Brian Ralston

Brian Kent Ralston, 71 of Rushville, died Monday, February 5, 2024 at his home.

He was born August 23, 1952 in Macomb, the son of Victor and Marifrances Trone Ralston. He married Sherry Hendricker on January 15, 1972 at Bethel Church of the Nazarene and she survives in Rushville.

He is also survived by one daughter Sara (husband Javier) Barrientos of Rushville and their children Hannah, Christopher, and Elaina; three sons Jason Ralston, Aaron Ralston of Rushville, and Nathan Ralston of Bath and his daughter Allie; and one brother Randy (wife Kaiping) Ralston of Bloomington; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Gary Ralston.

Brian attended Beardstown High School, graduating with the class of 1970. He was a hard-working individual, always driven by his entrepreneurial spirit. Brian held various jobs throughout his life, often working multiple ones simultaneously. For 18 years, he dedicated himself to Bohn Aluminum in Beardstown until its closure. Seeking further education, he attended Robert Morris College and received his degree in Business Administration.

Brian's diverse career path included selling office supplies for CDS and equipment for McGrew Feedlot, farming, and running the Frosty Mug in Beardstown. He also founded and operated Ralston Brother's Construction and Ralston Brother's Trading Post, selling produce alongside his other endeavors. Brian was a "wheeler and dealer", had a passion for hunting and fishing, and cherished his time at his happy place, Sugar Creek Cabin. His 4-legged companions were faithfully by his side through life's adventures.

Brian had a very distinct singing voice and he could get everyone to sing along with him. He had a knack for finding beauty in what others considered junk, turning it into precious merchandise. The two most important things in Brian's life were his faith in God and his family. All he ever wanted was the best for his family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:30 AM Friday, February 9, 2024 at Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown with Reverend Fred Fritz and Reverend Rickey Burgard officiating. Burial will be in Palm Cemetery in Rushville. The family will meet with friends from 10 AM until the time of services at the memorial home on Friday.

Memorials have been suggested to Rushville Church of the Nazarene. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.