Ralph Epke

Ralph Epke, age 83 of York, died Sunday, January 25, 2004 at York. He was born March 5, 1920 in York County, NE., to Henry and Frieda (Reisner) Epke and was an active member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York. Ralph was a longtime York and Waco area farmer and also sold Pioneer Seed products for over 20 years. He was also a member of the National Corn Growers Association. On September 19, 1953 he was married to Ardis Burhoop at York.

He is survived by his wife Ardis of York, one son Clark and his wife Beverly Epke of Lincoln, NE, one daughter Courtney and her husband Jeffrey Bird of Plattsmouth, Nebraska. Three grandchildren, Effie Epke of Lincoln and Alexandra and Keenan Bird of Plattsmouth. Two brothers, Walter Epke of St. George, Kansas and Wilbur Epke of York. Three sisters, Elta Davis of York, Paula (Alfred) Behmer of Lincoln and Dama (Julian) Lind of York. Nephews, nieces and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Rudolph and four sisters, Alma Epke Anna Ranes, Norena Rich and an infant sister as well. Also one grandson Zak Epke.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:30 A.M., Wednesday at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York with Reverend Arthur Brinkmeyer and Reverend Timothy Marshall officiating. Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in York. Memorials may be directed to Emmanuel Lutheran Church in York.