Ralph Ellsworth Foster, Sr.

July 28, 1890 – February 23, 1961

Ralph E. Foster, Sr., 70, long-time city pharmacist and sports enthusiast, was fatally stricken by a heart attack at 12:30 a.m. Thursday at his home 618 Seventh street.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Saturday in the Newton chapel with Rev. Ernest Ackerman, minister of the First Presbyterian church, officiating. Burial will be in Grace Hill cemetery.

Foster, a native of Lincoln, Kan., was born July 28, 1890, and came to Noble county in December 1893 with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. George A. Foster, settling on a farm northwest of Perry.

He attended the U.S. Naval academy at Annapolis, Md one year and later was a student at Kansas university and the Kansas City College of Pharmacy. In 1917 he became a partner of Everett E. Nelson in the Southside Drug store and in 1919 opened Foster’s Corner Drug, which is still in operation. Foster had continued active in business and the store is now operated by a son, William G. (Woody) Foster.

He was a member of the First Presbyterian church and Perry Masonic lodge No. 78 A.F.&A.M.

Foster was married Oct. 20, 1914 in Perry to the former Edna Brown, who survives.

Foster’s father was a former Noble county sheriff and at one time was president of the First National bank.

Several years ago Foster originated the practice of presenting small football trophies to Perry high school senior football players. He was an ardent fan of baseball, football and other sports.

Foster was appointed a member of the city council from ward four on June 6, 1951, succeeding Judson H. Pierce who resigned the post.

In addition to his wife of the home, survivors include two sons, William G., Perry and Ralph Jr., Stillwater; a sister, Mrs. Mable Gibson, Ponca City; an uncle ??? and two ???.