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Colonel Ralph B. Femrite

About

Purdue University

FUNERAL HOME

Swan-Law Funeral Directors

501 North Cascade Avenue

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Ralph Femrite Obituary

Colonel Ralph B. Femrite taught those around him how to live a full and honorable life. He was born in Glenwood, Minnesota on September 4, 1945, the only boy of six. An outstanding student and athlete in high school where he lettered in three sports, he was a natural for the Air Force Academy. He excelled in all aspects of the Academy program and graduated in the top of his class. In addition, he was a stalwart defender on the varsity soccer team. Upon graduation he was selected to attend Purdue University where he earned his Master's of Science Degree in Astronautical Engineering, before he went to Reese for Undergraduate Pilot Training-where he graduated second in his class and married the love of his life, Tommi.

Ralph began his REAL Air Force career as a single seat fighter pilot where he gained combat experience in the F-105 Thunderchief. Returning from Thailand, he reported to McConnell where he instructed others in the ways of the F-105. From there he was assigned to Luke to fly the rocket--the F-104 Starfighter with some rising stars from the Luftwaffe. He was the youngest Fighter Weapons School Instructor Pilot in that aircraft. Picked three years below the zone to major, his career broadening non-rated assignment was working with the Colonel's Group at Randolph. From there he was chosen to stand up the brand new Aggressor Squadron at Clark Air Force Base, Philippines. He was the youngest flying squadron commander the Pacific Region. Later he was introduced to the F-16 in Misawa Japan where he was the Operations Group Commander. Following that assignment, he found himself back at Randolph developing a new Airmen Promotion Report. Along the way he attended the Air Command and Staff College and the National War College. His final Air Force assignment was back at his beloved Academy where he was the Director of Personnel for the Superintendent.

There was a parallel career that Ralph and Tommi pursued along the way over their last 47 years together. She converted to Christ and began teaching people how to pray from all over the globe in some of the most challenging places on Earth like Mongolia, Uganda, Bosnia, and other such Edens. She also wrote two books on the power of prayer. Whenever he could, Ralph was by her side evangelizing others to the Word of the Lord. They proudly raised two children, Eric and Carri. The two of them blessed Ralph and Tommi with five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Upon retirement from the Air Force, Ralph began a second flying career with FEDEX. With age, all good things come to a close, and he retired to work full time with Tommi in her ministry, Gatekeepers International. Together, they traveled the world, speaking to and teaching those in leadership positions on the power of prayer and intercession. Ralph became an integral part of the ministry and increased his sphere of influence even wider than before.

An excellent golfer, Ralph and his son Eric played in many tournaments together as formidable opponents. They greatly enjoyed playing at St Andrews in Scotland, and cleaning up the competition at the Eisenhower tournaments. Ralph also accomplished something very few have done; that is, shoot his age on the Eisenhower Golf Course-a 67! On snowy days, when golf was not an option, he could be found skiing down the slopes of the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

Ralph lived a full and honorable life, and lost his valiant battle against cancer on February 27, 2015. He was a loyal husband, father, brother, Papa to his grandkids and great-grand kids, a wonderful golfer, an outstanding Air Force officer, and most of all a Man of God, who was kind, friendly, and thoughtful to all. He always made time for his friends, classmates, and those who needed the Lord's inspiration. It can truly be said that Ralph B. Femrite left this world a better place than where found it. He leaves us with wonderful memories of the life he lived and the example he gave us. He is now in a better place in the arms of our Lord.

He is survived by his bride, Tommi (Barbara Stone) Femrite, daughter Carri Bell, son Eric Femrite (Jaclyn), grandchildren Ashley Harris (David), Andrew Gibbs, Alexia Bell, Zachary Bell, Emerson Femrite, and his great-grandchildren Ariadne and Charisma Harris, as well as his sisters and their families.

A visitation is scheduled for Sunday, March 8, 2014, from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m., Swan-Law Funeral Director's, 501 N. Cascade Ave., The funeral service is Monday, March 9, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., USAF Academy Cadet Protestant Chapel.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Gazette on Mar. 8, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Femrite

25 Entries

james whittemore

April 13, 2015

Greetings,

Let me start by saying this Obituary of Col Femrite is one of the most beautiful ones I've ever read!

I am James Whittemore, the son of Jim Whittemore of Glenwood. My dad had the Mobil Station, and then the Sinclair Station. I grew up around the gas station and knew a bunch of the guys who used to hang out there. Ing was a delightful man to talk to and be around. My dad really enjoyed him.

I didn't know Ralph but remember as a kid, Ing talking about him. After i finished ROTC in college, I too went on to be an Air Force Pilot. I retired like Ralph, but as a Lt. Col. I can see in the reading why Ralph was chosen for Colonel. He had quite the impressionable career of which I salute him.

I didn't go on to the airlines, but am a corporate pilot living in Ft Myers, FL. I envy Ralph living in the Springs as I was on the European Air Force Ski Team a couple years in the '80's-90's and love to ski. Living here, that doesn't happen much anymore.

Anyway, I wanted to send my condolences to this wonderful officer, pilot, golfer, skier, dad, husband, friend, grand dad, man, and most of all, outstanding witness for God!

[email protected]

Charlie Olson

March 30, 2015

photo was taken by the Glenwood City Park, next to the Lakeside Ballroom. Ralph on the far right and me on the far left.

Glenice Olson Vipond

March 22, 2015

We were so sad to learn of Ralph's passing. We lived just down the hill from the wonderful Femrite family in Glenwood. I see my brother Charles Olson also signed the guest book. We would walk to school together. We have many birthday and swimming pictures of the Femrites back in those days. We often played at the Femrite's house/yard. They had a big garden and small barn. Mrs. Femrite would bring a snack outside for us when we played there. Graham crackers with powdered sugar frosting. She was wonderful to all of us. We will never forget Ralph and the Femrite family. Our sympathy to the Femrite family.

Charlie Olson

March 21, 2015

I'm So sorry to hear of Ralph's passing. I grew up in Glenwood just down the street from the Femrite's and idolized Ralph as he was a couple of years older then me. I did reconnect with Ralph via emails a few years back but very briefly.
Again, I'm very sorry for your loss of this wonderful man. God Bless you and your family.

Kay Atchison

March 16, 2015

Sorry about the passing of Ralph. It was a blessing in my life to get to know you and Ralph in Colorado Springs during the days of Women Are Wonderful and beyond. I trust and pray that you will feel much love and comfort at this time.

chuck steele

March 11, 2015

It was good serving with you both in our home groups of San Antonio. Ralph did things well and he was a good servant of our Lord. May our Lord's love be very real and noticeable to you and your family in these days. chuck and betty steele

Sande Lofberg

March 9, 2015

Thinking of you all, grateful for those times I was able to spend with Ralph in Colorado, Israel even as recently as November in New Mexico where God's strength was keeping him. Death has not won this battle, and we know that heaven has received a true warrior in the faith. May you know a deep comfort during this time.

Deborah Coates

March 9, 2015

My condolences to you, Tommi. My knowing Ralph has made life much richer. I am praying for you and your family.

Russ Gordon

March 9, 2015

Tommi. We were very saddened to hear the news of Ralph's homegoing, but know that you are anticipating a joyful reunion with him. Still, grieving your loss with you. Russ and June

Shannon Stone

March 9, 2015

So thankful that Dan and I had the opportunity to meet and visit with Ralph. He was a humble and solid man of God. All of the Femrite family is in our prayers. Love to you Tommi!

Albert Kansa

March 9, 2015

Our condolences to Tommi and the family. Ralph was a good friend and neighbor. I always enjoyed talking with Ralph about his adventures and his faith. He accomplished so much in his life. We enjoyed a few adventures skiing together in Vail. He will be missed.

Jeannine (Gilbertson) Churchill

March 9, 2015

You have my deepest condolences. Ralph was always a kind and considerate schoolmate and one of our Class of '63 success stories. We always enjoyed seeing Ralph and Tommi when they could attend one of our class reunions. He will be missed.

Naomi Dowdy

March 9, 2015

Tommi - I continue to stand with you and celebrate the wonderful life that Ralph demonstrated. To see the prophetic Word come to pass - that he would be doing training and teaching along with you as he retired - was exciting. He walked in God's divine plan. Well Done! Love you both

Steve Kettells

March 9, 2015

From Cub scouts to Boy scouts, Sunday school, hunting, football, emails about airplanes (He always was proud of the fact that his takeoffs equaled his landings)Ralph was always my hero.

I know that this takeoff will result in an perfect landing with the Lord.

Dr Laurie Vervaecke

March 9, 2015

Tommi & family,
It was such an honor to know a true man of God. He has left a great legacy & the impact he made on many us will continue and be reproduced in the years to come. I loved the few times I played golf with both Tommi & Ralph. Praying for you in this season and the days to come.

Pat Bogie Anderson

March 8, 2015

So enjoyed walking to school with Ralph when we would meet up as he walked past our house. Always so kind and nice. Condolences to you, his family.

Linada Burton

March 8, 2015

So sorry for your loss! Ralph was one of the kindest, most upbeat people I have ever met.I will always remember his welcoming smile that greeted everyone he ran into.

Chuck & Dainne Casey

March 8, 2015

We were saddened to hear of the passing of Ralph, but joyous at the same time knowing he is with his heavenly Father. I (Dianne) have special memories of you, Tommi, and the prayers you shared with me in the Philippines (God is so faithful). We, both, have many fond memories of time spent with you both at Clark AB...we know Ralph is missed by your entire family...you are in our prayers...Chuck and Dianne Casey

Ann (Hagen) Rooney

March 8, 2015

Though I didn't know Ralph in high school all that well being a Lowry kid, I do remember that to me he personified what a young man should be - kind, intelligent, and very good looking to boot. The world has lost a true gentleman and will be missed by many. God bless you and your family.

Susie, Carl, Luke Adams Bennett

March 8, 2015

Dear Tommi, Carri, Eric and all your family,

We are so very crestfallen to hear of Ralph's passing. We are in shock and
disbelief and truly will miss our talks, our prayer times and the special times
we shared with both of you. Ralph was an incredible inspiration to us and to
all that had the honor to know him. His ease and his grace, his wisdom and
his knowledge and his undeniable fortitude in facing this challenge with the
positive attitude that he did is a testimony to his grit and character. Nothing
stopped him from enjoying his life to the fullest, and approaching each and every day with gusto and heartfelt appreciation for every ounce of life and joy he
could muster. He was and is truly an amazing man! We are so blessed to have him in our lives and humbled at his passion for Christ, his beautiful Tommi; our precious cousin, and love and care for his children and grandchildren. God Bless You One And All! Our hearts and arms are wrapped tightly around each and every one of you, enveloping you in Light and Love. We will miss Ralph so much, and keep you in our prayers eternally.
We are here for you any time Tommi. God Is Love, Susie, Carl & Luke Adams

March 7, 2015

Will always remember Ralph's wonderful smile. May God hold you close and keep you in His care. Know that Heaven has a loving new angel who looks down on his family with pride and love. I know there is sadness and joy now, sadness because you will miss him and joy because you know he is with God. Blessings to you all.
His classmate, Rosella(Ward) Anderson

Paul Swenson

March 7, 2015

I am so sorry to hear that we all have lost Ralph. I have so many great memories of high school, our fall hunts and summer fun... And the warm summer night when he met Tommi....

Terry Quenemoen

March 7, 2015

I offer my condolences to the family and was very sorry to hear about Ralph.
God be with you and shine his loving light on you all.
Terry Quenemoen

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