Ralph Leslie Holt

HOLT,
Ralph Leslie

October 26, 1932 -"
March 10, 2011

A lifelong traveler, music maker, health enthusiast, U.S. Air Force pilot, people lover, foodie, Husky fan, fraternity brother and inspiration to each person he met, Ralph passed away peacefully in his sleep at age 78. He was a devoted husband of 50 years to Marbary Stafford "Mabs" Holt, who preceded him in death in 2005. He was the loving father of Leslie Holt Burton (Mark), Jennifer Holt Medeiros (Bruce), David Stafford Holt (Teresa Jolly), and Christopher Ralph Holt, and the grandfather of Malia Christine Medeiros, David Robinson Medeiros, Nathaniel David Holt, and Margaret Claire "Maisie" Holt. He was also preceded in death by grandsons Aidan John Holt and Matthew Ralph Holt. Ralph attended Jackson High School in Jackson, California and graduated from the University of Washington in 1954 with a BA in History. He cherished the lifelong friendships developed at Alpha Delta Phi fraternity at the UW. After completing Air Force ROTC, he earned his wings at pilot training in Lubbock, Texas, followed by tours as a pilot throughout the United States, as well as Italy, Berlin, and England. He flew over 700 hours of combat in Vietnam, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal in 1970. His final years with his friends at Aljoya were a blessing. To put it mildly, he had a sunny disposition and made a positive impact on those around him. His favorite past times included eating Hood Canal oysters and clams, exercising, wood working projects and spending time with his family. Remembrances in Ralph's name may be sent to Catholic Charities of Spokane, PO Box 2253, Spokane, WA 99210.
A memorial service will take place on Saturday, March 19, at 1:00 p.m. at Holy Cross Cemetery Chapel.