Ralph “Spike” Wells Jr.

Ralph Spike Wells
Ralph Wells Jr., a.k.a. “Spike” was born September 17, 1961, and passed away February 22nd, 2025, at the age of 63. Spike was born to Ralph and Margaret Wells and grew up in Bellevue, Washington.
He fought a brave and difficult 8 ½ year battle with early onset Parkinson’s disease complicated by a stroke. He passed away peacefully with his wife and both children by his side.
He met his wife Nancy Tissell at Woodridge Elementary School in Bellevue Washington in 1966 and they continued through school at Hyak Junior High and Sammamish High School. After knowing of each other for many years, they began dating in 1990 and married in 1994. They built a wonderful life and family together.
Spike attended University of Washington where he earned a B.A. in Business in 1985. He then spent his career managing his family’s nursery/landscape businesses – R&R Nursery in Bellevue and Wells Farm & Nursery in Fall City, Washington. He was known for his creative talent, knowledge, warmth and integrity to his clients.
Spike had a lifelong passion for landscaping, fishing, hunting, skiing, hiking, sports and spending time with his family, friends and neighbors. He could find a friend anywhere, bringing people together with his kindness, humor and genuine spirit. Spike was a fun-loving man of profound grace, strength, and selflessness – touching the lives of everyone around him. He was a devoted and amazing husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend.
Spike is survived by his wife Nancy and their 2 children, Gunnar and Alana. He is also survived by his mother Margaret, his many cherished nieces & nephews, and a sister. He was preceded in death by his father Ralph Wells Sr. and his sister Kimberly Wells.
A public service and celebration of life will be held at Cascade Covenant Church in North Bend, Washington on Sunday, March 30th at 1:00 pm. Those wishing to honor Spike are asked to consider a donation to the Parkinson’s foundation at www.parkinsons.org
5 Responses to “Ralph “Spike” Wells Jr.”
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Our sincere condolences on the loss of your dear husband and father. I was a neighbor to Wells Nursery in Fall City, and a customer for years before I met the rest of the family through Alana and Samantha…. I treasure you all and Spike’s memory – what great contributions to our communities the family and Spike and Wells’ Nursery have made.
My fondest memories of Spike are when he would catch salmon in the river behind the old house with his hands😆. Skiing in the winters and 15 foot Christmas tree deliveries. Dot my mother and I would have to get on ladders to decorate it with the most beautiful ornaments from the nursery. Spike was a true gift to everyone who knew him and will be so greatly missed.
I am saddened to hear this. I knew Ralph from Highschool. I remember his happy attitude, nice hair and a gentle smile. As so many of us drifted away from the people we knew and saw on a daily basis to pursue adulthood it fascinates me to read about a person’s life accomplishments and passions to realize how all very connected we are. Condolences to the family, RIP Ralph.
Our sincere condolences on the loss of your dear husband and father. May the memories of your loved one bring you comfort during this time of sorrow.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Spike, our dear friend. He had a true passion for the outdoors, finding joy in fishing and hunting. For many years, we relied on Spike to pick out the perfect Christmas tree, a tradition that made the holiday season even more special.
Spike was more than a friend; he was woven into the traditions that made life meaningful. We will always cherish the memories of our annual Seafair parties in Seattle, where his presence brought laughter, entertainment, and camaraderie.
His love for nature and friendship will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace, surrounded by family, friends, and the beauty he cultivated and loved.