John A. Ralston

John A. Ralston, 82, of Rockford passed away peacefully Thursday, June 6, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. Born February 1, 1937 in Rockford to Norman and Dorothy (Andrew) Ralston. A proud West Warrior graduate, Class of 1955. Graduated from Knox College, Galesburg, IL. Served in the US Air Force Reserves. Married Carolyn “Cary” Ekstrom on May 20, 1972. Employed as a sales representative and manager for McKesson, Van Water & Rogers and Univar companies. John and his wife moved to Madison, WI, Omaha, NE, and Dallas, TX, later returning to Rockford in 1991. John was a member of Alpine Lutheran Church where he was very involved and sang in the choir.

Survivors include wife of 47 years, Cary Ralston of Rockford; son, Scott (Kari) Ralston of Forreston; daughters, Tina (Mike) Speaker of Rockford; Kim (Ernie) Galvan of Rockford, Lisa (Wes) Bennett of Rockford, Cindy (Abe) Zaffarano of Roseburg, OR; grandchildren, Faith, Elyse, Brandon, Ashley, Randi, Orlando, Alex (Dolly); great-grandchildren, Bionca, Phoenix, Lillieanna, Raelynn, Joey, Zander; and other loving family members. Predeceased by parents; sister, Janice (Gordon) Thorpe of Sarasota, FL; grandson, Joseph Coletta in 2007. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Heartland Hospice.

Memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2019 in Alpine Lutheran Church, 5001 Forest View Avenue, Rockford with a visitation from 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Alpine Lutheran Church or to Alpine Academy.

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