Ralph A. Alpher

I was truly touched by the messages in this book regarding my late uncle, Ralph. From the waitress at the "Latham 76" diner whose "dreams were encouraged" to all the others there was one theme - the quiet greatness of Ralph - his mind, his accomplishments and his kindnesses in assisting others. I echo the comments of my brother, Norman, that Ralph was truly at peace when he passed away; as he received the recognition so long deserved. At the reception and dinner in D. C. in honor of the medal...

I am Ralph Alpher oldest nephew. He was my father's younger brother. I never lost contact with him or his family, visiting him in Schenectady and Tampa. Being with him was always a highlight. We all are most happy that he was able know of his winning the Presidential Medal of Science before he passed, and that he was able to respond to the honor. He then was at peace knowing that his momumental accomplished had been recognized by his peers and his country. May he rest in peace.

Ralph occasionally spoke at the Albany Area Amateur Astronomers Club. I met him nearly a decade ago after one such evening presentation at the Schenectady Museum. We took him to Friendly's Restaurant on Nott Street afterward, where I asked if I could audit his course, titled something like "General Relativity, Gravity and Spacetime," at Union College. As a senior faculty member, Ralph's teaching was sporadic, and I waited two or three years… but eventually I got to take his course. Ralph...

I was fortunate to meet a delightful man named Ralph Alpher because he was living across the hall from my father-in-law in Tampa. Also, my husband had told me about a client who had written a book on the "Big Bang" theory. We ended up having several long talks during which he told me - in terms that I could understand - about his thesis, how he had put himself through school while working for the government during WWII, and things he was involved in during that time. I cherish the time we...

My mother, Betty Moore, and I add our condolences to those noted by my sister and others here--Ralph Alpher was indeed a gifted scientist and professor, and so much more. He was a generously compassionate and loving person. I recall how my father, and indeed the whole family, valued Ralph's lively intellect, which was always joined to kindness and generosity. Though he'll be sorely missed, his spirit lives on in our memories of his generous nature.

Dr. Alpher and his wife Louise were long time customers of the Latham 76 Diner, I had the honor to wait on Ralph and Louise on many occassions during my tenure as waitress at the 76. They always encouraged my dreams. I shall always remember their kind words of inspiration. They were two of my favorite customers. My deepest thoughts and condolences are with your family and friends during your time of mourning.

Ralph Alpher and my father were close friends when both were researchers at General Electric. In addition to being a great scientist, Ralph was an especially decent human being--he continued to visit my father during my father's last days. I believe Ralph was the last person to have an actual conversation with him. I extend my sympathies to the family of this fine man.

Ralph and I were first cousins, he bing a very few years older than I am, and although we knew each other when we were children and when our parents visited each other, we have not been in touch since then. When I saw his obituary on a website that had a photograph of him, I recognized it because of my memory of his father. I send my deepest sympathy to his survivors.

I had the good fortune to share an office next to Dr. Alpher’s office while teaching at Union College. This fortunate happenstance led to numerous short chats with Ralph ranging from angular momentum coupling to the vicissitudes that are life. I always enjoyed our conversations and am a better person for having had the pleasure of his friendship. My sincere condolences to his family.