Ralph Looney

Ralph Looney, 96, of Parkersburg passed away December 23, 2018 at Camden Clark Medical Center. He was born March 17, 1922 in Looneyville, WV to the late Peter and Clara Wright Looney. He was a 1941 graduate of Calhoun County High School and was in the Coast Guard stationed in Alaska. He was the Owner and Operator of Ralph's Market. In 1948, Ralph started with a produce stand on Camden Avenue in Parkersburg. In 1952, he moved it to 2108 Pike St. Later in the 1950's, he put in a complete line of groceries. In 1962, Ralph remodeled and enlarged the store to a supermarket and named it "Ralph's, the Supermarket with Personality." Over the years, it grew to be the second largest, single, independent grocery store in West Virginia. He was also a former employee of Libby-Owens. He was a Thirty-Third Degree Mason associating with Jester's, Shriner's, and Ben-Bay Grotto. He was also a member of The Moose, Elks, and Eagles and enjoyed watching sports on television. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Janet Looney, one son, Richard "Rick" Looney of Parkersburg, WV, and two daughters, Connie (John) Hickman and Michele (Jeff) Elder, both of Parkersburg, WV, three grandchildren, Robin (Rick) Barbour, Jeff (Francie) Looney and Kristy (Brad) Kimes, five great-grandchildren, one sister-in-law, Velma Looney and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two brothers, Denzil Looney and Harold Looney, four sisters, Mae Hicks, Maude Hileman, Pauline Boso and Norma Ketchum. A private Service is planned at the convenience of the family with burial being at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Donations may be made to your favorite charity in memory of Ralph and will be greatly appreciated.