Ralph Mahlon Wilson

Ralph was 103 when he peacefully passed away May 10, 2015. Ralph was born in Boone, Iowa, where he graduated from high school at age 16. Just out of high school he and two friends drove to California from Iowa in a 1925 Dodge, mostly on unpaved roads. Mexico and Canada were included in the trip. That adventuresome spirit and engaging personality remained through out his life. As a product of the depression, the 1918 flu epidemic and a serious ear operation at age seven, he developed a survival tenacity. His personality sprinkled with logic, compassion and amazing sense of humor was uniquely Ralph. He and Naida married in 1930 and their wonderful bond lasted 71 years until her passing in 2001. As a young banker in Boone he was recruited by Security Savings Bank in Marshalltown, Iowa, and eventually became the president even without a college degree. He immersed himself in community activities: Masons, Boy Scouts where he was awarded the Silver Beaver, and a member of the Lions for 78 years. He was especially involved in the Methodist Church. He was a strong family man, taking annual vacations to the lakes of Minnesota and road trips to Colorado and the east coast. He was an avid fisherman and golfer including a hole in one. Gin rummy and bridge showcased his competitive spirit as well. He enjoyed his 30 years of retirement at Brentwood Park in Mesa. At age 102 he went deep-sea fishing completing the circle of life with his earlier trip to California. He was preceded in death by his four siblings, wife Naida and daughter Kendra. He is survived by son Dr. Ralph Val Wilson, Marilyn, son- in-law Haskell Waddle; five grandchildren: Debi Moore, John, Brad Wilson, Sarah, Abby Wilson, Scott Skowronek, Neil and Alexa Waddle; six great grandchildren: Kathryn and Jeffrey Moore, Grant and Max Wilson, Tyler and Ryan Skowronek. His family will miss Ralph's wry smile and engaging personality. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, honesty and ability to make lasting friendships. A celebration of Ralph's life will be held at 10.30 A.M. Saturday, June 6, 2015, at Grace United Methodist Church, 2024 E. University Drive, Mesa, Arizona 85213. Interment will be held at a later date in Marshalltown, Iowa. Suggested memorials are Grace United Methodist Church, or First United Methodist Church, 202 West Main Street, Marshalltown, Iowa 50158.