Richard P. Ralston
MOUNT VERNON — Richard P. “Dick” Ralston, 80, of Mount Vernon died Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008, at his residence.
Dick was born May 24, 1927, at Howard to Paul E. and Elva M. (Doolittle) Ralston, was a graduate of Gambier High School in 1945 and had spent his lifetime in Knox County. Following graduation Dick enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served on the USS San Clemente in 1945 and 1946. Returning to Gambier following his discharge from the Navy, Dick attended Kenyon College for two years in 1947 and 1948. He was employed as a journeyman electrician for 19 years and then served as superintendent of Building and Grounds at Kenyon College for 20 years, retiring in 1989. Dick was awarded an honorary, Masters of Civil Law Degree, from Kenyon College in 1989.
He was a member of the American Physical Plant Association, Mount Zion Masonic Lodge 9 in Mount Vernon, Clinton Chapter 26 PHP, Kinsman Council 76, Clinton Commandry 5, and Order of the High Priesthood, all of Mount Vernon, and was a member of the Mount Vernon Elks Lodge 140.
Surviving are his wife, Jeanne (Lonzo) Ralston, whom he married June 15, 1948; his son and daughter-in-law, Daniel G. and Liz Ralston of Gambier; his daughter and son-in-law, Beth Ann and Donald Hillier Jr. of Mount Vernon; four grandchildren, Angela Hillier (Sam) Ullum, Ginny Hillier (Adam) Looney, Alison Ralston (Sean) Eddy and Danielle Ralston (Greg) Diamond; four great-grandchildren, Margaret Ullum, Abigail Ullum, McKinley Diamond and Madelynne Looney.
Besides his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his sisters, Linda Kirk and Helen Ann Campbell.
Friends may call today from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Flowers-Snyder Funeral Home in Mount Vernon, where Masonic memorial services will follow the calling hours. Funeral services will be Friday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Robert Pelfrey officiating. Burial with military honors by the Knox County Joint Veterans Council will follow at Mound View Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Knox County, 17700 Coshocton Road, Mount Vernon, OH 43050. To send an online condolence to the family, visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com.


