Ralph Hesse

Ralph HesseRalph Hesse, true gentleman, sharp dresser, history buff animal lover and dessert aficionado, passed away on Friday, October 3rd, 2014. Ralph H. Hesse was born March 16, 1927, in Taft, Texas. He graduated from Taft High School and, after a brief stint in the army, enrolled in The University of Corpus Christi, where he met Billie, his future wife of 62 years. When Ralph first saw Billie she was twirling fire on the field for the University of Corpus Christi football team, and he knew immediately that she was the one for him. Billie needed a little convincing, but agreed to go out with him since 'Ralph was the most handsome man on campus,' as well as being Student Body President. Six months later they were married. After graduating, Ralph taught 5th and 6th grade at Carroll Lane Elementary school. He later received his master's degree at the University of Texas and then became instrumental in founding the Education Service Center, Region 2, representing 44 school districts in South Texas. He also worked as the Director of the Instructional Media Component and remained in that position until he retired. Ralph would do anything possible to help people in need. He and Billie worked as a team and were responsible for improving the lives of the countless people who crossed their paths. Ralph had a special gift as an encourager, and was caring, loving, kind and generous. Ralph is now reunited with his parents Ray and Esther Hesse of Taft, Texas, his brothers, Ray and Harold Hesse, and his beautiful bride, favorite cook and love of his life, Billie. He is survived by his son, Chuck Hesse of Austin, Texas, his 'adopted' family Dr. Ray and Mary Graf and their children; Stephanie (Bryan) Harrison, Sarah Graf, Rebekah Graf and Elizabeth (Uriah) Kriegel and grandchildren; James Harrison, Hannah Harrison and Solomon Kriegel and a bevy of friends. Many thanks to friends who visited Ralph at Holmgreen, the loving staff on the 3rd floor and to Dr. David Sutter.Celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church Chapel of Corpus Christi, where Ralph served as a deacon for 40 years and created a second home.In lieu of flowers, Ralph's loved ones are asking that donations be made to the First Baptist Church Bell Tower fund.