Ralph W. Estel

Visitation: Friends and family are invited to a small gathering at the gravesite in Winterset Cemetery on Monday, August 6, 2007 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mercy Hospice in Johnston. He is survived by his son, Duane ‘Pete’ Estel (Linda Truslow) of Belleair Bluffs, Fl, his sister Goldie Hitsman of Des Moines, his half brother Harry of Knoxville, IA, his sister-in-law Irene Politis of Pacific Grove, CA and five nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 47 years, Gladys, his daughters Shirley Combs and Pamela Sue Strable, his parents, Eva Furgison and Ray Estel, and his stepfather, Walter Furgison. Ralph W. Estel, 80, of Des Moines died Wednesday, August 1, 2007 at Mercy Hospice in Johnston. He was born in Winterset, IA and after several years serving his country in the U.S. Army settled in Des Moines where he was a resident for over fifty years. Ralph worked assembly at the John Deere Des Moines Works in Ankeny for thirty years and retired after that time. He was also a supporting member of the UAW. He enjoyed the horse racing at Prairie Meadows, his trips to Las Vegas and debating virtually everything - especially politics. Service: The family would like to take a special moment to thank the wonderful staff of both Mercy Hospice Home Care and the Mercy Hospice Residence in Johnston. The care, concern, and compassion provided by them for both Ralph and previously for Gladys was of great comfort to our family. Memorial: Winterset Cemetery in Winterset, Iowa