Ralph Leslie Carter

On April 26, 2023, due to old age, a failing body, and having had about as much fun as I could stand, the Lord and I decided I should travel to another place, to get reacquainted and party with old friends and family that I have been longing to see. 

I was born at home on June 29, 1937, in Caliente, NV to the world’s greatest parents, William L. and LaVern (Evans) Carter. In 1960, I married the love of my life, Tonya Lee Hansen. We have been lovers for 63 years. We produced five wonderful children. Scott (Vicki) Carter, Michelle (Dave) Jacobs, Mark (Lisa-deceased), Stacey (Jeff) Seabolt, and Craig (Jo-Anne) Carter. Our children have given us 20 super grandchildren, and they in turn, 54 great grandchildren. My wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren have given me purpose and joy in my life. 

I attended public school in Caliente, NV until my family moved to Ogden in 1948. I graduated from Ogden High School in 1955. I graduated from the University of Utah in 1962. While in high school and college, my success came in the form of athletics. I played football and participated in track for the U of U, both of which I loved. These successes led me to a career in public education as a teacher and a coach. I taught at Roy Jr. High and Roy High for 25 years. From there I moved to Weber School District, where I served as the curriculum specialist for health, PE, driver education, and athletic director for Jr. High School athletics. 

In 1960, I accepted a commission in the United States Army as a 2nd Lieutenant. Tonya and I were then on our way to Ft. Eustis, VA., spending 2 years there. After returning to Ogden, I chose to stay in the US Army Reserves where I served for 30 years. I retired in 1990 at the rank of Colonel. During my service in the 96th Army Reserve Command, I commanded several units in the Ogden and SLC area. The Army gave me the opportunity for a second career and pleasure of serving with some great soldiers and friends. 

Preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Norma Abshire and Darlene Chambers; and daughter-in-law, Lisa Carter.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at 11 a.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. Friends may visit with family on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the mortuary. Interment, Lindquist’s Washington Heights Memorial Park, 4500 Washington Blvd.

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