Harold "Hal" Ralston

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of husband, father, grandfather and friend, Hal Ralston. Hal was born on June 20, 1944 in Boston, MA to Harold Ralston and Cecelia Mahoney Ralston and passed away in Parker, CO on September 10, 2024 at 80 years of age. Hal was well loved for his sense of humor, his love of theater, his generous spirit and his love of cooking. He is survived by his wife, Jackie Yax Ralston, sons Brian and Brady of Portland, OR, son, Max and daughter-in-law, Sarah Jean of Parker, CO and daughter, Sarah Beth Hall who has lovingly helped with his caregiving for the past two years, as well as four granddaughters, Jasmine, Clara, Alex and Layla, his brother, Bill Ralston and wife, Debbie, his sister, Nancy Hutchins and husband, Justin, both of Neosho, MO and many loving nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and by his brother, Thomas Ralston who died in service to his country.

During high school, Hal and his lifelong friend, George Sullivan, worked at WGBH dressing stages for cameramen on shows like Julia Child's "The French Chef," Eleanor Roosevelt's "Epitaph for Jim Crow," and the Buckminster Fuller series.

In 1963 he moved to Los Angeles where he wrote comedy for The Steve Allen Show, Laugh-In, and Hollywood Squares. He joined SAG and acted in commercials, TV series and movies. He also became a professional photographer and took headshots for actors. Hal continued his love of acting by producing and directing children's theater.

After retiring, Hal and Jackie moved to Santa Fe, NM and enjoyed twelve years in the high desert. After Hal was diagnosed with dementia, they moved closer to family in CO. 

A celebration of his life to be announced later.