BLUE HILL – Ralph C. Chaney Jr., 82, died unexpectedly, Jan. 6, 2010, in Blue Hill. Ralph was born in Seat Pleasant, Md., son of Louise and Ralph Chaney, and lived in that area until he finished high school. After wartime service with the Army Transportation Service and the U.S. Army, he attended Benjamin Franklin University School of Accounting. He was employed by Giant Food, Inc., Washington, D.C., for 39 years. As director of advance systems for Giant, he was instrumental in the development of the computer-operated grocery warehouse and the point-of-sale inventory system used in supermarkets. He served on the board of governors of National Supermarket Institute. Upon his retirement in 1986, he moved to Blue Hill, where he had time to indulge his love of gardening. Active in St. Francis by the Sea Episcopal Church, he was a member of the vestry and for many years, was chairman of the parish finance committee. He also served as treasurer of a capital campaign and 14 of the annual summer fairs. Additionally, he served on the church’s clergy search committee. He was also a member of the local “Lunch Bunch.” He was the beloved husband of Emily Chaney of Blue Hill. He is also survived by his daughter, Mary Chaney and her partner, Ryan McKisson, of South Portland; and six nieces and nephews. His son, Mark Chaney, predeceased him. A celebration of his life will be held 2 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, at St. Francis by the Sea, Blue Hill. A spring burial is planned. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Memorial Fund at St. Francis by the Sea, P.O. Box 76, Blue Hill, ME 04614.
RALPH C. CHANEY JR.
