Lyle Ralph Jackson passed away peacefully, at home, with family on February 3, 2021, joining his wife, Arlene, for the next adventure in their eternity together.
Ralph was truly a man for all seasons; an athlete, musician, artist, architect, engineer, child rescuer, war hero, knight, counselor, spiritual leader, scriptorian, teacher, storyteller, amigo, an example to 9 children, and a loving, faithful husband.
While growing up he loved the outdoors, scouting, and daydreaming about the adventures of "Tarzan". He enjoyed the intrigue of "Knights of the Round Table" and the mystery of "Sherlock Holmes." He was well versed with the literary "classics" of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, Alexander Dumas, Robert Louis Stevenson and could recall and recite on a moment's notice the writings of Tennyson, Longfellow and the Rubaiyat by Omar Khayyam.
He served his country courageously during WWII. His experiences in Europe gave him many harrowing stories to tell. He received many medals for his service including the French Légion d Honneur for his contribution in liberating France and received the title of Chevalier, Knight, or Sir Ralph. He was most proud of his Good Conduct medal.
He raised his family honorably and with humor. He was often sought out by them and many others for advice and counsel. He was a good provider, working as a mechanical engineer at Kennecott for most of his career. He was respected for his integrity, expertise, common sense and management skills.
He supported his Church valiantly in a variety of callings. He loved the Lord and was a master scriptorian, could recite the entire Sermon on the Mount from memory among other important scriptures, and was considered an authority on Isaiah. He spoke often about lessons from the scriptures and the power of prayer.
He leaves behind a legacy of honesty, hard work, humor, service, conducting oneself properly, and various pneumonic illustrations.
He is survived and will be greatly missed by his children; Lynda Jackson, Mike Jackson (Chyrell), Judy Jackson, Mark Jackson (Julie), Rory Jon Jackson (Margaret), Robyn Follett (Steve), Teresa Burya (David), Kristi Jackson, Kelli Wright (Lane), 21 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his wife Arlene, his parents, his four siblings, and their spouses.
We will be loving you… Always!
A public visitation will be held on Friday, February 12, 2021, at Larkin Sunset Gardens Mortuary, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road in Sandy from 9:00 to 10:45 AM. With COVID precautions in mind, social distancing, masks and the limiting of the gathering size in the viewing room will be monitored.
Family funeral services will be held directly after at 11:00 AM. With COVID requirements in mind, the service will be live-streamed via Zoom with the link provided above.
This is Bertha Hall. I want to extend me and my families empathy. What memories it brings back, when your kids and our kids were growing up, and doing things together. Your Dad was still sending me Christmas cards, even this Christmas. He was 96 and I beat him , I will be 99 in April. Love you all, Bertha and family.
Dear Jackson Family,
The multitude of activities he served volunterly, and engagements he held professionally illustrate the long and fulfilled life he had.
The Republic of France will always be greatful for his contribution to the Liberation of France during WWII.
All my condolences to your family.
Best,
Anne V. Lair, Ph.D
Honorary Consul to France,
Utah
I have fond memories of Ralph. He hired me upon graduation from engineering school. I spent my first few years working in his mechanical design group at the Kennecott Research Center. I appreciated his mentoring and humorous personality.
My condolences to his entire family.
My love goes out to all of you at the passing of your father. He was an extraordinary man. I have so many great memories of our association with your parents, as well as with all you kids. Your Dad helped me so much when I was a greenhorn Gospel Doctrine teacher. He always knew where to find what I as looking for. He also taught me his method of memorizing and I have used it often. However, I am not as good at it as he was. I admired his honesty, his hardworking attitude, his sense of humor and so much more. I hope you know how special each of you are to me. You have a great heritage! Love, Norda
My condolences on the passing of your wonderful father. What a great man. He touched all our lives for good. He had so many gifts and talents. I had great respect and admiration for him and your sweet mother, Arlene. It was a blessing to have had them as friends and neighbors.
God bless all of you!
Connie Barlow