Ralph S. Feeback (Commander.; USN, Ret.)

On February 26, 2025, (Ret.) Commander Ralph S. Feeback, a dedicated Navy veteran and beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, strength, and love.

Commander Feeback served in the United States Navy for an extraordinary 32 years. He enlisted as an Aviation Electronics Technician, where his hard work, skill, and leadership quickly became evident. He converted to an Enlisted Bombardier-Navigator in 1957. In 1963, he became a Reconnaissance Attack Navigator and was commissioned as an officer. Commander Feeback served on six U.S. Naval aircraft carriers and flew five different Navy aircraft during his career. He completed 667 aircraft carrier landings, four of which resulted in severe damage to the aircraft. On August 6, 1970, during the maiden voyage of the USS John F. Kennedy, he was forced to eject into the ocean due to engine failure. His career was a testament to perseverance, excellence, and patriotism.

He played a significant role in designing and implementing the installation of two memorial plaques for the Naval Enlisted Bombardier Navigator Association. One is placed prominently at Veterans Memorial Park in Sanford. The other is located in front of the RA-5C Vigilante aircraft at the entrance to Orlando/Sanford International Airport.

Commander Feeback received numerous commendations throughout his career including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal with Gold Star (2), Meritorious Unit Commendation, Battle "E" Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal with Gold Star, Armed Services Expeditionary Medal, (2) National Defense Service Medals, Vietnam Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with 60's Device, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.

Ralph was preceded in death by his beloved wives, Penny (1955-2003) and Delores (2004-2023), whom he cherished deeply in love and partnership. He is survived by his devoted daughter, his treasured grandchildren, and his loving great-granddaughters, all of whom carry forward his values and spirit.

To those who knew him, Commander Feeback-or "Rotten Ralph" as his friends knew him-was more than a serviceman. He was a man of integrity, quiet strength, and unwavering loyalty. He will be remembered not only for his distinguished military career but for the love he had for life.

He was an active and dedicated member of several organizations, including Elks Lodge No. 2740 in Golden, Colorado, of which he was a founding member, as well as Elks Lodge No. 1241 in Sanford. He was the last remaining life member at the Fleet Reserve and will certainly be missed at DAV Chapter 30 in Sanford.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10 o'clock at Newcomer South Seminole Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in his honor to a veteran's organization of your choice.

Fair winds and following seas, Commander. You are deeply loved and will be dearly missed.