Roger Ralston

Roger D. Ralston, age 71, of Lancaster, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2015, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home, rural Lancaster. He was born on November 23, 1943, the son of Wayne and Carol (Kleinfelter) Ralston, in Waterloo, IA. He graduated from Grundy Center High School in 1962. Roger furthered his education at Morningside College and Iowa State University. He lived in Indianola, IA and Lancaster the majority of his life. Roger is a retired farmer and fertilizer salesman. He had a deep love for animals of all kinds, especially Angus cattle, dogs and cats. Roger was an active participant and sponsor in AA, having just celebrated 32 years with the friends of Bill W. and Dr. Bob. He was an active member in Calvary Community Church and had a strong friendship with many at the church. Roger participated in many local organizations and groups including: antique tractor rides, Grant County Cattleman's Association, Lancaster F.F.A., and supported many athletic events at the Lancaster High School. He enjoyed his time spent in the fall at Vesperman Farms giving rides in the pumpkin patch.

Survivors include his son, Michael Wayne (Chris) Ralston, Chaska, MN; grandchildren: Kasey and Shelby; a sister, Marcyne Heitman, Pensacola, FL; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, Roger was preceded in death by an infant brother, Gary Ralston and Michael's mother, Judy.

Funeral services were held on Friday, February 27, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. at the Calvary Community Church in Lancaster with Pastor David Arevalo officiating. Burial was on Saturday, February 28, 2015, at Alice Church Cemetery, Conrad, IA. Family and friends called on Thursday, February 26, 2015, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Schwartz Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Lancaster. Friends also called on Friday one hour prior to services at the church. In lieu of plants and flowers, a memorial has been established to create a scholarship in Roger's name.

The family wishes to express a deep level of gratitude and appreciation towards Orchard Manor staff and to his close AA friends, neighbors, and special friend, Kathy.