Ralph Parichan

Ralph Parichan, born in 1934, husband to Hedy for 59 years, father to Eric and Kevin, grandfather to Craig, Daniel, and Brett, died peacefully on Sunday, January 17, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and Albert, and brother James. For over 30 years he was the owner of the family business, Sam's Shoe Store, which was founded in Reedley in 1914. During this time, Ralph supported the local community and downtown in various ways, including being an early member of the Reedley Downtown Association. Whether it was being mistaken "Sam", spending time with his coffee club buddies, letting people know that "it's all fixed", or playing a round of golf with friends, he freely shared his gentle smile and laugh. Eventually Eric would take over the shoe store, and though Ralph never really retired from the shoe business, he and Hedy spent many years traveling together, taking cruises and visiting her family in Austria. In their later years together, Ralph was devoted to taking care of Hedy as her health declined, and regularly attended services at Sts. Sahag-Mesrob Armenian Church. Even when Hedy was confined to a nursing home, Ralph would visit her daily to comfort her and bring her the occasional chocolate, fruit, or other treat that he knew she loved. In his last few moments of life, Hedy was there with him and was able to provide some comfort to him as he passed away.