VALLEY CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Former State Legislator Ralph Metcalf passed away at the North Dakota Veteran’s Home in Lisbon, N.D. on March 21, 2026 at the age of 90.

Metcalf was elected to the North Dakota House of Representatives and represented the Democratic-NPL Party in District 24 from 1998 to 2012. He served on the House Appropriations and Human Resources committees. He was known as he stated “to buck his party a few times during his 14 years but gained the respect from members on both sides of the isle.” Thus forming strong friendships from both parties. He played a strong role for passing legislation for construction of the Veteran’s Home project in Lisbon, ND. He also played a strong role of the reconstruction upgrade for the State Penitentiary project in Bismarck. He was a strong advocate for all the people of District 24 and North Dakota during his time in office.

Metcalf was a member of the North Dakota National Guard Company G 164th Infantry. He served 42 years and held many supervisory positions. He ended his military career as a Chief Warrant Officer 4 in 1995.

Ralph was also involved in the North Dakota Winter Show as secretary and manager from 1981-1987 and was honored by the Midwest Dairy Association during the 80th annual show in 2017 for his support to promote dairy and agriculture.

A prayer service for Ralph Metcalf will be held at Traditions Funeral Service, Lerud Mathias Funeral Home Chapel in Valley City at 7pm on Friday, March 27th with visitation from 6pm to 7pm. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11am, Wednesday, March 28th at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church. Military honors will take place at his graveside when he is laid to rest at St. Catherine’s Cemetery in Valley City later this year.

The Metcalf Family suggests memorials be directed to the North Dakota Veteran’s Home in Lisbon, CHI Home Health and Hospice, St. Catherine’s Catholic Church or to the charity of your choice.