Ralph Newton Anderson passed away on April 17, 2017 at Ivinson Memorial Hospital in Laramie Wyoming. Family and friends were able to say good-bye and he was at peace knowing he will rest until Jesus soon return.
Ralph was born on November 3, 1925 to Andy and Hazel (Frey) Anderson in Ft. Collins, Colorado and attended grade school where Horsetooth Reservoir is now located. After high school graduation from Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado he enlisted in the Navy and became a communications specialist. He often told stories of his adventures in the South Seas most of which were true.
He met his future wife, Geraldine E. Morgan, at a rodeo while riding broncs in Buena Vista, Colorado. They were married on December 5, 1948 and had four wonderful children. The family moved to Laramie in 1965 where he began Anderson Construction, building many homes in this growing community.
He loved many of the outdoor activities that Wyoming and Laramie had to offer. Among his favorites, floating down the Platte fly fishing, hunting in the Snowy Range and many hiking and camping trips. He was an avid bird watcher and even after losing most of his eyesight later in life Ralph could still identify a bird just from the description. He attended the Seventh-day Adventist Church for many years and was a member of the Audubon Society.
Until late in life Ralph was very active in Alcoholics Anonymous helping whoever he could. Always willing to listen and provide encouragement for old friends or new ones, it never mattered the age. For those who knew him or would listen he always had a story to tell.
Ralph was proceeded in death by his wife of 55 years Gerri Anderson who passed away in March of 2003. His sister, Ada Mae Price also proceeded him in death. He is survived by his children, Stephen L. Anderson (Tracy) of Laramie, WY, David N. Anderson, (Sherry) of Laramie, WY, Sandra L. Pistono (Robert) of Cheyenne, WY and Terry M. Anderson (Colleen) of Franktown, CO. Ralph has 7 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, and 4 great, great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Fred Anderson (Sandi) and many nieces and nephews.
All the Family would like to thank the great people at Spring Wind in Laramie who brought joy to him on a daily basis and of course listen to his stories.
A time of remembrance service will be held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, 1416 Boswell Drive, Laramie on Wednesday, April 26 at 2pm and please bring a thought or story to share. A celebration of life will be planned for family in June. Donations in Ralph’s memory can be sent to the Audubon Society.
Marantha!
Steve and Dave......I will remember Ralphs always cheerful disposition. He always was interested in what any of us were doing.....many times we ran into each other on your job sites, and he never failed to visit--really cared about many of us construction workers and the industry . Together --with Donald Jones, Don Bird, Chuck Groathouse, et al.....he was a much respected builder. You can be proud of his constant humanity in an otherwise turbulent industry in those busy construction years. My best to you....rejoice in his peace that now continues..... Ralph Johnson jr.
Dear Sandy, Steve, Dave & Terry (and the entire family), Oh how I will miss my prayer partner of the last 9 or so years! Ralph was passionate about praying for people and he fueled my passion to commit to praying for those we love or who need prayer! I can only imagine how proud you are of your dad as I see the beautiful family he and your mom created. And now I pray for all of you, that you will be encouraged and blessed by the beautiful memories you hold dear. I will miss saying "Hi Ralphie!" and hearing his chuckle as I hugged him! Love to all of you and see you Wednesday.
Sorry to hear that Ralph passed away, I hope he was with family and friends. I remember him as a happy fun loving man who loved to fish and hunt. Once on his birthday he came and took me from my job so I could take him to my favorite fishing hole, that was Ralph.
Sorry to hear about Ralph passing. He can me a chance to learn carpentry and I remembered him as a great person. I will always be thankful. Randy Kinsey
Steve, Dave, Sandy and Families, we were very sad to learn of Ralph's passing, he was a wonderful man. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Dave, Steve, Sandy and Terry, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. I enjoyed our visits when I was helping him at his house. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Our condolences. Always knew my voice at church. Sure liked him & stories of area. We enjoyed " bird talk". Have eye appt in Ft Collins on 26 th but prayers with you.
Steve, Dave, Sandy and Terry-- I loved your Dad. It breaks my heart that Al and I won't be there to give all of you hugs at his memorial service. Please know that we are there in spirit, and we are sharing in your laughter, tears and memories. I loved listening to his stories, his memories and hearing him talk about all of you. He loved his grandchildren and great-grands very much, and was so proud of all of you. He gave the best hugs, and his warmth was contagious. You are all in our thoughts and prayers, Allory and Dawn Deiss
Steve, Dave, Sandy and families, I am very saddened to learn of Ralph's passing. His leaving is going to leave a BIG gap in all of your lives. Just remember all the joy you brought to him and vice versa. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.