Rita Campbell said her twin brother, Ralph Umbdenstock, would make it a point to show returning soldiers how much he appreciated their efforts. She said Umbdenstock, a U.S. Air Force veteran who served in the Vietnam War, knew what it was like to come home without a hero’s welcome.

“He had a really good attitude,” Campbell said. “He always tried really hard to see the positive, and I think Ralph really did try to be an example to other people.”

Umbdenstock died Dec. 31 at the age of 61. He was a 41-year member of Maple Park American Legion Post 312 and a past post commander. He had moved to Texas, and Campbell said there were many in the Maple Park area who wanted to honor Umbdenstock. Friends and family are invited to gather from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday at the legion, 203 Main St., Maple Park.