C. Ralph Cook's Obituary
Our beloved C. Ralph Cook passed into heaven on April 1, 2015. He was born in Porterville, CA on December 17, 1918 to Leonard Cook and Bertha (Hopkins) Cook. When Ralph was five years old, he and his family, including brother Frank and sister Gladys, traveled by horse drawn wagon to San Diego County, where he spent the remainder of his life. Ralph began his schooling at Pomerado Elementary School in Poway and graduated from Escondido High School in 1935. At sixteen years of age, Ralph became a plasterer’s apprentice and in 1940, he became a journeyman. That same year Ralph was drafted by the Army to serve in WW2. He spent the next five years proudly serving his country.
In January of 1942, during a short leave from the Army, Ralph married the love of his life, Myrtle Jean McFeron. Ralph was discharged from the Army in 1945, and in May of that same year, Ralph and Jean welcomed daughter Barbara Jean. In 1947 they welcomed son Gary, and in 1952 daughter Patti Jo. During this time Ralph and his brother Frank ran a successful lath and plaster company. Ralph also served on the plastering apprenticeship board at San Diego City College where he taught young men the trade.
In 1961 Ralph and Jean made a career change and opened the first skilled nursing facility in Escondido, Valle Vista Convalescent Hospital. They owned and operated Valle Vista from 1961-1991. In 1975 Ralph and Jean purchased Crest View Manor, an assisted living facility, which is still family owned and operated. In addition to running a successful business, Ralph was continually active in the community. Upon moving to Escondido he and Jean became active members of the Grace Lutheran Church. In 1965 he joined Escondido Rotary, where he held perfect attendance for 50 years. Additionally, he served as president of the San Diego County Chapter of the CA Association of Health Facilities, where he held both regional and state titles.
After 30 years in the nursing home business, Ralph retired in 1991. He and Jean enjoyed their retirement immensely, traveling in their motor home all over the Eastern Sierra Mountains, golfing, and being active members of their church. Affectionately known to his family as Papadad, he had the love and respect of all who knew him. He and Jean hosted family events on every holiday and special occasion. Ralph and Jean’s home was always the hub of activity from formal holiday events to casual dinners on the patio. Ralph was the incredible patriarch of our family and will be sorely missed. Ralph is survived by his sister Gladys, his son Gary and daughter-in-law Pat, eight grandchildren, and 13 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his loving wife Jean, daughters Barbara Jean and Patti Jo, and brother Frank, A viewing will be held on April 9, 2015 at Alhiser-Comer Mortuary from 5:30-8:00 pm. The service will take place the following day, April 10, 2015 at Grace Lutheran Church at 12:30 am and will be followed by burial at Dearborn Cemetery at 2:00 pm. A reception at his son Gary’s house will follow the graveside service. Cards and flowers may be sent to 350 South Vine Street Escondido, Ca. 92025. Donations may be made in Ralph’s name to the Escondido Rotary Club or Grace Lutheran Church in Escondido.
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