10/09/2025
It is with an extremely heavy heart that I share this news.
Our dear friend, Ralph Foster, passed away yesterday morning.
Ralph was an incredible TD, showcaller, and producer. His productions were always well designed and always perfectly executed. When things did occasionally devolve into chaos, the man had ice water in his veins. Ralph was cool and calm—almost Jedi like—and had the patience, perseverance and presence of mind to lead us all back to safety.
When Ten Eighty was launched back in 2008, Ralph was the first big producer to give us a chance on his shows. Over the course of the next 17 years, we did countless events together all over the world. In the process, Ralph became a mentor and friend to both Mike and I, and taught us how to operate in the AV business as he did—like professionals: No cutting corners to save money. Always doing the right thing for the client and the show. Being fair and reliable. Being nice to people. Making the show happen.
Ralph treated everyone who crossed his path with respect, from the CEO of some multi billion dollar company to the venue’s kitchen staff. Ralph was always fair and honest, and always made people feel comfortable and at ease. He was also super calm. In fact, I don’t think I ever heard him yell—except maybe when the Dallas Stars got dusted in the playoffs last year.
Above all, Ralph was a great family man and friend. He always talked about his daughter’s sporting exploits in volleyball and weightlifting—he was very, very proud of her—and I know how much he loved his wife Amy. The world is a worse place without people like Ralph in it. We lost a man of honesty, compassion, and great integrity. A man who shot straight and stood up for what was right. He will be sorely missed, and fondly remembered, by everyone who knew and loved him.
Rest in peace, Ralph.
Ralph Foster 1956-2025