By Columnist Bob Bridge
The image of physically diminutive Ralph Anderson standing aside Purdue’s towering Zach Edey inside Mackey Arena brought a multitude of mirthful giggles and guffaws when it appeared on social media this spring.
These two die-hard Boilermakers appeared to share little in common other than their faithful allegiance to a particular educational institution in West Lafayette.
Edey is 7’4.” Ralph, on the other hand, is … well … vertically challenged. The former slams basketballs over the rim and through the twine on a frequent basis. The latter was reputed to gently dunk donuts into his coffee.
Though my alma mater is headquartered in Bloomington and I prefer to cheer for Purdue’s chief rival, my perspective of Ralph is anything but diminutive. He was a genuine giant when it came to qualities most significant to yours truly.
On my arrival here nearly a half century ago, co-workers Punk Love and Bob Hall introduced me to anyone and everyone they deemed important to Lawrence County. Ralph, a community leader, operated Crowder’s Pharmacy, situated just east of the newspaper.
Many of my soon-to-be friends worked for Mr. Anderson and spoke glowingly of their earnest employer who garnered respect from regions far from Bedford borders. Ralph served as president of Indiana’s Board of Pharmacy and as a state representative in the early 1970s.
When he was rewarded with a Sagamore of the Wabash in 1988, I was even more intrigued with this little gentleman clad in a white shirt and tie and chronically flashing that engaging smile.
I gradually learned what made him tick. Ralph was a genuine people person. Tales abound about Ralph’s unwavering commitment to the critical concept: the customer always comes first.
Seems simple, huh?
It is not.
I’ve been blessed to know and even work with several of Mr. Anderson’s family members. Trust me, the fruit has not fallen far from the tree.
In a world spinning like a whirling dervish, Ralph was a comforting constant, a kind and compassionate gentleman.
In my eyes, he was legendary, the consummate community giant.
Bob Bridge welcomes comments at 812-276-9646 or at bbbbbridge@gmail.com
Love this. Thank you Bob! 💕