Ralph Costyn

Costyn, Ralph

Detroit, Michigan

His Legacy… Ralph Edward Costyn, 91, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026. He was born on November 16, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to Charles Costyn and Johanna (Marx) Costyn. Ralph married the love of his life, Mary Lu Ubell, on June 1, 1957, in Ontario, Canada. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and devotion to one another. Ralph will be remembered for his deep commitment to his Catholic faith, his unwavering love for his family, and his dedicated service to the Church. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1956. After his military service, he continued serving others through his parish, St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Detroit, where he was a lector, a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the parish council. Ralph’s warmth, wisdom, and steady presence left a lasting impression on many, and those close to him affectionately called him, “the Pope”.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Ralph became a licensed barber and worked alongside him in the family business in Detroit. For more than 70 years, he faithfully served generations of customers, forming friendships and sharing laughter along the way. His love for people was evident in his quick wit, infectious humor, and his ability to tell the perfect joke at just the right time. In keeping with Ralph’s good sense of humor, he would remind family to put on his headstone, “See, I told you I was sick.” Ironically, he was a healthy man most of his life.

An avid hockey enthusiast, Ralph enjoyed making a backyard ice rink for his children and their neighborhood friends. He also found joy in playing tennis, card games, completing crossword puzzles, and tending to his beloved gardens. Ralph’s life was one of faith, service, humor, and love — a legacy that will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

His Family… Ralph will be missed by his children, Kathleen (Max) Collins, Diane (David) Costyn-Prahl, Carol (Jesse) Cutlip, Mark (Celeste) Costyn; grandchildren, RJ (Olivia), Corey (Paige), Samantha (Adam), Shane, Amanda, Megan (Gary), Jamie (Jon), Joshua (Nicole), Jill (Bill), Kenny (Nicole), Dan, Alex (Amanda), Austin (Holly), Aaron, Vincent, Nick; 31 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife, Mary Lu; parents, Charles and Johanna Costyn; siblings, Josephine, Joseph, Bridget, Ceilia.

His Farewell… Ralph’s family and friends will gather 10:00 am Saturday, February 28, 2026, until his Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am, at St. John  Catholic Church in Howell, Michigan. He will be laid to rest at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan following the Mass. Father Francis George will serve as celebrant. Memorial contributions are suggested to ALS Association. Please leave a message of comfort for Ralph’s family at 1-877-231-7900, or sign his guestbook at www.borekjennings.com.

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