http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1986-05-22/news/8602060666_1_outboard-marine-frances-langford-recreational-boating
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Ralph Evinrude grew up with outboard motors. He served as president of Outboard Motors Corp. in 1934 and then Outboard Marine in 1936, when it was formed by a merger of Outboard Motors Corp. and Johnson Motor Co. He became chairman in 1963 and retired
in 1982.
Under his leadership, the firm expanded to marine and nonmarine products such as Lawn-Boy power mowers and Ryan turf-care equipment as well as Cushman industrial vehicles. He was instrumental in the development of industry firsts such as outboard gearshifts, electric starting and remote controls.
His wife, entertainer Frances Langford, was a popular singer and movie actor during the 1940s. During and after World War II, she traveled a million miles with Bob Hope, entertaining American troops. She later hosted once-a-year specials on television with other stars.
Mr. Evinrude headed three philanthropic foundations. Two of them, Ole Evinrude Foundation Inc. and Ralph Evinrude Foundation Inc., donate to schools, hospitals and community organizations. The third honors contributions to recreational boating.
Survivors, besides his wife, include a daughter, Sally Slater; a son, Thomas; four grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter."
