DRAIN, Ralph Eugene

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 07/16/2010 Ralph Eugene Drain, 80, died July 8, 2010. He was born Oct. 2, 1929, in Pocatello, Idaho to Roy Bertis Drain and Grace Hembree. His siblings are Doyle Keith, Doris Fay, Thomas Andrew, Robert William, and Beverly Ann. Ralph attended school in Fayetteville, Ark. and Brawley, Calif. before moving to St. Johns in 1939. His first job was helping to rebuild Whiting's Garage, and at the age of 12 he worked at the saw mill at Green's Peak. He graduated from St. Johns High School in 1949, where he excelled as an athlete. After high school he continued to be a supportive fan to his children and grandchildren at his alma mater. Upon graduating from high school he worked as a mechanic for Patterson Motors and then Whiting Brothers. He married Colleen Greer June 30, 1949. Ralph and Colleen raised three children Catherine, Garth Eugene, and Keith Alan in St. Johns. In 1969 he took a job as a mechanic for the State Highway Department, and worked there until he retired in 1991. Ralph was also a farmer and rancher for 30 years, and a gifted welder. Outside of work he served in many positions within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and as Secretary of the St. Johns Cattle Association. Ralph is survived by his devoted wife, Colleen; children Catherine (Nick), Garth (Bonnie), and Keith (Jeri). He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Services for Ralph Drain will be held Saturday, July 17, at 11 a.m. at the St. Johns L.D.S. downtown chapel. Viewing will precede the service from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Interment to follow at St. Johns Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to www.greersmortuary.com