Ralph and I became friends two years ago. We often talked after Mass and occasionally had lunch together. He was a man of prayer, a devoted father, and a collector of all things related to the Chicago stockyards. He celebrated his recent discoveries of items from local antique stores that would eventually be displayed at a reunion of others also influenced by their vivid memories of the truly exciting times they shared in Chicago's early days as a cattle emporium.

I will miss our conversations that ranged from shared moments of his deep faith, his experiences of being a cattle buyer, and his pride in and concern for his children. My condolences to his family. I am so sorry that I will be unable to meet them as I am in Maryland visiting my grandchildren. I will pray for all of you.

I've been Ralph's neighbor for the last 5 years and have enjoyed many visits with him. I am going to miss seeing him working in his garden that he loved so much. My condolences to his family for their loss.

I'm so sorry to hear of Ralph's passing, I have very fond memories of visiting the Castle family for holidays and on other occasions. My deepest sympathy goes out to the family. Take care.

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Ralph was a helluva guy and I have lots of good memories of him. Wish I could be there. Toast him once for me.

We have lived in Coralville for two summers and I enjoyed our back yard patio visits. He invited me into his home a number of times to view his pictures and his collection of various interesting items. I grew up on a farm in Iowa and we talked about our experiences. He will be missed.

For thirteen years I've lived across the street from Ralph and enjoyed seeing him outside and our many chat times, plus the blueberry muffins he brought to our condo meetings on festive occasions. He'll be missed by all.

My sincere sympathy to the family. I was one of Ralph's Hopice volunteers, visiting him several times, and will cherish the stories he shared from his lifetime, in particular his experiences at the stockyards with his father.

Found this interesting, and he seemed to enjoy telling about this.

My thoughts & prayers are with you, hoping you find lighter moments in the midst of your sadness, by remembering the wonderful memories & moments shared. He lives in your heart forever.

Jane Marie Wold