Joseph A. Ranson, 75, died unexpectedly Monday at Melrose -Wakefield Hospital. Born and raised in Boston, he lived there most of his life and resided in Melrose for the past 15 yrs. Joseph was the son of the late Michael and Jennie ( MacDonald ) Ranson. Brother of Josephine Sullivan and Dorothy Clark both of Melrose. Private Services will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W Foster St, Melrose. Burial will be in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. There are no visiting hours. Visitation: No Visitation Friday, December 27, 2002 No Visitation