RUPLE, RAYMOND

Raymond “Tim” Ruple was born January 1, 1966 and graduated from Homewood High School in Homewood, Alabama. After high school, Tim joined the U.S. Navy in 1984 and went on to serve for 19 years before his unexpected passing in San Diego California on January 10, 2003.  

Senior Chief Ruple completed Boot Camp at Great Lakes Illinois and from there he was stationed in San Diego as an orthopedic tech. He then transferred to Pensacola Florida, where he went through the search and air rescue program (SAR).  

Tim met his wife Julie in 1986 while in Meridian, Mississippi. At the time he was divided between the emergency room at the medical clinic and (SAR). Senior Chief Ruple was stationed for three years in Hawaii and then transferred to San Diego where he went through the Independent Duty Corpsman, know as IDC school. IDCs are specialized hospital corpsmen who inspire to reach the pinnacle of Navy Medicine, think Nurse Practitioners in civilian terms.  

After he finished that schooling, he was transferred to the USS Kincaid. He was the doctor aboard the ship. After that tour, he was transferred to his final command, which was the USS Boxer.  

Tim received many awards and certificates during his time in service, including multiple Sailor of the Year awards.  

While stationed in San Diego, he became a father to three wonderful children.  

Ryan, who is now married and is also serving in the US Navy on the east coast.   

Bradley, who is married and living in Salt Lake City, Utah with his wife and both of them working at the VA Hospital. Of interesting note, Julie said she knows that Tim would be proud of Bradley, not only for his great academic accomplishments of getting his masters and PhD. But because he received them from Auburn University, Tim’s favorite school and team.  

And Charlene, who is married and has two beautiful children of her own.  

He is greatly missed. Julie, his wife of 15 ½ years is a resident of Spokane.  

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers HMCS Raymond “Tim” Ruple for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. Our hope is that his life continues to inspire all who learn his story.