Ralph Hardy Post

On Sunday, September 11th, 2016, Ralph Hardy Post took the hand of his late wife, Bess, and joined her in their heavenly home. A private family service will be held at Oakwood Cemetery on what would have been their 71st wedding anniversary October 21. Ralph was born on January 14, 1924 in Waco, Texas to F.O. and Alice Post. Ralph graduated from Waco High School, where he played football under the legendary Paul Tyson, and his team picture is displayed in the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Ralph proudly served in World War II as a staff sergeant with the 483rd Bomb Group in Foggia, Italy, where he calibrated the radar on the lead plane for the French invasion. After the war, he married the love of his life, Bess Maye Ericksen, on October 21st, 1945. After their wedding, Ralph worked in the newspaper industry for 16 years, which included time at the Waco-Tribune Herald. He went on to work in the office supply industry until his retirement in 1996. They were blessed by a daughter, Adonna in 1947, and a son, Jack in 1949. After Jack was born, Ralph graduated from Baylor University with a business degree in 1951. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge in Waco for over 60 years. Ralph was involved with many charitable organizations, including the Kiwanis Club and the Lions Club, where he also served as president. He and Bess were charter members of Lakewood Christian Church, where he loved singing in the choir. Ralph later became a member of First United Methodist Church. He loved music, and his hobbies included golf, painting, and traveling. He was extremely proud of every member of his family, as he and Bess were blessed with five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, loving wife of 70 years, Bess, his brother, Col. Everett Orville Post, and son-in-law Kenneth E. Cook. He is survived by his daughter Adonna Lea Cook of Lorena, son Jack Post and wife Susan of Longview; grandsons Eric Cook and wife Allison, Chris Cook and wife Karen, all from Houston, and Ryan Cook and wife Tamme of Lorena; granddaughters Julie Post Glass and husband Mel of Longview, and Katie Post of Austin; great-grandsons Dalton, Hunter, Collin, and Matthew Cook; great-granddaughter Calla Cook; and sister-in-law Frances Post of San Antonio. The family would like to thank the staff at St. Catherine's for their excellent care and service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice. The family invites you to leave a message or memory in our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.