MoreDENVER - Ralph Bloss, a highly regarded industry figure and former chairman of Steam Way International Inc., died of cancer at home on April 19. He was 79.
Bloss was born in McKinney, Texas on Aug. 23, 1923, to Ralph and Naomi Bloss.
Bloss worked as a sales manager for the Liggett Group for 27 years. In 1972 he joined Steam Way International, a manufacturer of carpet and upholstery cleaning equipment and chemicals. Bloss went on to purchase the company in 1982.
During his 32-year career Bloss was recognized by more than 14 regional and national trade associations in the cleaning and restoration industry for his contributions to growth, professionalism and education. In 2001 he was recognized by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification for a lifetime of contributions to the promotion of technical expertise and excellence in learning in the cleaning and restoration industry.
Bloss was an active member of the Denver Business Journal Family Business Council, and served as President of the Sales and Marketing Executives Association International. He was also extremely active in many Christian-based organizations, and was a founding elder at the Christian Church of Estes Park in Estes Park, Colo.
Bloss is survived by his wife, Anjunell; his daughter Sharolyn Bloss Nungester; his sons Doyle and Gregory; and his grandchildren Tiffany, John and Joshua Bloss; Marcus and Nicholas Bloss; and David and Leslie Nungester.
