Ralph Vogel

Carolyn and Sandy: Thank you for the kind words about Ralph. He was one of those truly rare souls who made his area of the World a little better -- but never advertised it. Even as his brother I rarely heard him mention his successes in battling cancer in children, but fellow doctors and nurses occasionally praised to me his knowledge, and diagnosis and clinical skills.
He wrote a number of chapters for textbooks, relating to care for children. His work will continue its value beyond his presence here.
Alas, Carolyn, I do not recall you. But I appreciate your kind words.
Sandy, I do recall you and your mother, Dorothy. My mother thought highly of you two. I can still see Dorothy in my mind, wearing a red smock as she worked at Skagg's, and how pleased to see me or Mom as she rang up our purchases.
Thank you, Sandy, for your kind words about Ralph. I wrote his obituary (I was a newspaper reporter for 12 years, and wrote many obits) to affirm what a remarkable, admirable life he had. I had his death notice (much shorter than an obituary) posted in the Spokane paper, so old friends and acquaintances might learn how much the unremarkable, C-student at Glover and Shadle Park studied and worked to follow his dream of becoming a healer.
I hope that people who read about Ralph will take from his life a simple, but crucial message: Follow your dream. Work hard and steadily to achieve it. Life isn't a fairy tale, and you may not get there, but someday as the room grows dark you should be able to reassure yourself that you honestly tried to fulfill your dream.
Take care, both of you. I'm pleased that you recalled Ralph for so long, and so fondly. He would be too.

Ralph was one of the most gentle souls I have ever known. He was so kind and thoughtful, yet had a wicked sense of humor. I was so saddened by the news of his fall and just heartbroken to learn of his passing. He will be greatly missed.

Hello Al, I am so sorry to hear about Ralph. I remember Ralph fondly. I lived on Wellesley, second house from the corner. Next to the house that had the swimming pool. I got to know Ralph a little bit better in high school. He was always very nice and enjoyable to talk with. I am glad he is not suffering any more, but so hard to lose parents and siblings.
You take good care of yourself and hope you can heal the whole that must be left without Ralph.
Sandy