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The Fence Post obituary: Ralph Wayne McElrath

Ralph Wayne McElrath, 91

June 28, 1927 – Oct. 5, 2018

Greeley Colo.

Ralph Wayne McElrath, 91, of Greeley, formerly of Wiggins, Colo., passed away Oct. 5, 2018. Ralph was born June 28, 1927, in Gilcrest, Colo., to Lee and Lucy (Cogburn) McElrath.

He farmed with his family until inducted into the U.S. Army in 1946 and served in Korea. After returning from his enlistment, he married Emma Lou Wilbanks on March 17, 1949, in Fort Morgan. They resided in Wiggins, where they farmed and raised their family. For many years they raised potatoes for Frito Lay.

After retiring from farming, Ralph and Lou raised registered Texas Longhorn cattle, traveling extensively to various cattle shows and sales throughout the U.S. In 1980, they moved to Greeley and enjoyed many years of travel throughout the southwest in their motorhome. The McElraths were members of the Good Sam Motor Home Association.

He enjoyed fishing, playing dominoes and cards with family and friends. He and Lou were avid golfers.

One of his proudest moments was as a member of the Military Honor Flight to Washington D.C., with other WWII veterans.

Ralph enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. His granddaughter, Amy, enjoyed several trips with Ralph and Lou in their motorhome. He never missed a 4-H or FFA activity for his grandson Wade, or dance recitals for his great-granddaughters, Ashleigh and Chloe.

He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Fort Morgan, the Greeley Moose Lodge and lifetime member of the Fort Morgan Elks.

A graveside service to celebrate Ralph’s life was held Oct. 11, 2018, at Linn Grove Cemetery.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 69 years, Emma Lou of Greeley; daughters, Betty (Richard) Neb of Greeley and Cyndi (Brad) Hofmeister of Fort Morgan; granddaughter, Amy (Nathan) Sassano of Johnstown, Colo.; grandson, Wade Hofmeister of Fort Morgan; and great-granddaughters, Ashleigh and Chloe Sassano of Johnstown.

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, sister and two infant daughters.

Friends may view the online obituary and send condolences at http://www.allnuttgreeley.com.


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