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700 Timberlane Road
Tallahassee, Florida
Ralph Glatfelter 1947 - 2013
Ralph Glatfelter, devoted husband and tireless health care advocate, died peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with cancer.
For 35 years, Ralph dedicated his career to serving the people of Florida as a passionate voice for those in need of health care. Born and raised in Zellwood, Florida, an avid Gator fan, he graduated from the University of Florida with honors and was active in student government. He carried his love of politics to Tallahassee, working for Attorney General Bob Shevin in his legislative affairs office. Upon leaving the Attorney General's office Ralph embarked on his long career in health care advocacy. In 1983 he joined the Florida League of Hospitals where he was appointed President and CEO in 1986. Ralph worked for the League for 18 years prior to joining the Florida Hospital Association as Senior Vice President following the merger of the three state hospital associations.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Margaret Grace Anderson and Alfred Eck Glatfelter. They spent their entire lives in Christian service teaching at Hampton DuBose Academy in Zellwood, Florida and in their 60's, became missionaries in Brazil at Ami Training Center.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Sharon (Sukie) McAllister Glatfelter. Together they shared a passion for golf and a love of traveling. She cared for him throughout his treatment and remained at his side when he was called to his eternal home.
A Christian funeral service to honor Ralph will be held 2:00 PM, Wednesday, February 20, 2013, at Bradfordville First Baptist Church.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Florida Baptist Children's Home or Ami Training Center, 1021 Maxwell Mill Road, Suite B, Fort Mill, SC 29708 or your favorite charity .
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
December 4, 2013
George Albright
Dear Sukie: I called the FHA office looking for Ralph today, and was completely floored by the news of his passing! I don't know what to think now that my great pal Ralph is no longer here to scheme with me! What a gentleman! My thoughts and prayers are with you.Fondly George Albright
April 5, 2013
Dan and Julie Snyder
Dear Sukie, I just happened to stumble upon this sad news of Ralph's homegoing. I am so sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful man and as so many others stated, a true gentleman. I know your loss must be great but know that he was a tremendous man and had his heart where the Lord's is. May you be comforted by family and friends. AMI has been so blessed by your involvement in the work among the indigenous. May his legacy live on. Love and Blessings.
February 22, 2013
Kathie Belden Hood '61
Dear Sukie, My thoughts and prayers are with you. I too remember Ralph doing "Casey at the Bat". He was so nice and well mannered at HDA. I loved his parents and rejoice that he has been reunited with them. For you Sukie I pray you will feel God's comfort and His arms around you.
February 21, 2013
I too remember Ralph as a cute little boy, running up and down the dirt roads at HDA. I graduated in 1959 from there and I remember his sweet parents so well. A friend of mine was given an 5 x 7 picture from Mr. Glatt that he had painted, so she will cherish that for many reason. Sukie, I didn't have the pleasure of meeting you, but you had a wonderful dear man as a husband. God has a reason for everything, and I pray in the days ahead you will feel His presence abundently. My prayers are with you at the time of sadness and joy.
Gail Straub Rogers John 14:27
February 21, 2013
Sara Lotz Powell
I have wonderful memories of Ralph as a little boy, presenting "Casey at the Bat", while the rest of us, as high school students, recited our declamations. Even then he had a great presence...and his dear parents were so proud of him, both as a boy and as a man...
February 21, 2013
Jacquie Connell
As a Senate Aide for two different Senators over the years, it was always a delight when Mr. Glatfelter came into our office. He was always so courteous to everyone and the perfect gentleman. I always looked forward to seeing that infectious smile whether in our office or in the hallways. Our loss is Heaven's gain. God Bless You.
February 20, 2013
Miffie Hollyday
Dear Sukie, Your Ralph was such a dear dear soul. He had that gentle smile that seemed to bring calm to everyone he met. He will be missed sincerely and deeply. You and he had a good life together and that is a comfort but I so wish he was still here with you.
February 20, 2013
Dear Suki,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I so appreciated Ralph's professionalism, leadership, and friendship. He truly made a difference in healthcare and in all the lives he touched. Jessie sends her love.
Kathy Holzer
February 19, 2013
Frank Messersmith
Ralph, what a class act. Always dressed to the nines, polished to a high sheen, and a gentleman who walked where others were hard to find. So sorry to hear of this great loss.
February 19, 2013
Bilhenry Walker
Ralph, So sorry to see you leave this earth where you have done so much good. I'm glad you lived your life with passion and shared this with so many. I could tell you had something special burning in you by the way you used to run the mile at HDA.
Bill Walker '59
February 19, 2013
Pat Shermer
Very saddened to learn of Ralph (Duke)'s passing and your loss, Sukie. He was only a boy when I knew him at Hampden DuBose Academy, but I remember him fondly. He is with his Lord and Savior and no more in pain.
Prayers for you as you continue on without your dear husband.
Pat Shermer '61
February 19, 2013
Bob West
Ralph Glatfelter was a true "hero of the faith"
February 19, 2013
Ralph was a special person and you all had many good times together. I understand your loss and know how your heart hurts. My heart goes out to you. Many prayers and thoughts have gone out to you through these past several years and hope you will take comfort in knowing this.
February 19, 2013
Linda Quick
It is with great sorrow that I write to share my condolences. Ralph and I have been colleagues and friends since we first worked together in the mid 1970's on the State's response to drug abuse. I have so enjoyed watching his remarkable career as a tireless advocate for the state's hospitals, their employees and their patients. As President of the South Florida Hospital & Healthcare Association, it has been a privilege to join Ralph in service to so many worthwhile institutions and endeavors. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
February 19, 2013
Diane Bell
Sukie, my thoughts are with you during this time of grief. He was a very special person and he knew that he was a lucky man to have someone like you by his side. Take care my friend and know that you are in my heart and prayers.
February 19, 2013
Peggy Rigsby
My memories of Ralph are one of a gentleman, a statesman, and a kind and caring individual. Never afraid to state his opinion. Will miss him in the Capitol.
February 19, 2013
Ken Snover
Sukie – I was saddened to learn of Ralph's passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Ken Snover
February 19, 2013
Kelly and Todd Jones
Sukie, Todd and I were very sad to hear about the passing of Ralph. We hope you find strength knowing he is no longer in pain, no longer suffering and back with his parents. He will always be with you, he's just a thought away, a glipse to the heavens, a favorite memory remembered. We are praying for you and are here for anything you need.
February 19, 2013
Dr. Charles Brown
I knew Ralph's parents and Ralph when he was a child. I pray our Father's peace for his family. "Blessed in the sight of the Lord is the home-going of one of His saints."
February 19, 2013
Laurel Bolesky-Guerrero
I knew Ralph many years ago, as we attended the same boarding school in northern Florida. I remember that even back in his youth, that he was a very special human being. I look forward to seeing him someday myself when we reach the other side. Rest in peace, Ralph, memories eternal.
February 19, 2013
Faith Barcroft
My heartfelt sympathy for loss of our friend and HDA alum. He fought the good fight against this disease and is now resting in the arms of his Saviour. We will miss him. Faith Bailey Barcroft '63
February 19, 2013
Charlotte Rigsby
Dear Sukie,
I am saddened to hear of Ralph's passing. I know that he had the comfort and the love of a great wife as you walked this path alongside him. My hope is that the love of your many friends will bring you comfort and the love of God will bring you peace.
February 19, 2013
Barbara Sanders
My deepest sympathies go out to you. Ralph was one of the nicest men I have ever met and always such a gentleman.
February 19, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss Sukie. Ralph was always such a kind person. He will be missed.
My deepest sympathy and prayers are with you,
Marie Shortz
February 19, 2013
Fred Lippman
Condolances to the family and friends of Ralph. I truly respected the great knowledge and candor presented by Ralph throughout his carrer. He represented the interests of his clients and the effects on the citizens of this great state with honor and truthfulness. Fred Lippman
February 19, 2013
Mark and Joy Anderson
God blessed the life of Ralph. We pray that Sukie will continue to find that blessing through her faith in God.
February 19, 2013
Suzanne Chandler
I did not have the honor of knowing Mr. Glatfelter but his legacy is very apparent. Praying for you and the entire family during this difficult time. So very grateful he was prepared for his eternal home with our Heavenly Father and Jesus, our Savior.
February 19, 2013
Victoria Di Tomaso
I described Ralph yesterday to a coworker as a gentleman and a gentle man. I had the highest regard for him, and I am so sorry that his time on this earth is over.
February 19, 2013
Monte Stevens
This makes me so sad. Sukie-mama...you're in my thoughts.
February 19, 2013
Bill Cotterell
I'm so sorry. I met Ralph when he was working with Bob Shevin 40 years ago and always respected him greatly.
February 19, 2013
Dana Watson
Rest in Peace Ralph. The 4th floor will be less informed without you.
February 18, 2013
William Stander
Ralph was always a gentleman, and someone I looked up to as a role model when I was a junior lobbyist coming up the ranks. Sukie, my heartfelt sympathies.
February 18, 2013
Rich Rasmussen
I will miss you my friend. You were a mentor and role model for us all.
---- Rich
February 18, 2013
Sen. Debby SAanderson
Dear Sukie,
I always appreciated Ralph's professionalism, and friendship. We tried to resolve many healthcare issues throughout my 20 years of legislative service. He was an excellent champion for his issues, and those of us that had the opportunity to work with him, always knew exactly where he stood.
Thank you for taking such wonderful care of him, and my heart is sad for your loss.
Warm regards,
Senator Debby Sanderson
Fort Lauderdale
February 18, 2013
Chantal Leconte
Ralph, may you rest in peace.
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