Ralph “Rusty” Sloan Jr., 77, of De Soto died May 8, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mr. Sloan retired as a carman welder from the Union Pacific Railroad. He served in the U.S. Army for three and a half years during the Vietnam War. Due to his electronic skills, he was chosen to work in high-security communications. He worked mainly at Camp David and the White House. He traveled on the President's plane and helicopter at times and oversaw setting up the podium where the President spoke in many different areas and events. He loved working on cars and owned several classic vehicles. He was known as a devoted family man and friend, who was willing to lend a helping hand. Born May 24, 1948, in De Soto, he was the son of the late Jeanine F. (Pierce) and Ralph F. Sloan Sr.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years: Beverly “Bev” (Wilson) Sloan of De Soto; two sons: Darrell F. Sloan and Richard A. Sloan; two stepsons: James B. Norris and John W. Norris; three grandchildren: Joshua (Crystal) Sloan, Kayla Sloan and Shelby Sloan-Lazzara; a great-granddaughter: Elizabeth Sloan; a sister: Pamela Mahurin; a brother Terry Sloan; and many other family members, friends and neighbors.
He was preceded in death by a sister: Carol Sanders; and a brother: Robert “Bob” Sloan.
Mr. Sloan chose to donate his body to St. Louis University School of Medicine. Arrangements are under the direction of Dietrich-Mothershead Funeral Home in De Soto.