Ralph E. Tobias

Ralph E. Tobias, 88, formerly of Reading and Pottstown, passed away at his home in Conewago
Twp., York Co., PA at 12:45 am on Saturday, April 20, 2024, after a long illness. He was born in
West Reading, PA on July 11, 1935, the son of Samuel B. & Barbara R. (Deeds) Tobias. He was
the husband of Elaine M. (Axe) Tobias with whom he shared nearly 35 years of marriage.
Raised in Reading, Ralph was a graduate of Reading High Class of 1953, and he graduated
with associate degrees from Wyomissing Polytechnic Institute and Pace Institute. He worked for
Textile Machine Works / Rockwell for nearly 21 years as a machinist, design technician, and
R&D product engineering technician. He later worked as a mechanical draftsman for Buell-
Envirotech, Gilbert Associates, and Wagner, and as a Quality Control technician with Dana
Parish. It was during his time with Gilbert when he completed a long-term assignment in design
drafting at the nuclear facility in Columbia, SC.
When people think of Ralph Tobias, music is one of the first thoughts that comes to mind. Ralph
began guitar lessons at an early age and developed quickly into an exceptional guitarist. He
played lead guitar for several local bands in the 50s, 60s, and 70s including the Ernie Ray Trio,
the Monterays, the Naturals, and Mourning Son with whom he had a #1 hit on a Lebanon, PA
radio station. After taking a long break to spend more time with his family, he began playing with
the Joe Soltysik Band, performing at fairs, festivals, and nursing homes for the next few
decades and into his 80s. For over 50 years, Ralph also taught guitar and other stringed-
instrument lessons at various local music shops including Michaels Music, where he taught for
over 30 years.
Ralph had a deep love for his Savior, Jesus Christ, and spent most of his life working to become
the best person he could be. He was very much a student of continuous learning and self-
improvement and tried to foster that in his children in his kind and patient way. He was a very
busy man, but he always made time to be part of the lives of his beloved children. He was their
biggest fan and most loyal friend. His love and dedication were constants in their lives. He was a
member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in many different teaching,
leadership, and administrative callings over the years. But the calling he most enjoyed was that
of Executive Secretary to the ward bishop. This was where his organizational and note-taking
skills were well utilized.
His hobbies included electronics, gardening, teaching, and expanding his musical knowledge.
He loved learning about radio and TV repair and used to own and tinker with several old tube
radios. Later in life, he learned how to play the cello. He also sang in the church choir for many
years
In addition to his wife, Ralph is survived by 6 children from his first marriage: Melody (Matt)
Flynn of Spring Twp., Ralph (Eileen) Tobias of Corpus Christi, TX, Crystal Ritter of Mount Airy,
NC, Michael (Nicole) Tobias of Leesburg, VA, Robin (Richard) Jarman of Springville, UT, and
Susan (Elmus) Crayton of Holly Springs, NC. He leaves behind 23 grandchildren and 38 great
grandchildren. He is also survived by 2 stepdaughters: Robin Tolbert and Greta (Tolbert) Cook,
both of York Co., 5 step-grandchildren, and 7 step-great grandchildren. Other survivors include
his first wife, Nancy N. Yoder, and his brother, Ronald L. Tobias.
He was predeceased by his parents; sister, Ruth D. (Tobias) Roeder; half-sister, Marguerite E.
(Tobias) Schmeer; and half-brother, Lawrence B. Tobias, as well as a granddaughter, Jolee M.
Boarder.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, 3344 Reading Crest Avenue, Reading PA 19605, with a viewing from 9:30
am-10:30 am and funeral services beginning at 11:00 am. The burial will take place at Alsace
Cemetery, 2155 Kutztown Rd, Reading, PA 19605.

Stitzel Family Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., Laureldale, is in charge of arrangements.  For online condolences, visit www.StitzelFamilyFuneralHomes.com.

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