Ralph Kall Obituary

RALPH E. KALL, 81 ROCKFORD - Ralph E. Kall, 81, of Rockford died at 8:10 p.m. Wednesday, July 20, 2011, in his home. He quit smoking 42 years ago, but was diagnosed with damaged lungs because of his 20 years of smoking. Ralph was born July 16, 1930, son of Walter and Ruth (O'Neil) Kall. He attended Kishwaukee School, Lincoln Junior High School, East High School and received a B.A. from Augustana College. Served in the U.S. Air Force for four years during the Korean conflict. Ralph spent some time in California before returning to Rockford. He was employed in New York City for several years with the State Employment Service, specializing in jobs for youths and in Rockford for 20 years with the U.S. Postal Service, including some time as a supervisor. Ralph was a Rockford Symphony Orchestra and Lyric Opera season ticket holder. He enjoyed participating in activities and classes with the Center for Learning in Retirement at Rock Valley College, and was involved in Rockford Peace and Justice. He actively spoke out against the Vietnam War and the invasion of Iraq. Ralph believed in the value of helping others and was a regular contributor to the blood bank until his illness prevented him from donating. His brother, Walter, remembers him fondly, and believes that he could never have picked a better companion than his "little brother," Ralph. They traveled together to Cuba, on a Jazz Cruise with Bill Korst, to Austria on Sept. 11, 2001, China in 2004, and many trips to Ravinia. Ralph was an amazing uncle, and his nieces and nephews looked forward to spending time with him and hearing stories of his travels and growing-up years. He was a big brother who helped his sister and family build their home. Survived by siblings, Walter H. Kall of Rockford and Marilyn (Stan) McCrudden of Thomson; nieces and nephews, Sandy (Al) Dierckman, Sherry (Terry) Fife, Stanley John (Kris) McCrudden and Sean (Sara) McCrudden; many great-nieces and -nephews; numerous great-great-nieces and -nephews; cousins, Mike (Chris) O'Neil of Milwaukee, and their sons, Joshua and Caleb; friends and neighbors, Bill and Susan Robertson, Terry and Louise Carlson, Herb and Sharon Eckstein, Jim and Marlis Goodin, to all of whom we are very thankful for their friendship and help. Predeceased by his parents. Memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation rites will be accorded. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family. To share a memory or condolence, please visit graceFH.com.

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Published by Rockford Register Star from Jul. 23 to Jul. 24, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Kall

11 Entries

Marilyn South

August 11, 2011

Though we really only knew each as neighbors,waving as we passed on the street, I looked for him to remind me that he was still there. I will miss his presence. Now he rests in the arms of the Lord.Peace be the family.

Sandy Dierckman

July 31, 2011

I have great memories of my Uncle Ralph. Holidays and get togethers at my grandparents and then at my parents house, there was always interesting conversations ranging from the old days to current event, politics, travel and music. My kids always wanted to know will the uncles be there? Uncle Ralph lived with us for a while and helped us build our house when I was young. Both Uncle Ralph and Uncle Walt were so supportive when I had tough times in my life and always there help celebrate the happy times. I will miss you Uncle Ralph!

Allen Penticoff

July 28, 2011

We first met Ralph and Walt at Coffee Talks. Then everywhere that social justice was an issue or topic. Ralph was a regular at Rockford Progressive Meet-up as well and always ready to engage in conversation about topical issues. He was also a frequent visitor to the U.U. Church. It was a pleasure to know him. Allen & Ruth Penticoff

Dr. Kelly Moore

July 27, 2011

Dear Walter and family, we will miss Ralph coming into our dental office and telling about the many trips abroad. He was a joy to have as a patient. May the Lord Jesus grant you His peace through this difficult loss.

Ben Healy

July 25, 2011

Dear Family Members, Ralph was a special person with insight and a generous dose of wit. I lead a class at CLR and was lucky enough to have Ralph and Walt attend many semesters of my current events classes. Many times Ralph would add zest and wit to the class input. His loss is my loss. God bless his memory.

Simon Campa

July 24, 2011

Ralph was a good man and fellow coworker. Rest in peace.

Stanley Campbell

July 24, 2011

Ralph was a great supporter of peace and justice activities here in Rockford, as well as JustGoods, the fair trade store on 7th Street. He had a great sense of humor and righteousness, and will be sorely missed.

Sean & Sara McCrudden

July 23, 2011

Uncle Ralf was a joy to know and love. It was always great to visit with him and Uncle Walt. You will be greatly missed and were loved by so many.

Terry Fife, Sr.

July 23, 2011

Uncle Ralph or Uncle Alf as my kids called him was one of the nicest men
I ever had the pleasure of having in my life. I could sit and listen to him for hours telling us of his and Uncle Walters travels around the world. He would express his political views to you but would not judge you if your opinion was different than his. I will truely miss him and know that he is in heaven somewhere telling his stories of adventure arund the world.

Sherry McCrudden/Fife

July 23, 2011

To those who remember the TV show "Alf", Uncle Ralphs nieces and nephews fondly called him "Uncle Alf". My family has missed Uncle Ralph at family events and holidays due to his illness. We enjoyed hearing about what new things Uncle Ralph and Uncle Walt were up to and places they had traveled to. I enjoyed hearing his opinions on current world and political events. Uncle Ralph was a kind loving Uncle and a good listener. We love you and miss you.

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