Ralph Walbridge

August 18, 1928 - March 26, 2021

Ralph Raymond Walbridge, son of Ralph and Myra Knupp Walbridge, died at his residence in Berkeley. He was 92. Ralph was born in Santa Barbara and graduated from South Pasadena-San Marino High School. In 1961, he received his bachelor's degree from San Francisco State College, where he majored in Language Arts.

Ralph's work experiences were diverse. He was a writer and editor for Lockheed and other engineering companies. He was a social worker in San Francisco for eight years, where he also wrote articles and poems for the agency newsletter. In New Mexico, he built adobe homes and fought fires across the West as a member of Southwest Firefighters. Ralph also participated in many poetry readings at local venues with other poets.

Always, Ralph was a poet, an eternal maker of verses. We are fortunate to be left with an abundance of his work. His poetry reflected his great intelligence and ability to go further, deeper. The desire for his writings to be in accord with truth also applied to his interactions with everyone he encountered. He was much respected for his wise counsel and ability to see beyond the literal.

Ralph was a beautiful, gentle presence, always exploring untrod paths, seeking understanding. He often found inspiration from his love of nature and the many trails he walked with family and friends.

Ralph is lovingly remembered by his sons:  Charles, Julian, and Aland; four grandchildren; and dedicated friends.

Albuquerque Journal, April 25, 2021