Ralph Peter Birkelo

Ralph Birkelo, 59, a life long native of Casper passed away on May 11, 2009 after a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease.) He was born in
Coeur D'Alene, Idaho on June 22, 1949 to Peter and Jackie Birkelo.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his step father, Paul Palmer and his step brother, Paul Palmer, Jr. He is survived by a brother, Dean Birkelo (wife, Jean); a niece, Kristy Hawkins (husband, Trevor), all of Colorado Springs, Colorado; a step brother, Chad Palmer (wife, Colleen) of Casper. He attended school all his life in Casper, earning many degrees in various fields. He worked for the Casper Star Tribune for many years before becoming a cable technician. Ralph had a passion for trains and enjoyed his travels. He will be deeply missed by all his family and friends.
Newcomer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Out of respect for Ralph's wishes, there will be no local service. The family would like to thank the Wyoming Medical Center and Amedisys Hospice Services, his nurses and all those who participated in his care. Your compassion was extraordinary.