attention to detail. Ralph and Carol enjoyed traveling the country in their RV, exploring new landscapes and making memories together.
Ralph, like his mother, loved gardening and was active in the Natrona County Master Gardeners for many years. He loved August when they sold fresh corn at the Casper farmers market.
Ralph is survived by his loving wife, Carol; sons, Brad (1963) and Brian (1970); grandchildren, Dane, Zach, and Austin; and brothers, Dave and Vernon Hedstrom. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Carolyn Winburn, and brother Donny Hedstrom.
A memorial service to celebrate Ralph’s life will be held on July 13, 2024 at 2:00 pm at Bethel Baptist Church in Casper, Wyoming. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to a charity of choice in Ralph’s memory, honoring his spirit of generosity and community service.