Ralph Alden died Feb. 24, 2005, at his daughter’s home on Vashon where he had been living since November. He was 82 years old.

Mr. Alden had made Vashon his home since 1987.

He was born Nov. 9, 1922, in Manhattan, Kan. He married Lou Jean Fletcher on March 16, 1946. He graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in science in 1951.

Mr. Alden was with Fisher Mills from 1957 until retiring in 1975. Between 1973 and 1975, he served as president and general manager and director of Fisher Mills, Inc.

Survivors include his daughter Liz Brenneman of Vashon and Rebecca Rickabaugh of Seattle; grandchildren Dustan and Cole Brenneman and Joshua and Hannah Rickabaugh, and great grandchildren Asrai, Fletcher, and Forest Rickabaugh.

The family expressed gratitude to Hospice of Seattle caregivers. The family said the presence of Hospice allowed Mr. Allen to experience his final days with dignity and grace.

A graveside memorial service is set for 2 p.m. Saturday, March 5, at Vashon Cemetery.

The family asks that memorial gifts be made to Providence Hospice of Seattle Foundation, 425 Pontius Ave. N. Suite 300, Seattle, Wash. 98109.