Ralph E. Reese

“A Utah Man”—Ralph was born in Salt Lake City, Utah to Elmer C. Reese and Delores S. Jones Reese Balser, on October 3, 1929. He studied business at the University of Utah. While at the U, he was an active member of Sigma Nu. In 1951, he met the love of his life, Rita Gilbert, an Alpha Phi. They married on September 19, 1952.

Ralph had a successful, long career in insurance claims. He was business partner and best friends with his uncle, CW Reese. Together they ran the C. W. Reese Company. As a member of the Blue Goose International he was PMLG, a two-term President of The Truck and Heavy Equipment Claims Council, and an active member of the Utah Claims Adjuster Association.

Ralph was the father of three children, Rick, Rob, and Ruth. Together with his family and friends he enjoyed playing tennis, golfing, water- skiing, and snow-skiing. In recent years he enjoyed his association with the “Geezers” golfing. He was an avid world traveler. In his younger days he spent many an afternoon skiing the Utah slopes. His fondest memories were spent at his summer home, built by his son Rob, at Bear Lake, Utah.

Ralph most enjoyed University of Utah athletics. He held season tickets for football, basketball, and gymnastics for over forty years. He was an active Crimson Club member. “Go Utes!”

Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Aunts Dorcas and Edna; his Uncle CW; and his eldest son Rick; along with his six beloved Boston Terriers.

He is survived by his wife Rita of sixty-three years; son Rob (Mary Jo); daughter Ruth (Greg); his two granddaughters Ambra (Trim), Molly (Bill); and his pride and joy- his four great-grandchildren Reese, Ian, Tate, and Sia.

A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held on Sunday, October 4th, from noon until two o’clock at Stark’s Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. Valet parking will be available on the north side of the building.