Ralph Arne Bruksos
January 17, 1932 - July 3, 2024
Obituary
Ralph Arne Bruksos, born on January 17, 1932, in Seattle, Washington, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2024, at the age of 92. A towering figure in both his professional and personal life, Ralph’s legacy is marked by his profound impact on community service and personal development.
Ralph was the visionary founder of Pioneer Human Services, The National Prayer Breakfast, and The Executive Roundtable. His professional journey also saw him at the helm of STI and Training Consultants. His commitment to helping others was further evidenced in his dedication to Alcoholics Anonymous; which would be 68 years this September.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Ralph led a life rich with diverse interests. He completed 55 marathons, participated in numerous triathlons, climbed Mt. Rainier, and even parachuted from a plane to conquer his fears. His love for the sea was evident in his role as a Captain of a charter boat. A member of the Washington Athletic Club, Rainier Golf and Country Club, Seattle Executives Association, and many others. Ralph also authored several books and was an accomplished public speaker, sharing his life’s learnings with others.
Ralph’s family was the cornerstone of his life. He is survived by his loving wife, Dawn’a; children, Sherry, Cindy (John), and Jon (Vicki); grandchildren, Melissa (Chris), Alexandra (Fletcher), Mathew, and Nicholas (Ali); along with five great-grandchildren. His family remembers him as loving, kind, friendly, and perpetually supportive.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Kelsey Creek Church, 1221 148th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98007, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 2:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Pioneer Human Services (The Ralph Bruksos House) or AA Empire Way.
The arrangements for Ralph’s passing have been entrusted to BONNEY WATSON Funeral Home, SeaTac, WA.
Nobody had a larger impact in my life than Ralph. He started mentoring me when I was 20 years old and that continued for decades. I am who I am because of his guidance. Thank you, Ralph for the phenomenal support and example you were to me and thousands of others. I’m so sorry I just learned of Ralph’s passing today and missed his memorial.