Ralph Burger

  Ralph A. Burger, of Lynden, passed away on Wednesday, July 15, 2015, at the age of 87.
  Ralph was born on Jan. 6, 1928, in Lynden to John and Anna (Haveman) Burger. He had two brothers and one sister. He grew up in the Lynden area and was a Lynden High School graduate. In 1949, Ralph married Joyce DeJong in Couer d’Alene, Idaho, and together they had five children. For 32 years, he worked as a cattle buyer and hauler for DeJong Packing and later for Ferry Brothers until retirement. Ralph was also a part-time raspberry grower for many years.
  Ralph enjoyed attending the auction barn and having coffee and playing pool with his buddies. He was a big Lynden Lions sports fan, attending most games, and he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Ralph was a longtime member of Second Christian Reformed Church.
  He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Bill Burger; and grandchildren Brandon and Matthew Burger. Ralph is survived by his wife of 66 years, Joyce; children Sue (Gerald) Van Loo, Rod (Miriam) Burger, Chris (Merlyn) Maas, Brenda (Fred) Tjoelker and Tim (Heather) Burger; brother Don Burger Sr.; sister Bernice Kanzler; 12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
  Visitation was on Monday, July 20, and a graveside service was on Tuesday, July 21, in Monumenta Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at Second Christian Reformed Church with Pastor Ben de Regt officiating.
  Memorials in Ralph’s name may be given to Ebenezer Christian School, 9390 Guide Meridian Rd., Lynden, WA 98264.
  You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online guest book at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
  Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Lynden.