Obituary of Ralph Allen Bales

Ralph Allen Bales, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away on March 20, 2010 at the age of 79. Born in Van Buren, Missouri to Ray and Marie Bales on August 26, 1930. Ralph worked on his fathers strawberry farm in Lynden, Washington for many years until he became a Washington State Patrol. It was more than a job to him. He was very proud of being a police officer for 30 years. After retiring from the State Patrol he worked at Boeing for more than 10 years. Ralph was an avid gun collector and trap shooter. Ralph also enjoyed wood working, gardening and coin collecting. Ralph and Marleen met in Birch Bay, Washington in 1949 and were married for 54 years when Marleen passed away. Ralph is survived by sons Randy, Brian (Brenda), H.A. (Kelly); daughter Karen Pederson (Gary); grandchildren Nick Bales (Kelli), Ryan Bales, Jessie and Alex Bales, Nicole and Erik Pederson; great-grandchildren Samantha and Jacob Bales; and sister Nancy Wesselius. We will love him, miss him and keep him in our hearts forever. The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation to the staff at Franciscan Hospice and Garden Terrace who took very good care of our father. A private family graveside service will be held in his honor at the Sumner Cemetery. Donations to the Washington State Patrol Memorial Foundation would be greatly appreciated.