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Special Events
Ralph J. Comstock Jr. Light of Philanthropy
Award
and St. Luke’s Ball
Marilyn Shuler
Recipient of the 2009 Ralph J. Comstock Jr.
Light of Philanthropy Award
The Light of Philanthropy Award provides distinct recognition for the outstanding achievements of individuals who reflect the spirit and philanthropic leadership of the late Ralph J. Comstock, Jr. The award is given annually to an individual who demonstrates remarkable qualities in leadership, philanthropy, and humanitarianism benefiting St. Luke’s and other worthy community charities.
Marilyn Shuler
Recipient of the
2009 Ralph J. Comstock Jr.
Light of Philanthropy Award
St. Luke’s Health Foundation proudly recognizes Marilyn Shuler with the 2009 Light of Philanthropy Award in recognition of her dedicated service and enduring commitment to human rights, education, and improving our community.
Marilyn has been making a positive impact in our community for more than 45 years. In 1970 she was elected to the Boise School District Board of Trustees, serving as president in 1975 and 1976. For 20 years, Marilyn served as the director of the Idaho Human Rights Commission, the state agency that enforces anti-discrimination statutes. Since retiring in 1998, Marilyn has devoted her time and talent to numerous humanitarian efforts, including the creation of the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial and the establishment of the Northwest Coalition Against Malicious Harassment.
Following the death of her husband in 1985, Marilyn helped establish the John D. Shuler Memorial Fund to provide foster children with positive opportunities that range from purchasing bicycles and camping equipment to providing access to swimming and karate lessons. A passionate advocate for disadvantaged youth, Marilyn also volunteers for Casey Family Programs and the Court Appointed Special Advocate program, organizations that provide help and support for children in foster care.
Marilyn is active on many community boards including the Boise Committee on Foreign Relations, the Idaho Black History Museum, City Club of Boise, and the Osher Institute for Lifelong Learning at Boise State University.
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About Ralph J. Comstock, Jr.
Ralph J. Comstock, Jr. was a philanthropist, leader, and humanitarian. Born in 1917 in Rexburg, he grew up in Idaho Falls, Nampa, and Pocatello. Ralph graduated from the University of Idaho Southern Branch (now Idaho State University) and then from the University of Utah, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration.
While living in Utah, Ralph met Bernice (Bee) Broomfield, who became his wife of more than 50 years. Together, Ralph and Bee raised three children, Ralph, Robert, and Christine.
Following a tour of service in the U.S. Army Medical Corps in World War II, Ralph entered the banking industry where he rose to the highest executive office with First Security Bank of Idaho before retiring in 1984.
Ralph was the catalyst for a number of Idaho’s finest civic accomplishments. His most notable philanthropic endeavors were achieved in his service to Boise’s Morrison Center for the Performing Arts, St. Luke’s Mountain States Tumor Institute, and St. Luke’s Boise Medical Center.
A sportsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and skiing, Ralph’s heart was as big as the great outdoors. He was a bold man with big ideas, great passion, and tremendous enthusiasm.
Ralph died in 1995 after an exemplary career of professional and community service. It is in his honor that St. Luke’s is proud to present the annual Light of Philanthropy Award.
Past Recipients
2008: Anna Margaret Jones
2007: Jim Everett
2006: Judge Stephen Trott
2005: Carolyn Terteling-Payne
2004: Alice Hennessey
2003: Jim and Karin Nelson
2002: Harold Thomas
2001: A. Dale Dunn
2000: Robert V. Hansberger
1999: John and Dee Fery
1998: Velma V. Morrison
1997: J.R. and Esther Simplot
1996: Ralph J. Comstock, Jr. and Larry Kissler
For more information on the Light of Philanthropy Award and the St. Luke's Ball, please contact St. Luke’s Health Foundation at 381-2123.
