Ralph Updike

Ralph Owen Updike, 85, passed away Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at his home with his family at his side. Services will be held on Monday, March 8 at Sunland Memorial Park in Sun City, Arizona.
He leaves his wife of 62 years, Betty Joyce Brill Updike; his daughter, Sandra Matthews; his son, Douglas R Updike; grandchildren Matthew and Kristen Updike; and many close friends.
Born in Newcastle, Wyoming, he was the youngest son of Hugh and Mary Roberts Updike. His three brothers, Walter, Wallace, and NS, preceded him in death.
Mr. Updike served as a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant in the China Burma India Theater of World War II, performing aircraft inspection, repairs and salvage. Upon his honorable discharge he returned to Newcastle where he was reacquainted with his former schoolmate, Betty Brill, and the two were married two weeks later on Valentine's Day, 1948. He worked for several years at Updike Brothers Oil Well Servicing before starting his own company, Ralph Updike Oil Well Servicing.
In 1963 the family moved to Carmel Valley, California, where they owned and operated the Valley Lodge resort motel for seven years. Mr. and Mrs. Updike also lived in Fresno and Walnut Creek. In 1974 they returned to Newcastle, where Mr. Updike was elected and served two terms as the town's mayor. He was a popular and well-respected public servant. The town thrived under his leadership. In 2000 the couple retired to Sun City, Arizona.
Mr. Updike was active in many community organizations. He was a Past Master of Newcastle Masonic Lodge #13 A.F. and A.M. of Wyoming; and a Past Patron of Newcastle Chapter No. 30, Order of the Eastern Star. He was also a member of the Kalif Shrine in Sheridan, Wyoming; the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Sheridan, Wyoming; the Newcastle Lions Club and the First United Methodist Church of Newcastle.
Mr. Updike will be remembered for his service to country, his community leadership, his humor and generosity, and, most especially, his love for his family and friends.
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