Ralph Paarmaan

Ralph E. Paarmann (1924 - February 15, 2013) served in the U.S. Army during World War II, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. He attended the University of Iowa and received his B. A. degree in 1950 and an M. A. degree in 1953. Paarmaan began his teaching and conducting career in Williamsburg, Iowa, from 1950 to 1954, in Anamosa from 1954 to 1956, Cedar Rapids from 1956 to 1958, and Davenport from 1958 on. He taught at Williams Junior High School in Davenport from 1958 to 1960, and when Davenport West High School opened in 1960, he was appointed Director of Bands, a position he held until his retirement in 1989. He continued to guest conduct and actively mentor through 2004. Paarmaan also directed the Davenport First Christian Church Choir for 40 years. He was a member of the Iowa Bandmasters Association and started the Retired Director's Band (IBARD).