Gerald Ralph Died: A 71-year-old Orofino Resident, Killed in a Car Accident
Orofino, Idaho – A tragic car accident on Friday night claimed the life of Gerald Ralph, a 71-year-old resident of Orofino. Ralph was driving his 2012 Ford Fusion on Highway 12 near Greer when he collided head-on with a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado driven by James Smith, a 45-year-old resident of Lewiston.
According to the Idaho State Police, the accident occurred around 9:30 p.m. on January 5, 2024. Both drivers were wearing seat belts, but Ralph succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Smith was transported to St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston with non-life-threatening injuries.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, but authorities suspect that alcohol may have been a factor. Smith has been charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence. He is currently being held at the Clearwater County Jail on a $500,000 bond.
Who Was Gerald Ralph?
Ralph was a well-known and respected member of the Orofino community. He was a retired teacher who had taught math and science at Orofino High School for over 30 years. He was also an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many.
Gerald Ralph is survived by his wife of 48 years, Mary, his two sons, David and Michael, his daughter, Jennifer, and his six grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother, Robert, and his sister, Susan, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.
Ralph’s family and friends are devastated by his sudden and tragic death. They remember him as a kind, generous, and cheerful person who always had a smile on his face. He was passionate about teaching and inspiring young minds. He was also a devout Christian who was active in his church and community.
“He was the best husband, father, and grandfather anyone could ask for,” Mary said. “He was always there for us, no matter what. He loved us unconditionally and made us feel special. He was our rock and our hero.”
“He was a great teacher and a mentor to many students,” David said. “He had a way of making math and science fun and easy to understand. He was always patient and encouraging. He made a positive impact on so many lives.”
“He was a fun-loving and adventurous person who loved nature,” Jennifer said. “He taught us how to fish, hunt, and camp. He showed us the beauty and wonder of God’s creation. He was always up for a new challenge and a good laugh.”
A Call for Justice and Prevention
Gerald Ralph’s family and friends are also outraged by the senseless and preventable nature of his death. They are demanding justice for Ralph and accountability for Smith. They are also calling for more awareness and prevention of drunk driving, which is a leading cause of fatal crashes in Idaho and nationwide.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 10,142 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in 2023, accounting for 28% of all traffic fatalities. In Idaho, 81 people died in such crashes, representing 24% of all traffic deaths.
“These numbers are unacceptable and heartbreaking,” Michael said. “No one should have to lose their loved one because of someone else’s irresponsible and reckless decision to drink and drive. It’s not worth it. It’s not fair. It’s not right.”
The family and friends of Ralph are urging anyone who plans to drink to designate a sober driver, call a taxi, use a ridesharing service, or find another safe way to get home. They are also asking anyone who sees a suspected drunk driver to report them to the police.
“We don’t want anyone else to go through what we are going through,” Mary said. “We don’t want anyone else to lose their precious life or their loved one because of drunk driving. We want to honor Gerald’s memory by saving lives and preventing tragedies. We want to make a difference.”
A Celebration of Life and Legacy
Ralph’s family and friends are planning to celebrate his life and legacy with a memorial service and a funeral. The memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Orofino. The funeral will be held on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Pine Hills Cemetery of Orofino.
The family and friends of Gerald Ralph invite anyone who knew him or was touched by him to join them in honoring and remembering him. They also welcome anyone who wants to express their condolences, support, or sympathy.
“Gerald was a wonderful person who lived a full and meaningful life,” Mary said. “He was loved by many and will be missed by all. He will always be in our hearts and our thoughts. He will always be with us.”
