Ralph K. Williamson

1930 - 2021

I'll Fly Away

Ralph K. Williamson Jr. flew into eternity Saturday, August 28, 2021, at the Summit Pacific Hospital in Elma, WA after moving to McCleary to be near his daughter, Cathy Colley, in December of 2020, because of Covid.

Ralph was born April 13, 1930, in Seattle to Ralph K. Williamson Sr. and Leah E. (Preston) Williamson. He grew up in the family home on Greenwood Avenue with his younger brother, Donald. Ralph's life was distinctly marked by the introduction of his horse, Pepper, creating a foundation of fearlessness that would follow him throughout his life.

In 1956, he met and married Patricia (Patty) Galletly after only three short months. Recently he said she was, "One of God's finest creations." They epitomized love at first sight deciding on a path towards marriage within days of meeting. Their special love flourished throughout their 60 year marriage. In 1962, they moved to Edmonds, where they raised their three "very active" children, David, Cathy and Janis. After raising their family, they became foster parents, touching the lives of hundreds of children.

Ralph started his 15 year flying career at the age of 16. He graduated from Ballard High School and received his commercial pilot's license the same year. He co-owned a general aviation business out of the Snohomish airfield called Skymotive with his lifetime friend, Henry Strauch. Ralph was a charter pilot and flight instructor (including 5 years as an FAA Pilot Examiner).

Around 1960, Ralph and Hank were offered the opportunity to purchase a Waco biplane they had been interested in for some time. They were surprised when the call came and the price was $650. They were offered such a bargain because they had to retrieve it from the bottom of the Columbia River! Years later this same plane would be used in a memorable scene in the movie "Raiders of the Lost Ark."

After discovering the flying business made time with family a challenge, Ralph changed careers and spent the next 40 years in the insurance business including owning a general lines brokerage agency for 20 years.

After high school, Ralph served two years in the Army (one year in the Korean Military Advisory Group).

Patty was diagnosed with MS in 1980 and soon after she and Ralph began to travel the globe in her wheelchair searching for ways to combat the disease as well as see the world while she was still able to do so. Ralph often recalled that her wheelchair had been on the Great Wall of China as well as down the cobblestone streets of West and Eastern Europe.

Ralph would easily attest that the loss of his life partner, Patty, was the most difficult challenge he ever faced. Time never did fill the gap she left in his heart and reuniting with her in Heaven was ever on his heart and mind.

Ralph is survived by his brother Don, son, David; daughters, Cathy Colley and Janis Simila; granddaughters, Leah and Laura Colley and Erica Simila, and grandsons, Joshua and Liam Williamson, Benjamin Simila and Christopher Colley. He was preceded in death by his wife Patricia and his great grandson, Chayson Colley.

A celebration of his life is planned for 4 p.m. Saturday, September 11th, at the New Life Church in Lynnwood, 6519 188th St. S.W., preceded by viewing from 2:30 to 3:30. A reception will follow. He will be laid to rest Tuesday, September 14th, at a graveside service at the Edmonds Memorial Cemetery alongside his grandparents Charles E. Preston and Ella Moss Preston and his uncle Paul Preston.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to World Harvest Missions , PO Box 280, Elk, WA 99009 or Cross International, 600 SW 3rd St # 2201, Pompano Beach, FL 33060.

April 13, 1930 - August 28, 2021