Ralph Curtis Bagstad, age 82, of rural Cashton, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.
Ralph was born on May 10, 1943, in Wisconsin. He was a 1961 graduate of Westby High School. After graduating, Ralph found work in Kenosha, Wisconsin, working at American Motors.
One night when Ralph was back home, he found himself at Danceland in rural Ontario. Little did he know that evening would shape the rest of his future, as it was there, he met Loretta Rueckheim. On June 12, 1965, the couple tied the knot and built a life together. They called Kenosha home until moving back to rural Cashton. Ralph then worked in road construction and was proud to be part of the crew that built the interstate across Wisconsin. He later worked as a welder for TRANE Company in La Crosse and grew tobacco on the family farm.
In his free time, Ralph enjoyed watching NASCAR events, welding, and woodworking. He was proud to have built the home where he and Loretta raised their family. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family at the racetrack, where his children were part of his pit crew, and later, Ralph proudly returned the favor by being part of their pit crews when they raced.
He is survived by his wife, Loretta Bagstad; children, Tracey Bagstad, Tony (Lori) Bagstad, and Denise (Justice) Granger; grandchildren, Brett (Shannon) Bagstad, Brittany (Adam) Mortimer, Hunter (Aspen) Granger, and Skyler Bagstad; great-grandchildren, Lincoln, Harper, Sadie, Maverick, and Kinsley; siblings, Donna (Tom) Hickerson and Arvid Frydenlund; and many Rueckheim in-laws.
Ralph was preceded in death by his mother, Cornelia Bagstad; grandmother, Christine Bagstad; and his Rueckheim in-laws.
In honoring Ralph’s wishes, no services will be held. The Torkelson Funeral Home in Cashton is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
Torkelson Funeral Home
