Ralph Eugene Ferguson

Ralph was born on September 18, 1947, in Banner Elk, North Carolina, to James C. Ferguson and Gloria Morrell. He grew up in Shoreline, Washington, where he attended Shorecrest High School, graduating in 1965.

In 1967, Ralph joined the United States Army achieving the rank of Sergeant and serving in Vietnam as a Radio Teletype Operator. After completing his two years of service, Ralph received an honorable discharge in 1969.

Following his military service, Ralph continued his education at the University of Washington, where he earned his degree in Accounting in 1973. His education led to a successful career in accounting and finance. From 1973 to 1988, he worked as Finance Manager at ITT Grinnell. In 1988, he joined the Shoreline School District, where he served as Head of the Accounting Department until his retirement in 2006.

It was also in September of 1973 that Ralph met the woman who would become the love of his life, Diana Leone Maki. The two married on July 20, 1974, beginning a marriage that would span 51 years. Together, Ralph and Diana built their life and family, raising three sons: Anthony “Tony” Thomas Ferguson, born March 26, 1975, and twins Chad Eugene Ferguson and Christopher James Ferguson, born May 8, 1981.

Ralph was a passionate Seattle sports fan, and also loved tending to his yard at his family home in Mill Creek. He loved cheering for all of Seattle's professional teams, including the Mariners, Seahawks, Sonics, Kraken, Sounders and Reign. He also enjoyed following both of Washington's major collegiate teams, the University of Washington Huskies and the Washington State University Cougars. But when it came down to choosing between the two, there was never much doubt where Ralph's loyalty stood, as he was a true Dawgs fan who bled purple and gold. In his spare time those that loved him know you could find him working in the yard or sitting in front of the TV staying up to date on current events, and sports.

Ralph's life was marked his dedication to his family, a successful career, and a lifelong connection to the people he loved. After a year-and-a-half battle with pancreatic cancer, he passed away at home, surrounded by the people who meant the most to him.

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, James C. Ferguson and Gloria Morrell; his sister, Gloria Jean McDaniel; his nephew, Derek McDaniel; and his beloved son, Anthony “Tony” Ferguson.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Diana Ferguson; his sons, Chad Ferguson and Christopher “Chris” Ferguson; his brother, Jim Ferguson, and sister-in-law, Jeri Ferguson; his brother-in-law, Clarence McDaniel; his sister, Cheryl Jung; and a handful of beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Ralph will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life for Ralph Eugene “Shorty” Ferguson will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

Purdy Walters at Floral Hills Funeral Home and Cemetery

409 Filbert Road

Lynnwood, WA 98036

Military honors will be presented as part of the service.