Ralph J. Brose

Ralph John Brose beloved brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather and friend, took the hand of his Savior, Jesus Christ, when he passed into heaven on February 27, 2018 after his heart failure. Ralph was born on July 21, 1931, in Chicago, Illinois. His interest in cars and "all things mechanical" led him to enlist in the army, where he served his country as an airplane mechanic during the Korean War.

While on furlough, he met the love of his life, Laura Joan Norton. They were married on August 21, 1954. After the birth of their first child, Audrey, they packed up and headed westward to take on the occupation of chicken farming in Littlerock, Washington, where they were blessed with 3 more children For many years Ralph made a living as an egg farmer. He delivered his farm fresh eggs to many State workers, stores, and restaurants around the Olympia area, where he inherited the nickname "Eggman".

After a mid-life career change, he spent 20 years as a marine mechanic at Puget Marina. Ralph was a member, and brought up his family in the Tumwater Evangelical Free Church, later renamed Hope Community Church. He was very involved with church functions and served as an usher for many years.

He spent many fun-filled summer weekends vacationing with family and friends in sunny Eastern Washington, at Soap Lake. While there, Ralph enjoyed boating, waterskiing and watching the Saturday night stock car races. With his outgoing personality and smile, he made many friends by offering them boat rides and even teaching them to waterski. His interest in motor vehicles led him to acquire a collection of antique cars, and later motorcycles. His mechanical skills were an asset to all who knew him, as he often repaired the cars of family and neighborhood friends.

In 1978 he learned to ride a motorcycle and joined a group called Christian Motorcyclists Association. Ralph and Laura were very active in CMA, spending many years cycling around the west half of the nation, attending motorcycle rallies while sharing their faith in Jesus Christ to anyone they met. He was an inspiration to all of his Christian brothers and sisters as a member of the Olympia Light Riders CMA chapter, where he served as the chapter Treasurer for 25 years.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Laura Brose; Sister Mildred Otto; daughter Audrey Lindgren (Brad); son Glenn Brose; daughter Margie Jacobs (Nathan); daughter Heidi Snook (Dean); 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

While we miss him deeply, we rest assured that he is enjoying the presence of His Lord and Savior.