Cw5 Ralph G. Baumbach USA Ret.

Ralph led a life characterized by honesty, integrity, and quiet courage. His greatest joy was to dedicate himself to family. He provided unflagging love, encouragement, and a constant helping hand to those in his life. He loved to explore, as evidenced through the many places he visited in his lifetime and through his pleasure of reading.

He took great pride in serving his country through his distinguished military service, totaling 37 years. Chief Baumbach's career is highlighted by many accolades and promotions, to include becoming the first CW5 in the U.S. Army. He earned his Bachelor of Science from University of Maryland, and his Masters Degree from Webster University. His last assignment was serving alongside the great people of U.S. Army South, Ft. Sam Houston, who recently honored his 40 years of government service.

He was born August 18, 1944, in Schwallungen, Germany to Walter and Caecilie Baumbach.

He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Baumbach; sister, Doris McGladrey; and step-father, Karl Preckel.

He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Lam Baumbach; his daughters, Christine Akins and Angela Casanova; and his sons-in-law, Col. Gary Akins and Daniel Casanova II; his mother Caecilie Preckel; siblings, Thomas Preckel and wife, Sandi, Fred Baumbach, Klaus and Frank Preckel, Karen Brady and husband, Brian. He was also loved and cherished by his wife's family, including many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

To all the lives he touched, he leaves behind a legacy of believing in the best of others. He will be greatly missed.