Ralph Laverne DeBow

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Ralph Laverne DeBow on April 9, 2026. Born on August 24, 1930, Ralph was the cherished son of Roma and Hazel (Mason) DeBow, born in Hardesty, Oklahoma. The family moved to Deep Creek Road, Adna when he was a boy of 4 with his four sisters and brother.

Ralph proudly graduated from Adna High School in 1950. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife Joye (Sidwaski), with whom he shared a remarkable 73 years of marriage. Together, they built a life rich in love and companionship, a partnership that was a beacon of commitment and strength. A man of great curiosity and spirit, Ralph had a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He found joy in the simple pleasures of nature, whether it was camping under the stars, clam digging, casting a line in a quiet stream, hunting in the crisp autumn air, or trail riding on their Honda 90's, and trips back to Oklahoma were important to him. In his later years, Ralph discovered a love for rockhounding, dedicating countless hours to polishing and cutting stones, and making keepsakes for those he loved.

Ralph's warmth and generosity extended beyond his family to everyone he met. Known for his big heart and welcoming nature, Ralph never met a stranger—only friends who became family. Ralph was an active member of the Adna Evangelical church for many years, helping with the rebuilding after the fire (1962) and the flood (2007). His work ethic was incredible and he passed that to his children. He worked for the W.A. Buchanan on the garbage truck ('50's) (best job he ever had) and 21 years with Goodyear Retread plant on Bishop Road until it's closing. After retirement from the County working on the Bridge crew, he and Joye enjoyed trips in their travel trailer, with the Good Sam Club and with family to Alaska, twice. His connection to people was evident in the many relationships he nurtured throughout his life.

Ralph leaves behind a legacy of love that is carried forward by his surviving family: his devoted wife, Joye; his children, Cheryle (Joe) Davis, Jayne Allmer (Kevin Cloud), Romie DeBow, and Cindi (John) Hewlett; 15 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; his sister, Christle Schueber, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be held at Sticklin-Brown Funeral Chapel, 1437 S. Gold Street, on Friday, May 1st at 9:30am, followed by a Funeral Service at 10am, and a Graveside Service at Claquato Cemetery, 142 Stearns Rd. All are welcome to gather for refreshments at Adna Grange Hall, 123 Dieckman Rd.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Adna Evangelical Church or the Adna Scholarship fund.

Rest in peace, dear Ralph, dad, knowing that your legacy of love and kindness lives on in all of us.