The Conductive Learning Center is saddened by the recent loss of our dear friend, Ralph Garlick.

As a founding Board member, Ralph was a constant in the program since its very beginnings, an integral part of who and what CLC is today. He will be remembered as a big-hearted cheerleader of our mission, and we honor Ralph for his ongoing support of the program, the staff and the children served.

Ralph’s interest in conductive education began when his granddaughter Lily became one of the first students of the program in 1999. Even as Lily went on to public school, Ralph’s involvement continued. Over the next decade, he served as a Board member, was one of our faithful donors, and also provided financial support for student conductors to travel to Budapest to study at the International Pető Institute. Additionally, Ralph supported the conductor training program at Aquinas College, establishing an endowed fund in his granddaughter’s name to provide training and professional development opportunities for future conductors.

After he retired from the Board, Ralph continued his tradition of dropping in and visiting with the staff, always finding a way to recognize their hard work and the wonderful impact they make on the students CLC serves. And for many years, he participated in many CLC events and attended all of our celebrations and student plays.

The Conductive Learning Center was certainly fortunate to have the support of such a talented and kind man as Ralph! We will miss him. We thank his family, especially his wife Sue, for sharing him with us and wish them love and peace in the days ahead.