Ralph Albert Sundberg

Ralph Sundberg, beloved son, husband, father, grandfather and friend peacefully went home to be with his Lord and Savior on April 4, 2015 with his loving family at his side, and after a life well lived.

Ralph Albert Sundberg was born on April 24, 1930 in Longview, Washington as the only child to Albert and Alice Sundberg. They lived together with Albert’s father, Erik Sundberg, who emigrated with his children from Sweden in the late 1800s. Later in life, Ralph researched his family history and happily visited his new found relatives in Sweden and in the U.S., and received visits from them as well.

Following graduation from Oregon State University, Ralph used his degree in physics to enter the aerospace industry. He worked at Rocketdyne, later Boeing, in West Hills, CA for 38 years as a project engineer.

Most important to Ralph were his faith in God and the people he loved. He married his wonderful wife Juanita on August 31, 1963. They had two children, Sandy and Brian, and the family lived in the San Fernando Valley for many years. Every year they would take family vacations traveling around the U.S. in a little car and pulling a tent trailer. Wonderful memories were made. Together Ralph and Juanita ventured on more daring vacations traveling the world. They made visits to every continent. You might not think it to look at him, but Ralph’s favorite trips included a visit to see penguins in Antarctica, a pilgrimage to Israel, a trip down the Amazon River in South America, and a safari excursion in Tanzania, Africa. Ralph was very talented at fixing things and enjoyed making once broken appliances, both large and small, work again. Other hobbies included reading, jigsaw puzzles, serving at his churches in the Valley and later in Ventura, and working on all things related to his computer.

After his retirement, he and Juanita enjoyed spending time with their two granddaughters Hannah and Sarah. Ralph lovingly cared for Juanita for several years attending to all of her needs and all of the household responsibilities. He was an old dog who learned new tricks with patience and his trademark gentleness. After Juanita passed away in 2006, Ralph spent even more time volunteering at Ventura Missionary Church which gave him great joy and purpose.

In 2012, Ralph moved to Thousand Oaks to be closer to Hannah and Sarah and their parents. Later, Ralph needed more care for his daily needs and moved to a board and care home. The faithful and loving care he showed Juanita was shown to him in his final months. The family would especially like to thank Bernard, Jenny, Arnie, Jane and Arnold from T.O. Home Care as well as the entire staff from Vitas Hospice Care, in particular, Ronnie Jean, R.N.

He is reunited in heaven with his wonderful wife Juanita, his beloved son Brian who passed away in 1997, his mother and father, as well as many other cherished family members and friends. Ralph is survived by his daughter, Sandy Eicher (Jim) and their 2 daughters.

A memorial service to celebrate Ralph’s life will be held on April 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Living Oaks Church in Newbury Park, CA. He is entrusted to the care of Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks in Westlake Village. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to one of the charities Ralph faithfully supported including: Christar, e3 Partners, World Team, or a charity of your choice.