Louis Ridle

Former Alaskan Louis Dale Ridle died June 5, 2011, with family by his side.

He was born Sept. 3, 1930, to Earl Ridle and Nellie Hawkins Ridle on their farm in Gracemont, Okla. He was one of six children.

Louis received an industrial engineering degree from Oklahoma State University, a master's degree in special education from Arizona State University, and did postgraduate work toward a Ph.D. at Arizona State University and the University of Alaska.

In 1949, Louis joined the National Guard and served with "B" Battery, 158th Field Artillery Battery in the Korean War.

After his discharge in 1952, he met and married Beth Lucas in 1953.

Louis taught school and was also an administrator. He was appointed by Gov. William A. Egan as director of vocational education for the State of Alaska; he worked as the director of labor relations for Alyeska Pipeline; served in labor relations for Sealand Services, and was the director of cooperative education at Redlands Community College in Oklahoma. After retirement, he was a full-time arbitrator for FMCS.

In 1967, Louis and Beth moved their family to Juneau. Their journey was a week-long drive carrying all their belongings in a trailer, ending with a ride on the M/V Taku.

Louis loved Alaska, where he loved to fish, hunt and travel. He had many friends in Alaska.

After many years in Alaska, Louis and Beth moved back to Oklahoma, where they reestablished ties with old friends.

He was very active in the U.S. Marshals Posse, a nonprofit group first formed to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Marshals Service. Louis was often the center of a good time, a good story or a good deed. He was loved by many all over the world for his quick wit and ability to fix or build anything. He was "Uncle" to many who needed his help or friendship.

Louis was predeceased by two children, Dana and William; his parents; and brothers.

He is survived by his wife, Beth of Yukon, Okla.; two sisters and one brother; sons, Lynn and wife Kim Ridle, and Tim and wife Teresa Ridle; daughter, Leslie Ridle; grandchildren, Tyler, Brandon and Chelsey, Jacob, Amy, Haley, Kaytie and Emma; and great-grandchildren, Krew, Aubrey, Ryder and Hajla. He loved his two horses, Tiger and Molly.

A memorial service and burial were held in Oklahoma.

Remembrances can be sent to the U.S. Marshals Posse, Western District of Oklahoma, Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 2246, Oklahoma City, OK 73101. Condolences can be sent to 1017 Walsh Lane, Yukon, OK 73099.