Ralph E. Hartshorn

1933 – 2023

Greatly loved, deeply missed

Ralph E. Hartshorn passed away at his home April 18, 2023. Ralph was born on October 23, 1933, to Jennie and James Hartshorn in Lehi Utah. Ralph grew up in a loving family and was the youngest of six children, brothers David, Jim, Melvin, and two sisters Evelyn and Wanda.

Ralph graduated from Lehi High school and married his high school sweetheart Carla M. Jackson on September 30, 1952. Ralph was proud to serve his country and joined the Airforce in 1952 –1956. Ralph was stationed in Maine and later in California, where he enrolled in Barber College in 1958. Ralph and the family moved to Boise in 1962. Ralph and Carla had five children, three sons David, Paul, Ralph, and two daughters Linda, and Carlyn. In 1964 Ralph opened the Barber Pole. He loved cutting hair and enjoyed chatting with customers. Years later it became a family run shop, with three of his children becoming Barbers.

In 1977 Ralph missed the small town atmosphere that he grew up in and decided to move to Cascade Idaho where he founded The Valley Store which is still operating today.  He left a lasting impression on the Cascade community and made many lifelong friends. In 1987 Ralph missed working at the Barber Pole with family and moved back to Boise. The Barber Pole closed 51 years later in 2015.  In retirement Ralph looked forward to going to Yuma Arizona during the winter. He loved music and dancing and was entertainment director at Winter Haven Park. At 89 Ralph was proud to have the oldest active Barber License in Idaho.

Ralph was proceeded in death by parents Jennie and James, brothers David, Jim, Melvin, sisters Evelyn, Wanda, son David, daughter Linda, and Granddaughter Cassie.

Ralph is survived by his wife Carla in Boise ID, the love of his life for 70 years. His sons Paul in Boise ID, Ralph in Cascade ID, daughter Carlyn in Tempe AZ, eleven grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren, number 15 great grandchild soon to be born in June, and three great great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the Veterans administration, VA Hospital and Doctors for their great care. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on Ralph’s memorial webpage at www. Bowmanfuneral.com