Ralph Lincoln Mahan

Ralph L Mahan, 94, passed away peacefully on September 9th 2019, at Sunrise Assisted Living in Glen Cove, NY.  He was born June 10th, 1925 in Cold Spring Harbor, NY.  He is survived by his granddaughter Jessica Byer (Brian Byer), his daughters Margrethe Randall (Mark Randall) and Rebecca Mahan, son Clayton Mahan (Terry Foss-Mahan) and son in law Frank Schmitz (Helen Schmitz deceased).  His wife Marjorie Mahan predeceased him in 2009.  He attended Columbia University and University of Colorado where he earned his degree and found his passion in Aeronautical Engineering.  He worked at Grumman, Sikorsky Aircraft, Boeing and Lycoming during his career.  He enlisted in the Army while in High School and missed his prom as he was called to serve.  He went on to become an instructor and remained in the Army Reserve after his tour was completed, achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel.  He traveled extensively with the Army, including to Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan and Yemen.  Both he and his wife travelled to China, Alaska, Africa and Greece.  He enjoyed spending his time sailing, skiing, gardening and swimming in the jetty at the Old Field home where they lived, along with their dogs.  Along with his family he enjoyed a ski home in Laconia NH, and he spent the later part of his life in NH as this was where his heart was.  He had a great appreciation for wildlife and nature. He enjoyed the fresh air and country living in Gilford NH until he was 92, at which point he moved down to Long Island to be closer to his family.  He will be missed in NH and forever missed by his family.  His entertaining stories will live on in the memories of those who cared so deeply for him.  May he rest in peace.