Ralph W. Balster

Ralph Warren Balster was born on a cold and wintery day, January 16, 1926 in Chadron, Nebraska. He died on a warm fall afternoon, September 28, 2010 in Florence, Colorado. Growing up in Chadron, his father’s work as a Locomotive Engineer for the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad attracted Ralph to travel interests; railroads, airlines, trucks and ships, etc. After graduating from Chadron High School Ralph joined the Merchant Marine Corps during WWII and later served in the US Army. After his service to his country, he completed his education at Chadron State College and taught music in several states. He later worked for United Airlines in passenger services, continuing to travel the country. He married Marian Bradshaw in 1951 and they had two children that survive him, Robert (Sarah) Balster of Co. Springs and Lisa (Tony) Turrini of Alaska. He was later married to Lyda Cessna, who preceded him in death and their travels were also extensive as Ralph continued with his career in Music Education and multiple business adventures ending in the oil fields surrounding Enid, OK. He is also survived and loved by a host of new family members including 4 step children, 6 grandchildren, great grandchildren and at least one great, great grandchild. His close relationship with his cousins and friends, Boyd Baldauf, Ruth Blake and Marilyn Grey brought him to Pueblo in 2003 where he has been an active volunteer at St. Mary-Corwin Hospital, the Weisbrod Aircraft Museum and the Railroad Museum. These activities helped him advance his lifelong fascination with Aircraft and Railroads. Cremation in the Davis Crematory. A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Friday, Oct 1, 2010 in the Ecumenical Church of Pueblo West, 434 W. Conquistador in Pueblo West. Online condolences at DavisMortuary.com.