Dr. Ralph William Bane, 97, of Downers Grove, IL, and Brevard, NC, peacefully passed into the light, in his home, surrounded by his family on February 5th. Ralph was born on June 14, 1916 in Chicago, IL. He attended the University of Chicago and went on to work as an Atomic Energy Research Chemist alongside Enrico Fermi and Einstein at the Argonne National Laboratory in Illinois. He met his beautiful Wife, Christine while Ice Skating at the midway in Chicago. Ralph was a devoted family man and dedicated his life to the betterment of humanity. Ralph is survived by his beautiful wife of 73 years Christine Bane, his two amazing daughters Cynthia and Carolyn Bane, his wonderful grandchildren Jennifer Bane and Sean Burke-Bane, his precious great granddaughter Emily Christine Charbonneau and his faithful and loyal canine companion Killer. The family will be holding a celebration of his life at the Moody-Connolly Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday Feb. 15th at 2pm followed by a reception at The Phoenix on 14 S. Gaston Street. The family requests that in lieu of flowers you make a contribution to your charity of choice as Ralph was a big believer in helping animals and humans in need. On line condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com Moody-Connolly Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.