Ralph I. Bretches, 78, passed away on Friday (Feb. 11, 2011) in the care of hospice by Amedisys in LakePoint of Augusta.
He was born on May 10, 1932, in Independence to Irvin and Ethel Bretches.
Ralph received his education in Independence and graduated from high school in 1950. He continued his education at The University of Kansas in Lawrence where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacology. He entered the U.S. Army after graduation and served as a first lieutenant for three years. He then became employed as a pharmacist in Hutchinson, later moving to Great Bend, where he was the owner of the Triangle Drug Store.
In 1985, the family moved to Newton, where he retired as the pharmacy supervisor for Kroger (North Dillons). Ralph enjoyed participation in the migratory bird count in Newton. He was admired and respected by all who knew him, and his quiet, patient manner touched many in his business and personal relationships.
Ralph was a member of the Salem United Methodist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Sue, of the home; daughter, Kelly Darby, and her husband, John, of Augusta; son, Sgt. 1st Class Andrew Bretches, and his wife, Maria, stationed at Fort Knox, Ky.; and grandchildren, Kade and Veronica Darby, and Kristopher, Sheannah, Breannah and Jessicah Bretches. Sgt. Bretches presently is serving in Afghanistan, but will be able to attend the memorial service.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents.
A register book will be available for signing from 1 to 5 p.m. Friday at Petersen Funeral Home in Newton. A celebration of life service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Salem United Methodist Church, 115 Old Main St. in Newton. A committal service of the ashes will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Salem United Methodist Church in care of Petersen Funeral Home, 215 N. Main, Newton, KS 67114.
1932 - 2011 (78 years)