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Ralph Halverson Obituary
Lakeside, CA, formerly of Great Falls — Ralph Halverson passed away peacefully in his Lakeside, CA, home on the afternoon of May 20, 2013. At the time of his death, Ralph was 93 years old. He was born on 9/05/1919 in Tyvan, Saskatchewan, to Victoria & Carl Halverson. At the age of 5, his family moved to Flaxton, North Dakota, where he would graduate from high school as Valedictorian. Ralph graduated from Northern State Teachers College in Aberdeen, SD in 1941 (later named Northern State University). He was a star on the college basketball team, and college and Army Air Corps track & field team, especially in 1941, as a 13-foot pole vaulter, 23-foot long jumper, and sprinter. It was in Aberdeen that he met his girlfriend and future wife, Margaret Swanson. Ralph was drafted into the U.S. Army Air Corps, later to be named the U.S. Air Force. He was promoted multiple times within five days to the rank of Staff Sgt because his commanding officer wanted to keep him on the base in Boca Raton, FL. Ralph's position was fitness trainer and the commanding officer recognized and respected Ralph's treatment, training, and motivation toward all airmen and officers. No one under Ralph's watch, despite age, gender, rank, or race was treated any differently. Ralph was later stationed in Japan after WWII, and was a parachute jump instructor in the Air Force. Ralph liked to tell the story that he never jumped out of a plane, but was chosen as an instructor for his athletic abilities, especially his skill at landing safely in a pole vault pit of dirt or sand. Ralph and Margaret married in 1942 and were devoted to each other for 51 years. They had five children: Karen, Victoria, Cynthia, William, and a son, who died in infancy. After his military service, which ended at Malmstrom AFB in Great Falls, Ralph started teaching and coaching in Belt, MT. He then taught and coached at Cascade High School for 16 years. He spent his remaining years teaching PE and coaching Track & Field at Great Falls High School until his retirement in 1984. Winning wasn't everything for this coach. Ralph encouraged everyone to try their hardest and have fun, no matter the event. Ralph was the Executive Director and Clinic Director of the Montana Coaches Association since 1981. The annual MCA Multi-Sports Clinic was a highlight of his year. Ralph was proud of his children, enjoyed their company, and adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a golfer until about a year ago. His wit and adventure, joke telling, storytelling, dancing expertise, lust for life, and energy made him a favorite grandfather, uncle, coach and friend. His coaching awards are numerous, and his most recent Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Organization of Coaches Association Directors this past January, with his family present in Orlando, was especially meaningful to him. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents and all seven siblings, his loving wife Margaret, his baby son David Ralph, and his grandson Carl. Ralph is survived by his children, who will miss him terribly: Karen in Lakeside, CA; Victoria (Joseph) in Great Falls; Cynthia (Gary) in Winterville, NC; Bill (Tiemi) in Charlotte, NC. He also leaves behind 9 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. If memorials are desired, the Montana Coaches Association has a scholarship in Ralph's name. Please see http://montanacoaches.com/scholarships/
A celebration of Ralph's life will be held Friday, June 7th. More details at a later date are available at http://montanacoaches.com/officers/
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Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Halverson
Colmcille Gardner
June 23, 2021
Pray for peace.
Dean Baker
May 16, 2019
Gentleman at all times. Very helpful and giving person.
Michael Jerin
June 21, 2013
I just learned of Ralph's death yesterday, my heart and prayers go out to his family. The lessons I learned from Ralph during the years I played are still strongly followed today. I will miss him.
Liza Cortez-Cruz
June 6, 2013
I also remember having Mr. Halverson as my driver's ed teacher. I remember we used to talk a lot in class he mentioned one of you here is not going to pay attention to what I am about to say. "There is always someone that is going to ask which way do I go when you are told to make a U-Turn, if you are listening don't let it be you" Well we were in the car and sure enough it was my turn to drive he said make a U-Turn please. I did, and I did without realizing it. He gave me a look and starred for awhile, I didn't catch on till later. He told me to pay attention this is our life driving forever. I decided to beat the system and go on a blizzard day, that way I only took the written test.It took me awhile to pass that test, Happy to say, I am a great driver very safe on the road. He was a terrific teacher.
Ron Marshall
June 4, 2013
I had the privilege of knowing Ralph since the early 70's. He was a leader, mentor, colleague, and most of all friend. The Montana Coaches Clinic has the reputation of being one of the best in the nation, and certainly that can be directly attributed to Ralph.
My memories of Ralph are special to me, and while we grieve, I trust we can be comforted by the memories we all have of Ralph.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the family members.
Bill & Deb Hogan
June 4, 2013
With heavy heart, Bill & I send our sympathy to Ralph's family. Ralph was the core of the MCA and the clinic. What memories we will cherish! One young trackster (Kirk Hogan) will always be indebted to you for the opportunity to particpate in the Meet of Champions. There will probably be a run on cheese puff balls in heaven now that Ralph is there organizing all his friends, students, and old coaches! There are many dance partners thanking you for your dance classes. Rest in peace Ralph and enjoy the next dance with Margaret.
c
John Galen
June 3, 2013
I first met Ralph and Margaret when we traveled at break neck speed during Thanksgiving break so Bill could look at Mt. San Antonio College near Los Angeles and expand his track career. What a guy he had the ability to remember the smallest details about everyone he encountered. In addition you couldn't name a school or sport where he wasn't able to name the star. Bill and your siblings my whole family from, West Covina to Montana and Tucson in between express our condolences to you.
Tanya Casey-Reinhardt
June 3, 2013
There is no way to write a message to someone who was so much a part of your childhood you never imagined it without him. And I guess that's where my thoughts go now - I see so vividly he and Mrs. Halverson dancing in Heaven with spring colored pants (probably baby blue or peach) and matching shoes. Memories: falling asleep in their bed during a coaching party in those early 70's. Dancing together at a fancy night club in Black Eagle when I was about 12, running race results up to the announcers booth when the pulley didn't work, and then arguing about why girls couldn't pole vault in the early 80's. (Part of growing up with him was learning how to express different opinions with respect.) Mr. Halverson many of my happiest childhood memories include you and Mrs. Halverson. You made a difference in so many lives as is reflected in all these entries.
Jim CASEY
June 3, 2013
I first met Ralph with Bill Swarthout in a Bozeman restaurant while having lunch with Harley Lewis. It was 1970 and a few weeks later I was invited to join the Great Falls High Staff. This was the start of a long friendship and working relationship. To say that Ralph had an influence on my life and that of my family would be an understatement. Things I learned from Ralph:
Taxes and Mother's Day should be before or after track season.
I never want my desk to look like Ralph's.
Everybody should appreciate a good joke.
I don't look good in checkered blue polyester pants even with matching blue suede shoes.
The field will never be ready ahead of schedule for the Meet of Champions. (I knew this when he sent me to his house for grass clippers to trim around the score board.)
The only good salad is Jell-O and never ruin a good hamburger with rabbit food.
Almond Roca is on the food pyramid and Mrs. See's candy is a free food.
The track rule book is required reading
Always have a student teacher during track season and schedule Nancy's classes next to yours.
Margaret was and is a saint.
The list is infinite. Ralph you influenced many folks and we loved you just the way you were.
Thomas Kenny
June 2, 2013
Ralph was an adventurous character. I remember him jumping off our roof ,traversing about 15 feet, missing the electrical lines and descending another 12 feet gracefully landing in the swimming pool.. There was one word said... WOW!!!
Vicky (Halverson) Nelson
June 1, 2013
It's been so heartwarming reading all the wonderful messages. He certainly was one of a kind and had a tremendous impact on people's lives. Our family is grateful for the outpouring of love and condolences. We hope to see as many of you as possible on Fri., June 7th at 2 pm at the Swarthout GFHS field house, and join us in a reception following the Celebration of his Life.
2006, Dave, Tom (my brother), & Ralph
David Kenny
June 1, 2013
So many memories of my Uncle Ralph: taking us to several USA-Soviet Union track meets in the 50s, sending us sneakers, giving Montana coaches pens, and him taking me to Costco.
He and Margaret took in my mother in Milwaukee and then she tagged along with them to San Antonio. There Ralph was partially responsible for introducing my father to my mother. He was a great friend to my mom in her last years. The attached picture is from our visit to Lakeside in 2006. Not a great picture, but look at the big breakfast he is having and all the pictures of family on the frig.
Diane Swanson Daley
May 31, 2013
I wish I had had the opportunity to visit my Uncle Ralph more often, he was a wonderful man and an example for how to live your best life.
William Ling
May 31, 2013
It is with a heavy heart that I write this tribute to my dear friend, Ralph. Ralph was such an inspiration to me in his daily life and activities. He had tireless energy and enthusiasm. If you played him on the golf course, it was by the rules, but fun! The Chargers and San Diego State Aztecs should have paid him as there prime promoter! Athletics and sports were his life, but track and field and all its events and participants held a pedestal over all other sports---Ralph's world! If you ask him about his family, you had to be prepared to hear him describe to the tiniest detail what all his family had been doing since your last conversation. But it was not all about his family and sports, he always ask about you and your family and would be a patient listener encouraging you to do more. We will all miss Ralph but will not forget his legacy. He was special! Sadly but respectfully,
Bill Ling
Rob Stark
May 30, 2013
No one could do it better than Ralph!
May 29, 2013
Ralph was the epitome of the perfect gentleman. We know his love of dancing as he treated my wife to a few times around the dance floor at NOCAD meetings. He was as kind a man as we ever met. He will be missed but his legacy will go on forever. Steve & Vicky Johnsen (Lincoln, NE)
Rich Tompkins
May 29, 2013
Ralph was one of my favorite people that I encountered through my association with NOCAD. I always enjoyed our time at the NOCAD Meetings and especially enjoyed his wit that he shared during our meetings. I wish now that I had taken notes of many of the quick remarks he made. At the end of each day, someone had taken note of the high and lowpoint of the session. Ralph's remarks made that list often. He was a class act and it showed in everything he did. NOCAD will truly miss his presence at our meetings.
Sincerely,
Rich Tompkins, Executive Director
Michigan High School Coaches Association
Sandy Warehime Runkel
May 29, 2013
What a great long life Ralph enjoyed. In Cascade your family lived next door to my Aunt Marge Webb and when I visited there were always Halversons around. I was a sometime baby sitter for the Webbs and Halversons and remember so much about Mr. Halversons years teaching and coaching in Cascade. May he rest in peace after a life well live.
May 29, 2013
I got to know Ralph thru the National Organization of Coaches Associations Directors. His outstanding service to our organization was recognized last year with an honorable award. His kindest, quick wit, professionalism, toughness and smile will always be remembered.
Dave Johnson-Oregon Athletic Coaches Association-Executive Director
Brenda Allen -Keith Plaques
May 29, 2013
Coach Halverson was a friendly, kind, helpful, positive person. I will miss
our conversations.
Dean Baker
May 28, 2013
Ralph was true gentleman. I knew him as a family friend, teacher, coach and the clinic director as I started a sporting goods career. I know he had a positive influence on many young men, me included. My sympathy to the family.
Leonard Swanson
May 28, 2013
I am so grateful for all the time we had with Uncle Ralph - which even included a visit to Edmonton! He was such an inspiration for us - a reminder that life can be lived and enjoyed to the fullest by caring about and helping others.
Kaye Ukrainetz-Muzzana
May 28, 2013
Ralph was one of the kindest people I have ever met. He was a dear family friend and so thoughtful and generous with his time.I fondly remember working with him on the very first Montana Coaches Clinic and to watch it grow due to his relentless efforts was amazing. There is a special place in my heart for this man; you will be missed.
May 27, 2013
Ralph was a great man, I remember when he was at Cascade & Belt. He did great things for track and Field. He always was friendly and willing to help. He will be sorely missed. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family.
Sam Hunt
Dutton Mt.
Jeff Adams
May 27, 2013
Mr. Halverson was my head track coach in 1984 at GFHS the year before he retired. He was very motivating and friendly to everyone.
Shane Toy
May 26, 2013
Ralph was more than just a teacher and coach during my high school years. He was a second father who I respected immensely. He is the reason I became a teacher and track coach for the past 30 years. I will cherish the memory of when he came to Spokane to watch Billy vault and we were able to watch old high school track videos together. Condolences to Billy and the Halverson family. A great man/coach will be missed.
Janet Hendrickson
May 25, 2013
I was a student of his in Belt, MT, and while I never got the hang of algebra, I certainly knew how great a person Mr. Halverson was.
Colleen (Moll) Febach
May 25, 2013
Having made my First Communion with Cindy, I go way back with the Halvorsons. I remember Vicky telling us to stay out of her bedroom. We were pesty little sister and friend! Margarets caramels! Visiting with Ralph at a CMR track meet in 1969 while I was in the starting blocks and he was running the gun!( I hadn't seen him since they moved to Great Falls so we were trying to catch up!)Then in 1996 in Spokane at the National Masters Track and Field Championship where Ralph took 1st place in his age group in the Pole Vault. I was so proud to be part of the group cheering for him. I had the pleasure of being with Cindy and Gary in Williamsburg, Va just hours before Ralph died. He must have sensed our conversation was mostly about him. Lots of tears and laughter. He was a loved man by friends and family. Godspeed dear Ralph.
May 24, 2013
Mr.Halverson was around when the Minor boys Gary,and Lary were stars in track Mr. Halverson made everyone feel like a star what a great educator and coach. 1971-1973 Matt Horning Newark,Ca.
Theresa Diekhans
May 24, 2013
I only had the pleasure of Mr. Halverson as my teacher once. I was in his last drivers education class and it was a joyful experience. He was a dear man and a wonderful inspiration. His legacy will live on for many many years through all of the students and athletes that he touched.
Rick Lester
May 24, 2013
Pure class. A man of great distinction and accomplishment. I never respected a coach more.
Gary Lehnerz
May 24, 2013
Ralph, Thanks for all the wonderful memory's from school days and the great friendship days after. Enjoyed every meeting. God speed friend.
Rosemary (Belisle) Drinkall
May 24, 2013
I have many memories of Ralph and Margaret who were good friends of my parents in Cascade, Montana. Later they lived across the street from us in Great Falls and Ralph was my son's track coach at Great Falls High. Ralph was a wonderful, kind and very talented man with a big heart. Sending my sincere sympathy to his family.
Dick Urquhart
May 23, 2013
I remember Raphy in gym class, he was a cool man & coach. I think back On high school and coach and it was the best time of my life. Ralph will be missed
Mark Reed
May 23, 2013
Words can't describe the impact Coach had on countless lives. He was a friend, mentor and support to so many. My life is better because he was a part of it. I will miss my friend and coach but I know he is in a better place surrounded by love.
Stephanie Heggen
May 23, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of his family. I really enjoyed getting to know him over the years. What an impact he has left on all of our lives!
Cindy Halverson Bowers
May 23, 2013
Reading the messages from my dad's "fan club" has brought a smile to my face, tears to my eyes, and a warm feeling in my sad and grateful heart. Thank you.
Joe Valacich
May 23, 2013
What a guy, what a coach. He did so much for me and for so many others. I just smile when I think of him. Best wishes to all family and friends of Coach Halverson.
May 23, 2013
I never met Mr. Halverson; however, his daughter, Cindy, is a dear friend of mine who I admire. My heart aches for Cindy and the family. With many thoughts and prayers, Susie Harris
Wayne Bull
May 23, 2013
I had the privilege of meeting Ralph in 1965 when I started my first teaching/coaching job at Cascade. Ralph was always friendly, helpful, and enthusiastic. He was always on the go, usually working two or three jobs at a time. His track meets were well organized and ran like clockwork. His memory was unbelievable; he could tell you about the records of his athletes from decades ago. His coaching clinics drew big name speakers each year. I don't know that anyone could match his knowledge of track and field. His family meant the world to him. Every time I would talk to him he would tell me all about his family. He was so proud of them, as they were of him. His legend will live on. We miss you already Ralph. Your good friends, Wayne & Nan Bull
Mike Towne
May 23, 2013
Ralph was a great educator and coach, and a wonderful person, one of the best I worked with during my 36 years as a sports journalist. He had a huge impact on many, many people of all ages. He will be sorely missed.
Liza Cortez Cruz
May 23, 2013
Mr.H, you were very inspiring to me, he always would give me a get out of class pass to go dancing in the big gym all by ourselves to go dancing we would practice the Fox Trot, CHA CHA, Square dancing I brought him up to speed by teaching his some disco moves, we had so much fun blasting the music and dancing free style.Mr. H was rocking and dancing...
michael mcguire
May 23, 2013
What a wonderful family to have living by you growing up. I have thought of you all often lately. I spent alot of time talking with your Dad when I was a young boy. He was an awesome mentor, coach, and a pretty neat Dad. I missed all of you when you moved from Cascade. My sincere sympathies to all of you.
Stephen Belisle
May 23, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Ralph's passing. He & Margaret were good friends of my parents, and was my math teacher and coach at Cascade High School. Not a wealthy man, but rich in everything that matters. My sincere condolences to Karen, Vicki, Cindy, and Bill. May God comfort you in your loss.
Woogena Gales
May 23, 2013
You were a great man and you lived a great life. RIP Mr. Halverson.
May 23, 2013
Sorry to hear of your loss, Mr.H. will long live in my memories, great teacher and a great person. Dave LeVeque
David Sederholm
May 22, 2013
Ralph was a great friend to all of our family members. We have many fond memories. Thanks coach.
Sharon Rumley
May 22, 2013
You were a generous, loving, fun uncle and I will miss you a lot!!!
Blaise Jelinek
May 22, 2013
Thanks Coach...
JA Sweat
May 22, 2013
RIP Ralph you were an awesome man .
Melan (Buck) Strain
May 22, 2013
Ralph was coach when my brother Clifford Buck was manager of the football & basketball teams in Cascade. Ralph was a great coach and was a great friend.
Jordan
May 22, 2013
This is a wonderful tribute to a great man's life. I will miss him dearly and I'm so grateful for the time we had together and the fact we lived close to one another these last few years. We had some fun times out on the golf course and at our many Thanksgiving dinners.
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