Ralph Eric Adams Obituary (1964 - 2026)

Ralph Eric Adams March 19, 1964 – April 6, 2026 Ralph Eric Adams, 62, passed away on April 6, 2026. He was born at Home Hospital in Lafayette, Indiana to Dr. Ralph Emerson Adams and Marilyn Josephine Ramsing-Adams. Eric attended Battle Ground Elementary, Harrison High School, and graduated from Twin Lakes High School in Monticello, IN. After a time living in California with family and friends, Eric became a Commercial FAA Balloon Pilot. He flew hot-air balloons in festivals in Mexico, California, and in Sun Valley, Idaho, which later became his permanent home. Eric built a life defined by service, adventure, and lifelong friendships. Eric's passion was serving as a fire fighter for more than 20 years with the Sun Valley Fire Department, becoming a Captain/EMT. He earned his Associates in Arts in Fire Service Technology through the College of Southern Idaho, and an Associates in Arts in Fire Service Administration, and was expected to graduate in 2025 from Idaho State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Fire Service Administration. Eric became a Building Official and Inspector for the City of Sun Valley for fourteen years, followed by working as Project Manager for his long-time friend at Elias Construction. He later became Building Official/Inspector for the City of Ketchum at SAFEbuilt. He amusingly called himself a “worker-bee,” which personified who he was. Eric found joy and life in being active and helping others. Eric’s favorite place was outdoors, connecting with God through nature. Whether camping and hiking mountain trails with his beloved dog Nicolai, fly-fishing, skiing, snowboarding, morel hunting, or flying hot air balloons, he found wonder in God’s creation. Eric was a Christian who wasn’t ashamed of his faith, but shared with others using himself and his life as an example of the love of Jesus for everyone. He was an attendee of Big Wood Presbyterian Church and his involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous became a very important and special part of his life. He was a committed sponsor and faithful friend to many. He credited much of his strength and gratitude to the beloved friends in the A.A. community who walked beside him through difficult seasons. Eric is survived by his sister, Shelloy Mason (Owen Mason); his step-mother Priscilla Dobbins; his nephew, Jared Mason (Brooke); his nieces, Kiersten Bruins (Richie) and Kayla Boltz (Nathan); two great-nieces and four great-nephews; God-mother Della Mae Connell, his many, many friends; and, his faithful dog and companion Nicolai. He was preceded in death by his parents, 'step-father' Dr. Richard D. Dobbins, and God-father Dr. Thomas J. Connell. Eric will daily be missed and remembered for his faith, vitality, playfulness, love of the mountains, servant heart, friendship, and the way he made others feel seen, supported, cared for, and loved. A Celebration of Life in honor of Eric will be held in Ketchum, ID, with dates provided in the near future. Eric’s wishes were to be laid to rest with his parents in Grand View Cemetery, West Lafayette, IN. All forthcoming details will be shared with friends and family. PSALM 23 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. 3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.