Ralph Boomgarden

Ralph Reford Boomgarden, age 85 of Eldora, passed away on Friday, April 12, 2019 at Eldora Specialty Care.

Ralph was born June 3, 1933 in Wellsburg, Iowa, the son of Jake and Etta (Schmidt) Boomgarden. He graduated from Steamboat Rock High School in 1951. On May 12, 1953 he entered the United States Army and was honorably discharged on May 10, 1955.

He was united in marriage to Maxine Faye Balvanz on July 1, 1956 at the Church of Christ in Eldora. To this union two sons were born. Ralph worked for 39 ½ years at the Training School in Eldora and retired in 1995.

Ralph was a proud member of the American Legion in Ackley. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and trapping. One of his greatest joys was time spent with his family and attending his grandchildren’s activities.

Ralph is survived by his wife of 62 years, Maxine; two sons, Kevin (Mary Jo) Boomgarden of Cedar Rapids and their children, Megan Boomgarden, Erich (Elizabeth) Boomgarden and Lisa (Taylor) Sheffels, Craig (Shelley) Boomgarden of Eldora and their daughter Sarah (Carson Lutterman) Boomgarden; one brother, Heine (Judith) Boomgarden of Eldora; two brothers-in-law, Keith Balvanz of Albion and Jerry Balvanz of Sacramento, California; three sisters-in-law, Rowena Boomgarden of Denver, Colorado, Imogene Boomgarden of Wellsburg and Darla Mabe of Mitchellville; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Lloyd and Lee Boomgarden.

There will be no formal services held per Ralph’s wishes. Memorials may be made to the family for a designation of their choice.

Abels Funeral and Cremation Service – Creps Chapel is assisting Ralph’s family.