Surrounded by his family, Ralph Hebert passed away Sunday, October 31, 2010.
Ralph, known as RH to many, was born June 5th 1927 in Chicago, Illinois. In addition to Chicago, he lived throughout Florida including North Key Largo and Miami Beach before settling in Vero Beach 25 years ago.
He proudly served his country in the Army during 1945-1947 while stationed in Germany. After returning home from his deployment, he attended General Motors Institute and graduated with a BS in automotive marketing and finance.
Ralphs early business dealings in Florida began in the 1950s when he acquired the Cadillac Hotel on Miami Beach. He was a true visionary leader in the automobile industry as evidenced when he relocated the Oldsmobile GMC franchise to Homestead Florida in 1962. He expanded the dealership to include seven brands. Ralph served as president of the South Florida Automobile Dealers Association during the 1970s and founded the South Florida Auto Show. Additionally, he served on numerous bank boards.
He was also instrumental as a founder and rescued the Coconut Grove Playhouse.
Ralph was an avid sports and fishing enthusiast and shared many happy times in the Florida Keys with his family and friends. He was everyones friend and never missed an opportunity to help a friend in need. He was his childrens confidante and shared expert advice from his life experiences that made them the strong men and women they are today. The family counted at least nine lives Ralph lived one of the most loving and interesting men to have known.
He enjoyed memberships at many clubs including Midlothian Country Club, Union League, Ocean Reef Club, Mission Ranch Club and the Moorings Club. He enjoyed cruising the world and had homes in Carmel, CA and Scottsdale, AZ.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Bernice and their combined 9 children;
Kathryn Skaletsky, James Hebert, Frank Hebert (Susan), Jeffry Hebert ( Rhonda), Elizabeth Novak (Michael).Rick Horan (Michelle), Paul Hebert (Dee), Jim Horan (Colleen), Michael Horan and Jean Hebert, his ex-wife and life-long friend, 18 grand children and two great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at a later date for friends and family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to the VNA Hospice House, 901 37th St, Vero Beach, Fl 32960