Yopp, Ralph Myron

Ralph Myron Yopp, 89 of Christiansburg, passed away on Friday, October 11, 2013. Ralph was born in Floyd County, the son of Ben and Ida Yopp. He is preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth H. (Betty) Yopp; sisters, Ruby Weeks, Virginia Adkins; and his brother, Bryce Yopp. He is survived by his daughter & son-in-law, Louise Baker & George Anderson; daughter, Linda Yopp; step-grandson and wife, Michael & Lisa Anderson. Ralph was a Navy veteran of WWII. He served on the battleship, USS Maryland BB46 “The Fighting Mary.” One of his greatest joys was the annual gathering of his navy buddies for their reunions. He was able to visit many places across the country and each year refight the battles. He was active for over 50 years with the Masonic Lodges in Floyd and Christiansburg, serving in all of their leadership positions. Ralph was a soft spoken and gentle man with a strong faith in God. He loved the outdoors, baseball, and bowling. His moments of pleasure were working in the garden, setting on the back porch of his daughter’s home in Riner to enjoy the quiet and view and working as weekend Ranger for Auburn Hills and Round Meadow Golf Courses. For several years, he loved to ride the golf cart around the course meeting and greeting with golfers to make sure everyone was having a good time. Ralph returned to Floyd after the war and played baseball with the Floyd Blue Sox. His favorite baseball team was anyone playing the Atlanta Braves or the New York Yankees. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, October 14, 2013 at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 5651 Floyd Hwy S, Willis, VA 24380 with Pastor Linda Motley officiating. Interment will follow in the Willis Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9: 30 – 11 a.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to St. Mark Lutheran Church, c/o Pat Coulehan, 2590 Duncan Chapel Rd, Willis, VA 24380. Many thanks to the bowling leagues of the NRV Super Bowl; Ralph enjoyed many hours of friendship and fun. A special thanks to Brian Adkins for providing transportation the last couple of months. Special thanks to the staff at English Meadow for making him feel at home & the staff at Carilion New River Valley PCU & CCU for their excellent care. Ralph will be missed by his family and friends.