Obituary of Ralph Edwin Gilkerson

GILKERSON, Ralph Edwin 9/24/1928 - 8/21/2017 Ralph Edwin Gilkerson passed away in Tucson at 88. Born to Ralph Edwin Gilkerson, Sr. and Gladys Riddle in Minneapolis, he grew up in Grand Rapids, MI, then served in the US Army. After graduating from UCLA and the UA, Ralph enjoyed a long career as a teacher and guidance counselor in TUSD. An avid tennis player, he also enjoyed travel, jazz, and hiking. His generosity, humor, and kindness will be greatly missed by family and friends. Preceded in death by his second wife, Barbara "Bobbie"; first wife, Talitha Stokes and son, Glen Gilkerson. Ralph is survived by his daughter, Ann Gilkerson; son, Alex Gilkerson; stepdaughter, Jo Ellen Cockley (Jon Payne); stepson, Drew Cockley and grandchildren, Leandra, Nick, Jenna and Katie. Junior scholarship donations welcomed to Reffkin Tennis Center. Please join us for a Celebration of Ralph's life on Saturday, September 23, 2017, 4:00 p.m., at the San Pedro Chapel, 5230 E. Ft. Lowell Rd., Tucson. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, Dodge Chapel.