Ralph Davis

Ralph Davis of Snohomish, Wash. beloved husband, brother, father, uncle, and grandfather, passed away on December, 25, 2014. Ralph was born in Toronto, Ohio, on April 10, 1934, the youngest of seven children. He went to live with his older brother, Don and family at the age of 16 and graduated from Marysville High School in 1952. He then earned a bachelor's degree from Northwest Nazarene University in 1956. Soon afterwards he moved to Snohomish where he raised his sons Gary, Randy, John, and Bryan. He became a proud and cherished member of the community. Ralph had a fascination and enjoyment of history that he shared with his students in the Snohomish schools for 30 years, retiring in 1988. He taught about good government and then became a part of good government by serving on the city council for 12 years and as mayor for 6 years. He presided with grace and humor, always willing to talk and listen to all. In 1985, he was chosen to participate in the first State of Washington-Szechuan Province teacher exchange program which he helped carry on for 12 years. He also served on the board of commissioners of the Housing Authority of Snohomish County for 17 years, providing affordable housing for low-income families and seniors. Most of all, Ralph valued sharing time and laughter with family and friends. He had an amazingly warm and open heart and such a playful spirit. He was gregarious and charming with everyone and interested in the ideas and beliefs of all people. As the self-proclaimed "champion of the Snohomish Seniors," he was always ready for a game of Ping-Pong. Inspired by his wife Julie, travel became an important part of his life. Together they visited locations and people all across the globe. Just in September, they traveled with friends to Namibia in southern Africa, the experience of a lifetime. When you think of this special man, remember his philosophy of life: Love your family; be adventurous; take road trips; read a newspaper; ride a bike; remember a good joke and share it as often as possible; make new friends; keep old ones; embrace life, family and friends. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2015 at the Snohomish United Methodist Church, 2400 Lake Avenue. Memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Snohomish Senior Center, Attn: Ping Pong Club, P.O. Box 1426 Snohomish, WA 98291.